Compare GameSir G8 Plus MFi vs Asus ROG Raikiri II

GameSir’s platform support remains a weak point, especially on iOS where some Bluetooth features and app controls are unavailable.

ASUS responded to early software and dongle issues with firmware fixes, and those updates resolved problems in follow-up testing.

Owners of the original G8 gain limited input improvements; the upgrade mainly matters for Apple certification, iPad mini fit, or specific connectivity needs.

As an upgrade from earlier Raikiri models, the II is widely seen as a substantial step forward in responsiveness, wireless capability, controls, accessories and overall execution.

Phones, small tablets, iPad mini, Android devices, and foldables are broadly supported, with wired and Bluetooth variants covering different use cases.

Mobile support is inconsistent. Some Windows-handheld use works well, but smartphone recognition is incomplete and one tester explicitly advises iOS and Android users to avoid it.

The controller is distinctly backpack-sized rather than pocketable because of its full-size grips and wide spine.

The compact case and integrated dongle storage make the controller easy to carry, with strong protection for travel.

Extensive remapping, dead-zone controls, and physical customization let players tailor the controller to different access needs.

Vibration adjustment can help players who are sensitive to strong rumble, but the lack of illuminated face-button labels was called out as a real accessibility problem in dark rooms.

Stick resistance is well judged, allowing fine adjustments without an overly aggressive snap back to center.

Stick tension is divisive: some testers found the TMR sticks unusually light or too loose, especially if they prefer firmer resistance.

Bluetooth remains playable for most games but can feel less precise or slightly delayed in twitch-sensitive play.

Wireless latency over 2.4GHz is exceptionally low in most testing, often feeling nearly indistinguishable from wired play.

The shoulder buttons work, but one reviewer found them smaller and stiffer than preferred.

The bumpers feel strong and well implemented, with micro-switch construction giving them a crisp, premium character.

Extra stick caps and pads are useful, but the missing carrying case and uneven manuals disappoint at this price.

The accessory bundle is a standout, typically including a protective case, charging stand, cable, dongle storage and alternate stick caps. It makes the premium package feel complete and travel-ready.

The dedicated capture control is convenient and improved placement reduces accidental presses, though one system button remained firmware-limited.

The share/screenshot control sits lower than ideal, making its placement a minor usability complaint.

Single-device use is generally stable, but repeated platform switching can produce reconnection failures.

The 2.4GHz connection stays stable under testing, with no obvious dropouts and polling behavior that closely matches wired mode.

Bluetooth versions can record multi-button sequences, but the MFi model removes macro support.

Macro support is a clear limitation: complex macros, turbo and button-combination programming are unavailable or non-functional in the tested software.

Directional inputs, including diagonals, register cleanly and support precise movement and menu control.

D-pad accuracy is mixed: it works well for menus and simpler directional play, but complex diagonals and fighting-game motions expose inconsistency for several testers.

Hair-trigger software modes shorten response effectively, but the absence of physical stops disappoints some players.

Trigger stops are one of the most consistently praised features, switching quickly into a firm, extremely short micro-switch action that suits shooters.

The analog triggers pull smoothly and maintain precise control through their travel.

Trigger feel is mixed: the full-range mode can be buttery smooth, while another tester found the short-pull triggers less satisfying than rival implementations.

It fits comfortably in a backpack or day bag, but the fixed full-size frame and missing case limit true travel convenience.

The protective case, in-case charging and integrated dongle storage make the controller particularly practical for tournaments and trips.

Bluetooth polling is lower than wired performance, but reviewers consider it adequate for non-competitive gaming.

The 1,000Hz polling mode on PC is a major performance selling point, giving the controller a fast, immediate feel over both wired and 2.4GHz connections.

Xbox cloud play is strong, but one Bluetooth review found the Xbox app unreliable with available wireless modes.

Xbox support works well at the hardware level, including wireless dongle connectivity, but console-only users face more software and profile-management friction than PC players.

The D-pad is capable for fighting games, though opinions are slightly tempered by its shape and mechanical feel.

Fighting-game performance is inconsistent. Some testers liked the fast buttons and one praised the rotating D-pad, while others found diagonal sequences and circular motions unreliable.

Reviewers repeatedly describe the sticks as exceptionally precise, sensitive, and console-grade.

Fine stick control can be excellent after tuning, with strong praise for tiny aiming and steering adjustments. Several testers found the stock deadzones or wide stick wells caused over-correction or weak micro-aiming.

Wired operation is consistently reliable; Bluetooth and early iPhone firmware produced occasional hiccups or dropouts.

Connection reliability is excellent across the tested modes, with repeated reports of seamless switching, stable RF performance and no meaningful dropouts.

