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How to Use the GameSir Cyclone 2

The best mid-end controller on PC

Product Overview

Key Features

  • • Tri-mode connectivity for multi-platform compatibility
  • • Precise and Durable GameSir Mag-ResTM TMR Sticks
  • • Precision-tuned Hall Effect Analog Triggers
  • • Fully software-customizable

Tech Specs

  • • Working Platform: Switch, Android, PC and Steam
  • • Connection: Bluetooth, Wired, Wireless Dongle
  • • Weight: 306.9g / 0.68lbs
  • • Supported Software: GameSir Connect app

System Requirements

Windows PC

Windows 10/11 Bluetooth, Wireless Dongle, Wired

Android

Android 8.0 or above Bluetooth

Switch

Switch/Switch 2 Bluetooth

Getting Started

Home Indicatordescription
Flash SlowlyReconnection State * Connecting to a previously paired device
Flash RapidlyPairing state * Can be searched and paired by devices only in pairing state
Low BatteryConnected State * Long press the Home button for 5 seconds to turn off the controller

DescriptionOperation
Charging IndicatorWhen the controller is charging while powered off, the Home Indicator indicates the charging progress: Red(0%-25%), Orange(25%-50%), Yellow(50%-75%), Green(75%-90%), and flashing Green for 2 seconds and then turning off(90%-100%).
Low Battery AlertWhen the controller's battery is below 15%, the Home Indicator flashes red twice every 10 seconds.
Dock ChargingWhen the dock is powered on, place the controller on the charging dock. The dock synchronizes with the controller's charging indicator.
Auto Power-OffNo operation in connection status: 10 minutes Not connected in pairing status: 1 minute Not connected in reconnection status: 3 minutes
Controller mode checkPress and hold the M button to view the current mode color.

ColorModeConnection Method
GreenXInput Home Button + X Button
RedNSHome Button + Y Button
YellowHIDHome Button + A Button
BlueOther Devices Home Button + B Button

Wired Connection

  1. Use the included Type-C cable to connect the controller to the computer.
  2. The Home Indicator will stay solid, indicating a successful connection.

Bluetooth Connection

  1. Press and hold Home Button + B Button for 2 seconds until the Home Indicator blinks blue, then release the buttons. 2.Open the Bluetooth list on your computer, find the device named "Wireless Controller"and click to connect. 3.The Home Indicator will stay solid, indicating a successful connection.
  • lf the connection is not successful, please press and hold the controller's Home Button +Share Button for 2 seconds to re-enter pairing mode.

Receiver Connection

  1. Plug the receiver into the USB port of the device to be connected; the receiver indicator will flash.
  2. Press and hold Home Button + X Button for 2 seconds until the Home Indicator flashes green, then release the buttons and wait for the controller to connect to the receiver.
  3. The connection is successful when the indicators on both the controller and the receiver stay solid.
  • If the connection is not successful, please press and hold the controller's Home Button +Share Button for 2 seconds, and press the Pairing Button on the receiver to re-pair.

  1. On the switch main menu, go to“Controllers" - “Change Grip/Order" and wait on this screen.

  2. Press and hold Home Button + Y Button for 2 seconds until the Home Indicator flashes red, then release the buttons and wait for the connection.

  3. The Home Indicator will remain solid, indicating a successful connection.

  • If the connection is not successful, please press and hold the controller's Home Button +Share Button for 2 seconds to re-enter pairing mode.

  1. Press and hold Home Button + A Button for 2 seconds until the Home Indicator flashes yellow, then release the buttons.

  2. Open the Bluetooth list on your phone, find the device named “GameSir-Cyclone 2", and click to connect.

  3. The Home Indicator will remain solid, indicating a successful connection.

  • If the connection is not successful, please press and hold the controller's Home Button +Share Button for 2 seconds to re-enter pairing mode.

  1. Press and hold Home Button + B Button for 2 seconds until the Home Indicator flashes blue, then release the buttons.

  2. Open the Bluetooth list on your phone, find the device named " Wireless Controller", and click to connect.

  3. The Home Indicator will remain solid, indicating a successful connection.

  • You can change the Home indicator color in your phone's settings: Settings - General -Game Controller.

