Mobile games have become more mature, more complex and more exciting. Just five years ago, no one thought about multiplayer in shooters or fighting games, but now developers are trying not to release games without the ability to fight online. A decent number of good shooters in which you can compete online, and games from other genres, aroused increased interest among gamers - every second owner of a more or less powerful smartphone wanted to shoot, drive supercars, fight online and win.
Telegram channel of the creator of Trashbox about technology
However, here the shortcoming of a smartphone with a touch screen is revealed in all its glory. Even if you wanted to, you cannot play comfortably on such a display. A simple example: in a shooter you need to move, move the camera and shoot/use additional features. You simply don’t have enough hands to do all this at the same time and comfortably. This is where manufacturers of gaming peripherals come onto the scene, having realized that gamers are seriously lacking gamepads for smartphones.
Today we will look at the best-quality models that you wouldn’t be ashamed to buy for your Android device. This is an important point, since on iOS completely different models need to be advised. In this article, all the options presented work on Android, plus some other OS are supported, but this is a bonus. There are no ideal options; some models have a cool advantage in the form of a built-in battery, while other models have better keys. But we tried to choose the best.
ASUS Nexus Gamepad
The new gamepad from ASUS, called Nexus Gamepad, is very different from potential competitors in many ways. The first thing that catches your eye is the sticks, located on the same level. Similarly, these controls are located on the PS4 controller, while on the Xbox gamepad, and on most products in this segment, the sticks are located diagonally. Each user will decide for himself which option is more convenient for him, but it is worth understanding that you get used to any gamepad literally after ten hours of play.
An important point for many games is the d-pad. On this model, all the D-pad keys are located separately from each other, which raises some questions. For example, to jump up and to the right, you will need to press two buttons at once. In the case where the keys are located on the same platform, you can simply press in the center, between the two guides. I can’t say that this is a huge minus, but it was worth paying attention to.
ABYX keys are painted in a classic style, like on an Xbox controller, located at a decent distance from each other and it will be problematic to miss. In addition, there is an indicator on the front panel by which you identify player number one, two, three and four. For example, some set-top boxes support up to four connected devices, and this feature will make it easier to find who is who. The Home, Power and Back keys are also located there. There are triggers R2 L2, buttons R1, L1, pressed along the entire length.
Peculiarities:
- price - 2690 rubles;
- support for Android OS 5.0 and higher, Windows 8/10;
- connection via Bluetooth V3.0;
- Powered by two AA batteries.
May not like:
- the cross is separate.
Best Phone Finger Grips for PUBG Mobile
For better aiming and accurate headshots
Pros: an indispensable device for increasing reaction speed and smoothly sliding your fingers across the mobile phone screen while playing. “Toe socks,” as they are also called, increase sensitivity and allow you to quickly change camera position and aim in action games.
The fingertips are made of conductive fiber and spandex. They have a universal size, and, thanks to their high elasticity, they are securely fixed on the hand. Do not stretch over time. Seamless structure provides confident control in mobile games. The fabric breathes and protects the screen from sweat. It is worth noting that phone finger pads are safe for the oleophobic coating of the screen and do not erase it.
The device weighs almost nothing, fits easily into your pocket and seriously improves the player’s skill in games such as PUBG and CoD. The set includes two pairs of fingertips (4 pieces in total).
Cons: not found
Xiaomi Mi Game Controller
One of the most affordable gamepad options for a smartphone or tablet running the Android operating system is the controller from Xiaomi. Despite its cheapness, the product has absolutely all the necessary capabilities, a comfortable and durable body, and support for modern versions of the Android OS. It is worth noting that on most Internet sites, even on Yandex.Market, only Xiaomi smartphones, tablets and consoles are listed among the supported devices, although the gamepad works with all Android devices.
