GameSir G7 HE Review: An Excellent Controller with a Tethered Connection

GameSir is a notable company based in China, known for creating gaming controllers that cater to PC, Xbox, and mobile platforms, shipping them worldwide. Over the years, I’ve had the pleasure of reviewing several of their models for Windows Central. Among our standout favorites for Xbox is their GameSir G7 SE wired controller. Today, we’ll shift our focus to the new GameSir G7 HE. This model boasts a few key upgrades from the G7 SE, though, in classic GameSir style, it also inexplicably drops some features. Despite these quirks and the ongoing anticipation for GameSir to release a wireless Xbox option, I’m convinced that the G7 HE is the best they’ve put out for the Xbox. It’s also priced at a point that’s reachable for most players. Let’s dive into what’s new with the GameSir G7 HE.

As a little background, I’ve been with the Windows Central team for two years and have been gaming since the 90s. I’m versatile, whether it’s mastering Dark Souls or Diablo, or indulging in some nostalgic Petz 4 playtime. I primarily game on Steam Deck, Xbox, and PC, and my affinity for collecting controllers is far stronger than any urge to collect shoes or handbags. Only a select few of these make it to my daily rotation, and I always enjoy sharing my insights in extensive reviews.

The review you are about to read was made possible because of a sample provided by GameSir. However, I’d like to clarify that GameSir neither influenced the review nor did they preview its contents prior to publication.

GameSir G7 HE controller review: Pricing and specifications

The GameSir G7 HE hits the market at a price of $49.99 and is available in Black, White, and even a special Iron Man edition. Here’s what you can expect in terms of specs:

• Price: $49.99 at Amazon
• Connectivity: 3m long, detachable USB-A to USB-C cable
• 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 and Triggers: Hall Effect
• Buttons: Micro-switch
• Customization: Magnetic swappable faceplates
• Dimensions: 152 x 103 x 63cm
• Weight: 435 grams

You can snag the GameSir G7 HE on Amazon or directly from GameSir’s site. It comes in three colors: Black, White, and a cool Iron Man special edition. Like the G7 SE, this controller allows you to swap the faceplate for different designs, although these are sold separately. The faceplates snap on magnetically, and though there’s not an extensive variety right now, the feature is charming.

Included in the packaging is a 3m USB-C cable that, for my prone-to-losing-things household at least, can easily be swapped out if misplaced. A neat case with a hard leather-like finish and a cushy inside keeps the unit snug, with compartments for the 2.4GHz dongle and space for the USB wire.

GameSir G7 HE controller review: The good

The G7 HE sports Hall-Effect sticks—a feature not yet available in Xbox’s own line of controllers—and replaces the previous models’ membrane buttons with micro-switch ones for greater accuracy and resilience. Notably, silicone grips have also been added to enhance comfort.

If you already own the G7 SE, you might wonder if upgrading to the G7 HE is worthwhile. Initially skeptical myself, I discovered that the changes indeed justified the upgrade. The buttons alone are a major draw; they offer a pleasantly clicky feedback, which, though a bit distracting at first, renders gameplay more precise and promisingly durable. The micro-switch buttons make a welcome return after being inexplicably absent from the SE.

Moreover, the new silicone grips on the back provide added comfort and reduce slippage during those intense gaming sessions—a real boon for those eagerly awaiting the release of Monster Hunters Wilds.

For gamers who valued the past model’s practical features, the G7 HE retains the Hall-Effect sticks, which use magnetic fields instead of physical contacts—no stick drift to worry about here. It’s all topped off with anti-friction rings, which, while less visually prominent than on the SE, continue to offer smooth stick movement.

GameSir G7 HE controller review: The bad

But, the G7 HE isn’t without drawbacks. For one, it’s missing a lock mechanism for the rear buttons—a feature that prevented accidental presses, which now are more likely. The absence of trigger stops, desirable for FPS gamers, might also be a disappointment, though this hits less hard given the price point.

As we stand in 2025, the lack of GameSir’s wireless options for Xbox controllers remains perplexing. Priced at $50, wired models might seem increasingly unjustifiable. While I treasure this controller for close-range gaming next to my Series S, it doesn’t satisfy the wireless freedom many seek for TV gaming.

Third-party wireless controllers are indeed emerging, but they tend to be steeply priced. GameSir’s prowess with PC offerings, such as the Cyclone 2, is impressive, which makes their restrained Xbox capabilities all the more frustrating. Microsoft likely restricts wireless licensing to brands like Razer, PowerA, and SCUF, maintaining their controllers’ higher prices.

GameSir G7 HE controller review: Also consider

If you’re eyeing a wireless Xbox controller with Hall Effect technology, you’ll find the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro, our top pick, worth considering, even over Xbox’s Elite series. The PowerA Fusion Pro, while cheaper at $150 with Lumectra, doesn’t get my recommendation at that price.

For PC players, there’s greater flexibility. I recommend the GameSir Cyclone 2 Wireless, especially with its magnetic charging stand, currently available at a discount. It features TMR (Tunnel Magnetoresistance) sticks, which work similarly to Hall Effect but with increased precision and lower battery consumption.

GameSir G7 HE controller review: Final thoughts

In summary, the GameSir G7 HE presents a notably better design than the SE, yet leaves room for improvement, especially in wireless capabilities for Xbox, which remain a challenge for GameSir. Presently, considering its features and the market landscape, I landed on a 4-star rating—higher expectations today temper what once might have merited higher marks. As we continue into 2025, budget-friendly wireless solutions remain scarce, yet the gamer in me hopes for change. With GameSir’s consistent PC innovations, there’s hope they’ll eventually open doors to Xbox wireless options—pending Microsoft’s approval.

If you liked the SE G7 and don’t mind a wired setup, this controller might just be up your alley.