Bluetooth-model battery life is usable but inconsistent in praise, with several reviews citing roughly eight hours and others calling it terrific.

Battery life is a major strength, commonly landing around 30–50 hours depending on RGB, vibration and audio settings. Testers rarely felt pressured to recharge during normal use.

Most reviewers played for extended periods without fatigue, though very heavy foldables can strain the wrists.

The shell itself handles long sessions well, but button fatigue divides testers. Some report hours without discomfort, while others found the hard micro-switch impacts tiring on fingers and joints.

PC support is generally strong over a cable, while Bluetooth modes can be less consistent outside Steam.

PC is where the controller feels most complete, with full customization, 1,000Hz operation and flexible wired, Bluetooth and 2.4GHz use.

The app exposes useful tuning tools, but reviewers repeatedly criticize its bugs, dull interface, unstable recognition, and uneven platform support.

Gear Link offers strong control without a heavy desktop app, and many testers like the browser-based approach. Others strongly dislike the internet requirement, PC dependence or setup friction, making the software experience one of the most divisive areas.

Rear buttons are useful and easy to map on supported platforms, but iOS Bluetooth limitations can leave them unusable.

Programmable rear controls are genuinely useful because they can be assigned quickly and moved to important in-game actions without taking a thumb off the sticks.

The rear buttons sit naturally under the middle fingers and are positioned to avoid accidental presses.

Rear-button placement is usually a highlight, sitting naturally under the middle and ring fingers. Some hand positions cause accidental presses, so the layout is not universal.

Plastic quality is generally strong, although the white finish may show grime and wear more readily.

Materials are mixed by component. The controller shell and grips usually feel high quality, while the charging dock and some removable plastic parts attract criticism for feeling cheap or fragile.

The wired model’s 3.5mm jack is a welcome low-latency option; Bluetooth versions lose this useful feature.

The 3.5mm headset jack performs very well, with strong volume and very low audio latency even over the wireless dongle.

Bluetooth versions pair broadly and can feel seamless on a single device, but switching modes across platforms sometimes causes reconnection trouble.

Bluetooth is useful for quick pairing and mobile-style use, but several testers preferred the 2.4GHz dongle because it delivers lower latency and higher polling performance.

Wired low latency, precise sticks, and rear buttons suit competitive play, while Bluetooth delay remains a caveat.

Competitive play is the controller’s clearest use case. Fast micro-switches, trigger stops, rear controls and low-latency connectivity repeatedly earn praise for shooters and other reaction-heavy games.

Most reviewers see strong value at around $80 because the controls rival premium competitors, though software flaws and regional pricing weaken the case.

Value depends heavily on priorities. Many reviewers think the $190-class package earns its price through TMR hardware and accessories, while others see cheaper alternatives or setup flaws as reasons to spend less.

Frequent platform switching requires memorizing many button combinations and often keeping the manual nearby.

The controller has a modest learning curve around ultra-short buttons, deadzone tuning, profile controls and unusual menu-key placement. Most testers adapted after some use.

A firmware update fully resolved serious iPhone disconnection problems on the affected test unit.

Firmware support has been responsive enough to fix early connectivity or tuning problems, though one setup-heavy experience still found the update process frustrating.

Dead zones, vibration, layouts, mapping, and trigger behavior are highly adjustable even though the app itself needs polish.

Software tuning is extensive, with detailed control over curves, deadzones, triggers, vibration, lighting and profiles. The settings are powerful even when the delivery method is divisive.

The wired MFi model is nearly plug-and-play, while Bluetooth mode combinations and occasional app recognition issues add friction.

Basic mode switching can be simple, but setup quality depends heavily on software. One tester encountered a long sequence of installs and updates that turned setup into a major frustration.

Both software remapping and physically swappable ABXY layouts make platform changes easier.

Remapping is flexible for controller inputs and can be very quick, including on-the-fly changes. The main limitation is that several buttons can only mirror existing controller commands rather than keyboard keys or combos.

The controller can make mobile gaming more inviting, though its price and size are harder to justify for touch-first casual games.

Casual and single-player suitability is mixed. The shape is comfortable, but the aggressive micro-switch feel and competitive focus can make softer controllers more appealing for long, relaxed sessions.

The face buttons provide a satisfying click with enough travel to feel deliberate.

Face-button travel is exceptionally short, creating near-instant actuation. That speed is a competitive advantage but contributes to the harder, less cushioned feel some testers dislike.

Precise Hall sticks and fast trigger modes make shooters feel accurate and responsive, especially on the wired MFi model.