The design of the Xiaomi Mi Game Controller and its shape are more reminiscent of the Xbox version, here the sticks are located diagonally, the cross is installed on the bottom left, plus it is combined. That is, jumping up and to the right is easier than on the previous device. However, the manufacturer did not provide an ideal design - ABYX keys are not color-coded, so in some games you will have problems recognizing actions.
Among the distinctive features of the product are the luminous Mi logo, which lights up after turning on the device, plus a good implementation of triggers and two holes on the top edge of the product. These holes can be used to hold a smartphone, turning the gamepad into a portable gaming console. The only downside is that the holder is not included and can only be found on AliExpress.
Peculiarities:
- price - 1990 rubles;
- support for Android OS 5.0 and higher, Windows 10 (via X360CE);
- connection via Bluetooth V3.0;
- Powered by two AA batteries.
May not like:
- monochromatic ABYX keys.
8BitDo Zero 2
- Connection type: Bluetooth.
- Supported platforms: Steam, Windows, macOS, Raspberry Pi, Nintendo Switch, Android.
A miniature wireless controller from a well-known manufacturer of gaming accessories. Positioned as a gamepad for Nintendo Switch, but also compatible with a host of other platforms. Well suited for use with emulators of retro consoles, simple mobile and PC games.
Price: 1,197 rubles.
Buy
MOGA Pro Power Controller
MOGA is a very popular company in the market of controllers for mobile phones and tablets. The main advantage of most models, and Pro Power too, is the smartphone holder built into the case. You simply fold it back, install the device, and you can play without additional stands, moving around the apartment or playing on your knees. Most competitors either don't have the option to install a holder, or you have to buy one separately.
In terms of body design, everything is quite standard - the sticks are located diagonally, the cross is aligned, the buttons are of fairly high quality. But, again, the manufacturer decided to paint them one color (orange). In games where the buttons are arranged by color, you will need to guess. I won’t say that this is a huge minus of the device, but when connected to a PC, in some games it will take a little longer to get used to the controls.
In addition to the visible advantage of being a smartphone holder, the device boasts a built-in battery. This is a big plus, because the batteries allow you to play for a long time, but when this battery runs out, you will need to look for a replacement. If you are at home and have a replacement in your desk drawer, then no problem, change it and that’s it, let’s continue shooting. It’s another matter if you are traveling on a bus or train, the batteries are dead, and the nearest store is not yet close. Here the built-in Pro Power battery makes itself felt - connect it to a portable battery or outlet, and continue playing. Plus, you can charge your smartphone from the controller's battery while playing.
Peculiarities:
- price - 3470 rubles;
- support for Android OS 5.0 and higher, Windows 10;
- connection via Bluetooth V3.0;
- powered by built-in battery;
- built-in smartphone holder.
May not like:
- not detected.
How to connect a joystick to Android TV: troubleshooting
There are cases when the joystick needs to be connected to an Android TV. Connection methods may vary depending on device types. To connect joysticks from Xbox and Wii, special applications are required. Let's find out what to do.
Canyon CND-GPW7
Not the most popular model on the market, I agree, but the Canyon CND-GPW7 has certain advantages. The main feature is versatility. You can connect the gamepad to an Android device, you can play on a PC, plus it supports PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360. That is, if you have a previous generation console and wanted to play together with friends, then you can take this thing and not only on a smartphone shoot in shooters, but also fight on the console.
The location of the sticks is taken from the Xbox controller, that is, they are located diagonally, the shape of the body is also very similar to the “original” model, the cross is solid, there are all the necessary buttons on the front panel, and the triggers are pressed quite smoothly. The appearance seems brighter and more attractive, black and red look good, and there are not so many decorative elements to spoil the overall picture.
Of course, it was not without its drawbacks. So, ABYX decided to paint the buttons, but the colors do not match those on the Xbox controller. In games where the buttons are assigned colors, you will have an even more difficult time than with solid colored buttons. This is perhaps the only negative, but it is easily covered by the built-in battery for 8 hours of battery life. We discussed the pros and cons of batteries literally three paragraphs ago, everything is exactly the same here.
