GameSir Cyclone 2 Review: Best Multi-Platform Gaming Controller Under $60?

Game controllers have come a long way, and every once in a while, a product comes along that shakes things up in all the right ways. The GameSir Cyclone 2 is one of those rare finds that makes you wonder how such a feature-packed device can be this affordable. At first glance, it might look like just another gamepad, but spend a little time with it, and you’ll quickly realize it’s a serious contender in the world of multi-platform gaming accessories.

With its sleek design, customizable RGB lighting, and some truly next-level features like TMR sticks and hair trigger modes, the Cyclone 2 isn’t just about looking good—it’s about delivering a top-notch gaming experience. Priced to appeal to budget gamers, and works seamlessly across platforms like PC, Nintendo Switch, Android, and iOS. It even manages to include thoughtful extras like a charging dock and customizable software, making it stand out from the sea of generic controllers on the market. Get ready to find out why this might just be your next favorite controller.

First Look

Picking up the GameSir Cyclone 2 is a delight for the senses. The matte white finish immediately stands out with its subtle semi-transparent faceplate, giving you a glimpse of the hardware inside. This is paired with textured grips that feel secure without being overly rough—perfect for long gaming sessions. The weight is just right—not too heavy to cause fatigue, yet solid enough to feel premium in your hands.

The ergonomics are reminiscent of an Xbox controller, with an asymmetrical stick layout that feels familiar and comfortable. The triggers and bumpers, located at the top, sport a cool transparent design. This isn’t just for looks—GameSir has included a slider mechanism that lets you switch the triggers between Hall effect analog mode and micro-switch hair triggers.

The face buttons have a responsive, tactile feel, clicking softly yet confidently when pressed. They’re marked clearly with Xbox-style X, Y, A, and B labels, but they’re fully remappable via the GameSir Connect app, which adds a lot of versatility. Below the buttons, you’ll find a well-placed D-pad that’s tactile yet smooth.

The included charging dock it’s a functional centerpiece for the GameSir Cyclone 2. Made from aluminum with a plastic top, it has a modern look that matches the controller’s aesthetic. The base has anti-slip rubber padding to keep it stable on your desk, and the dock’s built-in pogo pins make charging effortless—just drop the controller in, and it aligns perfectly every time. There’s even a slot for the 2.4 GHz dongle, so it doubles as a hub, keeping everything in one place.

Now let’s talk flair. The Cyclone 2 doesn’t overdo it with its RGB lighting but adds just the right amount of style. The lighting strips are customizable, so you can tweak the brightness, speed, and colors using the GameSir Connect app.

Even the small details show GameSir’s commitment to user experience. There’s a 3.5mm headphone jack for wired audio, which is perfect for gamers who like plugging in their headsets directly. The semi-transparent matte plastic looks modern and sleek, though it might show scratches over time. Still, for a controller priced this competitively, the overall build quality is a win.

Now let’s talk about the ergonomics. The GameSir Cyclone 2 feels like an extension of your hands. Its design is heavily inspired by the Xbox controller, which is widely regarded as one of the most comfortable layouts out there. The textured grips ensure the controller stays firmly in place, even during sweaty, intense gaming sessions. The weight distribution is spot on, so you can play for hours without feeling any discomfort.

Performance Testing

The GameSir Cyclone 2 is designed to perform under pressure and delivers on every front, from responsiveness to precision. The first thing to test is the joysticks, and they’re a highlight. Thanks to the TMR technology, the sticks provide unparalleled accuracy and fluidity. If you’re wondering what that means, think of it as the next evolution of joystick technology. These aren’t your average sticks that wear down over time or develop annoying drift issues.

TMR, short for Tunnel Magnetic Resistance, uses magnetic sensors to ensure precision and durability. Every movement feels fluid and accurate, making it perfect for high-stakes moments in shooters, racers, or even a good old-fashioned platformer. In testing, even rapid directional changes were handled effortlessly, with no noticeable lag or miscalculation in movement. It feels like you’re directly connected to the game—no delays, no compromise.

Now, onto the triggers, which are a game-changer—literally. The Hall effect triggers offer an analog experience that feels buttery smooth and ideal for gradual inputs, such as accelerating in a racing sim or pulling back a bowstring in an RPG. But the magic really kicks in when you switch to the micro-switch hair-trigger mode. This setting minimizes trigger travel and provides lightning-fast inputs. In FPS games like Call of Duty, this made a noticeable difference, allowing for quicker reactions and faster shots. It’s the kind of feature that feels almost like an unfair advantage, especially when milliseconds matter.

The D-pad also deserves a mention. In tests with games like Street Fighter and Hollow Knight, the D-pad was precise and responsive. It handled quick directional inputs and complex combos like a champ. While some gamers might prefer a more tactile “click” in their D-pad, the GameSir Cyclone 2 strikes a nice balance between smoothness and firmness, making it suitable for both fighters and platformers.

Latency is another area where Cyclone 2 shines. Whether wired, connected via the 2.4 GHz dongle or using Bluetooth, the inputs felt near-instantaneous. The wired and dongle modes offered a consistent 1,000 Hz polling rate, which ensures minimal delay. Even in Bluetooth mode, the polling rate remained stable around 500 Hz, which is more than adequate for casual and competitive gaming alike. During testing, there was no perceptible lag, even in high-intensity scenarios.