The controller is a strong FPS fit once the sticks are tuned, thanks to rapid triggers and responsive inputs. Default deadzones or game-specific trigger behavior can make fine aiming less convincing for some players.

The strong D-pad and physical controls work very well for emulation and older games.

Retro games work cleanly in the tested use case, with no input problems reported when using the controller for older-style play.

Full-size, Xbox-like contours make the controller exceptionally comfortable and natural to hold.

The Xbox-style shape is generally comfortable and natural, with thoughtful grip contours. Fit becomes more personal around the trigger reach and rear-button layout.

Most reviewers like the clicky, short-travel D-pad, though some describe slight mushiness or dislike its indented shape.

The D-pad generally feels springy, crisp and satisfying, although a few testers describe it as spongy or less refined in certain directions.

Direct USB-C delivers immediate setup, strong reliability, and excellent low-latency control.

Wired USB-C performance is excellent, delivering the lowest latency and stable high polling while remaining available for play-and-charge.

The included cable is short at about 3.5 feet, but it is flexible and well made.

The included braided cable feels strong and premium, and its generous length is useful. One tester found it stiff enough to prefer a more flexible third-party cable.

Most reviewers strongly recommend the hardware and rank it among the best mobile controllers, despite software and variant-specific compromises.

Overall sentiment is strongly positive: most testers see this as a high-performance premium controller with standout precision and speed. The main dissent centers on setup, price, harsh buttons and a few awkward design choices.

Comfort is the clearest consensus strength, with full-size grips supporting long sessions without feeling cramped.

Comfort is a broad strength thanks to the familiar Xbox-style shape, textured grips and balanced shell. The main caveat is that rear-button placement and hard micro-switch presses can reduce comfort for some hands.

Hall-effect sensing is a major strength, promising far better resistance to wear-induced stick drift.

Stick-drift resistance is a major reason reviewers favor the TMR hardware, with repeated confidence that it avoids the wear problem of traditional potentiometers. One test unit did show drift-like calibration behavior, tempering the otherwise strong consensus.

The wired MFi connection is repeatedly praised for eliminating noticeable controller delay.

Input lag is consistently low in testing, especially over wired and 2.4GHz connections. A small number of measurements found stick latency less impressive, but gameplay usually felt immediate.

Hall-effect triggers provide nuanced pressure control that works especially well for racing and other analog-heavy games.

The full-range TMR triggers are excellent for nuanced analog control, especially throttle and braking in racing games. One tester found the feel less subtle than expected.

The broad, full-size layout particularly suits larger hands without making the controls feel cramped.

Medium and larger hands are generally well served by the grip shape, while smaller hands may find the trigger reach and overall span less natural.

Solid construction and Hall-effect controls inspire confidence that the controller should hold up over extended use.

Early durability impressions are mostly strong, helped by TMR sticks and micro-switch construction. Concerns center on smaller plastic parts such as removable stick caps rather than the main shell.

Despite added weight, the controller stays well balanced and rarely feels awkward with a phone installed.

Weight is usually praised as light yet balanced and substantial enough to feel premium. One reviewer preferred a heavier controller and thought the lighter feel reduced perceived quality.

Weight, texture, rigid construction, and high-quality controls give the controller a convincingly premium feel.

The controller usually feels convincingly premium through its solid shell, finish, controls and presentation. A few testers think the light weight or cheaper dock materials weaken that impression.

Swappable sticks, movable ABXY caps, remapping, dead-zone tuning, and trigger options make customization a major strength.

Customization is deep, covering stick curves and deadzones, trigger ranges, vibration, lighting, mappings and profiles. Testers repeatedly describe the tuning range as one of the controller’s premium strengths.

Programmable rear controls add meaningful shortcuts and can provide a real advantage in shooters.

The rear buttons can keep thumbs on the sticks and move common actions under the fingers, which testers found genuinely useful for faster play.

The motors can feel solid in tests, but inconsistent game support leaves rumble dormant or disappointing on many mobile setups.

Vibration is serviceable rather than a standout. Some testers find it controlled and precise, but others call it weak or too understated for immersive single-player play.

Most reviewers found the sticks buttery smooth, though one long-term owner worried about a gritty feel developing on the left stick.

Stick movement is consistently described as smooth, springy and controlled, with anti-friction rings helping the sticks glide cleanly.

The chassis feels sturdy, rigid, and premium, with little flex, creaking, or button rattle.

The controller itself is overwhelmingly described as solid, rigid and well assembled, with tight seams and very little flex or creaking.

Buttons are widely praised for tactile feedback, satisfying clicks, and a substantial premium feel.

Micro-switch buttons are one of the most consistently praised parts of the controller, offering crisp, tactile and very fast presses. Some testers find the rigid click harsh over long sessions.

