Many of our favorite Android gaming controllers sacrifice comfort in order to take up as little space as possible for on-the-go gaming. The Gamesir G8 Galileo is the largest controller we’ve reviewed to date, but all that bulk is put to good use. After testing the controller for a few months, I can also say that it would be the best dockable controller I’ve reviewed, if not for one major flaw.
The Gamesir G8 Galileo isn’t for the budget-conscious, but its full-sized grips, button mapping, customizable joysticks, and comprehensive phone compatibility mean you’re getting good value for your money. It could be perfect for you if you’re looking to buy a new Android gaming controller that will last for years and multiple phones.
GameSir G8 Galileo
The GameSir G8 Galileo’s full-size grips, haptic-effect joysticks, direct charging, and 3.5mm audio jack make it the perfect portable gaming companion. However, the lack of precision switches on the front buttons is a notable omission at this price point, and portability leaves a lot to be desired.
- Comfortable during long gaming sessions
- Customizable software and hardware
- Direct shipping
- Unwieldy size makes it difficult to transport.
- Membrane buttons are disappointing.
- Only one color option
Price, Availability and Accessories
Here’s where you can find one and what you can expect to find in the box.
The Gamesir G8 Galileo is available worldwide via Amazon or the Gamesir online store for $80 USD.
Inside the box is the controller and three replacement joysticks, which can be easily swapped out using the pre-installed joysticks thanks to the magnetic connection. Note that the box only includes one joystick of each size; you can only get identical joysticks if you stick with the default option.
What are the good features of Gamesir G8 Galileo?
Comfort grip makes all the difference.
As we mentioned at the beginning of this review, most Android game controllers make some compromises when it comes to portability, whether that’s adding removable phone clips or reducing the size of the grip. Gamesir hasn’t made any attempts to make a smaller controller with the G8 Galileo, and while that’s a double-edged sword (more on that later), I can’t deny that this is the most comfortable controller I’ve reviewed.
I’ve always preferred clip-on controllers for Android devices over full-sized controllers with phone clips. However, clip-on controllers typically have cut-off grips, making them unsuitable for long gaming sessions. The G8 Galileo puts function over form; in my hands, it feels like a full-sized controller like the Gamesir T4 Cyclone Pro. If you want a clip-on controller for long gaming sessions, this is the way to go.
Related to
Gamesir T4 Cyclone Pro Controller Review: Practically Perfect
It’s hard to complain about this excellent controller or its convenient price.
To accommodate long gaming sessions, the G8 Galileo offers direct charging via a USB-C port, which sits next to the 3.5mm audio jack. The controller connects to your phone via a USB-C dongle on a hinge so it can accommodate all but the largest phones and their cases. From my Redmagic 9 Pro to my Pixel 7 Pro, all of my phones fit securely in the controller; even a strong shake wasn’t enough to make them come off. It’s clear that Gamesir has put a lot of work into ensuring you’re as comfortable as possible for long gaming sessions.
The G8 Galileo has analog sticks and hall-effect triggers, which provide the precision needed for shooters, driving games, and everything in between. I played multiple rounds of Halo Infinite via the GamePass app, and my performance was no different than when playing on my PC with my Xbox Core controller. I also tested a variety of Android games, from Dead Cells to Rocket League Sideswipe, and was equally satisfied there. You can also switch the triggers from analog to precision trigger mode, which is ideal for FPS games.
While there are many great Android games that offer controller support, many don’t. Fortunately, the Gamesir app lets you map controller buttons to virtual buttons, allowing you to play games like Genshin Impact using a controller. You can switch between regular and virtual inputs via the Mode button on the bottom left of the controller.
This customization ability extends to the hardware. The controller ships with three replacement joysticks, which can be easily installed by removing the magnetically attached faceplates with a fingernail and replacing the existing joysticks. The ease of customizing the joysticks is great, but I’m surprised Gamesir doesn’t take advantage of this feature by selling replacement faceplates.
What’s bad about Gamesir G8 Galileo?
Portability is sacrificed for convenience.
I usually play mobile games when I’m out and about and don’t have access to a fixed gaming console. This means that portability is a big deal to me when choosing a controller, and that’s where the Gamesir G8 Galileo falls short.
Most attachable controllers easily slip into my coat pocket, but after a thorough pocket test of all my coats and jackets, I concluded that you need a case to carry the G8 Galileo. While I can’t understand how Gamesir could have avoided this problem without shrinking the grips, I still can’t imagine carrying the controller with me on my frequent train rides into town.
I recently reviewed Gamesir’s T4 Cyclone Pro controller, which has quickly become my favorite for both console and PC gaming. This is due in part to the precise switches on the controller’s faceplate buttons, which resulted in some of the most responsive inputs I’ve experienced on any controller. On the other hand, the G8 Galileo controller uses membrane buttons, which is disappointing for a controller that costs $30 more.
It is worth noting that the customization program is not available on iOS devices. Although the iPhone 15 is compatible, you will not be able to install and use the app to adjust the controller.
The G8 Galileo also doesn’t support Bluetooth. While this isn’t unusual for dockable controllers, it can’t be used as a controller for your PC or console.
Finally, a minor gripe I had was the lack of color options. Gamesir went with a Super Nintendo-inspired look, and while it’s charming in its retro feel, I don’t find gray a particularly appealing color. Especially given the potential of the removable faceplates, I would have loved to see more color options.
Should you buy it?
The GameSir G8 Galileo sits in a strange place. While it’s the most comfortable dockable controller I’ve ever used, I’m not sure where it stands among its dockable counterparts and full-sized controllers.
I’ve reviewed this device at home, and it’s without a doubt the best portable gaming controller for home. From its direct charging to an ergonomics that rival any full-sized controller, it’s perfect for relaxing on the couch and indulging in an extended gaming session on your phone. But if you travel a lot, you’ll likely be frustrated by its lack of portability.
In addition to this issue, there is a lack of support for PC or consoles. My favorite thing about the T4 Cyclone Pro is its versatility; whether I’m reviewing a game on my phone, playing on my PC, or heading to a friend’s house to play on the couch, it works without a hitch. The G8 Galileo may be the best console in its niche, but it’s a small niche. If you exclusively play on your phone at home, this is the best console for you. Otherwise, there are cheaper or more versatile options.
GameSir G8 Galileo
Despite the lack of precise keys and the awkward size, the GameSir G8 Galileo controller is the perfect controller for long gaming sessions. Gamesir has included all the features it is known for, including Hall effect joysticks, customizable buttons, and a minimalist design.
