GameSir G7 Pro 8K Aimlabs Edition controller review: 8K polling on a budget

The G7 Pro 8K, like the G7 Pro, comes with a USB-A to USB-C cable, a charging dock with a hidden dongle compartment, and extra D-pads. In addition, it comes with three sets of stick caps with different ergonomics. There is also an attachment that prevents the USB cable from detaching.

On the back, there are several toggles that allow for adjustments to the triggers, back buttons, and connectivity modes. The dual-mode triggers can be switched to actuate much sooner, resulting in a faster input that feels like a mouse click. The back buttons can be disabled, meaning they will not press at all. At the bottom is a 3.5mm headphone jack flanked by a pairing button and a mic mute button. The top is where the USB-C port and two extra bumpers are located, and there’s an attachment that you can slot in to secure the cable in place.

The faceplate of the G7 Pro is a three-piece magnetic swappable cover, and GameSir has quite a few color options listed on the website; however, they are all one-piece faceplates, so you can't have the grips be a different color. They are easy to pull out, and so are the sticks, as well as the D-pad. First time pulling the sticks requires some force, but subsequent swaps are easier. Taking the faceplate off reveals the see-through shell, and while you can use the controller that way if you so prefer, the base of the sticks is exposed to dust and debris.

GameSir is using Mag-Res TMR sticks for what it calls ‘more linear control.’ Magnetic sticks have proven to be more reliable and durable than traditional potentiometer-based sticks, so it’s a given that a professional gaming-focused PC controller would have them. What it improves on compared to the regular G7 Pro is the 8K (8,000 Hz) polling rate in both wired and wireless modes. You also get a six-axis gyroscope for motion controls, dual asymmetric rumble motors, Turbo function, and a 1,200 mAh battery.

The dual-mode triggers allow for faster inputs when needed; for example, in games like Horizon: Forbidden West where bows and arrows are the primary weapon, the left trigger can be left at analog input while the right trigger can be switched to microswitch input. For shooters, both can be switched to microswitch mode, while racing games work better with analog inputs.

The GameSir Connect PC app is where all the customization is handled, including deadzone adjustment, button remapping, vibration adjustment, and RGB settings. Speaking of which, the controller has a small RGB ring around the Home button that can be customized. Four profiles can be saved and switched on-the-fly using the M button + right stick combination. The app itself is well laid out and easy to use.

Battery life is a non-issue as it easily lasts through long gaming sessions and starts recharging when placed on the dock. So every time you pick up the controller, it has a full battery. Placing it on the dock is not always seamless, so make sure the charging indicator comes on, ensuring proper contact of the pogo pins.