T3+ – Intro and Specs
T3+ Bluetooth Gamepad Gaming Controller
Today on the tech bench we have the Gearbest T3+ Gamepad, super low cost but promising a plethora of features. Retailing at $9.10 USD found here T3+ BT Controller with free shipping we thought how could you go wrong.
MOXO Wireless Charging Magnetic Levitating Bluetooth Speaker Giveaway
Normally at this time we would list the features supplied to us by the company whom provided us with the review item, but sadly their features and specs are so far off we found them entirely useless. So at this point we will give you the features as we have seen them while the T3+ was on our test bench.
Features:
Android, Windows, and iOS compatible. Jailbreak required.
Bluetooth 3.0 tested over 10 feet away with no lag or issues.
Very light weight and comfortable for extended use.
Smart power off works well if the controller is not being used.
Built in 500mAh battery weighs next to nothing but provides 5-6 hours play time.
Multiple preprogrammed modes built in.
Specifications:
| General | Model: T3+ Functions: Bluetooth Bluetooth Version: V3.0 Compatible with: MIMU TV, Tablet PC, Smartphone, MIMU TV Box Features: Charger |
| Power | Capacity : 500mAh |
| Specification | Product Weight: 0.128 kg Package Weight: 0.22 kg Product Size: 14.5 x 9.5 x 2.5 cm / 5.70 x 3.73 x 0.98 inches Package Size: 17 x 11 x 6.5 cm / 6.68 x 4.32 x 2.55 inches |
| Package Contents | Package Contents: 1 x T3+ Bluetooth Gamepad, 1 x USB Cable, 1 x User Manual in English and Chinese |
T3+ – Closer look
The T3+ has simple packaging but enough to keep the T3+ protected while shipping from over seas. All outer box writing is in English and explains the different modes the T3+ can control.The protective packaging is more then enough to make sure you get the controller safely.Rubber side handles make this super light and comfortable to use for long gaming sessions.Anyone who has used a Playstation controller will find this controller comfortable and enjoy using it.The T3+ has zero branding on it making it nice not to see constant brand marketing in your face while gaming, we will leave that to EA and Ubisoft.
Standard quality usb mini cable that is used for charging. The T3+ sadly does not come with a wall charger but most people have a spare one to use or a spare usb port in their computer to charge with.Shockingly great instructions for a one page leaflet that will leave you with little questions on how to sync the T3+ and how to use the other modes.
T3+ – Testing
Testing: By clicking the (Home) button on the T3+ you will be able to select between 4 keybindings, each giving a new functionality to the device it is connected to.
iPhone 5C (when Jailbroken) – All buttons work out of the box in most games when controller mode is enabled.
iPhone 5C (Stock 8.2) – Volume controls work but controller does not work in game.
Note 3 Android 5.0 – All buttons work out of the box.
ASUS USB-BT400 – Network adapter – USB 2.0 – Bluetooth 4.0
Computer Testing:
Settings 1: All buttons work out of the box for gaming.
Settings 2: Volume controls in windows.
Volume up: Y
Volume Down: A
Left Click: LB
Right Click: RB
Left thumb stick: Mouse controls.
Settings 3/4: Becomes a keyboard, buttons correspond with numbers and letters.
In Game testing:
PC Rocket League: Settings work perfect but keybinding had to be set in game. The T3+ is very impressive when gaming on a PC, response rate is instant and the fact you can laugh at console players for the fact you have a choice of a controller or keyboard and mouse. The T3+ works great for steam users or media centers as the fact you can use it as a mouse in Windows removes the need for another wireless remote/KB and mouse.
iPhone: Without Jailbreak the iPhone is nearly unusable with the T3+
Android testing: No settings modifications needed, works perfectly and is extremely enjoyable to play.
Game Testing for Android: FPse playstation emulator, perfect sync no need to mod settings, games tested Legends of Dragoon and Star Ocean, both games have near instant response and work perfectly. When playing games like Reaper or Unkilled the controller is a must, with your hands no longer taking up the screen you will feel far more pulled into the game.
T3+ – Conclusion & Closing
The Gear Best T3+ is a great low cost controller for Android or PC users. Most wired controllers will cost you near double and most good BT controllers will cost you $49.99 or more. With the fact the value of the T3+ is so high it is very hard to not recommend this controller even though it may feel cheap and not work with out of the box iOS devices.
Packaging and Accessories: Minimalist packaging with not a ton of protection. Items in the box include the controller, a USB cable and a one page guide.
Pricing: Any controller coming in at under $20 that just works as it should and can be used with more than a Potato device (Playstation/Xbox/Vtec hello kitty Island Adventure machine) gets 5 stars when it comes to value.
Quality: Though the T3+ feels nice in your hand and is a great gaming controller it does feel extremely cheap, due to the fact it weighs less than most mice by a long shot it would be nice to have removable weights in this controller as there is such thing as too light. Due to this you know one or two rage quits of throwing this controller and it would not be surviving. With that I recommend buying a second or third T3+ as the price is so low it’s always good to have a spare.
Battery Life: The T3+battery life is insane 4-8 hours constant play. We tested for around 6 hours before putting it away for a week and then tested it again for another 2 hours of life without issue. The T3+ for a sub $15 controller has battery life that matches the Xbox one or PS 4 far far more expensive controllers.
Ease of Use: Out of the box the T3+ with android or Windows is as easy as they come, with windows no extra drivers required and with android just a BT sync and your off to the races. Sadly Apple has again been a kill joy and if you’re buying this for an iOS device make sure it’s Jailbroken.
While testing the T3+ controller we were reminded that you can truly get an awesome deal if you look hard enough. For under $15 this controller left us wanting little more, the only down fall is the controller does not feel very durable or feel as high end as the $50 plus ones. With that being said we have awarded the T3+ Controller with our Real Deal Award.
