Once upon a time, pro gaming controllers were for the elite of the elite, costing several hundred dollars a piece. Giants like the Xbox Elite Series 2 and Razer Wolverine used to dominate the scene with unparalleled build, performance and innovative features. These days, you can get some truly impressive controllers—like the excellent PowerA OPS V3 Pro—that offer similar features for under $100. And now joining the fray is the Gulikit KK3 Max.
Retailing for an approachable $79 (£76, AU$140), the KK3 Max Pro brings impressive features such as Hall effect joysticks and triggers, swappable rear paddles, intriguing macro support, and versatile connectivity options.
Unlike many of its competitors, it works seamlessly with the Nintendo Switch but, curiously, is not compatible with Xbox or PlayStation consoles. I've been using it exclusively on my PC for the past couple of weeks, and while some features went unused beyond testing, I can confidently say it's an impressive device.
The Gulikit KK3 Max's design, however, is still reminiscent of an Xbox controller, enhanced with extra buttons, slots, and RGB lighting. Instead of an Xbox button, there's a smaller backlit Gulikit logo (non-functional as a button), and the standard menu and start buttons are replaced with a “-” and “+”. Beneath these are four additional Gulikit buttons for customization.
Compatibility: Windows 11, Nintendo Switch, Android and IOS devices
Connectivity: 2.4 GHz, Bluetooth, USB wired
Ports: USB-C
Thumbsticks: Hall effect
Thumbstick layout: Asymmetric (Xbox-style)
Rear paddles: 6
Weight: 247 g
Price: $79 | £76 | AU$139
The Hall effect joysticks feature RGB rings but are non-swappable and lack height adjustment. The D-pad and face buttons offer decent tactility without feeling mushy, though they don't match the snappy feedback of Razer's mecha-tactile switches. The ABXY buttons are replaceable, and the included puller makes swapping them easy. Their slightly larger size helps reduce missed inputs.
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