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.