  • If the connection is not successful, please press and hold the controller's Home Button +Share Button for 2 seconds to re-enter pairing mode.

Sticks & Triggers

  1. Set the triggers to long-travel mode. Hold View Button + Menu Button + Home Button for 2 seconds to enter calibration mode. The Home light will flash slowly in white during this process.
  2. Ensure the triggers and sticks are not being touched. Press A Button once.
  3. Rotate both sticks in full circles 2-3 times. Fully press both triggers three times. Finally, press A Button to exit. The Home light will return to its original light effect.

Gyroscope

  1. Place the controller on a stable, flat surface. Hold M Button + Screenshot Button for 2 seconds to start calibration.
  2. During the process, the Home light will flash red and blue alternately. When the light returns to its original effect, calibration is complete.

  1. If the controller encounters issues such as being unable to power on or off properly, youcan use a small object similar to the size of a paperclip to press the Reset button insidethe circular hole on the back of the controller. This will force the controller to power off.

  2. If the controller encounters issues such as being unable to power on or off properly, you can Hold Home Button + Menu Button till the logo Button blink. This action will reset the profile and all the settings of the controller.

Advanced Tutorials

Back Button Setting

  1. Set L4/R4 Button Values: Press and hold the M button + L4/R4 buttons simultaneously until the Home Indicator slowly flashes white.

  2. Press the button to be programmed (supports single button / combination button), then press the L4/R4 button.

  3. When the Home Indicator returns to the mode color, the L4/R4 button setting is complete.

  • In a combination button, the interval time between each button will be triggered according to the operation time during programming.

0469e33d-652a-4199-96a7-641f4dd44183.png

Cancel Back Button Setting

  1. Cancel L4/R4 Button Values: Press and hod the M button + L4/R4 buttons simultaneously until the Home Indicator slowly flashes white, then press the L4/R4 button.

  2. When the Home Indicator returns to the mode color, the L4/R4 button cancellation is complete.

  • If the setting process exceeds 10 seconds, it will automatically save and exist.

Turbo Setting

There are 4 modes: Slow (8Hz), Medium (12Hz), Fast (20Hz), and Off. Programmable buttons: A/B/X/Y/LB/RB/LT/RT

  1. Set Turbo Function: Press and hold the M button, then press the button you want to set to enable Turbo function with Slow mode.

  2. Repeat this operation to cycle through the Turbo modes (Slow, Medium, Fast, Off).

  3. Clear Turbo Function: Double-click the M button.

  • When a button with Turbo function is activated, the Home Indicator flashes continuously.
  • The setting will still be saved after a restart.

Button Combination

Hair Trigger

Enable/disable hair trigger mode.After the hair trigger mode is enabled, the Home Indicatorflashes when LT/RT is pressed.

  • The setting will still be saved after a restart.

61ce8b5f-6f32-4601-b313-9ece78ad7a10.png

Vibration Level

Decrease/increase the vibration intensity of the grip motors. 5 levels:

  • Level 1 - vibration off,

  • Level 2 - 25% vibration,

  • Level 3- 50% vibration,

  • Level 4 - 75% (default),

  • Level 5 - 100%vibration.

  • The setting will still be saved after a restart.

34f1d5f0-279e-4497-8e37-0b14cfb4aaaf.png

Mode Switching

  • Only supported in receiver and wired modes.

  • By performing this operation, you can manually switchbetween XInput/NS/and Other Devices modes, fixing the connectionmode for use.

  • The next time you connect using the samemethod, the mode will remain as previously switched.

  • Long press the Home button for 10 seconds to power off.Upon restarting, the controller will restore the automaticplatform recognition function.

e3ff760f-0b2c-4a46-bc13-0d986e4dc26b.png

Stick's Dead Zone

Enable/Disable zero Dead Zone Mode for the Left/Right Stick

  • The setting will still be saved after a restart.

c3ff491b-ae96-4b20-84b0-dfde293fe84a.png

Button Layout

Interchange button values of A/B, X/Y

  • The setting will still be saved after a restart.

83f1c857-7c9f-45cd-9f91-643ddfdcf443.png

Configuration Switching

You can cyclethrough four preset configurations.

