GameSir G8 vs GameSir G8 + – Check Which One Is Best & Why?

GameSir G8+ & GameSir G8 share many similarities, but there are also important differences, such as quality, performance, features, design, and connectivity. If you want the best one between them, I Would recommend the GameSir G8+ rather than the GameSir G8.

Why Do I Recommend The GameSir G8+?

  • The GameSir G8+ supports Bluetooth wireless connectivity for using a wider range of devices including tablets and iOS phones in more flexible positions, whereas the GameSir G8 uses a fixed USB-C plug.
  • GameSir G8+ features a built-in rechargeable battery for maintaining controller power independently during long gaming sessions without draining the phone, while the GameSir G8 uses power drawn directly from the connected phone.
  • It includes integrated grip rumble motors for delivering tactile feedback that enhances immersion in action and racing games, whereas the GameSir G8 has no built-in rumble system.
  • The GameSir G8+ comes with a 6-axis gyro sensor for enabling motion-aiming and tilt-based controls in supported games, while the GameSir G8 includes no gyro hardware.
  • GameSir G8+ supports a wider device length range for accommodating large phones, foldables, and some small tablets, whereas the GameSir G8 supports a smaller range that fits standard phones only.
  • It features swappable ABXY button caps for customizing button labeling and tactile feel to match player preference, while the GameSir G8 includes fixed ABXY caps.
  • The GameSir G8+ comes with an open clamp structure for allowing thicker cases and larger camera bumps to fit securely without alignment issues, whereas the GameSir G8 uses a direct USB-C port connection.
  • GameSir G8+ supports Nintendo Switch wireless modes for expanding gameplay across handheld, mobile, and console environments, while the GameSir G8 includes no native Switch compatibility.

Maybe the GameSir G8 can make you comfortable because it’s a little bit cheaper than the GameSir G8+. But you have to compromise all the above-mentioned features. Now the Decision is Yours. I hope it was helpful to choose the right one.

Side-by-Side Comparison

FeatureGameSir G8+GameSir G8
Primary phone connectionBluetooth wirelessDirect wired USB-C plug
PC connectionBluetooth / USB-C / 2.4 GHzWired USB-C only
Console supportSupports Nintendo SwitchNo native Switch support
iOS supportWorks with many iPhones via BluetoothWorks mainly with iPhone 15 series via USB-C
Android supportWireless Bluetooth to most Android phonesWired USB-C Android phones only
Tablet supportSupports some small tablets within clamp rangePhone-only form factor
Device length rangeApprox. 120–215 mmApprox. 110–185 mm
Internal batteryBuilt-in rechargeable batteryNo internal battery
VibrationGrip rumble motorsNo built-in rumble
Gyro sensor6-axis gyro includedNo gyro sensor
Case compatibilityWorks with many thicker cases and big camera bumpsBest with thin or no case for USB-C alignment
Custom button capsSwappable ABXY button caps and stick capsSwappable stick caps only, fixed ABXY caps
Color optionsBlack and multiple themed editionsMainly grey / silver Galileo styling
Power behaviorNeeds separate controller chargingDraws power directly from phone
PriceCheck GameSir G8+ PriceCheck GameSir G8 Price

What Common Both Can Do?

  • Hall Effect Joysticks: Both controllers use Hall Effect joystick technology, which eliminates stick drift by avoiding physical contact between internal components. This results in longer lifespan and smoother directional control during gameplay.
  • Hall Effect Triggers: Each model employs Hall Effect triggers that provide consistent, precise input without mechanical degradation. This ensures stable trigger performance for racing games, shooters, and pressure-sensitive interactions.
  • Asymmetric Stick Layout: Both controllers feature the familiar Xbox-style asymmetric stick layout, giving players a comfortable and ergonomic control experience. This layout is widely preferred for action-heavy titles and enhances muscle memory.
  • Mechanical Face Buttons: Each controller uses clicky mechanical ABXY buttons that provide fast actuation and tactile feedback. This helps players respond quickly in competitive and fast-paced games.
  • Microswitch Bumpers: Both include microswitch LB/RB bumpers for crisp, responsive inputs. Microswitches ensure durability and help avoid mushy button feel over time.
  • Back Paddles: Both models include programmable rear paddles that allow players to remap essential actions. This improves control efficiency by reducing the need to move fingers off the sticks.
  • USB-C Port for Wired PC Play: Each controller supports USB-C wired gameplay on PC, giving players a reliable low-latency option. This is useful for competitive gaming or when wireless modes are not preferred.
  • App-Based Customization: Both controllers work with the GameSir app, allowing users to adjust layouts, remap buttons, and fine-tune performance. The shared software ecosystem makes configuration consistent across both models.
  • Turbo Function: Each controller provides a turbo mode that automates rapid button presses. This is beneficial for games requiring repeated tapping or sustained fire.
  • Trigger Dead-Zone Adjustment: Both models support tuning of trigger dead zones, allowing players to personalize sensitivity to their play style. This ensures smoother control in genres like racing or shooters.
  • Remappable Buttons: Each controller features full remapping capabilities through the app, giving players the ability to customize their input layout. This adaptability helps accommodate different hand sizes and gameplay preferences.
  • Magnetic Faceplates: Both offer magnetic faceplates that can be removed easily for customization or cleaning. This makes it simple to change the controller’s appearance or access components.
  • Swappable Stick Caps: Each includes replaceable joystick caps to adjust grip, height, or feel. This lets players tailor the analog sticks to different game types.
  • Ergonomic Grip Design: Both controllers share a comfortable, rounded grip design that supports long play sessions. The contours help reduce hand fatigue and improve overall control stability.
  • Pass-Through USB-C Port on Controller Body: Both include a dedicated USB-C port on the controller itself for charging or wired connection. This keeps cables organized and maintains full controller functionality.
  • Expandable Center Bridge Design: Each model uses an extending bridge that stretches to accommodate various phone sizes. This design provides a secure fit regardless of device width.
  • Compatible With GameSir App: Both controllers integrate with the GameSir software suite for firmware updates and layout adjustments. This ensures both remain current and customizable.
  • Analog Stick Sensitivity Adjustment: Each model allows adjustments to stick sensitivity curves through software. This gives players more precise control tuning for different genres or gameplay styles.

