Game controller specialist, Gamesir, has just unveiled the Cyclone 2 controller, which packs in Hall Effect sticks and triggers, microswitch buttons, and a wireless connection, all while costing under $50. That’s an incredible amount of tech for an impressively low price.
The new contender for a spot on our best PC controller guide is Xbox, Switch, and PC compatible and can basically connect to any Bluetooth device too, such as a Steam Deck. Moreover, it packs in an amazing amount of tech for its price.
The first big feature here is the use of TMR thumbsticks, with TMR being a variant of the magnetic field sensing technology used in Hall Effect thumbsticks. Gamesir calls these Mag-Res TMR Sticks and describes them as “combining the precision of traditional potentiometer sticks with the durability of Hall Effect technology.”
In addition, the Cyclone 2 has Hall Effect triggers, so it uses the same magnetic field sensing tech as Hall Effect thumbsticks – with their inherent resistance to developing stick drift – and applies it to the single axis of movement of a trigger. Gamesir describes them as providing “smooth and responsive feedback.”
What’s more, the triggers can be switched to a short-throw hair-trigger mode, with dedicated microswitches used to provide precise clicks. In contrast, some short-throw triggers just block the trigger from moving as far without actually providing a dedicated extra hair-trigger button.
Other features in this classically Xbox-shaped controller include rumble motors in the hand grips, a 6-axis gyro, RGB lighting hidden under the front casing, and an optional 1000Hz polling rate. It also supports a wired connection along with its 2.4GHz wireless and Bluetooth connections, plus it’s available with a charging stand for juicing up its 860mAh rechargeable battery.
The Gamesir Cyclone 2 is available now in Shadow Black or Phantom White for $49.99 via this link or just $55.99 if you want the version with the charging stand, via this link. While the latter tips the price of the controller over $50, an addition of just $6 for a charging dock represents incredible value. Buyers in the UK can also grab the new controller for just £49.99 via this link or grab the charging dock version for £55.99 via this link.
For more gear to maximize your PC gaming control, check out our best PC racing wheel guide and our best gaming mouse guide for our top choices in these categories.