Pierre T.
**STICK DRIFT AND THIRD-PARTY CONTROLLERS BRING RELIEF FOR GAMERS**
Controllers with wear-and-tear-prone potentiometers can often suffer from stick drift, a frustrating issue faced by gamers. Unfortunately, this problem extends to first-party gamepads from major console manufacturers including Nintendo, Sony, and Microsoft. However, third-party accessory makers such as 8BitDo and GuliKit have taken steps to provide alternatives that utilize drift-free Hall effect sensors.
One noteworthy addition to this lineup is the GameSir G7 SE, which holds the distinction of being the first licensed Xbox controller with Hall effect sticks. The G7 SE is an upgraded model based on the previous G7 gamepad released by GameSir earlier this year. Similar to its predecessor, the G7 SE is a wired-only controller designed for Xbox Series X/S and PC. It features a USB-C port for connection, two programmable rear buttons, and a magnetically removable and paintable faceplate for personalization. The key difference is the inclusion of Hall effect sensors in the sticks and triggers, as well as lockout switches for the rear buttons to prevent accidental activation. Priced at $49.99 (currently $44.99 on sale at Amazon), the G7 SE is just $5 more than the standard G7 when not discounted.
The G7 SE differs visually from the G7, sporting a white body and a white faceplate. However, users can purchase additional faceplates separately, as they are interchangeable between the two models. Another change between the two models is the use of membrane-based face buttons on the G7 SE, which could result in a slightly mushier feel compared to the tactile and clicky buttons of the G7. A hands-on test will be necessary to determine the extent of this difference.
Although using a wired-only gamepad may seem inconvenient in today’s wireless world, the absence of stick drift makes it a small tradeoff for gamers seeking peace of mind. GameSir already offers a Hall effect controller, the T4 Kaleid, for the Nintendo Switch. However, the GuliKit KingKong 2 Pro, which is wireless and also features Hall effect sticks, makes it difficult to justify a wired option for the Switch. On the other hand, Xbox users may find it easier to accept a wired controller, as Microsoft’s proprietary wireless protocol limits compatibility with other controllers.
In conclusion, third-party controllers have made significant advancements and offer appealing alternatives to the standard controllers provided by console manufacturers. Until these manufacturers adopt Hall effect sensors in their own models, gamers will increasingly gravitate towards these drift-free options for a more reliable gaming experience.
*Note: Sources for this article can be found at the end of the article.*
