Once upon a time, professional gaming controllers were intended for the elite elite and cost several hundred dollars each. Giants like the Xbox Elite Series 2 and Razer Wolverine dominated the scene with unrivaled design, performance, and pioneering features. Nowadays, you can buy some really impressive controllers – like the excellent PowerA OPS V3 Pro – that offer similar features for less than $100. And now joining the fight is Gulikit KK3 Max.
Retail for the affordable $79 (76 lbsAU$140), the KK3 Max Pro offers impressive features such as Hall-effect joysticks and triggers, interchangeable rear paddles, intriguing macro support, and versatile connectivity options.
Unlike many competitors, it works seamlessly with Nintendo Switch, but interestingly, it is not compatible with Xbox and PlayStation consoles. I’ve been using it exclusively on my PC for the past few weeks, and while some features have gone unused outside of testing, I can confidently say that it’s an impressive device.
However, the design of the Gulikit KK3 Max still resembles an Xbox controller, enriched with additional buttons, sockets, and RGB lighting. Instead of the Xbox button, a smaller, illuminated Gulikit logo appeared (not functioning as a button), and the standard menu and start buttons were replaced with “-” and “+” signs. Below are four additional Gulikit buttons for personalization.
KK3 Max Specification
(Image source: Future)
Compatibility: Windows 11, Nintendo Switch, Android, and IOS devices
Communication: 2.4 GHz, Bluetooth, USB cable
Ports: USB Type-C
Thumbs up: Hall effect
Thumb arrangement: Asymmetric (Xbox style)
Hind shoulder blades: 6
Libra: 247 gr
Price: $79 | 76 lbs | 139 Australian dollars
Hall-effect joysticks come with RGB rings, but they are not interchangeable and lack height adjustment. The D-pad and face buttons provide decent tactile feedback without feeling mushy, although they don’t match the responsiveness of Razer’s mecha-tactile switches. The ABXY buttons are replaceable, and the included puller makes them uncomplicated to replace. Their slightly larger size helps reduce missing input.
On the back, you’ll find trigger locks for switching between analog and digital clicks, as well as four sockets for attaching the six paddles included in the box. Spacing is more user-friendly, and the ability to select specific shapes and placements makes this controller highly customizable compared to others with fixed rear buttons. Made of tough plastic, the KK3 Max Pro doesn’t exactly exude a premium look, but it doesn’t feel economical either. The subtly textured grips could be grippier, more like those on the PowerA and the excellent Razer Wolverine V3 Pro controllers.
The Gulikit controller is available in black or white with matching paddles and ABXY buttons. However, on black, it seems to pick up some weird stains that I couldn’t get off when trying to take photos for this review. I’m not sure what’s going on, but I’ve never seen this happen with other controllers. Furthermore, the plastic protective case that comes with the controller is really dodgy, and I wouldn’t want to be seen carrying it anywhere. I really think Gulikit could have handled a tough case and not this case.
In terms of connectivity, the Gulikit KK3 Max supports 2.4 GHz wireless connectivity with a polling rate of up to 1000 Hz on your computer, Bluetooth for clever devices, and USB-C wired connections. It works with desktop computers, laptops, Nintendo Switch, and Android devices, but as mentioned earlier, not with Xbox and PlayStation consoles. Pairing with the 2.4GHz dongle took some effort as the documentation wasn’t particularly intuitive – this was a recurring problem when learning to apply its many features. I suspect many users will not fully grasp the power in their hands due to the unclear and intricate steps required for most of them. Even switching between calls is a bit complicated.
Performance and Features
That said, at least battery life is solid, providing around 15 hours of gameplay with RGB lighting dynamic and almost 28 hours with it turned off. I’m elated to sacrifice flat RGB for longevity, and I suspect you will be too. However, the KK3 Max doesn’t do a very good job of indicating low battery. Instead of a clear warning, it just starts disconnecting sporadically until it stops connecting at all.
Performance is where the KK3 Max Pro really stands out. Hall effect joysticks provide precision and durability, superior to classic potentiometer designs. Whether you’re taking a sniper shot or performing tight maneuvers, accuracy is palpable. The sensitivity can be adjusted directly on the controller as no software is included. The triggers and paddles respond just as quickly, and the paddles are easier to apply than those on other professional controllers I’ve used. The ability to place them anywhere and the unique design of the squat paddles make all four rear paddles accessible – a rarity among controllers.
Turbo Mode allows you to quickly press the button with a single hold, which is ideal for games that require rapid and repetitive input. Auto fire mode allows for continuous action without holding a button, perfect for continuous firing in BB shooters. The Auto Pilot Gaming feature lets you program action sequences to execute automatically, making repetitive tasks or intricate combos a breeze.
Should You Buy the Gulikit KK3 Max?
✅ You want a truly customizable professional controller on a budget: The Gulikit KK3 max will fit the Elite Series 2, but at a fraction of the price.
✅ You can apply automatic functions: The KK3 Max has some advanced autoplay features, and if you play the kind of bullet hell games that can benefit from this, it will be at the top of your controller list.
Considerations Before Buying
❌ You want a basic life: If easier controls, excellent software, and the ability to store separate profiles for each of the main games are your bag, the KK3 Max may not be your bag.
❌ You want a controller that will work on both your Xbox or PlayStation console and your PC: With compatibility strangely lacking with current Microsoft and Sony consoles, this is something you’ll need to familiarize yourself with before purchasing.
Final Thoughts on Gulikit KK3 Max Pro
Gulikit claims that the improved KK3 Max chipset and software improve auto-correction in games, although its full potential is tough to assess. Competitive gamers will appreciate the near-zero latency provided by 2.4 GHz wireless and wired USB connections, as well as the 1000 Hz polling rate.
Reassigning the blades is basic and allows you to make adjustments on the fly without software. This is crucial during gameplay when quick changes are needed. However, for players who often switch between games, the inability to save profiles will be a gigantic disadvantage. The lack of dedicated software also means that deeper customization options are confined compared to premium alternatives like the Xbox Elite Series 2.
Gulikit KK3 Max Pro stands out for its ergonomic design, tough construction, and several unique advanced features. Hall-effect joysticks, comprehensive connectivity, and performance-enhancing options make it a sturdy competitor in the professional controller market. While it has some drawbacks – such as lack of software support, intricate built-in shortcuts for customization, and lack of compatibility with Xbox or PlayStation – they don’t overshadow its strengths. Especially since the KK3 Max costs just $80, making it one of the best PC gaming controllers and a fantastic buy for the budget-conscious buyer.
FAQs
Q: Is the Gulikit KK3 Max compatible with Xbox and PlayStation consoles?
A: No, the Gulikit KK3 Max is not compatible with Xbox and PlayStation consoles, but it works seamlessly with Nintendo Switch, desktop computers, laptops, and Android devices.
Q: Does the Gulikit KK3 Max offer customization options for buttons and paddles?
A: Yes, the Gulikit KK3 Max offers customization options for buttons and paddles, allowing users to personalize their gaming experience.
Q: What is the battery life of the Gulikit KK3 Max controller?
A: The Gulikit KK3 Max provides around 15 hours of gameplay with RGB lighting dynamic and almost 28 hours with it turned off, offering solid battery life for extended gaming sessions.
Credit: herosweb.com
