The buttons are very clicky and tactile, while the Hall effect triggers and sticks certainly provide precise inputs.
The typical Xbox layout is present and correct here, with the familiar face buttons and asymmetrical sticks.
The build quality of the X4 Aileron is excellent.
The same is true of the rubberized rear of each pads handles.
These portions also have a relatively sharp edge that cuts through the middle of the curve.
The clamping mechanism of the X4 Aileron is secure, although its not the most elegant.
I often found it best to slide my phone in and out rather than move the clamp by hand.
Still, my phone stayed in place, although it was noticeably looser when attached without my case.
Customizations and tweaks can be made using the GameSir mobile app, but its disappointingly limited in scope.
There is a Hair Trigger mode, though, which is useful when rapid taps are called for.
The overall performance of the X4 Aileron is pretty good.
Battery life doesnt seem particularly impressive either.
After a couple of hours, each pad lost about 15% charge.
Hopefully, this is something a firmware update can fix.
The X4 Aileron is priced towards the top end of the mobile controller market.
However, its still cheaper than theRazerKishi Ultra, which is one of the most expensive models around.
It doesnt have Hall effect sticks, though only its triggers use this technology.
With the same list price as the X4 Aileron, the Backbone One is another close competitor.
However, you’re free to often find it for a lot less than this.
However, it doesnt use Hall effect technology.
The grips felt very comfortable in my hands, offering plenty of security thanks to the rubberized finish.
One quirk of their design, though, is the sharp line running through their center.
Overall, the X4 Aileron makes gaming on your phone feel similar to thebest handheld games consoles.
Its also built to a high standard, with premium materials used for the buttons and sticks.
Regardless, the attachment was sufficiently secure to prevent any undue movement.
Consequently, I often found myself mispressing my phones screen when attaching and detaching the X4 Aileron.
This is a small usability issue in the grand scheme of things, but worth mentioning.
Compared to many other controllers, including those made by GameSir, this is quite the paucity of options.
Certain sections had no English text either, although thankfully this was a rarity and didnt affect usability.
The D-pad is especially clicky but very satisfying to use.
Presses are easy in all directions and the rebound is very quick.
One major gripe I have with the X4 Aileron, though, concerns the right joystick.
Owing to the asymmetrical design, its positioned low down, which isnt a problem on standard gamepads.
Perhaps these issues can be fixed in a firmware update.
Should I buy the GameSir X4 Aileron?
Theres no Hall effect technology here, though.
I also used the GameSir mobile app for customizing and tweaking the controller.
I have been gaming on multiple platforms for decades, including mobile and handheld systems.
I have also reviewed numerous controllers compatible with mobile devices.
