Summary
Mobile controllers can transform your phone into a handheld gaming console.
GameSir's X3 Pro has a cooling fan, USB-C connection for fast response times, and modern features.
The controller enhances mobile gaming with precise controls, extensive customization, and a comfortable design.
Mobile controllers have taken off because they can turn your phone into a handheld console like the Steam Deck or Asus ROG Ally X. The beauty of mobile controllers is that they are pretty affordable and pair with most phones, so you don't need to worry about a huge cash outlay. There's no compromise on performance and the best mobile controllers include programmable buttons, responsive sticks, and other premium features for a console-like feel.
The X3 Pro takes things to another level by integrating a cooling fan and using a USB-C connection instead of Bluetooth for faster response times.
I was excited to try GameSir's new X3 Pro controller after the X4 Aileron convinced me that mobile gaming can be practical given the right tools. The X3 Pro takes things to another level by integrating a cooling fan and using a USB-C connection instead of Bluetooth for faster response times. I tried the X3 Pro with various mobile and PC games over the last few days and was impressed with its features and performance.
GameSir X3 Pro tag
GameSir X3 Pro Mobile Controller
The GameSir X3 Pro is a mobile controller for the iPhone 15 and Android phones. It has a built-in cooling fan and other modern features like Hall-Effect sticks, a six-axis gyroscope and a rumble function.
Pros & Cons
Comfortable grib
Powerful cooling fan
Power issues can be challenging
Needs additional color options
Pocket-lint Methodology Related
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Price, availability, and specs
Modern features and a cooling fan
GameSir's X3 Pro mobile controller works on the iPhone 15 and most Android phones between 4.33 and 7.09 inches. It has an extendable design with a spring-loaded mechanism that you open to connect your phone to the USB-C port. It then closes automatically to lock the phone in place. Your phone powers the controller and will automatically detect and turn it on. Another USB-C port at the bottom of the controller powers the fan and charges your phone while playing.
Like most GameSir controllers, the X3 Pro has modern features, including anti-drift hall-effect sticks, micro-switch triggers, built-in rumble motors, and a six-axis gyro for motion control. The controller has a stylish teal and white translucent design, with all the buttons and the D-pad within reach. The integrated fan dominates the back of the controller, blowing onto the massive 900 mm² cooling plate to keep your phone's temperature down during intense gaming sessions. You also get a standard 3.5mm audio jack for players wanting to connect headphones without a fuss.
On-the-go mobile players will appreciate the X3 Pro's padded carry case with a handy carry handle to keep it safe when traveling. The case offers a snug fit that locks the controller in place and holds a spare D-Pad and stick caps to customize its feel. Speaking of customization, the X3 Pro has removable grips that clip on and off in seconds, so you can change the controller's shape to suit your hands. It also has removable buttons so you can switch between Xbox and Nintendo Switch layouts depending on your preference.
On-the-go mobile players will appreciate the X3 Pro's padded carry case with a handy carry handle to keep it safe when traveling.
The GamSir X3 Pro is available in the standard color I tested and exciting Marvel themes, like the Thanos, Deadpool, and Hulk editions. It costs $80 and can be purchased on Amazon, Walmart, and the official GameSir site.
Feature 2-1 Related
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GameSir X3 Pro Mobile Controller
The GameSir X3 Pro is a mobile controller for the iPhone 15 and Android phones. It has a built-in cooling fan and other modern features like Hall-Effect sticks, a six-axis gyroscope and a rumble function.
Brand
GameSir
Platform
Android
Connectivity
USB-C
Headset Support
3.5mm
Programmable
Yes
Extra Buttons
Yes
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What I like about the GameSir X3 Pro
Makes mobile games better
I like the X3 Pro's comfortable shape because it fits my hand perfectly with the grips on. All the sticks and buttons are within easy reach, and I can play for hours without feeling strain or fatigue. Another thing I liked was the instant responsiveness with no noticeable latency because of the USB-C connection.
GameSir's mobile app always impresses me with its features and user-friendliness. It lets you monitor the controller's connectivity status and displays its current temperature. I found the game section useful because it lists all my installed titles and labels them based on whether they have native support for the X3 Pro or require hardware mapping. The app also includes options to adjust the vibration intensity, joystick deadzones, button configuration, and more to customize the experience.
I was initially skeptical about the fan, but it blew me away with its cooling performance. My Samsung S22 averaged around 98 degrees Fahrenheit (37°C) while playing demanding titles like Titanfall 2 with the fan off. It dropped to around 66 degrees (19°C) in no time with the fan on and remained there for the duration of play.
I'm a sucker for fighting games and appreciated the X3 Pro's arcade-like feel when playing Street Fighter IV CE. Racing games like Asphalt 8 and Real Racing 3 were much more fun with responsive analog sticks and buttons instead of touch controls. I don't usually play third-person action games like Gangstar 4 on my phone because of the imprecise feel when moving or driving. The X3 Pro's layout changed the game's feel and made it feel more like a console title.
The X3 Pro comes into its own when used with Steam Link. I found it convenient to play Steam titles like Titanfall 2 and Tiny Tina's Wonderlands while chilling on my sofa or relaxing in bed without noticeable latency.
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What I don't like about the GameSir X3 Pro
A minor fan issue
GameSir X3 Pro Fan on
The fan only works when a USB-C charging cable is plugged in because it would otherwise drain the phone's battery. I didn't like that the fan wouldn't start if I plugged in the cable while playing on my phone. According to the GamSir site, some phones have a protocol issue that causes invalid power distribution. This meant I needed to remove my phone, plug in the cable for the fan to work, and then place my phone back in the controller during a game, which I found inconvenient.
While not the biggest deal, I feel the case would be better in another color. The X3 Pro's light gray case is a dirt magnet, and I struggled to prevent it from picking up dust particles and other marks when moving it around.
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Should you buy the GameSir Cyclone 2?
If you want to improve your mobile gaming experience
GameSir X3 Pro Streetfighter2
The GameSir X3 Pro elevates your mobile gaming experience by offering precise controls and modern features. It fits most phones and includes a cooling fan and a USB-C passthrough function so you'll never run out of juice while playing. I think it's worth considering as an affordable upgrade that transforms how you'll play mobile games on your phone.
GameSir X3 Pro tag
GameSir X3 Pro Mobile Controller
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