Mobile Gaming's Ultimate Weapon: Phone Controller Innovation

Mobile gaming's evolution demands controllers balancing performance and portability. Modern smartphones and tablets run console-quality games, rendering touchscreens inadequate for most titles.

Current phone controllers commonly feature an expandable design, cradling your device within a shell and providing half a controller on each side. Many, like our top pick, the Razer Kishi Ultra, boast thumbsticks and buttons rivaling traditional console controllers, some even offering customizable extra buttons.

TL;DR - Best Phone Controllers

Our Top Pick: ### Razer Kishi Ultra

4See it at Amazon### SCUF Nomad

5See it at Amazon### Backbone One

3See it at Amazon### ASUS ROG Tessen

2See it at Amazon### GameSir X2s

3See it at Amazon

Whether you prioritize extended play comfort or compact portability, numerous options cater to various needs and devices. Below are our top picks:

1. Razer Kishi Ultra: Best Overall

Our Top Pick: ### Razer Kishi Ultra

4See it at Amazon

• Features: Console-quality controls, comfortable grip, feature-rich app unifying mobile games and services.
• Pros: Full-size analog sticks and triggers, responsive Mecha-Tactile buttons, comfortable design, customizable via Razer Nexus app.
• Cons: Some features Android-only, bulky.

The Razer Kishi Ultra builds upon its predecessor, offering console-level mobile gaming. Its expandable design accommodates smartphones and smaller tablets via USB-C. Wired USB-C connection also enables PC controller use. Zero latency ensures smooth gameplay. Full-size analog sticks and triggers, along with satisfying Mecha-Tactile buttons, enhance the experience. Customizable L4/R4 buttons and the Razer Nexus app (with customizable RGB, button remapping, and more) add versatility. However, some features, like Sensa HD Haptics and Virtual Controller Mode, are Android-exclusive.

2. Scuf Nomad: Best Customizable

### SCUF Nomad

5See it at Amazon

• Features: Pro-level Bluetooth controller (iPhone), Hall Effect joysticks, swappable thumb caps, robust software, customizable back buttons.
• Pros: Anti-drift thumbsticks, comfortable grip, customizable rear paddles, works with phone cases.
• Cons: No Android support, unusual button layout, small D-pad, no passthrough charging.

Scuf's Nomad introduces pro-level customization to mobile gaming. Its robust build and Hall Effect joysticks (eliminating drift) are highlights. Interchangeable thumbstick caps and customizable rear paddles offer personalization. The Scuf app provides further customization (trigger curves, dead zones, profiles). However, it currently only supports iPhone, lacks passthrough charging, and has an unconventional button layout.

3. Backbone One: Best App Integration

### Backbone One

3See it at Amazon

• Features: Excellent hardware/software integration, simple design, iOS and Android compatibility.
• Pros: Lightweight, console-like app experience, iOS and Android support, works with phone cases.
• Cons: Slightly mushy buttons, small thumbsticks and triggers.

The Backbone One, a pioneer in expandable controller design, remains a strong contender. While lacking full-size controls, it's ideal for casual gamers. It offers USB-C (Android) or Lightning (iOS) connectivity, passthrough charging, and a 3.5mm audio jack. The Backbone app provides a console-like experience, easily launching games and streaming services. The second generation features an improved D-pad and magnetic phone adapters. A PlayStation-licensed edition is also available.

4. ASUS ROG Tessen: Best Portable

### ASUS ROG Tessen

2See it at Amazon

• Features: Responsive buttons, smooth analog sticks, customizable back paddles, foldable design.
• Pros: Foldable design, works with phone cases, mechanical buttons and D-pad, 18W passthrough charging.
• Cons: Android-only, limited companion app features.

The ASUS ROG Tessen stands out with its foldable design, ideal for portability without compromising quality. Mechanical buttons and D-pad, smooth analog sticks, and customizable rear paddles provide a premium feel. Zero-latency USB-C connection and 18W passthrough charging are added benefits. However, its Android exclusivity and basic companion app are limitations.

5. GameSir X2s: Best Budget

### GameSir X2s

3See it at Amazon

• Features: Quality controls, numerous features at a budget price.
• Pros: Hall Effect thumbsticks, analog triggers, passthrough charging.
• Cons: Uncomfortable for larger hands, small buttons, limited button remapping (iPhone), somewhat flimsy build.

The GameSir X2s improves upon its predecessor, offering Hall Effect joysticks (preventing drift), analog triggers, and passthrough charging at an affordable price. It's compatible with iPhone 15 and newer, and Android devices, though app features are primarily for Android. However, its build quality is somewhat flimsy, and it may be uncomfortable for users with larger hands.

Choosing the Right Controller:

Consider these factors:

• Compatibility: Ensure compatibility with your device (USB-C, Lightning, Android, iOS). Check for case compatibility.
• Portability: Choose a smaller, foldable design for on-the-go use; larger controllers are suitable for home use.
• Games: Select features (customizable buttons, back paddles, etc.) based on your gaming preferences.