Better
Phone holder for game controllers
Android Central
2020
Smartphones are more powerful today than they have ever been, with some devices offering a better gaming experience than even your desktop computer. On top of that, the mobile gaming platform has grown so much that the game library is amazing, so you will want to use a controller to get the best experience. If you’re not tied to a specific ecosystem, the best option for most people is the Razer Raiju Mobile, which works with Windows and Android.
Best overall: Razer Raiju Mobile
For those who want to be passionate about mobile gaming, then you should consider the Razer Raiju Mobile. Instead of a bracket that clips onto your existing controller, it’s an all-in-one system because Razer has created its own game controller.
The controller itself has all the necessary buttons you would expect, as well as a few extras. On the top of the controller, there are two additional trigger buttons for additional ergonomics, and under the left and right handle, there are multifunction buttons that can be mapped. Even better, Razer has designed this with both Android and Windows, so you can use the Raiju for any gaming session that comes your way.
Unlike the supports that attach to your smartphone, the Raiju limits your viewing angle to 60 degrees. This may be good for some, but we would have liked a little more to meet everyone’s potential needs. Another problem is that you cannot map the buttons for certain areas of your screen, which means that you may still have to touch and touch the screen on your smartphone.
Benefits:
- Integrated trigger locks
- Four programmable multifunction buttons
- Includes a short USB-C cable
- Works with Android or Windows
The inconvenients:
- Limited to 60 degrees of tilt
- Unable to customize map buttons for certain areas
Ideal for Xbox One controllers: PowerA Moga Mobile Game Clip
Whether you’re trying to use your Xbox One controller to play games on the Play Store or using it for Project xCloud, this game clip is perfect. The PowerA Moga Mobile Gaming Clip is the only officially licensed Xbox brand from Microsoft, standing out from the rest of the competition.
The clip itself offers different viewing angles, with two points of articulation on the back of the holder and at the base of the phone holder. These points can be locked in place, ensuring that your phone will not move in a critical moment. Plus, it folds into a compact package so you can throw it in your bag for that later play session.
As you would expect from an officially licensed product, you will not be able to use the MOGA Mobile Gaming Clip with other controllers. This includes all SteelSeries controllers, as well as Sony’s DualShock 4. While this clip is still affordable, it is a bit more expensive than similar options.
Benefits:
- Xbox licensed
- Perfect for use with Project xCloud
- Locking of articulation points
- Fits most smart phones
The inconvenients:
- Not compatible with other controllers
- Slightly more expensive than similar options
Ideal for DualShock 4 players: PS4 controller support
For some, the elegance of the Sony DualShock 4 cannot be underestimated and is a favorite for gaming sessions. Thanks to the included Bluetooth capabilities, this means you can pair your controller to your phone and your game where that you are. But you will need a solid phone holder to do this.
This PS4 controller support is compatible with smartphones up to 3.4 inches. In addition, it can rotate from 0 to 270 degrees, allowing you to place your phone in almost any position. Then you can lock the angle in place, which helps keep your smartphone in place.
We would have liked to have seen an additional hinged lock, as some of the larger phones might end up flipping during sessions. The inclusion of a micro-USB cable is also questionable, as many smartphones have switched to USB-C.
Benefits:
- Compatible with many smartphones
- Pivots from 0 to 270 degrees
- Folds down for increased portability
The inconvenients:
- A single articulated lock
- The included micro-USB cable is obsolete
Ideal for SteelSeries controllers: SteelSeries SmartGrip
If you are in the world of third-party controllers, you may have heard of SteelSeries. The company offers several interesting options in case you don’t want to use an Xbox or PlayStation controller. Then you can pair these controllers with the SteelSeries SmartGrip and enjoy a great gaming experience on the go.
In addition to working with your SteelSeries controllers, the company has thought of your phone and added some rubber bumpers. These will help keep your smartphone free from scratches and wear and tear if you play many games. The best part is that you don’t have to worry about the oversized size of your smartphone, as it is compatible with devices up to 6.5 inches.
At first glance, you would think that the SmartGrip would work with an Xbox One controller due to similar designs. This is unfortunately not the case, because the SmartGrip does not fit correctly on the Xbox One controller. In addition, users of the Stratus XL Controller will be frustrated when they have to remove the SmartGrip just to turn the controller on or off.
Benefits:
- Fits all SteelSeries controllers
- Rubber bumpers prevent potential scratches
- Adjustable height and angle
- Compatible with smartphones up to 6.5 inches
The inconvenients:
- Not compatible with Xbox or PlayStation controllers
- Covers the Stratus XL controller on / off switch
Ideal for cross compatibility: Collapsible cell phone holder
It can be frustrating to get stuck using just one type of controller when playing with one of the smartphone holders. This foldable phone clamp holder takes that frustration out of compatibility. This is because you can use this media with all SteelSeries controllers, as well as Xbox One and Steam controllers.
