Gamesir Tarantula Pro Controller review

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As a seasoned gamer with decades of controller-wielding experience under my belt, I can confidently say that the Gamesir Tarantula Pro has proven to be quite the unexpected gem in my vast collection. Initially, I was skeptical about the swappable face buttons, thinking it was just another flashy feature to lure unsuspecting gamers. But boy, was I wrong! The mechanical whirring and cog movement as the buttons shift is not only cool but also serves as a satisfying reminder of the controller’s versatility.

When choosing among numerous controller options available today, determining which new features are genuinely beneficial and not mere gimmicks can be quite challenging. The Gamesir Tarantula Pro’s standout feature initially appeared to fall into the latter category, but my experience proved otherwise: interchangeable face buttons. Unlike detachable buttons on the Thrustmaster Eswap X Pro, these are an integrated mechanical component that allows Xbox face buttons to transform into Switch face buttons. A small window in the grip lets you witness the moving gears and hear the satisfying click when the change occurs, making it quite a unique experience. It’s truly impressive!

It’s so cool that it makes me wish the controller itself looked a little more stylish. It’s a fairly plain Jane, shaped roughly like the DualShock 4 but with a weirdly out-of-place camo design and a matt finish so dull it’s hard to pick out features unless the RNG is in full effect. There are also arguably too many buttons, placed in such a way that just finding the menu buttons becomes difficult.

This is exacerbated by the fact that activating all the features requires button combinations like you’re playing Mortal Kombat and trying to rip someone’s spine out for a laugh. Okay, maybe it’s not that complicated; but there are so many different combinations that even if they are fairly simple, they’re just too numerous to remember. There’s a combo to control the RNG patterns, alter the preset customisable buttons, or change the face buttons as mentioned. It’s great to have so many options with one controller, but it feels like a lot of it could have been mapped to a couple of clicky sliders somewhere.

But look, these features, while nice, are ancillary. The real measure of a controller is how it feels, and for sub-£60 (at time of writing), the Gamesir Tarantula Pro is one of the best I’ve used. Being based on the DualShock 4 immediately scores this points, as that was one of the best controllers of the last few console generations, but this also feels incredibly responsive.

The primary reason for this improvement is mainly due to the TMR sensors in the thumbsticks. Lately, an increasing number of controllers have been introducing “Hall Effect” sticks, aiming to address the persistent issue of stick drift that has affected many controllers, especially the Nintendo Switch’s joycons. The Hall Effect sticks utilize magnets for control instead of direct contact, thereby reducing wear and tear and eliminating potential drift. This mechanism functions quite efficiently, making any controller equipped with it a reliable choice.

Despite its advancements, the TMR technology (Tunnel Magneto Resistance) remains too futuristic for me to fully grasp. Essentially, it enhances the performance of Hall Effect magnet technology, resulting in smoother, more responsive, and comfortable usage, even minimizing stick drift. Surprisingly, despite the lightweight, budget-friendly feel of the Tarantula Pro’s housing, it offers an unprecedented level of comfort and confidence when using it on both PC and Switch.

One significant advantage of TMR (Two-Motor Vibration) is that it reduces strain on the controller’s battery, resulting in an extraordinarily long battery life for the Gamesir Tarantula Pro compared to contenders like the DualShock 5. While the latter can drain a fully charged battery in just 5 to 6 hours under ideal conditions, the Tarantula Pro can last up to five or six times longer without needing recharging. I’ve been playing Marvel Rivals on PC for a week now and haven’t had to charge it once yet. Although it may not have as many features as that high-priced competitor, its battery performance is miles ahead of most controllers I’ve used in the past.

The Gamesir Tarantula Pro Controller might have some drawbacks, such as its design and complex set of features, but these are minor issues considering how well it performs and feels. Plus, it includes a charging stand if you opt for an additional fee. It has surpassed my previous preferred PC controller, the PowerA MOGA XP-Ultra, and I don’t foresee it losing its top position anytime soon.

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2024-12-14 12:46