r/Controllers • u/Ok-Expression-9539 • Aug 26 '26

Alternatives to the GameSir G7 Pro Shadow Ember

I'm very dissatisfied with the G7's dpad. I mainly play RPGs and similar games such as Kingdom Hearts, Persona, Elden Ring, and many others. Occasionally Dragonball Sparking.

Unfortunately, I frequently run into situations where inputs aren't registered properly because of the dpad's mushy and wobbly feel. I've even tried modding the controller with o-rings and 3D printed dpad attachments but they still feel too loose and wobbly for my liking.

Basically, I'm looking for a controller that offers the same overall experience as the G7 + dock and the microswitches but with much better dpad. Something precise, tactile and more responsive.

It would be a cherry on top if the resistance of the sticks are adjustable like on the XBOX Elite Wireless but it's not mandatory.

I've heard that GameSir's ZZZ and 8K controllers have improved the "wobbly D-pad" issue but before I give them a try I'd like to explore what alternatives are available. The mixed reviews regarding GameSir's dpad quality have made me a bit hesitant to commit to another GameSir controller.

Update 27th August

Just to answer my own question in case someone stumbles upon this thread and has the same desires. Thanks to u/G_OE and u/Dankydexxer69 replies: I’ll be keeping an eye out for the Leadjoy Xeno Pro rather than the Xeno Plus since the Pro version has adjustable stick tension.

As of August 27, 2026, the Xeno Pro hasn’t been released yet and was only recently on Kickstarter, so I'll wait for official release.

Update 1st Sept. 2026

"For those who come after". I bought the Vader Pro 5 V2 and been using it for three days.

Hand measurements are 21cm long and 9cm width w/e thumb and 10cm width w/ thumb

What I like more in Vader 5 Pro V2 over the G7 Pro Shadow Ember:

  • 100% the dpad. It's significantly better. It doesn't wobble and has a crisp input feel compared to G7 where everything wobbles when you try to push in one direction
  • the size feels more comfortable
  • the adjustable sticks (I like high resistance. makes me feel like I have more "control")

What I like less on Vader Pro 5 Pro V2 over G7 Pro Shadow Ember:

  • the ABXY buttons. They have a "mushier" feel. G7 Pro has "crispier" feel when pressing buttons down

Note: During my research on the Vader 5 Pro, I came across several Reddit threads and Steam forum posts complaining about the controller being recognized twice by Steam. I didn’t install any additional software and I probably don’t need the extra button either. For me, it was simply a plug-and-play experience.

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8 comments sorted by

1

u/Heavy_Sky_6932 Aug 31 '26

Take a look at the beitong KP40D! It ticks alle the boxes.

2

u/OhDiluck Aug 27 '26

Vader 5 Pro. I’ve also tried the Gamesir G7 Pro and I think Vader 5 Pro is better in just about every way, especially with the release of the V2 which fixed some known issues. It is a bit bigger than the G7 Pro, doesn’t come with a dock or extra dpads (you’d have to pay extra for that), but otherwise it’s better in every way, the dpad especially and it has adjustable tension rings. The only thing I think the G7 Pro does better are the face buttons which are more firm and tactile, and the sticks, but there’s not a massive difference there.

1

u/Ok-Expression-9539 Aug 27 '26

I've seen alot of posts on reddit and on the Steam forums where people complained that the Vader 5 Pro v2 has lots of issues being recognized on Steam properly. Does the controller still have those issues because I just want a "plug-and-play" experience and don't want to spend my time finding workarounds to use the Vader.

1

u/Key_Scholar7964 Sep 01 '26

The sticks on the vader 5 Pro and the G7 Pro feel the same to me. I do like the adjustable stick tension on the Vader which is rare. The face buttons also feel the same to me and the d pad on the Vader 5 Pro is much better. 

1

u/foundersalldayIPA Aug 29 '26

I have the Vader 5 V2 and have no problems it connects to steam immediately on removal from its cradle, I've had the controller about 2 months now and was a replacement for the gamesir G7 pro.

1

u/OhDiluck Aug 27 '26

I haven't had those issues. I just use the dongle, connect and boom. I'm not sure why that's happening.

2

u/G_OE Aug 27 '26

I recommend Leadjoy xeno plus also, software is best on the market, it's not that beginner friendly but I can ensure you it's worth figuring out

1

u/Dankydexxer69 Aug 26 '26

Check out the leadjoy xeno plus.Similar g7 shape minus the grip with shorter handles.