When I reviewed the G8 Galileo gaming controller earlier this year, it was clear that GameSir had something special. The full-size controller just feels better in the hand and is easier to use, and the Hall effect thumbsticks and triggers are better than console-level controllers.
With the G8 Plus, GameSir uses the same design but foregoes USB-C connectivity in favor of Bluetooth. This makes the G8 Plus compatible with a much wider range of devices, including Android phones and tablets, iPhones, iPads, Nintendo Switch, Windows, and virtually anything that requires a Bluetooth controller.
This means you get all the same great features as the G8 Galileo, but with the added convenience of Bluetooth. In short, if you need a new mobile gaming controller, there really isn’t anything better right now.
GameSir G8 Plus: Prices and Availability
GameSir launched the G8 Plus mobile gaming controller on July 29th, and it’s now available worldwide. The G8 Plus is available on Amazon for just $79, and that’s a steal considering what you actually get for it. The regular G8 with USB-C connectivity also costs the same, and I’d argue that the Bluetooth model is more versatile.
You can also buy the controller from the brand’s website. Just like the standard version, it doesn’t come with a carrying case – that costs an additional $15 if you buy the controller from Amazon.
GameSir G8 Plus: What I like
GameSir perfected the design of the G8 Galileo and didn’t change that with the G8 Plus. The controller has a full-size design and a textured surface on the back that makes it easier to hold and use. The size is undoubtedly one of the best things about the G8 Plus. Full-size triggers, action buttons and thumbsticks are just much more convenient and the contoured design is comfortable.
Another plus point is its customizability; the faceplates are easily removable and you can swap out the thumbsticks (two additional sizes are included in the package) and even change the configuration of the X, Y, A and B action buttons, ideal when pairing it with the Switch.
The action buttons and D-pad have good tactile feel, but it’s the triggers and thumbsticks that set the G8 Plus apart. GameSir uses Hall effect magnetic sensors, and that means you’ll never notice any stick drift. While I’ve only had the G8 Plus for a month, I’ve been using the G8 Galileo for almost a year now, and even after hundreds of hours of use, it has the same great feedback as it did on day one.
The triggers have a wide range of motion and excellent feedback. The ability to change the size of the thumbsticks is an added bonus. There are two paddles on the back that are relatively easy to set up with in-game actions.
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At 314g, the G8 Plus is 60g heavier than the G8 Galileo. The extra weight is due to the internal 1000mAh battery, and thankfully the weight is balanced on both sides (there is a 500mAh battery under each section). The extra weight is noticeable, but it doesn’t cause fatigue even after long gaming sessions.
While the G8 comes in a grey colour scheme, the G8 Plus switches to a darker grey that looks a bit better. You still get the same rubber bridge that ensures the controller doesn’t damage your phone, and the left side has a large enough extension so you can slot tablets in without too much hassle.
Cases are no problem either and I was able to use my Pixel 8 Pro and my iPhone 15 Pro Max with fairly bulky cases. There is enough space and the phone is held firmly between the two halves. The matte texture of the G8 Plus does not attract smudges and overall there is nothing to complain about the design.
Getting started with the G8 Plus is extremely easy: pairing via Bluetooth works smoothly and the connection remains absolutely stable. The GameSir logo has an LED ring that changes color depending on the connected device: Android is yellow, iOS is blue, Switch is red and so on. You can change the mode by selecting the record button and one of the action buttons and you can easily switch between devices.
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In terms of everyday performance, there is no mobile gaming controller as good as the G8 Plus. The triggers and buttons have fantastic feedback, and I know I’ve said this a few times by now, but the fact that you get full-size buttons makes all the difference. I’ve used mobile controllers that are geared towards portability, and they’re not as fun – especially during marathon gaming sessions. That’s not an issue with the G8 Plus.
GameSir G8 Plus: What I don’t like
Since the G8 Plus has the same design as the G8 Galileo, it also has the same drawbacks. If you have a phone with a large camera island, you won’t be able to plug it into the controller. I had issues with the Xiaomi 14 Ultra, Vivo X100 Ultra, Find X7 Ultra, and even the Magic 6 Pro. The only phones that didn’t have clearance issues were the iPhone 15 Pro Max and the Pixel 8 Pro, so I used the G8 Plus with those devices most of the time.
There is a workaround, however: Since it doesn’t require a USB-C connection, I was able to plug the X100 Ultra in so that the camera island sits flush with the rubber back of the controller (instead of being slotted into the extended section), and while the fit isn’t quite as secure, it’s usable.
Because the G8 Plus connects via Bluetooth, it lacks two extras that I used a lot on the G8 Galileo: 3.5mm jack and pass-through charging. There is a USB-C port on the side of the controller, but that is for charging the internal battery.
GameSir G8 Plus: The competition
There’s no shortage of mobile controllers and the Backbone One continues to lead the pack, but if you want a controller with full-size buttons, I’d recommend the G8 Galileo. It foregoes Bluetooth in favor of USB-C but offers passthrough charging and the convenience of a 3.5mm jack. At $79, it costs the same as the G8 Plus.
Scuf’s Nomad is a great choice if you want a smaller controller with quality triggers and buttons. It’s not as comfortable to hold or use as the G8 Plus, but it’s easier to carry around on the go and has Bluetooth connectivity.
GameSir G8 Plus: Should You Buy It?
You should buy this if:
- You want a mobile controller with Bluetooth
- You need full-size triggers and buttons
- You want excellent battery life
- You need Hall effect thumbsticks
You should not buy this if:
- You have a phone with big cameras
- You need a controller with a 3.5 mm jack and pass-through charging function
GameSir hasn’t made any design changes to the G8 Plus, and that’s a good thing. The G8 Galileo is arguably the best Android game controller on the market, and a big part of its appeal is the size; being able to use full-size triggers, thumbsticks, action buttons, and D-pad on a mobile gaming controller is wonderful, and the main reason I like the G8 so much.
The G8 Plus follows suit and Bluetooth integration makes it easier to use. There is absolutely no lag or delay when using the controller and the triggers are some of the best you’ll find in this segment. It is heavier than the standard G8 but the extra weight isn’t too noticeable and the battery life is excellent.
To sum up, there isn’t much to complain about with the G8 Plus, and if you need a mobile gaming controller with Bluetooth connectivity, it’s my absolute recommendation.
With Hall-effect thumbsticks and full-size buttons, the G8 Plus gives you the best features of a traditional console controller – and you can take it anywhere.
