GameSir is a manufacturer based in China but shipping globally, that specializes in gaming controllers for PC, Xbox and mobile. I’ve reviewed many of its models in my time at Windows Central, and one of our absolute favorites for Xbox is the GameSir G7 SE wired. In this review, I’m going over the GameSir G7 HE which has a couple of significant upgrades from the SE, but also in true GameSir form randomly removes some features. That being said, while we still wait in anticipation for a wireless option for Xbox from GameSir, I firmly believe the G7 HE is the best the brand has offered for the platform so far, and at a price point that makes it accessible for most. Without further ado, let’s go through what is different about the GameSir G7 HE.
Jennifer Young
Jen has been part of the Windows Central team for two years and has been playing video games since the 90s and is just as adept at Dark Souls and Diablo as she is at Petz 4. Playing mainly on Steam Deck, Xbox and PC, Jen prefers to collect controllers over shoes and handbags. However, only a handful make it into the daily rotation while others are doomed to storage, and she’ll happily tell you why in numerous reviews submitted to this site.
This review was made possible thanks to a review sample provided by GameSir. GameSir had no input nor saw the contents of this review prior to publication.
GameSir G7 HE controller review: Pricing and specifications
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- The GameSir G7 HE controller costs $49.99
- It comes in Black, White, and even an Iron Man Special Edition
GameSir G7 HE wired controller specs
• Price: $49.99 at Amazon
• Connectivity: USB-A to USB-C cable, 3m long detachable.
• Compatibility: Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One and Windows 10/11
• Extra controls: Microphone mute button, 2 rear remappable buttons, 3.5mm audio jack
• Sticks: Hall Effect
• Triggers: Hall Effect
• Buttons: Micro-switch
• Customization: Magnetic swappable faceplates
• Dimensions: 152 x 103 x 63cm
• Weight: 435 grams
You can purchase the GameSir G7 HE from Amazon or directly from GameSir. There are currently 3 colours, Black, White and an Iron Man special edition. Similar to the G7 SE, you can change the faceplate to one of many other designs, purchased separately. The magnetic faceplate comes off and snaps back on, and while there isn’t a huge range of designs available it’s a nifty feature.
In the box you get the USB-C cable which detaches so can be replaced if it gets damaged or… inevitably lost if your house is anything like mine.
In the box, you get a hard leather effect case with cushioned innards to keep your controller, a slot for the included 2.4Ghz dongle, and the USB wire for charging and wired use fits into netting within the case.
GameSir G7 HE controller review: The good
- The controller has Hall-Effect sticks, something Xbox has yet to implement in its own controllers.
- The membrane buttons from the SE model have been upgraded to micro-switch for more precision and durability.
- The G7 HE has added silicone grips for comfort.
If you already own the G7 SE, you might be wondering whether it’s worth upgrading to the G7 HE. I was skeptical myself, questioning how much could have changed and if those changes justified an entirely new model name. However, after spending time with the HE, I can confidently say the upgrades are worth it. In fact, my beloved G7 SE has now been relegated to the shelf in favor of this version.
Why? The buttons are simply glorious. GameSir has ditched the membrane buttons from the SE and replaced them with microswitches, which are satisfyingly clicky—almost distractingly so. More importantly, they’re more precise and significantly more durable. GameSir originally included these buttons on the first G7 but, for some inexplicable reason, removed them on the SE. Now they’re back and better than ever.
Another small but noticeable improvement is the addition of silicone grips on the rear. These make the controller even more comfortable to hold and ensure it doesn’t slip during sweaty palmed gaming sessions, of which I’ll be having many when Monster Hunters Wilds launches.
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The G7 HE also carries over some fantastic features from the G7 SE, including the hall-effect sticks. Unlike traditional analog sticks, which rely on physical contact and are prone to drift, hall-effect sticks use magnetic fields. This design means you won’t have to worry about stick drift, and the controller is likely to last much longer. The anti-friction rings are also present, allowing the sticks to glide smoothly. While I miss the bright design of the SE’s rings, the HE’s blended look works well with the faceplate, and the functionality remains top-notch.
GameSir G7 HE controller review: The bad
- The GameSir G7 SE had the ability to lock the rear buttons, the HE has removed these.