35d7a33a-a408-438a-9c04-ac3996e90895.png

2cc407ce-38c3-4d0e-9b4d-7a24d95a9a46.png

FAQ

It supports Switch, Android, PC, and Steam.

Cyclone 2 offers three connectivity options: Bluetooth, a wireless dongle for wireless connections, and Type-C for wired connections.

Cyclone 2 is equipped with the GameSir Mag-ResTM TMR Sticks which combines the precise performance and low power consumption of traditional potentiometer sticks with the high durability of Hall Effect sticks, ensuring a higher and more stable polling rate.

bbaf5db1-0db0-434b-9176-c9b5190ad6b5.png

Yes, Cyclone 2 has a Hall Effect analog trigger mode, perfect for racing games, which also supports changing to Hall Effect hair trigger mode for FPS games and action games via a key combo. In addition, gamers can also change the trigger gear to toggle between Hall effect trigger or micro switch trigger.

2 motors. Cyclone 2 features asymmetric motors in each grip providing realistic and immersive haptic feedback.

Yes, you can adjust and personalize your lighting effects through the software for a truly unique gaming experience.

Cyclone 2 is equipped with 2 mappable back buttons.

Yes, Cyclone 2 has turbo function with 4 modes: Slow(8Hz), Medium(12Hz), Fast(20Hz), and Off.

Yes, the default is XBOX layout. You can change the layout by holding M Button + A Button for 2 seconds.

cafb0f77-f7c6-47f3-a11c-1fd8565ead27.png

  1. Try another USB cable and ensure the cable is fully inserted.

  2. Plug the controller into different PC USB ports. When connecting to a PC, use the rear ports directly on the motherboard.

  3. Press Win + X and select Device Manager. Expand Universal Serial Bus controllers and check for drivers marked with a yellow warning icon. ① If any are found, right-click the driver and select Uninstall. ② If none are found, expand Xbox Peripherals and check for drivers with a yellow warning icon. ③ If any are found, right-click the driver and select Uninstall. ④ After uninstallation, click Action on the top toolbar and select Scan for hardware changes.

The extra buttons are "null inputs", meaning they have no assigned function until mapped. You can configure them via GameSir Nexus (available on the Xbox and Windows Stores), or by using the button sequence described in the manual.

Simplified instructions:

To assign a mapping: Hold Mode button + the remappable button until the indicator blinks, then press the target button you want to set.

To clear a mapping: Hold Mode button + the remappable button until the indicator blinks, then press the same remappable button again.

A video guide covering each method is available. Reference assignments shown below: L4: A button, L5: Y button, R4: B button, R5: X button

We do not sell separate spare parts such as controller internal components, replacement buttons, USB ports, standalone receivers, or other internal repair parts. All original bundled accessories included with controllers are not available for individual purchase.

The following items are the only official accessories sold separately:

  1. Universal data cables
  2. Magnetic faceplates for G7 series; Magnetic faceplates for Super Nova
  3. G7 Pro dedicated carrying case
  4. Detachable joystick caps for G7 Pro and Cyclone 2
  5. Joystick anti-friction rings
  6. Universal thumb grip caps
  7. Chargers for Nova / Nova 2 Lite; Chargers for Cyclone 2; Cooling fan for X5 Lite
  8. Wireless dongle for Nova (not compatible with Nova 1 / Nova 2 Lite)
  9. Wireless dongle for Cyclone 2, T4, T4 Pro, T4 Pro SE, G7 Pro, Nova Lite and Nova 2 Lite

You can browse all separately sold official accessories via this link: https://gamesir.com/collections/gamesir-accessories

If the LED on your Cyclone 2 flashes rapidly, please send a demonstration video and order screenshot to our support email: gamesir@support.com. Our support team will assist you.

Enable Pro Controller Wired Communication following the steps below:

  1. Open System Settings from the HOME Menu
  2. Navigate to Controllers and Sensors
  3. Select Pro Controller Wired Communication
  4. Toggle the option to On

Polling Rate & Input Latency Technical Explanation

Polling rate refers to how frequently a controller samples and transmits input signals to the host device. Latency is the total delay spanning the polling cycle and actual input delivery.

