23 August 2023 , 06:00
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If you're a high-level player or an aspiring pro then the feature-packed and fully customisable Thrustmaster eSwap X Pro may be the controller for you.
The Thrustmaster eSwap X Pro is a modular wired gamepad which comes jam-packed with features making it a perfect option for higher-level gamers looking for a highly customisable controller. On top of being able to swap components in and out of the controller immediately, you can also remap every button on the gamepad using the associated software. Unfortunately, this controller isn't compatible with PS5 or mobile and only works with Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S and PC.
If you're hoping to get your hands on the Thrustmaster eSwap X Pro it comes in at £149.99 / $169.99 / AU$378.95 which is an extremely high price point especially considering the gamepad is wired. However, considering all of the features on offer here this makes sense. For comparison, the Xbox Wireless Controller comes in at £54.99 / $54.99 / AU$89.95 and the Xbox Elite Series 2 wireless controller would set you back £149.99 / $139.99 / AU$249.95.
Thrustmaster eSwap X Pro design
One of the perks of the Thrustmaster eSwap X Pro is the fact that you can get different kits to adjust the aesthetics of the controller, these kits change the grips on either side of the base on the gamepad, the d-pad, the joysticks and the trigger buttons. Our kit is the Blue Colour Pack and features camo-style blue, grey and white grips as well as other blue accessories.
One of the perks of the Thrustmaster eSwap X Pro is the fact that you can get different kits to adjust the aesthetics of the controller, these kits change the grips on either side of the base on the gamepad, the d-pad, the joysticks and the trigger buttons.The Thrustmaster eSwap X Pro is slightly larger than a standard Xbox Wireless Controller, meaning those with smaller hands might find it uncomfortable to hold, particularly for long periods. It's also a relatively heavy controller coming in at 300 grams compared to the Xbox Wireless Controller's 220 grams, which can get a little bit straining at times, but is fine after some getting used to it.
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Thrustmaster eSwap X Pro features
The features you find on the Thrustmaster eSwap X Pro really show why the controller comes in at the price point it does because it is absolutely jam-packed. The obvious first thing to speak on is the fact that you get instant hot-swappable modules on the controller which include both joysticks and the d-pad. These can all be yanked out and replaced with immediate functionality on the new module, meaning if you want to swap the layout of your controller, or you want a certain type of stick or d-pad for a specific game or situation then this is completely possible.
Thrustmaster eSwap X Pro essential specifications:
- Form factor: modular
- Connectivity: wired via USB-A
- Compatibility: Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PC
- Extra buttons: 4
- Adaptive triggers: Yes
In addition to this, you also get adjustable triggers which can be changed from long to short with the flick of a switch on the back of the controller as well four additional buttons.In addition to this, you also get adjustable triggers which can be changed from long to short with the flick of a switch on the back of the controller as well four additional buttons. All of the inputs on the gamepad are ultra-responsive and have a mouse-like click feeling making for an extremely satisfying experience.
Once you've installed the ThrustmapperX software you can also programme every single input on the Thrustmaster eSwap X Pro making for a fully customisable controller. ThrustmapperX is relatively simple to use and navigate.
Thrustmaster eSwap X Pro performance
Using the Thrustmaster eSwap X Pro has been a fantastic experience, and a lot of that is actually down to one of the least suspecting features, the clicky buttons. Before this, I've been using the Xbox Wireless Controller for years, as well as the PS5 DualSense Edge when I'm playing on my PS5 so swapping from these to the Thrustmaster eSwap X Pro was a very satisfying experience as you could perfectly feel every single input.
Using the Thrustmaster eSwap X Pro has been a fantastic experience, and a lot of that is actually down to one of the least suspecting features, the clicky buttons.I didn't find myself using the hot-swappable module feature too often as it's more catered towards professional and high-level players which I definitely am not. As great as the concept is, it likely isn't something casual gamers will take advantage of which is something to keep in mind.
There is absolutely no input lag when using the Thrustmaster eSwap X Pro which is down to its wired connection. I tested it with a range of different titles including Fortnite, Street Fighter 6, Forza Horizon 5 and Hi-Fi Rush and it pulled through every single time.
Overall thoughts on the Thrustmaster eSwap X Pro
The Thrustmaster eSwap X Pro is a fantastic controller but really does live up to the Pro in its name, this gamepad really is designed for high-level players to use rather than casual gamers. If you're looking for a controller which is extremely satisfying to use and provides you with features galore to take advantage of then this is the one for you but keep in mind that it's wired, quite heavy and slightly larger than your average controller.
Score: 5/5