Introduction
We all know that gaming with a controller is always a better option, especially when there are so many games. These few years, we can see that the number of mobile gamers keeps increasing, mainly because you can literally play it anywhere, and most games are available for free. Let’s back to the topic, this is the GameSir T1s, a controller that supports on multiple platforms. However, after using it for a few months, I think it’s better for mobile gaming. Why say so? Check out the full review here!
Unboxing
In terms of packaging, the T1s comes in a compact rectangular black box. Inside the box:
- GameSir T1s
- Micro USB cable
- User Guide
DualShock 4-Like Design
Looking at the design, the T1s looks a lot like the Sony DualShock 4 controller, though the features and functionalities aren’t same. The whole controller is wrapped with the faux leather material, while the top part has the soft-touch pleather surface with smooth texture. It provides good holding grip, I’ll say the controller generally passes in terms of ergonomics.
The T1s uses Xbox’s button layout, instead of PlayStation despite having that familiar design. The ABXY buttons are illuminated in different colors, and the center part of the controller can be folded out to attach your phone. There are several LED indicators, the ones beneath the folding part show which platform is suitable to connect. As for the ones at the top left corner, those show the battery life.
The front part of the controller shows the left and right combo buttons (L1, L2, R1, and R2), as well as the home/power button next to the Micro USB port.
Using the Controller
First things first, let’s talk about the connectivity. The controller supports on multiple platforms such as Windows (7, 8, and 10), Android (4.0 and above), PS3, and SteamOS. Other platforms like Xbox, PS4, Apple TV, and iOS are not supported without installing happy chick emulator. You can choose either to connect with Bluetooth 4.0, 2.4GHz wireless dongle or wired USB cable. So far, I have no issue with the 2.4GHz wireless dongle and wired USB cable connections. While on Bluetooth mode, I did experience lost connection with my ZenFone 3 Zoom a few times, though it can be solved by restarting the controller.
Nothing much to complain about the D-pad and analog sticks, though I would say the analog sticks on the Logitech F710 are better. The ABXY face buttons have a nice tactile feedback, but the long travel distance will affect the way you react in-game, especially those games that require rapid button mashing.
As for the left and right shoulder buttons and triggers, they have a short travel distance. Not really good for racing games. Most racing games nowadays use the R2 and L2 triggers and the throttle and brake pedals. It’ll make sense if the longer the travel distance of the triggers, the better you’ll be in accelerating and braking, especially when you are playing F1 2017 with medium or no traction control.
Battery Life
The T1s packs a 600mAh battery, which the company claims to have up to 18 hours of battery life. Based on my usage, I was able to get around 8 hours of battery life via Bluetooth. Not really a bad result since I don’t often game that much.
Final Words
The GameSir T1s can be yours at RM125 (Lazada), not too expensive, to be honest. However, when there are controllers like the Logitech F710 and even the Sony DualShock 4, which both can get at under the RM200 price tag, you’ll have to see what you need. The T1s may not have a nicely done design like the DualShock 4, nor the better button feel like the F710 (I don’t have the DualShock 4 controller so can’t compare about that), but it comes with Bluetooth connectivity and the smartphone holder. Just like I mentioned in the beginning of this review, this is a better controller for mobile gaming than PC gaming.
Yay
- Comes with smartphone dock
- Comes with Bluetooth connectivity
- Great battery life
Nay
- Buttons not as good as its competitors
- Can get a better controller if you are willing to pay slightly more