Polling rate acts as the theoretical minimum latency ceiling:

  • 125Hz polling rate = 8ms per polling cycle; the theoretical lowest possible input latency is 8ms
  • 1000Hz polling rate = 1ms per polling cycle; the theoretical lowest possible input latency is 1ms

Real-world latency will always exceed this theoretical baseline, determined mainly by the controller’s microcontroller (MCU) processing efficiency and installed firmware. Circuit board design is another critical factor, including PCB layout quality and electronic component grade.

Full End-to-End Input Signal Pipeline

  1. You trigger an input on the controller
  2. The controller’s polling mechanism detects the input signal
  3. The MCU receives and processes the captured input data
  4. Processed data is transmitted to the connected host (console, mobile phone, PC)
  5. The host registers the input and relays it to your game or software application

Reference video: https://youtu.be/p7JureXjg7U

The M button is positioned underneath the D-pad.

Each GameSir controller can only pair with its original bundled wireless dongle.

Place the controller flat on a horizontal surface. Hold the Mode button + Share/Screenshot button for 3 seconds. The logo LED will flash orange and white alternately at a rapid rate.

Controllers equipped with a gyroscope are listed below:

  1. Xbox Controllers (Gyro function only available on PC): G7 Pro, G7 Pro Wuchang, G7 Pro Zenless Zone Zero, Tarantula Pro Xbox, T7 Pro Sugar Whirl.

  2. PC Controllers: SuperNova, Cyclone 2, Tarantula Pro, Tarantula Pro 8K, Nova, G7 Pro 8K.

  3. Mobile Controllers: G8+, X5S, X3 Pro, G8+ MFi (Android only)

Firmware Update Guide Controller Firmware Update Launch GameSir Connect on your PC without connecting the controller first. Hold the Logo button + Menu button, then connect the controller to the PC via USB cable to activate manual firmware upgrade. This method applies to users who fail to complete automatic updates within GameSir Connect.

Dongle Firmware Update Follow these steps if you encounter wireless connection issues with the dongle:

  1. Turn off the controller by holding the Logo button for 5 seconds and unplug the dongle.
  2. Open GameSir Connect on your PC.
  3. Hold the pairing button on the dongle and plug the dongle into your PC simultaneously.
  4. An update window will pop up if performed correctly. Wait until the update process finishes.

  1. If the controller fails to power on or power off normally, hold the Home button + Menu button until the logo LED flashes. This operation resets all controller profiles and custom settings.

  2. If controller buttons become unresponsive, use a slim object such as a paperclip to press the reset switch inside the circular hole on the rear of the controller. This forces the controller to shut down.

Polling Rate Explanation Polling rate refers to the frequency at which the controller checks for input signals. Polling is the process of sampling and detecting the current input state. A higher polling rate delivers more timely and accurate input responses.

Multiple variables can influence polling rate test results, including the following:

  1. PC System Load For stable test results, run the test under near-idle conditions with low CPU, memory and disk activity.

  2. USB Port and Microcontroller Factors include USB standard (USB 2.0 / 3.0), controller hardware managing the port, and the number & load of other connected devices.

  3. USB Hubs Whether a hub is used, the hub’s performance level, and the load from other peripherals connected to the hub.

  4. Controller Configuration Gyro toggle status, dead zone settings, installed firmware version and other custom parameters.

  5. Testing Software and Version Always use the latest version of testing tools to avoid known bugs. Recommended tools: XInput Tester and Polling.exe.

  6. Test Methodology The speed and consistency of joystick rotation performed during the test.

Summary: Due to these numerous variables, minor deviations in polling rate results between different PCs or separate test runs are normal.

Mode Switch Operation If you accidentally switch to another input mode while connecting the controller to your PC via cable or wireless dongle: Hold the View button + Menu button to cycle among XInput Mode, NS Mode and other device modes.

Reminders:

  • XInput Mode features a green indicator light. It is the most compatible mode for PC wired or dongle connections.
  • GameSir Connect requires XInput Mode. (This requirement does not apply to Nova Lite.)

