When it comes to shopping for a controller, there are many factors to consider. What will I be happy – and comfortable – playing with? Will it last a good while, especially if you’re a die-hard gamer that invests hours upon hours into a game? Mostly, can I afford it? I mean, a lot of controllers are great these days, but also incredibly expensive. I think that’s when I come to appreciate options like Gioteck’s WX5+ wireless RGB controller for Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2.

This company’s been making reliable peripherals for some time, but with the WX5+, I think they’ve finally found their groove. They’ve made a controller that’s only comfortable and reliable to use, but also one that won’t hurt the wallet too deeply. Retail price is just around $40 (maybe a little more with shipping), a more-than-acceptable price compared to Nintendo’s Switch 2 joypad..

Though it doesn’t wake up the Nintendo Switch 2 (what third-party controller does, really), but there’s still a lot to like here. The wireless connectivity is on point. The RGB light-up feature is very good, though customization would’ve pushed it further. The performance is excellent, particularly with the rumble options. And the Hall Effect sticks and buttons assure top level performance, even after hours of play.

With so many controllers on the market, it’s easy to lose track of one that can stand out like Gioteck’s does. But the WX5+ is one of the best options available, packed with features and innovative designs. Plus it works with the Switch 2 right out of the box – no need to do the whole “let me try to connect via Bluetooth” thing. It’s everything you could want in a controller, and won’t put your wallet into a severe headlock.

Enter the Gioteck WX5+ Controller

Right out of the box, you can feel the differences with Gioteck’s unique little unit. It has a smooth feel to it, and, what’s more, it’s not too heavy. In fact, this thing is actually lighter than most controllers on the market. Don’t be fooled, however. This thing isn’t hollow.

Upon plugging in, we were able to feel most of the features that are included. The rumble works nicely, if not as smoothly as HD Rumble; and the gyroscopic controls are on point. I tested this with games like House of the Dead 2 Remake and came away very satisfied, with little adjustment needed.

The controller also features Hall Effect technology, so you don’t have to worry about stick drift or worn out buttons. It performed admirably through my series of tests, with games like Donkey Kong Bananza and Ikaruga. The D-pad could be a little bit better, as it’s a general “cross” style design that’s a bit wonky. But that’s the weakest part of an otherwise great feeling pad.

You can also access buttons fairly easily on the front of the pad, including a “C” chat button for those that use this on Switch 2. It works handily, so you can connect with friends for a good multiplayer session of Mario Kart World. The buttons on the back are simple to get to as well, including the RGB button, which we’ll get to.

No, the controller doesn’t wake the Nintendo Switch 2 up. But outside of Nintendo’s own tech, no controllers really do that. So it isn’t a big negative in the least. And the controller attaches easily to the system, so you can recharge it without any fenagling to get around it.

Overall, I was quite pleased with the performance of the Gioteck WX5+ controller. It doesn’t go overboard on weight or complicated design; and, weird D-Pad aside, it works better than I expected it to. Plus it does so for a very reasonable price, going for just under $40 (plus shipping) on the Gioteck site. (You can get it through some third party places as well.)

But How’s the Gioteck WX5+ Controller Look and Charge?

Obviously appearance in a controller isn’t everything to gamers, as they’re too busy looking at the screen anyway, right? But the Gioteck WX5+ Wireless RGB Nintendo Switch/Switch 2 Controller still looks good.

Gioteck offers them in a number of designs – the Crayon one is adorable for kids – but we went with the Dark Camo. Because, you know, moods. The design itself is pretty cool, and doesn’t take away from the overall smooth appearance of the controller. Plus the back looks pretty slick as well, without going overboard on unnecessary design. It looks just as it should.

The big thing with this controller, though, are the light-up RGB functions around the analog sticks. You can actually choose different colors here, including rainbow and six other solid shades. You do this with a conveniently placed RGB button on the back. It’s not complicated at all, and lets you change your mood colors however you wish.

I was hoping for more customization options, however, kind of like how NYXI’s controllers provide. But I understand why Gioteck kept it simple. Just sit down, choose your color and get to playing already.

The charge time lasts several hours, and you can connect the USB-C cable to your Switch (or Switch 2) system for easy recharge. So don’t sweat that either.

Overall, the appearance and charge level of the Gioteck WX5+ isn’t too shabby at all. I do hope we see more color options in the future, but for now, their options more than suffice.

Get Into the Gioteck

Really, no matter which way you go, Gioteck’s WX5+ Wireless RGB Nintendo Switch/Nintendo Switch 2 Controller can’t miss. It performs admirably, has lots of options to choose from, connects easily to both consoles and has great RGB lighting. Not to mention its price will leave you room to buy the games you want.

I would love to see what Gioteck has in mind for its next line of controllers. But, for now, you just can’t beat the WX5+ line. This is as good – and user-friendly – as gaming peripherals get.

Thanks to Gioteck for providing us with a review sample! The controller is available for purchase here.

Looking for more controller goodness for Nintendo Switch? Check out our review of NYXI’s Hyperion 2 wireless controller!