Leverless arcade controllers are no longer niche hardware for a few tournament players. With Hall Effect switches and Rapid Trigger now common in mechanical keyboard, now leverless controller market is starting to look more like the high-end keyboard market than classic arcade gear. Precision, customization, and latency control are the main selling points.
In this comparison I’ll take a look at four leverless controllers that approach the same goal from very different angles: Granola Arcade Beacon, Varmilo HA10, Corsair NOVABLADE PRO, and KatsuGear Sando.
- Cheapest option: Granola Arcade Beacon
- Best build quality: Varmilo HA10
- Most versatile and console-friendly: Corsair NOVABLADE PRO
- Most customizable and repairable: KatsuGear Sando
Granola Arcade Beacon
The Beacon is the most affordable entry point into Hall Effect leverless controllers.
It uses Gateron Jade Pro magnetic switches with light actuation and runs on GP2040-CE firmware. Adjustable actuation is already available, while Rapid Trigger is planned via a future update which is a bummer. The case is 3D-printed PLA Pro with a removable acrylic top, making artwork swaps quick and simple.
At $130, it undercuts every competitor here. Native support covers PC, Switch, Steam Deck, and more, with console support available through adapters.
Best fit: players who want value, customization, and open-source firmware, and do not mind using adapters for consoles.
Varmilo HA10
The HA10 is the opposite of budget-focused. It is heavy, solid, and clearly built to last.
A full CNC metal case, CHERRY MX Multipoint Silver inductive switches, and extremely fine actuation adjustment give it a very “locked-in” feel. Rapid Trigger is fully supported, and the controller weighs around 2 kg, which keeps it planted during play.
The downside is flexibility. It is wired-only, expensive at $269, and customization options are limited compared to more modular designs.
Best fit: competitive players who want maximum stability and premium build quality, with no interest in wireless or visual customization.
Corsair NOVABLADE PRO
Corsair’s entry is the most mainstream and feature-complete option.
It uses MGX Hyperdrive V2 Hall Effect switches with Rapid Trigger and a wide actuation range. The key advantage is connectivity: wired, 2.4 GHz wireless, and Bluetooth. It is also officially licensed for PS5 and PS4, which removes the need for adapters.
Extras like programmable G-keys, FlashTap SOCD options, Game Mode for tournaments, and a swappable magnetic top plate make it very approachable.
Best fit: players who want one controller for PC and PlayStation, value wireless support, and prefer a polished, brand-backed product.
KatsuGear Sando
The Sando is the most technically interesting controller in the lineup.
It runs GP2040 firmware, supports Rapid Trigger, and allows per-key actuation tuning. Switches are fully swappable, and even the USB-C port can be replaced, which is rare in this category.
The standout feature is the on-device menu, controlled by a color screen and metal knob. This lets you adjust settings without software, which is ideal for tournament use or console setups.
Best fit: advanced users who care about fine control, repairability, and long-term ownership more than plug-and-play simplicity.
Detailed table comparison
| Feature | Granola Arcade Beacon | Varmilo HA10 | Corsair NOVABLADE PRO | KatsuGear Sando |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $130.00 USD | $269.00 USD | $199.99 USD | $239.99 USD |
| Switch Type | Gateron Jade Pro Magnetic | CHERRY MX Multipoint Silver | CORSAIR MGX Hyperdrive (V2) | GEON Raw HE 40g |
| Rapid Trigger | Planned future update | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Adjustable Actuation | Yes | Yes (0.1mm increments) | Yes (0.1mm – 4.0mm) | Yes (per key) |
| Primary Build Material | PLA Pro Case | CNC Metal Case | Premium plastic/composite | Aluminum Top Plate |
| Firmware | GP2040-CE | Varmilo Web Driver | Onboard Memory / Not CUE Supported | GP2040 |
| Native Compatibility | PC, PS3, Switch, etc. | PC (Standard) / PC, PS4/5, NS (Pro) | PS5, PS4, PC | PC, Switch |
| Connectivity | Wired Only | Wired Only | Wired, 2.4GHz Wireless, Bluetooth | Wired Only |
| Artwork Customization | Yes (Removable acrylic top) | No | Yes (Swappable magnetic plate) | Yes (Interchangeable plates) |
Final Take
There is no single “best” leverless controller here. Each targets a different type of player.
Beacon focuses on value and customization. HA10 prioritizes weight, durability, and premium feel. NOVABLADE PRO aims for convenience, wireless play, and official console support. Sando is built for users who want full control over hardware and software.
What matters most is not raw performance, because all four are fast enough, but how much control, flexibility, and convenience you expect from your controller.
Gamer and tech reviewer in my spare time.