There is a built-in controller holder, so you can support your controller on a table. The stand itself works with phones as wide as 3.5 inches, which means that even the Galaxy Note 10+ can be used with your controller. In addition, you will have the added benefit of having additional support if the first one breaks or gets lost.
Although this phone holder checks the compatibility of most cases for controller compatibility, it lacks a major option – the DualShock 4. You may also need to be a little careful with the angles of your smartphone, as it doesn’t There are no hinge locks to keep the phone at the right angle.
Benefits:
- Includes stick caps
- Works with Xbox One, SteelSeries and Steam controllers
- Integrated controller support
- The package includes two supports
The inconvenients:
- No articulation locks
- Not compatible with DualShock 4
For owners of ROG Phone II: ASUS ROG Kunai Gamepad
When the ASUS ROG Phone 2 launched, it was clearly aimed directly at those who wanted an exceptional mobile gaming experience. The only potential problem was that it was large enough and there are times when you would like an actual controller to play.
With the ROG Kunai Gamepad, your ROG Phone 2 is essentially transformed into an Android version of the Nintendo Switch. What makes this even better is that you can either use the ROG Kunai as a separate controller, or split the left and right controllers and place the ROG Phone 2 in the middle. There’s also a built-in USB-C port, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and up to seven hours of battery life when using wireless mode.
Surprisingly, ASUS chose to use only Bluetooth 4.2, although the ROG Phone 2 is itself equipped with Bluetooth 5.0. Another disadvantage is that you can only use it with the new ROG Phone 2, and not even the first iteration, not to mention other smartphones.
Benefits:
- Up to 7 hours of wireless battery life
- Converts between Gamepad and Handheld modes
- Integrated USB-C port
- Integrated 3.5mm headphone jack
The inconvenients:
- Uses Bluetooth 4.2
- Only works with ROG Phone II
Ideal for modularity: Razer Junglecat
The Razer Junglecat is an interesting mobile game controller due to the compatibility with Android and Windows. What makes it interesting is that you can use it with a range of smartphones, but it is not designed to be used with all smartphones in portable mode. Indeed, the Junglecat is modular and includes different custom cases to use with certain smartphones.
Razer has packed an incredible battery in the Junglecat, providing up to 100 hours of battery life. You can quickly recharge it or keep it charged with your favorite USB-C charger. As for compatible games, Razer has a fairly impressive list, which continues to grow. In addition, you can retract both sides of the controller and use it as a Bluetooth controller for your Windows PC.
The downside is that if you want to use the Junglecat in portable mode, you are limited as to which smartphones can be used. However, if you have a Razer Phone 2, Huawei P30 Pro, Galaxy S10 + or Galaxy Note 9, everything will be fine. The Junglecat can also be a bit small for those with large hands, and you may end up with hand cramps over time.
Benefits:
- 100 hours of autonomy
- Works with Android or Windows
- USB-C charging
- Extensive library of compatible games
The inconvenients:
- Must have the “right” smartphone in portable mode
- Not suitable for people with larger hands
Ideal for old school players: Clip for smartphone 8Bitdo for SN30 and SF30 Pro
In recent years, 8Bitdo has taken the controller market by storm with its range of old school themed controllers. Many of them, including the SN30 and SF30 Pro, are designed to look like the classic controllers we grew up with, but with the added benefit of Bluetooth capabilities. Thanks to the on-board Bluetooth, you can use the 8Bitdo controllers with your favorite smartphone, tablet or computer.
If you already have one of these controllers at your disposal, you can get the 8Bitdo smartphone clip, so you can just have an all-in-one gaming experience. This clip is compatible with smartphones up to 3.6 inches wide, allowing it to work even with larger Android handsets.
On the other hand, the decision to have this clip in two pieces is strange, as it adds a potential stress point if you have a larger smartphone. Another frustration is the lack of articulation lock, which means your smartphone could slide out of the perfect angle if used for long periods of time.
Benefits:
- Works with 8Bitdo SN30 and SF30 Pro
- Compatible with smartphones up to 3.6 inches wide
- Great design for fans of nostalgia
The inconvenients:
- The clip comes in two pieces
- No articulation lock
Conclusion
Although there are many different options for using your smartphone with your favorite gamepad, although many of them are not cross-platform. You need to determine which controller you will likely use with your phone, as many options only work with Xbox controllers, or even SteelSeries controllers. If you can break it down, it can make your choice easier.
For those who want an all-in-one solution, including the controller, consider the Razer Raiju Mobile. This includes the controller, as well as a built-in extendable clip and programmable multi-function buttons around the controller itself. And if you want to switch to your PC for certain games, the Raiju works perfectly with Windows, so you won’t need multiple controllers for different situations.
Credits – The team that worked on this guide
Andrew Myrick is a regular freelancer at Android Central and iMore. He has been passionate about technology since the release of the original iPhone and continues to switch between devices. You might as well plug it into an IV filled with coffee to keep it going throughout the day. If you have any questions, you can find him on Twitter and he will answer you.
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