GameSir’s Kaleid Flux is an affordable wired controller for Xbox, PC, and Steam

Key Takeaways

• GameSir Kaleid Flux offers reliable and lag-free gameplay with pro features.
• It is a wired controller with a 3m long braided USB-C cable.
• The GameSir Nexus app offers outstanding customization options to fine-tune your experience.

I was surprised when I reviewed the new GameSir Kaleid Flux because it’s been a while since I’ve used a wired controller, and I don’t know if I’d be happy with its plug and play design. My fear disappeared after hearing the familiar contours and proper button placement that I had become accustomed to after years of playing Xbox.

So why choose a wired controller in the first place? Its simplicity equals reliability because it works on Xbox consoles and most laptops and desktops without lag or requiring a Bluetooth connection. Standard Xbox controllers tend to die in the middle of the action, and I feel that the Kaleid Flux is a viable option for those who want uninterrupted gaming with pro features and great customization options, which I’ll touch on later.

What if you want to sit on the couch away from your TV? GameSir has you covered with a three-meter (9.8-ft) long braided cable that covers my living room with enough extras to hold the controller comfortably, whether I’m sitting upright or lying back and taking it easy.

Price, availability, and specifications

Great value and free Game Pass membership

GameSir is an affordable wired controller for Xbox, PC, and Steam that retails for around $50 at major online retailers. Comes with a durable USB-C braided cable, a portable cleaning cloth, a GameSir sticker. You also get a one-month subscription to Game Pass Ultimate which helps you get started with some of the latest titles, which adds incredible value.

GameSir Kaleid Flux’s all-black design follows a tried and true formula and will feel right at home for Xbox gamers. Extra texturing on the grip and brick keeps your hands and fingers firmly in place without feeling too aggressive or uncomfortable, and you get a pair of large rear paddles for improved performance.

It’s impossible to discuss the design of the Kaleid Flux without mentioning the transparent top cover with clear RGB strips on both sides. The colored cover adds a touch of class and gives a glimpse into its inner workings, while the lighting adds some shine and can be toned down for a subtle and tasteful look with the right settings.

On the technical side, GamerSir uses Hall Effect analog sticks and magnetic triggers to measure movement, distance, etc. They are more precise and responsive than conventional controllers and tend to last longer, with no dead spots or controller drift, because no moving parts physically touch each other.

What I like about the GameSir Kaleid Flux controller

Easy-to-use software with outstanding customization options

I liked the simplicity of the Kaleid Flux because my laptop automatically detected it as an Xbox controller, and it was ready to go in seconds. My fears about the wired connection were also put to rest because the thick braided cable is long enough to play across the room and fits snugly in the closed hole, protecting it from damage.

It looks good in low light at night to provide a subtle glow through a transparent house.

The GameSir Nexus software is one of Flux’s best features due to its outstanding customization options, allowing you to fine-tune all of the controller’s features to your preferences. The app allows you to customize the range of motion of each analog stick and has a RAW function that disables external dead spots for high speed and precision.

You can also adjust the range of trigger movement, and the handy hair trigger feature converts analog input to digital for faster response time in shooting games.

I prefer to turn off the vibration function in other online shooters and I appreciate that the Kaleid Flux has individual settings for left and right grips. It also allows you to adjust the vibration level up and down independently or synchronize both sides together.

I’m not a fan of RGB lighting because it’s distracting and has questionable benefits. However, I agree that it looks good in low light at night to provide subtle lighting through a transparent house.

When it comes to gaming experience, I had a blast using the controller and testing the various software settings in Borderlands 3, Naraka Bladepoint, and one of my old favorites, Soul Caliber VI. The controller is responsive at its default settings thanks to smooth Hall Effect sticks and triggers, and only gets better after some tweaking. I used the RAW option to make the sticks faster and clearer and I made the hair trigger mode blast the baddies in Borderlands 3 with ease.

Another feature that impressed me are the integrated switches, which make a satisfying click on each device despite using a membrane instead of a small switch like other GameSir models. I also appreciated the large rear paddles that are conveniently placed under my middle fingers, which provide quick access to health powerups, throwable armor, and other in-game resources.

What I don’t like about the GameSir Kaleid Flux controller

There is no one administrator to rule them all

I can live with a wired connection because of its simplicity, but the handling of a cable can’t stand up to the freedom of wireless alternatives and may turn off some buyers.

It would be great if Kaleid Flux was a complete controller for all platforms. However, I understand that GameSir cannot offer Switch and PlayStation compatible because it has to work within the limits of its licensing agreements with Microsoft to offer Game Pass membership and Xbox branding on its products.

Should you buy the GameSir Kaleid Flux Controller?

There is no question about it

Although I was initially skeptical due to the wired design, I was blown away by the comfort and performance of the Kaleid Flux and would not hesitate to recommend it to others. Its general shape should be comfortable for most players, and the combination of Hall Effect stick and triggers and additional paddle buttons on the back give you a premium feel that’s hard to beat for the price.

You can’t go wrong forking out $50, especially when you get a free Game Pass subscription worth another $10. That said, to enjoy the true value of Kaleid Flux, you’ll need to download the free GameSir Nexus app, which unlocks its potential with advanced features to customize your gaming experience.