Configure Generic Controller in Steam

  1. Launch Steam. Navigate to Steam > Settings > Controller > General Controller Settings.
  2. Tick Enable Steam Input for Generic Gamepads, then click Begin Setup.

Important tip: When prompted to press the Home/Guide button and Share/Capture button during device input setup, skip these prompts by pressing the A button.

Microsoft imposes certain restrictions, so XInput functionality is unavailable via Bluetooth connection.

For PC gaming, we recommend using the official USB wireless receiver included with the controller. This supports wireless XInput mode while maintaining low latency. If you prefer to stay in Bluetooth Mode, launch your games through Steam to utilize Steam’s built-in controller mapping features.

If your controller fails to work properly under HID Mode, the conflict is most likely caused by software such as Steam Input running on your PC. You can disable the Desktop Layout following the steps below:

  1. Launch Steam and navigate to Steam > Settings > Controller.
  2. Select Desktop Layout and click Edit.
  3. Choose Disable Steam Input.

The turbo function is activated. Hold the M button together with the target button to disable turbo for that single button. Alternatively, double-tap the M button to turn off turbo for all assigned buttons.

Hold the M button + A button. The controller will vibrate to indicate that the face button layout has been swapped.

Hold the Mode button and press down the left or right joystick button until the controller vibrates. This toggles between Raw Mode (zero dead zone) and Circular joystick trajectory modes.

The rear extra buttons output null inputs by default, which means they carry no assigned function until remapped. You can configure these buttons via the GameSir mobile app, GameSir Connect PC software, or by following the button combination procedures outlined in the user manual.

Quick operation guide:

To assign mappings

  1. Hold the M button + target rear button until the indicator light flashes.
  2. Press the buttons you wish to assign.

To clear mappings

  1. Hold the M button + target rear button until the indicator light flashes.
  2. Press the same rear button again to reset its configuration.

Hold the Logo button + Menu button until the Logo LED flashes green twice. This operation triggers a function reset and clears all custom settings.

While on the main page displaying all previously connected controllers, tap the icon in the upper-right corner to change the app language.

To navigate back to this main page after entering a controller configuration page, disconnect your controller or press the AppHome button.

No worries, all GameSir controllers are equipped with overcharging protection, whether used with a charging dock or not. Charging will automatically stop once the controller reaches full battery. Normally, the indicator light turns off upon full charge.

Please try using the reset pinhole located on the rear of the controller.

You may calibrate joysticks and triggers either via the software or manually following the steps below:

  1. Switch the triggers to the full travel position. Hold the View ("-") button + Menu ("+") button + Home button. The indicator light will flash slowly in white to signal calibration mode activation.
  2. Rotate both joysticks in complete circles 2 to 3 times. Fully depress both triggers 3 times.
  3. Press the A button to finish and exit calibration mode. The indicator will revert to its normal state.

Notes:

  1. Manual recalibration may resolve issues when the in-app calibration fails.
  2. Perform all operations gently at a steady speed to prevent inaccurate sampling data.
  3. Calibration supports both wired and wireless connections.
  4. This calibration only applies to analog trigger mode and has no effect on mouse click mode.
  5. Always complete calibration with the faceplate installed. Removing the faceplate will lead to incorrect range detection.

Firmware Update Guide for Controller & Dongle Dongle Firmware Update

  1. Standard update method: Connect the controller to the dongle, launch GameSir Connect, and click the Update Firmware button.
  2. Forced update method: Keep holding the dongle’s sync button while plugging the dongle into your PC. If performed correctly, the dongle LED will remain off. Keep GameSir Connect open; the software will automatically install the latest firmware.

Controller Firmware Update

  1. Standard update method: Connect the controller to your PC via cable, then click the Update Firmware button within GameSir Connect.
  2. Forced update method: Hold the Mode button + X button + B button while plugging the controller into your PC. Keep GameSir Connect open to flash the newest firmware.

Hair Trigger Troubleshooting Check whether Hair Trigger Mode is accidentally enabled. Adaptive Hair Trigger may cause abnormal input behavior that users often mistake as a hardware fault.

Hold the M button together with the problematic trigger (LT or RT) to disable this function.

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The ANTI stick-drift experts™

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