Common Features

FeatureGameSir G8+GameSir G8
Hall Effect JoysticksYesYes
Hall Effect TriggersYesYes
Asymmetric Stick LayoutYesYes
Mechanical Face ButtonsYesYes
Microswitch BumpersYesYes
Back PaddlesYesYes
USB-C Port for Wired PC PlayYesYes
App-Based CustomizationYesYes
Turbo FunctionYesYes
Trigger Dead-Zone AdjustmentYesYes
Remappable ButtonsYesYes
Magnetic FaceplatesYesYes
Swappable Stick CapsYesYes
Ergonomic Grip DesignYesYes
Pass-Through USB-C Port on Controller BodyYesYes
Expandable Center Bridge DesignYesYes
Compatible With GameSir AppYesYes
Analog Stick Sensitivity AdjustmentYesYes
Price Check GameSir G8+ Price
Check GameSir G8 Price

FAQ

Is the GameSir G8+ compatible with both Android and iOS devices?
Yes, the GameSir G8+ works with most Android and iOS devices through Bluetooth, making it more flexible across platforms. It can also connect to PCs and certain consoles depending on mode support.

Does the GameSir G8 support iPhones?
The GameSir G8 supports iPhone 15 series models through their USB-C port, but it does not support older Lightning-based iPhones. Its compatibility depends entirely on the device’s physical USB-C connector alignment.

Do both controllers use drift-free Hall Effect sticks?
Yes, both the GameSir G8+ and GameSir G8 use Hall Effect analog sticks, which significantly reduce or eliminate joystick drift by avoiding physical wear points.

Can both controllers remap buttons through the GameSir app?
Yes, both models support customizable button mapping through the GameSir app, allowing users to tailor control layouts for different games and play styles.

Do either of the controllers include back paddles?
Both controllers include programmable rear paddles that can be assigned to frequently used actions, making it easier to execute commands without lifting thumbs off the sticks.

Can both controllers adjust trigger sensitivity and dead zones?
Yes, each model has adjustable trigger dead zones and sensitivity settings accessible through the GameSir app, improving responsiveness for racing and shooting games.

Do both controllers support wired PC gameplay?
Yes, both the GameSir G8+ and GameSir G8 can connect to a PC through USB-C for low-latency wired gaming, making them suitable for desktop play sessions.

Are the faceplates on both controllers removable?
Both controllers use magnetic faceplates that can be replaced or customized easily. This helps users personalize the controller’s look and maintain the hardware more easily.

Do both controllers come with swappable joystick caps?
Yes, both include interchangeable stick caps, allowing players to choose different heights or textures for better control depending on the game.

Can both controllers fit large smartphones?
Both models have extendable bridges capable of holding large phones, though the G8+ supports slightly wider devices and some small tablets, while the G8 is designed purely for phones.

Do both controllers require firmware updates?
Yes, both occasionally require firmware updates, which are handled through the GameSir app. These updates improve compatibility, add features, or fix performance issues.

Are both controllers suitable for cloud gaming services?
Yes, both models work well with cloud gaming platforms such as Xbox Cloud Gaming, GeForce NOW, and PlayStation Remote Play. Their full-size controls give them a console-like feel.

Do both controllers support turbo functionality?
Yes, the turbo feature is available on both, enabling rapid-fire button presses without repeatedly tapping. This is useful in action games or titles requiring frequent input.

Are both controllers comfortable for long play sessions?
Both the G8+ and G8 have ergonomic grips designed to reduce hand fatigue. Their full-size layout resembles a traditional controller and provides better support than compact mobile controllers.

Can both controllers be customized through sensitivity curves?
Yes, both allow players to adjust analog stick sensitivity curves in the app, letting users fine-tune precision for competitive shooters, racing games, or general responsiveness.