I’ve been lucky enough to get my hands on a sample of Gioteck’s new WX5+ Wireless Controller and I wanted to share my thoughts about it here. First, to let you know more about the device, here’s the marketing blurb:
“Gioteck™, a leading videogame accessory brand and part of Embracer Freemode, have recently released the Gioteck WX5 and WX5+ Wireless Controllers, a new gamepad range compatible with Nintendo® Switch™ and Switch 2 consoles.
Offering next-generation performance at a pocket-friendly price, the new controllers bring lag-free, cable-free gaming to gamers’ Nintendo Switch and Switch 2 consoles, as well as PC.
Providing a burst of summer colour and an advanced feature set, with both the WX5 and WX5+, gamers can enjoy precise motion control, Hall-Effect triggers and analogue sticks for a stick-drift-free, highly responsive level of play.
Designed principally for the Nintendo Switch 2, a key feature of the WX5+ controller is the innovative “Shortcut” Button, designed to give players instant access to the Switch 2’s chat functionality. Designed to enable instant chat without the fuss and fatigue of numerous menus, the Shortcut Button uses programmable macro technology, bypassing multiple menus and throwing gamers directly into chatting with their friends and teammates. Ideal for when every word counts, the Shortcut Button is a must-have feature for those who like to stay in touch when playing online. Not feeling chatty? No problem! The WX5+’s Shortcut Button is fully programmable and can be used to replicate any button press or multiple button combinations that the gamer wishes!
Plus by name, plus by nature, the Gioteck WX5+ Wireless Controller steps things up to the next level, including customisable RGB lighting, bathing gamers into a programmable light show, as well as twin Programmable Back Buttons, in addition to the Shortcut Button found on the regular WX5. Adding more options for precise control, the Programmable Back Buttons can replicate any action button found on the face of the controller, or program a series of macros for a killer combination and provide the winning edge. Also unique to the WX5+ controller are the four different colour options, with a choice of Pink Swirl, Doodle, Crayons and Dark Camo designs (the Pink Swirl and Crayons colour patterns are Argos Exclusives). Gaming suddenly got a whole lot brighter thanks to the new Gioteck range!”
They certainly sound good then, but how do they hold up in reality?
I got the Doodle controller and, right off the bat, I have to say that it looks gorgeous. The design is bold and eye-catching, a real work of art. The RGB lighting around the sticks adds another nice visual touch. You can change the colour of these at the touch of a button. Personally, I prefer the rainbow option, but you can get individual colours too or turn them off.
I found the controller very comfortable to hold, even during long gaming sessions. It fits my ageing adult hands nicely, and my kids love using it too. In fact, the WX5+ has become their controller of choice when playing the Switch.
The controller boasts full vibration and motion control support. Both worked well for me. The motion controls were surprisingly effective, and there’s some satisfying oomph to higher settings when using vibration.
The Hall-Effect triggers and analogue sticks have a lot of give, allowing for more sensitive and nuanced controls. This makes the controller a good choice for the more serious player. The programmable back buttons on the + model will also appeal, allowing the ability to map button combos for more complex and fast-paced games.
My only gripe with the controller is that it feels quite light and plasticky. The analogue sticks have nice rubber caps to avoid slipping, but everything else is just plastic. Some might prefer a lighter controller for longer sessions, but I find a heavier controller feels of better quality. Maybe this is just in my head though, as the controller does seem well constructed and it’s no lighter than the official Nintendo Switch controller.
So, overall, the Gioteck WX5+ is a great bit of kit. Anyone looking for a good quality Switch controller that looks as good as it plays should give it a look.
FEATURES OF THE WX5+
– Wireless Connectivity: Enjoy lag-free, cable-free gaming with responsive wireless performance for total freedom.
– Hall Effect Sticks & Triggers: Magnetic precision for ultra-smooth, drift-free control and consistent trigger responsiveness.
– Motion & Vibration Support: Immerse yourself with precise motion control and responsive vibration feedback.
– Rechargeable Battery: Stay in the game longer with a built-in rechargeable battery—no disposables required.
– 3.5mm Audio Jack in Wired Mode: Plug in your gaming headset directly for immersive audio and real-time chat.
– Shortcut to GameChat: Instantly connect with your squad— just one press to access the chat menu.
– Switch & Switch 2 Compatible: One controller, two generations—built to work seamlessly with both systems.
The Gioteck WX5 Wireless Controller retails for an RRP of £21.99, with the WX5+ Wireless controller retailing for an RRP of £24.99 and are available now, at all major UK retailers and on the Gioteck website: www.gioteck.com
For more information on the Gioteck WX5 and WX5+ Wireless Controller, please visit: www.gioteck.com
