Flydigi Apex 5 Review: Good Controller, Better with the Software

When it comes to controllers, one of the first things I’ll disregard is the software. For the most part, people are using controllers in situations that may not have a way to install any accompanying software. Whether that’s on mobile, Linux, or handheld devices, however, I’ve realized that’s not always going to be the case. For some Windows users, the software could make or break one’s use of a controller. So when MiniXPC offered up the Flydigi Apex 5 for review, not only could I not turn that down, I kind of wanted to see what the software for these triggers is all about. And admittedly, it feels a bit game-changing. Somewhat.

Follow on as we take a look at the Flydigi Apex 5 to see if it’s really worth your money.

Flydigi Apex 5 Specs

To get this out of the way first, you’re looking at a $180 controller when it comes to the Flydigi Apex 5. Though at the time of writing, it’s on sale for $150 on MiniXPC, and $140 through the official Newegg store they have. This moreso puts it in line with controllers like the Beitong Zeus Elite rather than something like the HexGaming Phantom. For that price, you get the following.

Sticks: Hall-Effect with Adjustable tension
Triggers: Hall Effect with Force Feedback
Face Buttons: Mechanical
Battery: 1500mAh for 20 hours of run time
Additional Features: Flydigi Space software, M1-M4, LM/RM buttons, Gyro, Vibration, RGB, “Smart Screen”, optional charging dock
Connectivity: 2.4GHz/Bluetooth/Wired over USB-C (up to 1000Hz polling rate)
Compatibility: x86, iOS, Android, Nintendo Switch
Weight: 333 grams

Flydigi Apex 5 at MiniXPC Flydigi Apex 5 at AliExpress

The Good

The Sticks and Triggers

This is one thing I’ll have to come back to later on, but the sticks and triggers are exceptionally good for a controller. While they may just be Hall Effect, the sticks on the Apex 5 are as smooth in use as I’ve felt yet. In general, it just feels like they glide around the edges of their spots, and as a whole, have been one of my favorite experiences with a controller.

The triggers, while they don’t have locks for short throws, have some software trickery that can give them a completely different feel depending on the game.

The Ergonomics

Yes, it looks a lot like an Xbox controller, but the weight makes it feel better to me. All of the controls are easily within reach, and I never had a moment where anything felt off. Even the LM and RM buttons were right within range for me, and helped the experience of using the Apex 5.

One comment is on the rubberized grips on the back. While I’m not usually a fan of them, the rubber used on the Apex 5 feels more solid than some other options. On the GameSir Supernova, I’ve already noticed spots of wear on my grips, but I’m not sure that will be the case with the Apex 5. It’s all been super pleasant so far.

The Experience

I’ve been using the Apex 5 for a bit now, and the overall experience of using this controller has been exceptional. Because of the 2.4GHz dongle, it’s plug-and-play. Just like a lot of other controllers I’ve got. However, this has been a controller I don’t find myself thinking about. I’m not even thinking of the connection or battery life, I just get to play the games I want to. The last time I had this feeling with a controller was the Fantech EOS Pro II S. A controller really does well when I don’t think about how I’m reviewing it, and the Apex 5 delivers that feeling in spades.

The Bad

The Snap-On Paddles

I hate these. They feel like cheaper plastic; they’re hard to snap into place, and I worry that pulling them back out will break them. They’re really customizable and can be adjusted in software, but these have probably been some of my least favorite back paddles since the Aolion K20. If you need them, maybe try something else. If you don’t need them, that’s better.

The Screen

Continuing in personal preference land, the small screen on the Apex 5 feels a bit useless. It’ll show that it’s charging when plugged in, but otherwise, it’s shown the same APEX logo since I’ve gotten it. “Why? Can’t you change that in the software?” What a wonderful question, and the answer is. Well, yes, but actually no. It’s an option in the software, but every time I’ve attempted to change it, the software crashes and won’t let me through. It’s a bit frustrating, but I’m sure it’ll get fixed soon. I just leave mine turned off.

The D-pad

One more for the road home. The tactile switches in the D-pad are fine. They’re not too loud, not too quiet. But I simply dislike the shape of this D-pad. I already may not be a fan of the dishes, but the awkward, rounded diamond makes it harder to use for me personally. In a couple of heated Celeste runs, I found myself slipping off the edge while trying to do a diagonal. It’s not a horrid dpad, but it certainly isn’t my favorite.

The Software

The software is probably one of the most impressive parts of this controller, and I don’t think it’s even close. In the Flydigi Space Station, you can make changes to just about every part of the controller, all in one go. Want to change the RGB? Space Station. Want to adjust Gyro, Mouse Mode, or Vibration? Space Station. But there’s still more.

In the software, you can adjust the tension of the sticks, making them harder or easier to move around depending on what you select. Meanwhile, with the triggers, you can set various trigger modes that will adjust how they feel in each game you play. Whether that’s racing games, shooting games, or anything in between, options are all there to play with.

They even have an Adaptive Trigger tab with all of the compatible games so that you can use special presets to help up the experience in your games. With Forza Horizon, I could definitely feel that when using the Racing mode. The increased tension as you use the gas just makes the game feel way better as a whole.

Final Thoughts

At about $140 to $150, I think it’s too expensive for the most part. I get that as the Apex controller it has the most features for the highest price, but I feel like, in terms of customization, you can find more for less from other controllers (like the Zeus).

This is probably going to go into contention as my daily use controller going forward, I personally like it that much. However, the second controller I have in mind for daily use is about one-third the price. Hint: It’s the Fantech EOS Pro II S.

If you’re looking for a controller that you can customize for every individual game you own on Steam, I think you’re not going to find anything better than the Apex 5. However, if you don’t care about software and just want a solid experience. There are cheaper options that feel almost the same.