Face buttons respond quickly and avoid mushiness even where membrane switches are used.

Face buttons register exceptionally quickly, with immediate micro-switch actuation that suits fast play. Extremely rapid repeated presses can occasionally expose reset behavior on some units.

Smooth Hall triggers and precise analog control make the controller particularly effective for racing games.

Racing games are a strong fit because the full-travel analog triggers allow fine throttle and brake control, while the precise sticks help with steering.

Triggers are quick, reliable, and well suited to shooters, especially with hair-trigger mode enabled.

Trigger response is outstanding in short mode, with near-instant mouse-like clicks that repeatedly impress shooter-focused testers.

Laser-engraved and textured rear grips keep the controller secure and comfortable during long sessions.

The textured and rubberized grip surfaces are repeatedly praised for staying secure without feeling overly rough or sticky.

Bumpers respond cleanly and feel satisfying alongside the face buttons and triggers.

Bumpers actuate quickly and with very little force. That speed is useful, though the light touch may require a short adjustment period.

After the relevant firmware update, the previously affected MFi unit remained stable without further dropouts.

Across longer tests and multiple genres, the controller stayed consistent, with reliable connections, stable controls and strong day-to-day behavior.

Mobile games often fail to deliver console-like haptics through the controller, limiting the practical benefit.

Haptic immersion is limited; the light rumble was described as understated and less textured than stronger first-party feedback systems.

Rear paddles respond firmly and are positioned well enough to avoid unintended presses.

The rear paddle-style controls respond quickly and click crisply, reinforcing the controller’s fast mechanical feel.

The flexible USB-C connector makes docking safer and easier, while passthrough charging and data support add practical value.

USB-C play-and-charge keeps the controller usable when the battery runs low, avoiding downtime during longer sessions.

The 2.4GHz link is repeatedly praised for low latency and dependable response, with the compact dongle also earning points for practical storage and positioning.

The integrated battery cannot be replaced easily, which was specifically called out as a repairability drawback.

The face-button lettering is difficult to read in low light because there is no backlighting behind the labels, a recurring usability complaint.

The mechanical buttons deliver a pronounced click that some testers enjoy, but others find noticeably loud during rapid play. Noise tolerance will matter here.

The charging dock is convenient and can keep the pad topped up, especially when paired with the case and dongle port. Build quality varies sharply by reviewer, with several calling the stand cheap, light or flimsy.

Passthrough charging works reliably, but reports differ between fast charging on some phones and a 5V/3A limit without quick charging.

Xbox Cloud Gaming, GeForce NOW, and other streaming services work especially well with the full-size controls.

Bluetooth G8 Plus reviews praise strong Switch support, while the wired MFi version cannot connect to Switch at all.

Remote Play works very well and can make a phone feel like a lower-cost PlayStation Portal alternative.

The design is widely praised as sleek, restrained and recognizably ROG without becoming overly flashy. Subtle lighting and varied textures add to the premium look.

Bluetooth models can offer a capable six-axis gyro, but the wired MFi version omits gyro entirely.

The Hall sticks are consistently praised for smooth, accurate control and dependable calibration.

Headset passthrough is strong, with solid audio quality and low latency through the controller’s 3.5mm connection.

The six-axis gyroscope performed accurately in supported Switch games.

The broad cradle usually secures devices well, but spring tension, alignment, and large camera bumps can complicate mounting.

Dedicated headset control has regressed because the former mute function is no longer clearly available from a hardware button.

Five onboard profiles are useful for storing different game setups, but profile switching and identification are not equally convenient in every environment, especially on Xbox.

The adjustable cradle handles most phones, cases, foldables, and iPad mini devices, but rugged cases and oversized camera bumps can still cause tilt or clearance issues.

Platformers generally benefit from the quick buttons and precise directional response, though the D-pad is less convincing for more complex motion-heavy play.

Repairability takes a hit from the sealed, integrated battery, which is not designed for straightforward user replacement.

The RGB is generally seen as tasteful and highly customizable, and the battery-status lighting can be genuinely useful. A few testers felt grip lighting was wasted power because it is hidden under the hands.

The extra ROG Ally shortcut keys repeatedly interfere with the usual Start/View layout. Several testers hit the wrong button or found the real menu controls awkward to reach.

Fine steering adjustments are a strong point; small stick movements translated into precise directional changes in racing tests.

The removable stick-cap system is convenient, but one reviewer found the plastic connection fragile and insufficiently secure for frequent swapping.

TMR is one of the controller’s headline strengths, delivering crisp, smooth and highly precise stick behavior in most testing. A minority found the default deadzones or tuning disappointing until adjusted.