My favorite controller of last year had one solitary flaw, I couldn’t use it on Xbox — well that’s just changed, and I’ve never clicked add to basket so fast
At long last, the GameSir Kaleid comes to Xbox with two beautiful additions to the range
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What you need to know
The day I’ve been waiting for has finally arrived, my beloved GameSir Kaleid which was my absolute favorite controller release last year, has launched in two brand new Xbox compatible versions. Seriously, I did not shut up about this controller last year, and in myGameSir T4 Kaleid reviewI said that it would be perfectif onlyit was compatible with Xbox.Never the less, I’ve reached for this controller every time I’ve played on PC, and now I’ll 100% be grabbing the Xbox versions to enjoy with my Xbox console. There are two new editions, having dropped the T4 from the name and relaunching as simply the GameSir Kaleid and GameSir Kaleid Flux, you can grab each of these controllers today from Amazon.TheGameSir Kaleidis the model most closely related to the PC controller I reviewed last year in that it features the same beautiful transparent design, customizable rainbow lighting, and, crucially — the microswitch ABXY buttons andhall-effect stickswhich are so satisfying to use. It’s currently$49.99 on Amazon. Of course, if you want a quieter feedback controller, there’s the GameSir Kaleid Flux which comes with membrane buttons, but packs the same hall-effect tech under the hoodfor $46.99. The Flux model has a pleasing golden lighting effect rather than rainbow, and both controllers have a slightly different PCB design.
GameSir Kaleid and Kaleid Flux Xbox controllersThe controllers of every 90s kid’s dream, the GameSir Kaleids are a range of transparent, brightly lit controllers with options of microswitch or membrane buttons. Both controllers are wired and come with hall-effect technology, assymetric motors, and remappable back buttons. Both links go to Amazon.GameSir Kaleid (Rainbow and Mechanical) $49.99GameSir Kaleid Flux (Golden and Membrane) $46.99
Why did I love the GameSir Kaleid PC controller so much?
On the surface, the GameSir just looks like a pretty controller, but what I loved most was the feel of it to use. GameSir makes impeccable quality controllers at this lower price point, and those microswitch buttons and smooth sticks really have to be felt to be believed. For that reason, I’d recommend the Kaleid over the Kaleid Flux, but for reference, here’s a comparison between them: theGameSir G7 SE, which we also gave a favorable review, and theGameSir T4 Kaleid. You’ll notice that as well as being compatible with Xbox, the Kaleid and Kaleid Flux have 2 extra rumble motors for even more precise feedback from your games.
The Kaleid Flux is slightly cheaper for a membrane option if you prefer quiter feedback on your buttons
The GameSir Kaleid Flux has golden lighting
The GameSir Kaleid Flux is available on Amazon for $46.99
The GameSir Kaleid has micro-switch buttons and costs $49.99
Both of these new controllers are, yes, unfortunately wired, and we are yet to see a wireless controller from GameSir, which may be a dealbreaker for some. For me as I sit close to my devices anyway, it’s not so much of an issue. If you’re in the market for a third-party wireless controller for Xbox, there is theTurtle Beach Stealth Ultra, but you’ll pay a pretty penny for it. Here’s to hoping we get some more budget-friendly versions from GameSir in the future.
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Jen is a News Writer for Windows Central, focused on all things gaming and Microsoft. Anything slaying monsters with magical weapons will get a thumbs up such as Dark Souls, Dragon Age, Diablo, and Monster Hunter. When not playing games, she’ll be watching a horror or trash reality TV show, she hasn’t decided which of those categories the Kardashians fit into. You can follow Jen on Twitter@Jenbox360for more Diablo fangirling and general moaning about British weather.
