Gioteck WX5 Wireless Controller Review: Colorful, Comfortable, and Switch 2 Ready | The Gamerheads Podcast

I love my Nintendo Switch 2, but even with the redesigned Joy-Cons, my hands still get cramped after a while. I’ve heard great things about the Pro Controller, but at its high price point, it’s hard to justify. Thankfully, there are more affordable options, and the Gioteck WX5 wireless controller is a perfect fit. It delivers solid quality without breaking the bank, and the fact that it works with the Switch 2 right out of the box makes it even more appealing.

The first thing I noticed about the controller was how striking it looks. I went with the “doodle” design, which has a fun 90s vibe that I really like. The controller also lights up, with the joysticks accented by shifting RGB fluorescent colors. It all comes together nicely and enhances the overall aesthetic.

The second thing I noticed when picking up the controller was how comfortable it feels in my hands. The button placement is spot-on, and the overall design makes it easy to hold for long sessions. I was also surprised by how lightweight it is, much lighter than my 8BitDo Ultimate 2C. On top of that, the Gioteck WX5 includes mappable back buttons that rest naturally under my middle fingers and are easy to trigger.

The joysticks and triggers use Hall effect technology, which is a big plus for me. Drift has always been a concern, especially since I have a few Joy-Cons and other wireless controllers with that issue. I’ve put plenty of time into the Gioteck WX5, testing it across games from Splatoon 3 to Donkey Kong Bananza, and I haven’t run into any joystick problems.

The controller also includes motion and vibration support, though it does not have NFC readers, which I expected. It also cannot power on the Switch 2, but that is common with third-party controllers.

The biggest benefit of the Gioteck WX5 for me is that it works with the Switch 2 right out of the box. My other controllers from the original Switch don’t work with the Switch 2, and even my 8BitDo required a firmware update before it was compatible (although it was an easy process). The plug-and-play support of the WX5 was a huge plus.

Final Grade: A

The Gioteck WX5 wireless controller is one of the best I’ve used, and easily the best option I’ve tried for my Switch 2. With its mappable back buttons, motion controls, and Hall effect technology, it feels like a solid investment. Even better, it works with the Switch 2 right out of the box. If you’re looking for a reliable controller that delivers quality without the high price tag, consider picking up the Gioteck WX5 controller.