Mobile gaming has experienced a major transformation over the past few years. Players can now enjoy console-like action with FPS titles likePlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds,Fortnite, andCall of Duty Mobile. However, the touchscreen controls of agaming phonedo not suit the needs of every gamer. Like PC gamers wanting an alternative to the mouse and keyboard, some mobile gamers are more comfortable with the traditional controller. Whether it’s the console controller (Xbox, PlayStation) or mobile controller, they enhance the experience by far.
8BitDO N30 Wireless Controller
Gamtoure Mobile Gaming Controller for Iphone/Android
Choosing the right controller for mobile gaming is a challenging task thanks to the diverse options available. Game Rant intends to help shoppers narrow their options by spotlighting the bestmobile gaming controllersunder $75.
How to Choose The Best Mobile Controller Under $75
There are several key factors for choosing the perfect mobile gaming controller. Keep these in mind when buying a controller for mobile devices.
Game Rant’s Best Mobile Controllers Under $75
HyperX Clutch Wireless
Get better controls for mobile gaming. With the HyperX Clutch, gamers won’t have to worry about imprecise touchscreens, letting them down with the Clutch’s precise input. It connects wirelessly to Android devices using Bluetooth, and gamers can also connect it to their PC via the included receiver and USB-C to USB-A cable.
All the controllers in this guide offer excellent prices for their performance, but the HyperX Clutch Wireless gives gamers the most for their money. At just $30, this controller offers gamers a way to play on a PC wirelessly or wired, and it allows gamers to play on Android devices via Bluetooth. Plus, it comes with a phone clip.
This controller does not come with the most advanced feature set, but this is the controller for gamers who want a controller that can provide the same feeling of playing on a PC while playing games on mobile devices such asandroid phones. The buttons, D-Pad, triggers, and joysticks are all very responsive and tactile. So, whether playingFortniteon a PC or mobile, this controller allows gamers to make precise and accurate movements, and there is no noticeable input lag regardless of the connection type.
This Xbox-style controller is a bit smaller than some gamers might be used to, but it does help with being able to slip it into a backpack and be ready to game anywhere. Plus, the ergonomic padded grips on the side of the controller make the Clutch Wireless feel much more comfortable than a standard Xbox controller.
SteelSeries Stratus+ Game Controller
The SteelSeries Stratus+ is a versatile gaming controller designed for compatibility with Android devices, Chromebooks, and PCs. Utilizing Bluetooth LE connectivity, it easily connects to Android and Chromebook devices, while a USB-C to A connection ensures seamless integration with PCs. The controller comes with a detachable, slim phone mount that can be adjusted to accommodate almost any Android phone, making it a convenient accessory for gaming on the go.One of its standout features is the impressive 90-hour battery life, which also supports fast charging. A mere 15-minute charge provides up to 12 hours of gameplay, ensuring that users can enjoy uninterrupted gaming.
Made to be an excellent controller regardless of the platform gamers use it on, the SteelSeries Stratus+ is an excellent pick for any gamer wanting a fantastic mobile gaming experience. With the flip of a switch, gamers can switch the controller from 2.4 GHz mode, which is perfect for PC gaming, to Bluetooth mode, which is ideal for mobile gaming. This controller’s versatility makes it an excellent option for gamers who want one controller to game on either PC or Android. Unfortunately, this controller does not support Mac, iPhone, PS4, Xbox, or Switch.
The overall shape of the controller feels like anXbox controller. However, the joysticks are parallel, so there is a weird feeling when using them for the first time. But after getting over that hurdle, which might not be as significant for some gamers, all the inputs feel responsive, and there is no lag to worry about for competitive gaming.
For gamers who plan to use this controller for Android gaming on the go or don’t want to have the phone too far away,there is a clip accessorythat will hold most phones for just $10. It would be nice if SteelSeries included this with the controller, but at least it’s not too expensive.
8BitDo Pro 2 Controller
The 8BitDo Pro 2 retro controller is the latest version of the company’s most popular model. Featuring advanced functions such as rumble, hall effect, and motion controls, this controller is the best of both retro and modern gaming. The Bluetooth connectivity is compatible with Apple, Switch, PC, Android, Steam Deck, and Raspberry Pi. With a 20-hour battery, players can keep gaming on the go without worrying about recharging.
8BitDo has become prolific in the third-party controller world over the last few years. The 8BitDo Pro 2 is a prime example of a controller that offers excellent gaming performance and versatile platform support, all for an incredibly affordable price. However, as with the SteelSeries Stratus+, mobile gamers will need to pick up a separate phone clip for this controller.
The Pro 2 is perfect for gamers who want a controller that can do it all while remaining comfortable. This controller is compatible with pretty much any platform, including Android, iPhone, PC, Switch, and Xbox. Unlike its predecessor, the Pro 2 can now be customized on PC, Android, and iOS devices. This was a big sticking point for many gamers with the Pro 1, and it’s always nice to see companies that listen to their audience’s complaints.
The Pro 2 uses a Nintendo button layout, which is nice for gamers playing on the Switch, but it can get kind of confusing when using it on other platforms. Luckily, there is a switch on the back of the controller to change the button layouts to different consoles. This does need to be set up through 8BitDo’s software, but once it is, switching between platforms on one controller has never been easier.
Razer Kishi Mobile Game Controller
This Android mobile gaming controller aspires to bring console-like gaming to smartphones. Compatible with most cloud gaming services, the Kishi has everything a gamer on the go needs. Thanks to its direct USB-C connection, players will experience latency-free gameplay, and smartphones can be charged while in use.