- It’s 2025 and GameSir are yet to make a wireless controller for Xbox, and $50 for a wired controller is starting to look less reasonable.
- There are no trigger stops.
In true GameSir fashion, they never seem to release a controller that’s completely perfect. Between the G7 and G7 SE, they randomly removed the microswitch buttons—and now, with the G7 HE, they’ve taken away the handy rear switches that used to lock the back buttons in place. While it’s a small change, it’s noticeable. The rear buttons are now easier to press accidentally, and if you don’t want to use them, the locking mechanism was a nice option to have.
Another omission worth mentioning is the lack of trigger stops. While this isn’t a dealbreaker at this price point, it’s something to consider if you’re specifically looking for a controller to optimize FPS gameplay. This missing feature might leave you feeling slightly underwhelmed.
Overall, I still like the G7 HE more than the SE and think it’s a fantastic controller. So why did I give it a 4 out of 5 when the older model scored 4.5? Well, it’s been two years since we looked at the SE G7. Expectations are higher now, and $50 for a wired controller feels a little less reasonable—even with Hall Effect capabilities. The reality is that most Xbox gamers prefer wireless options, especially if you have kids or pets around. While I love this controller for playing on my Series S with a small attached screen (since I keep it close by), it doesn’t replace wireless controllers for playing on my TV.
Third-party wireless Xbox controllers are becoming more common, albeit at much higher price points. GameSir still hasn’t delivered a reasonably priced wireless Xbox controller, even though their PC offerings, like the Cyclone 2, are incredible. I suspect this isn’t entirely GameSir’s fault. Microsoft likely holds strict control over wireless licensing for Xbox, and only brands like Razer, PowerA, Turtle Beach (PDP Gaming included), and SCUF (owned by Corsair) seem to have access to that privilege. I’d bet Microsoft ensures these third-party wireless options remain higher priced than their own controllers.
It’s frustrating because GameSir is absolutely nailing it with PC controllers, but their hands seem tied when it comes to Xbox. I can’t ignore that, no matter how much I love their work.
GameSir G7 HE controller review: Also consider
If you’re specifically looking for a wireless controller for Xbox with Hall Effect technology, you’ll pay handsomely for it, but the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro is currently our best pick. We even recommend it over Xbox own Elite series of controllers. There are cheaper options like the PowerA Fusion Pro with Lumectra for $150, but I don’t recommend it at that price point.
If you’re primarily a PC gamer, you’re in luck—there are far more wireless options at lower price points. My favorite right now is the GameSir Cyclone 2 Wireless, which comes with a magnetic charging stand and is currently on sale. This controller also features a cutting-edge stick technology called TMR (Tunnel Magnetoresistance). Without diving too deep into the science, TMR works similarly to Hall Effect by using magnets and electric fields, but it’s even more precise and consumes less battery.
GameSir G7 HE controller review: Final thoughts
You should buy this if …
✅You want a cheap controller for Xbox that won’t get stick drift
The GameSir G7 HE has Hall-Effect tech in both the sticks and triggers
✅You want clicky buttons and a comfortable grip
The microswitch buttons are some of the clickiest in the biz, and the cushioned grips are a joy to hold
You should not buy this if …
❌You need trigger stops for FPS
There are 2 rear remappable buttons, but no trigger stops on this controller
❌You don’t want to be tethered to your console
This controller is wired, and for many Xbox players that’s a dealbreaker
Overall, I love this controller, and I truly wrestled with giving it a 4 or 4.5 rating. After all, its predecessor scored a 4.5, and the G7 HE comes with so many small improvements. However, the reality is that I expect more from my controllers—and by extension, from GameSir as a brand. Whether it’s within their control or not, I can’t ignore that, in 2025, I’d be hesitant to shell out $50 for a wired controller, no matter how much value it offers with the Hall Effect tech.
I’m hoping to see more budget-friendly wireless options for Xbox from third-party brands, and based on my experience testing GameSir’s PC controllers, I firmly believe they’re the ones who can deliver this (if and when Microsoft allows it).
For now, though, if you enjoyed the SE G7 and the wired aspect isn’t a dealbreaker for you, you’ll absolutely love this controller. It’s definitely worth our recommendation.
