The T4 Cyclone Pro Multi-platform Controller from manufacturer GameSir is their latest entry into the gamepad race. With so many options on the market, GameSir works hard to help set the Cyclone Pro above the competition. With Hall Effect analog sticks and triggers, programmable buttons and a host of device support, the Cyclone works hard to earn its Pro title.
Out of the box, the GameSir T4 Cyclone Pro feels great to hold. It feels similar to a Xbox Series S/X controller in hand with the added bonus of a nice tactile grip wrapped around both palm rests. The all-black body is accented by a nice gunmetal colour located on the D-Pad, and the triggers and bumpers give the controller a sleek, polished look.
Considering the tech and onboard rechargeable battery packed into the Cyclone Pro, it is surprisingly light to hold, especially when compared to other multi-platform controllers on the market. For comparison, once again, the Cyclone Pro feels closer to the Switch Pro controller in weight than the Xbox Series S/X controller despite its design similarities to the latter. It is easy to handle over long gaming sessions without concern of fatigue.
Additionally, while lightweight to handle, the Cyclone Pro also feels durable to use. Both the casing as well as the components are made of hard plastic designed to withstand some serious punishment from the aforementioned prolonged gaming sessions. GameSir has done a solid job with build quality as well as button and stick placement. It mimics the layout of the Series S/X controller while managing to add enough distinction in design to set it apart. The Cyclone Pro offers its unique take on a familiar design that makes it feel right at home for gamers and distinct enough to stand out in the crowd when examined and used.
“Out of the box, the GameSir T4 Cyclone Pro feels great to hold.”
GameSir has also opted to include full Hall Effect support, which is found in both the sticks and triggers. Hall Effect tech in controllers, is still fairly new but has some promising benefits for controller longevity. Unlike traditional controllers that rely on mechanical contacts for input, the Hall Effect leverages the power of magnetic contacts. This has a few benefits over traditional mechanical.
For starters, because there is a contactless input, friction and, by extension, wear and tear are minimized, creating longevity in the controller’s components. This also results in little to no drifting in the sticks over time as there is no mechanical switch to wear down with use. In the case of the Cyclone Pro, the sticks are rated for up to 5 million cycles, a feat that a traditional controller could never hope to achieve.
Additionally, by leveraging the power of contactless inputs, you gain more control over the triggers’ accusations. The result is the ability to hone in and refine precisely where the point of contact is for the trigger, creating a smoother, more responsive experience for the gamer.
The cushioned top buttons further enhance all of this. These inputs are programmed for a 0.6 MM actuation distance, making them exceptionally responsive when engaged. The overall result of these design choices is a responsive and durable controller over the long hall.
In testing, the controller feels exceptionally responsive, with the sticks having no notable deadzone. The triggers likewise feel smooth and consistent in the actuation point. Even the top face buttons have a nice clicky and tactile response during use. Essentially the Cyclone Pro feels great to use, even over long periods of gaming.
However, GameSir hasn’t stopped there. The Cyclone Pro also includes two programmable buttons located under both the left and right-hand grip. While it’s a bit subjective based on the size of your hands, I found these buttons to be perfectly placed for ease of use. As for programming, it’s a simple affair that takes less than 20 seconds to perform and for those wondering multi-button programming is supported.
The included instructions make programming simple to understand and easy to perform. Additionally, the memory button when combined with other buttons on the controller allows you to configure additional behaviours for the controller such as trigger response, Grip vibration and stick deadzone.
While all of this is impressive in its own right the Cyclone Pro comes with both motion controls for use with the Nintendo Switch as well as rumble support. Both work quite well though it’s important to note that rumble for the triggers specifically is only supported when in Bluetooth mode. When connected though the rumble response felt consistent and solid while gaming.
“Priced at USD $49.99, the T4 Cyclone Pro Controller is a solid offering from GameSir.”
In regards to connection and compatibility The Cyclone Pro has you covered. USB-C via an included cable, Bluetooth and Low-Latenacy Wireless (via dongle) are all available options for connection. In each case, the controller is immediately recognized and usable within seconds of connecting to your desired device.
As for device support, the Cyclone Pro is compatible with Switch, PC, iOS and Android. In testing, each worked well with no noticeable latency or connection drops. The one critique here has to do with switching between device modes. Unlike some of the other multi-device controllers tested this year, that have a dedicated toggle switch, the Cyclone Pro relies on button combinations to swap between each device mode. While it’s as easy as holding the Home button and A.B.Y. or X from the off state, it’s remembering which is which can be a bit of a pain.
Thankfully it’s all covered in the aforementioned instructions but a dedicated switch would serve people better who frequently game on multiple devices. While it can be a bit daunting to have to remember button combinations, the Cyclone Pro will always remember the last state it was in before powering down. This will make it easy for those that dedicate the controller to one system.
The only other critique of the Cyclone Pro that came out during testing has to do with using the Cyclone Pro with the included wifi dongle. When using the dongle to connect to a PC the system recognizes the controller as a GameSir controller instead of an Xbox controller (in Bluetooth mode the controller is immediately recognized as an Xbox controller).
While this might not seem like an issue, it can become a problem with some games that, when given you a button map, translate the button A to a number assignment instead of saying it’s Button A. While this only happened to about 20% of the games tested, it might be an issue for some people. Thankfully, this is resolved by simply connecting via Bluetooth at which point the Cyclone is treated as an Xbox controller, and all is right in the world.
While there is no official software on PC or Switch The GameSir Controller App is available on Android and iOS. From here you’ll have access to firmware updates, gamepad testing and key settings along with the ability to launch games with controller support. It’s fairly straightforward to use and takes the guesswork out of getting your controller working with your mobile device.
Overall the T4 Cyclone Pro Multiplatform Controller from GameSir is a solid offering for those looking for a new gamepad for their favourite devices. Great design and excellent hardware are hampered only slightly by cumbersome device switching and odd driver recognition in Wifi mode. Despite these minor issues, the Cyclone Pro is a great controller built for the long haul. Priced at USD $49.99, the T4 Cyclone Pro Controller is a solid offering from GameSir.
