An important part of any gamer’s setup is the controller they have to play with. There are a lot of options out there and now GameSir has delivered another one to consider. The T4 Kaleid (T4K) gaming controller is a transparent, RGB-lit piece of equipment that a lot of gamers, especially older gamers, can look into adding to their game station. I had a chance to try it out myself, so let’s get into what you can expect.

What’s In The Box

The box spares no space for extra and comes with everything you need. You have the controller itself, a cable to plug it into the computer or Nintendo Switch (docked), a manual, and self-promotion items - including a sticker! When it comes to using this controller on Nintendo Switch (undocked) or Android devices, you will need a different cable. The one that comes with the box has a Type C end for the controller and a standard USB 2.0 end.

It does have a cardboard holder on the inside of the box that makes it really easy to repack when you go to put it away. Plus, the wrap that holds the cable together is a velcro belt, so even if you don’t plan to repack the controller, this could be a handy item to have for something else you may need to be held together (of similar size, of course).

Aesthetics and Build Quality

The nostalgia that this controller’s design gives is something to revel in. Perhaps this is the older gamer side of me, but I always liked having the handhelds and N64s that were see-through. Sure, that just means we’re looking at the circuit board and it doesn’t really do anything, but something about the design just feels retro and clean. Plus, the RGB lighting for the controller is built around it, so even when it is all lit up you can still see inside the controller. These two factors make this controller provide an aesthetic that blends the old gamer’s style with the new gamer’s style. Not to mention the controller comes with the two macro back buttons that have become standard issue for controllers these days for personalized mapping.

However, the downside to the controller’s build has to be in its grip style. The grip on this controller covers the two sides, where your hands typically hold a game controller, and on the edge of the analog sticks. While the placements are right, the grip itself feels uncomfortably rough. While it still can be held firmly and easily kept within my grasp, it has a discomfort factor to it. Essentially, it can be summarized as effectiveness over quality.

Along with that issue, the controller is just slightly smaller than the average controller built on the classic Xbox controller design style. This adjusts your grip just slightly and, while not noticeable at first and during short game sessions, becomes a bit uncomfortable after a long period of use. Still, this could actually be a beneficial factor for some gamers as controller size is something that each gamer’s opinion differentiates on. Personally, it just isn’t very ergonomic for my hands.

Specs and Special Features

Something that is definitely worth mentioning is the power of their analog sticks. Thanks to one of the games I tested this controller on being as sensitive as Rocket League, I was able to confirm the precision that these analog sticks can provide. Pulling off the tricks in that game requires a lot of precise movements, and these analog sticks definitely had me feeling in control. This control is thanks to their analog sticks being built with Hall Effect Sensing Sticks.

As for the rest of the controller, the buttons all have a very smooth surface and soft, silent clicks when pressed. The buttons also have a 5 million click guarantee, which is definitely nice with how often games require button mashing! The triggers on this controller are also built with heavy use in mind, giving a hair trigger for FPS players and analog triggers for racing players. If the main buttons aren’t enough, you can also enjoy playing your games with the motion control built into the controller.

Then there are the two unique buttons on this controller to consider. The button with the GameSir logo in the center, when plugged into a PC, will pull up a game menu that may make it easier for you to set up your control system. This is completely under personalization, but it is always good to see more options. At the bottom of the controller, you’ll find the multi-function M button. This lets you mess with your settings quickly by simply holding the button down and moving an analog stick.

Lastly, you’ll want to download the GameSir T4K App from the Microsoft Store on PC. This will allow you to fully customize the software for the controller. That goes from button mapping to light adjusting.

What Could Be Better

I really wish they went with a better grip style option because it is just a hindrance to my overall experience with the controller. While I really like how well the controller functions, the comfort factor for this controller is not great. The sandpaper-like feel of their grip choice had me taking multiple 20-30 second breaks just to adjust my hands and give them a short break from the way the controller feels.

Verdict

The T4 Kaleid gaming controller is a high-functioning piece of equipment! If you don’t find the grip on this controller to be a hindrance, then this will be an easy top-tier controller choice for you. Personally, I would have liked a different grip style, but I can’t overlook how well the controller functions and how easy it is to personalize. This controller is worth strong consideration for anybody shopping for a new controller.

The T4 Kaleid RGB controller is compatible with Windows 10/11, Nintendo Switch, and Android 8.0 and above devices. It is available for $49.99 USD on the GameSir website, Amazon, and AliExpress.