While not the newest of the Razer Kishi lineup, the first-generation Kishi is still an excellent option for gamers who are looking to stick under the $75 price tag. This is one of the few clip-style controllers that Game Rant recommends at this price point, as many other options are unreliable. For gamers who are looking for a very portable controller that offers a fantastic gaming experience, the Razer Kishi is an excellent choice.
Unlike the other controllers covered in this guide, compatibility is not just a matter of whether it supports Android. The phone’s size also matters. While most Android devices fit in the Kishi, the Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra is just a bit too long at 16.7 cm, and most phones will need to be caseless to fit in this controller. But once the phone is settled in the controller, it feels very sturdy, and neither side feels like it will slip off, no matter how intense gaming gets.
The gaming experience feels like playing on a Switch Lite, with more robust triggers and joysticks. It is responsive and a step above playing touchscreen controls. However, how the Kishi works limits the games it is compatible with. Instead of sending button presses as separate inputs, the Kishi tricks the phone into thinking they are coming from the touchscreen controls, so if the Kishi does not support a game, there is no way to play it. If gamers typically play the games on the list of supported games, this is not a big deal, but it severely limits the available games.
Razer Raiju Mobile
The Razer Raiju Mobile features an ergonomic multi-function button layout, allowing users to customize the controls. The controller also includes a hair trigger mode, providing a competitive advantage in fast-paced games. It features an adjustable phone mount, which allows the best viewing angles regardless of the device.
Gamers who want a competitive edge in mobile gaming should look no further than the Razer Raiju Mobile. This controller is incredibly comfortable, built to last, and includes almost every feature gamers want. Plus, because it is a couple of years old, the price has fallen below that $75 price tag, making it perfect for gamers on a budget.
Unlike the Razer Kishi, the Raiju uses a typical controller input system, making it compatible with almost any mobile game with support for controllers. This controller feels right at home in competitive games, with hair-triggers to shorten travel to fire weapons and a comfortable grip for marathon gaming sessions. The hair-triggers can be turned off in racing games for more precise acceleration and braking.
The phone clip feels incredibly robust and has no problem with pretty much any Android device out there. The clip is made of metal, and the angle can be adjusted by 60 degrees to dial in the most comfortable position for gaming. If gamers don’t want to use the Bluetooth connection option, the Raiju comes with a short USB-C cable to connect to the controller via a wired connection. However, there is no noticeable performance gain from this connection over Bluetooth.
Taking cues from the original NES, the 8BitDo N30 wireless controller is a retro-looking controller that can be used on modern platforms. The controller connects via Bluetooth 4.0 or a mini-USB cable, with button mapping and configuration support for X-input, D-input, Mac mode, and Nintendo Switch mode.
With emulators getting increasingly popular, especially on mobile devices, having a controller that feels like the original controller helps drive that nostalgic feeling home. The 8BitDo N30 is one of the best modern-day controllers that accomplishes the same feeling as the official NES controller, with modern-day creature comforts. But for gamers who still have an NES,8BitDo makes this controller with a wireless dongle that works with the NES.
The D-pad and face buttons on the N30 are very responsive and have a nice feel to them, making platforming games a ton of fun. The added face buttons make it hard to activate that muscle memory while using an NES controller for some games. The shoulder buttons are awkward to press for gamers with smaller hands. However, most retro gamers will rarely use these buttons anyway.
Because of its size, this controller is very easy to pack up and take anywhere. The impressive battery life of 18 hours can easily get gamers through a weekend trip of gaming without needing a recharge. The only point detracting from the gaming-on-the-go ability is that this controller has no phone clip. If it had a phone clip, it would be great as a pseudo-Game Boy replacement for mobile gamers.
The Gamtoure controller adds a special touch to mobile gaming with its RGB lighting that aids visibility when gaming in the dark. Despite relying on a Bluetooth connection, the controller promises super low latency to allow players to game for long periods without worrying about reacting slower than opponents. Aside from supporting mobile games like Genshin Impact and PUBG, the Gamtoure controller also works with cloud gaming platforms like Game Pass and Amazon Luna.
The Gamtoure controller is another excellent option for mobile gamers, especially as it adds an extra touch to its offerings — RGB lighting. Aside from featuring lighting effects on the tactile buttons which increase its appeal when playing in the dark, the controller supports diverse platforms. Gamers can freely explore their favorite controller-supported games across cloud gaming platforms like Nvidia GeForce Now, Xbox Game Pass, Amazon Luna, and more.
It can also be used for popular mobile titles likePUBG,Fortnite,Geshin Impact,Roblox, and more. One aspect of choosing a gaming controller is durability. With the Gamtoure mobile controller, buyers have little to worry about as it’s equipped with full rubber padding. This allows its internal spring to be stretched for long periods without worrying about the phone suddenly slipping and falling. Some users have cited the absence of an option to reassign buttons for the controllers. Some users have also complained about struggling to set up the controller due to the few instructions included with the product.
FAQ
Q: Is there a controller that works on all platforms?
No, but the GameSir T4 Pro is a fine example of a controller that can be used to game on most platforms, including Nintendo Switch, Android, iOS, and PC.
Q: Is it better to play PUBG with a controller?
Absolutely. Many gamers feel more comfortable playing mobile competitive titles like PUBG with a controller instead of touchscreen controls. This is true, especially for those familiar with console gaming.
