MSI Force GC30 Wireless Gaming Controller Review

Final Thoughts

Price

The MSI Force GC30 is currently on Amazon for around £45, but showing as low on stock. However, a little Google-Fu found it on Box for just £37.99, so be sure to hunt around for a good deal, as there are some bargains out there. it’s competitively priced, and a little under the £50 you can expect to pay for an Xbox One controller for PC use. It’s not a huge saving, but if you’re shaking out your penny jar, every little saving helps.

Overview

I’m a big fan of MSI hardware, and there’s no doubt they make some of the greatest gaming hardware on the market right now. They’ve got a strong following in the eSports and general consumer gaming markets. With that in mind, they already make some great gaming mice and keyboards, so a controller makes sense. It’s a nice evolution and a welcome addition to their range. If you’re an MSI fan and want all your matching hardware, this will complete the set.

Competitive

It’s a little more affordable than the Xbox One controller, but it’s just as good in almost every regard. The only noticeable feature that it lacks is haptic rear triggers, but they only work on Microsoft games like Forza 7 anyway, so no big loss. However, with the addition of a few other features, it actually surpasses what you get from Microsoft. Durable rubber side grips are a welcome bonus for starters. The analogue sticks are lighter and feel more accurate too, not a bad thing to have. Furthermore, the D-Pad is a whopping upgrade, and being able to swap the head out, puts it in the league of the Elite controller that costs over £100. Is it competitive? You bet your ass it is.

Build Quality

The controller has a good weight to it, giving it a nice quality feel. MSI has been smart and avoided those glossy smooth plastics. The lightly textured and softer feel makes it look and feel like a quality product. The weighted metal D-Pad looks and feels great too, and just gives it a bit of an edge from most controllers. MSI say their switches are rated for two million clicks too, which is way higher than you’ll find anywhere else.

Should I Buy One

It’s a bit of a no-brainer really. If you’re looking for a good quality PC controller, it’s a bit cheaper than an Xbox One model, and just as competitive. It looks a bit cooler as well, especially if you already have a matching MSI peripheral setup, it’ll fit right in. The additional features like wireless support on PC, keeping in mind the Microsoft dongle is sold separately. Of course, it’ll work on PS4, and on Android, wirelessly or wired too, making it great value for money.

Pros

• Good build quality
• Competitive price
• Nice quality triggers
• Smooth analogue sticks
• Long switch life
• Wired/wireless
• Android/PS4 support
• Swappable D-Pad

Cons

• No trigger haptics (like the Xbox One controller)