The gyro performance on the Cyclone 2 was also impressive. In motion-controlled games on the Nintendo Switch and PC, the gyroscope was responsive and accurate and Aiming felt natural and smooth. While the gyro isn’t as advanced as some first-party controllers, it’s implemented well enough to make it a strong contender in this category.

Let’s not forget rumble feedback, which plays a huge role in immersion. The Cyclone 2 uses asymmetric haptic motors in the grips. This means the vibrations feel more dynamic and tailored to in-game events. For example, you’ll get subtle rumbles while cruising in a car and sharper feedback during explosions or gunfire. It’s not quite as refined as HD Rumble on the Nintendo Switch, but it’s leagues ahead of many third-party controllers.

Also with the app, it’s easy to tweak the trigger sensitivity, joystick dead zones, and even the button mapping. This customization came in handy when transitioning between genres—like setting tighter dead zones for shooters and broader ones for platformers. This controller is designed to work seamlessly across multiple platforms, including PC, Android, iOS, and even the Nintendo Switch. Switching between these devices is ridiculously easy thanks to its three connectivity options. You can go wired with the included USB-C cable, enjoy stable wireless gaming with the 2.4 GHz dongle, or cut the cords completely and use Bluetooth.

Battery life also held up remarkably well during performance testing. The GameSir Cyclone 2’s 860mAh battery powered through a day’s worth of gaming without breaking a sweat. Even with full RGB lighting and wireless modes active, it maintained a solid runtime, and when it was time to recharge, the dock made it quick and painless.

Software Experience

One of the standout features of the GameSir Cyclone 2 is its robust software support, and this is where the GameSir Connect app takes center stage. The first thing you notice when launching the app is its clean and intuitive layout. The homepage displays the connected device, along with quick access to customization options like button remapping, RGB lighting, vibration intensity, and trigger sensitivity. What’s great is that all changes happen in real time. As you tweak the settings in the app, the adjustments are instantly reflected on the controller, so there’s no guessing involved.

Let’s start with button mapping. The Cyclone 2 allows you to remap every button on the controller to suit your preferences from swapping triggers, and reassigning paddles, to even mapping keyboard functions for PC gaming, the app makes it easy. There’s also support for macro if need complex inputs for RPGs or competitive titles. Setting up a macro is straightforward: just record your input sequence, adjust the timing if needed, and assign it to any button. It’s a level of flexibility you’d expect from higher-end controllers.

Next up is trigger customization, and this is where Cyclone 2 shines. The app allows you to fine-tune the sensitivity and dead zones of both triggers. For games that require precision, like racing sims or shooters, you can adjust the triggers to respond with minimal pressure. On the flip side, if you prefer a more gradual trigger response for certain games, you can tweak the settings to suit your playstyle.

The joystick settings are equally impressive. You can modify the dead zones and customize each stick’s response curve. There’s also an option to switch between raw input and circular input modes, giving you even more control over how the joysticks behave in different scenarios.

The vibration settings are another area where the app excels. The Cyclone 2 allows you to adjust the intensity of the asymmetric haptic motors in the grips. You can fine-tune the strength of the vibrations independently for the left and right sides, ensuring the feedback feels balanced and immersive. This feature came in handy during testing, especially for games with a lot of environmental feedback, like racing or action titles.

One of the most fun features is the RGB customization. You can change the color, adjust the brightness, and even control the speed and pattern of the lighting effects like a subtle glow or a vibrant, dynamic effect.

The app does have a few minor quirks. Some advanced features, like redirecting gyro input to the joysticks, were grayed out during testing, and labeled as “coming soon.” While this might be disappointing for some, it’s a sign that GameSir is actively working on adding new capabilities to the Cyclone 2.

Conclusion

The GameSir Cyclone 2 is a textbook example of how to deliver incredible value in a gaming accessory, It takes on the giants in the industry with confidence. Priced well below many first-party and premium third-party controllers, it packs in features that rival, and in some cases surpass, much more expensive options. For gamers who don’t want to compromise on performance but also don’t want to empty their wallets, this controller hits a sweet spot.

What makes the Cyclone 2 stand out is how it bridges the gap between affordability and high-end functionality. You’re not just paying for a basic controller—you’re getting advanced TMR sticks, versatile trigger modes, customizable RGB lighting, and multi-platform support. Controllers with even a subset of these features typically cost significantly more, yet the Cyclone 2 manages to undercut them without cutting corners.

The inclusion of extras like the charging dock, 2.4 GHz dongle, and GameSir Connect app further boosts its value. These are the kinds of add-ons you rarely see at this price point. The Cyclone 2 offers the kind of versatility and customization that usually comes at a premium, making it a steal for gamers who play across multiple platforms.

Its build quality is also commendable for the price. While the use of semi-transparent plastic might not appeal to everyone, the overall durability and ergonomic design make it a reliable option for extended gaming sessions. And while the absence of braided cables and the noisy buttons are minor drawbacks, they’re easy to overlook when you consider everything else the Cyclone 2 brings to the table.