GameSir may be known for its excellent anti-drift controllers, but it seems they are not content with just a reputation for quality – they’re also striving for a reputation for style as well. This new release of their G7 Pro Tri-Mode controller is evidence of that commitment.
Coming in three new colourways (Amber Flame, Plum Purple, and Metallic Silver), the G7 Pro is a welcome choice for those seeking high performance and high fashion gaming.
GameSir already have several colourways for this model, including some with designs inspired by popular games – we previously took a look at the Wuchang: Fallen Feathers Edition and loved it. It’s nice to see even more options become available.
Design
Just like the previous version of this model, the controller is designed for Xbox – though don’t worry, it has Bluetooth connectivity for mobile play and wired or Bluetooth connectivity for PC gaming, as well as a wired connection for Xbox. For the most part, it has the button configuration to match, with a few welcome extras.
Alongside the typical face buttons, triggers and bumpers, there’s also a pair of minibumpers and back buttons. If that wasn’t enough customisation for you, the controller also comes with three different directional pads (round, round with raised edges, and cross-shaped). The face is flanked on either side by textured rubber grips.
The colourway I went for here was the Amber Flame, a scheme which puts me in mind of a luxurious, fruity chocolate. The central orange colour here is a rich, earthy tone, complemented by its chocolatey brown grips and analog sticks and offset by the gold directional pad and bumpers. In an unusual but effective contrast, the triggers are translucent brown plastic.
The Plum Purple colourway is similarly sleek, with a deep purple faceplate, a more metallic shade of pinky-purple bumpers, black grips, and pink buttons. The pair goes for a subtle, understated elegance which works very well.
Unfortunately, the pair’s refined palettes make the third colour look a little boring by contrast. The Metallic Silver model is just that – silver all over on the front, black on the back with translucent triggers. It still looks good, very shiny and sophisticated, but it just lacks the wow-factor of the other two colourways.
The trio, just like the rest of the G7 Pro range, have magnetic faceplates and grips. That means you can remove them entirely for a 2000s-style translucent plastic look, or customise your look even further with a matching magnetic faceplate. While none of those block colour options quite match the look of these new colourways, it’s nice to have the option to switch it up without buying a whole new controller.
The controller also comes with a charging/docking station, detachable cable (with retainer) and dongle for wireless connection – all of which come in the controller’s signature colour. It’s the excellent level of detail I’ve come to expect from GameSir.
Performance
There’s a lot to be said about the G7 Pro’s performance – a lot of which we’ve also gone into depth in a previous review. If you want that in-depth discussion, check it out here. Otherwise, stay with me for a quicker go-over.
Like GameSir’s other controllers (including the Tegenaria Lite, which I personally reviewed recently), the controller feels responsive and comfortable to use. Its analog sticks are particularly impressive – they’re TMR, which are even smoother and more stable than Hall Effect sticks, plus are almost drift-proof. They also retain charge better than Hall Effect sticks, which will be appreciated by those playing in wireless mode.
The triggers are equally impressive – not only can you toggle between Micro Switch and Hall Effect (if you’re not familiar, yes, they do feel slightly different), but they also have a motor. Alongside the standard motor in the grip, it makes for a truly immersive gameplay experience.
Out of the box, the controller is ready to use. But if you want to get into all those button customisation features and other elements, the GameSir Nexus has made doing so pretty easy – it’s a dedicated software you can connect the controller to. The software is easy to use and surprisingly comprehensive to boot, allowing for a great degree of customisation if that’s what you need.
Verdict & Value
When The AU Review last reviewed the G7 Pro, the verdict was that the controller easily justified its price – it’s a premium price for a premium controller, responsive and precise with great customisation and a long lifespan.
Not only does that still ring true, but with this new set of different colourways, it’s more accurate than ever.
FOUR AND A HALF STARS (OUT OF FIVE)
Highlights: Stylish design, long-lasting and precise buttons, customisation options
Lowlights: Changing the D-pad can be a little finicky
Manufacturer: GameSir
Price: A$159
Available: Now available at JB Hi-Fi
Review based on unit provided by GameSir.
Feature header image provided by GameSir.
