GameSir T4 Nova Lite Review: Great Controller for the Price
When I came across the GameSir Nova Lite controller, its promises of high quality at an affordable price caught my attention immediately. I’ve previously owned both the Gamesir Pro T4 and the Gamesir G7 SE, each of which are pretty great, but when the Nova Lite popped up with a price tag of around $25 on Aliexpress, my curiosity made me order this one too. Here’s my take.
First Impressions: Unboxing
Pulling the Nova Lite out of its packaging, I was met with what can only be described as the definition of ‘no-frills’. A plain cardboard box and the bare minimum padding was all there was – no luxury unboxing experience here. But, let’s be honest, it’s the performance that we really care about.
Notably absent from the box was a dongle for wireless connection, meaning you’ll need a Bluetooth-enabled PC or a USB Type-C cable for a wired connection. Also missing was a manual, leaving me to rely on my past experience with GameSir products to figure out the setup. This could be a hurdle for newcomers.
Design and Comfort
My first impression of the Nova Lite was its resemblance in feel and build quality to the GameSir T4 Pro, which is impressive given the Nova’s price point. It’s definitely a notch above other budget controllers like the Redragon Harrow or Dragonwar, particularly because it also includes Bluetooth connectivity.
The buttons on the Nova Lite have a nice, soft touch, making them easy to press, although lighter than those on my other controllers. As for the joysticks, they’re not only incredibly accurate but also feel premium, possibly even better than the ones on my Gulikit.
Gaming Performance
Now, down to the nitty-gritty – gaming performance. Kicking things off with several rounds of Fall Guys, I immediately noticed the precision of the joysticks. The movement was responsive, with no noticeable lag, allowing for smooth gameplay and, impressively, two wins on my part.
Despite the high-quality joysticks, I found the triggers a bit harder to press compared to my other controllers. They lack the Hall effect triggers of the more expensive version, which explains the difference in feel. Still, this was a minor issue and didn’t drastically affect my gaming experience.
Features and Compatibility
The Nova Lite boasts an impressive range of features for its price. Hall Effect sticks for precise and drift-free performance, three modes of connectivity (Bluetooth, and USB-C), and compatibility with a broad array of platforms, including PC, Steam, Switch, iOS, and Android devices.
One standout feature is the motion control, adding an immersive layer to compatible games by letting you tilt, shake, or rotate the controller for various in-game actions. The multi-function M button is another handy addition, allowing you to adjust vibration intensity, ABXY layout, and joystick deadzones easily.
Final Thoughts
Is the GameSir Nova Lite the perfect controller? No, but at this price point, it’s an incredible value. It outperforms many controllers in its class while keeping your wallet relatively unscathed. There are a few corners cut in terms of unboxing experience and trigger hardness, but these do little to detract from the overall quality of gaming it provides.
For budget-conscious gamers or those looking to add an affordable yet reliable controller to their gaming setup, the GameSir Nova Lite is a must-consider. With its premium joystick performance, broad compatibility, and solid build, it’s a standout in the sea of budget gaming controllers.
In summary, while the stick might not hold up to heavy abuse (making me consider investing in joystick covers), the GameSir Nova Lite has earned a spot in my gaming lineup. At its price, it’s a steal, and I’d recommend snagging it while it’s still available.
