GameSir X5 Lite review - "An impressive lightweight controller"

• Super lightweight design
• Responsive controls and no-drift joysticks
• Expands to fit larger phones

After getting a chance to review the GameSir X3 Pro wired controller, I was curious how the X5 Lite would compare and found myself pleasantly surprised. Similar to the GameSir X2s, the X5 Lite mobile controller is a wrap-around mobile gaming controller.  
It's compatible with Android phones and the iPhone 15/16 series.

The X5 Lite feels nearly weightless in your hands at only 135.4 grams. Currently available in black or wasabi green, the X5 Lite has a sleek and sophisticated look. This new controller is incredibly easy to set up.

The GameSir X5 Lite Features a Sophisticated Design

The X5 Lite comes in a pretty standard cardboard box, inside of which you'll find both the controller, a set of instructions, and several silicone pads. The left front side of the device features the view button towards the top, followed vertically by the left joystick, D-pad, and the M button. On the right, you’ll see the Menu button, XYAB buttons, right joystick, and home button. 

Atop the controller are the traditional left, right, B, and T triggers. On the left-hand side of the bottom of the X5 Lite, there is also a USB Type-C port, which you can use to charge your phone while using the device.

The X5 Lite is easy to set up. You simply insert the device's USB into your phone's charging port and extend the controller's length to fit it snugly around your mobile device. Fully extended, this new GameSir controller is 213 mm in length, meaning it is capable of fitting just about any Android phone. Depending on your phone, you may also need to download the free GameSir app to establish a connection. 

Silicone Pads Keep Your Phone Safe When Using the X5 Lite

As for the included silicone pads, you can swap them out on either side of the USB type-C port to support your phone with the proper level of cushioning. GameSir recommends using the thick silicone pad if there is no protective case on your phone. Otherwise, it’s recommended you use either the thin or hole-covering pads. These pads allow you to make sure your phone is nestled as securely as possible within the controller.

Upon picking up the controller, you'll immediately notice that it's very lightweight, which may make you think it's cheaply made. However, the X5 is surprisingly sturdy and performed well with every game I threw at it. Further, despite its light weight, the controller has a luxurious look to it.

The GameSir X5 Lite Offers Peak Performance

While there was nothing earth-shattering about its performance, the X5 Lite is worthy of the GameSir name. The controls are responsive, and the buttons never got stuck, no matter how much I mash them while playing combat-intensive titles like Diablo Immortal, Baldur's Gate: Dark Alliance, or Combat Master.

Further, the controller features drift-proof hall joysticks coated in rubber, which prevent your thumbs from slipping. The buttons are spaced well, making switching between buttons feel natural.

GameSir X5 Lite is Compatible with Steam Link

GameSir’s X5 Lite is compatible with the Steam Link app, which should please PC fans. After inserting your phone into the controller, downloading the Steam Link app, and connecting your Steam account, you’ll be able to immerse yourself in remote play-enabled games from your Steam Library using your X5 Lite.

Much like when playing the ones native to my Samsung Galaxy S22, I experienced peak performance while enjoying Steam entries like Starfield and Fallout New Vegas. Unfortunately, for PlayStation fans, since the controller uses a direct connection rather than Bluetooth, it’s not compatible with PS Remote Play.

The GameSir X5 Lite wired mobile controller is responsive. Not once did I experience a lag between pressing a button and the accompanying action being performed. The device is lightweight, so your arms won’t get tired during longer play sessions, and the drift-proof hall joysticks live up to their name.

With a retail value of $34.99, the GameSir X5 Lite is a great wrap-around controller for Android and newer iPhones.