Peculiarities:
- price - 2490 rubles;
- support Android, PC, PS3, Xbox 360;
- battery powered;
- Bluetooth connection.
May not like:
- ABYX buttons are strangely colored.
8BitDo M30
- Connection types: USB, Bluetooth.
- Supported platforms: Windows, macOS, Nintendo Switch, Android.
One of the few, if not the only, six-button gamepad that is ideal for emulating games from the Sega Mega Drive. Exactly repeats the original controller of the mentioned console - right down to the plastic and tactile sensations. Among the modern additions, there are only a couple of shift keys, auxiliary buttons for the Nintendo Switch and charging via USB‑C.
Price: 2,311 rubles.
Buy
IPEGA PG-9077
The Chinese company IPEGA, despite its rather unconventional name, has achieved decent popularity due to the quantity and quality of its products. Literally two years ago the manufacturer’s first devices began to appear, and now there is any model for all occasions and taste preferences. The PG-9077 model is interesting because it has just gone on sale, having received an updated design and certain important advantages.
First, the ABYX buttons are colored the same as on the controller from the Microsoft console. Considering that IPEGA has given its new product PC support, this will be a very important feature. The second advantage is that it supports Android and iOS, in addition to PC. That is, you buy a gamepad and can play on any modern smartphone and computer. For those users who have two smartphones on different OSes, this is generally the ultimate solution.
The Chinese decided not to stop there and finish off the potential buyer with a built-in battery for 12 hours of battery life, a smartphone holder (folds right in the center of the case) and a Bluetooth module. You flip the holder, there is a wireless communication module in a special niche. Install it on your computer and play. Why the competitors didn’t think of this before is a question.
Peculiarities:
- price - 1790 rubles;
- PC, Android, iOS support;
- powered by built-in battery;
- Bluetooth module included;
- smartphone holder;
- correct painting of the keys.
May not like:
- not detected.
Installing emulators
I hasten to please you, installing the emulator is as easy and quick as installing Kodi itself, in addition, you don’t even need to download anything, everything is already built-in. Let's move on:
- Open settings.
- Click Add-ons and go to Install from Repository.
- Select "Game Addons"
then the “Emulators” section:
- Select the emulator you need and install it. Let's look at Sega as an example. You can install any other one.
By and large, we have everything ready. All that remains is to download games for the emulator, of which there are plenty on the Internet. To simplify everything as much as possible, I have collected an archive containing 100,500 games for Sega and Dandy. You can download it from this link from Google:
Mocute Mocute 053
The main advantage of this model is its absolutely ridiculous cost (900 rubles) with a complete list of necessary functions and good assembly. Yes, not everything is so smooth with the name of the brand (the name of the brand and the model range are the same), but it’s not so scary. There is support for PC, plus Android and iOS mobile platforms. This is already enough to call the gamepad an excellent solution, because it is suitable for any modern smartphone.
The case is quite comfortable, it is slightly wider than other representatives of the class, which is why you can position your fingers more comfortably and grab the controller. The sticks are located diagonally, but the cross has separate buttons. They are located close to each other, you can press two buttons at once without unnecessary movements. ABYX decided not to paint the keys, but the bumpers and triggers are pressed with noticeable impact and along the entire length.
Of course, there were some drawbacks too. So, the controller runs on a built-in battery and the developer promises 40 hours of battery life. To put it bluntly, this is hard to believe. Plus, in the center of the case there is a decent amount of free space, there are even dark stripes there, as if the creators of the product wanted to put a holder for a smartphone there, and then changed their minds.
Peculiarities:
- price - 892 rubles.
- support Android, iOS, PC;
- powered by built-in battery;
- the most affordable option on the market.
May not like:
- ABYX was not painted.
Best gamepad for Xiaomi phone: Xiaomi Feat Black Knight X8pro
Premium gadget from a Chinese company
Pros: one of the best gamepads for phones on the mobile gaming market. Suitable for any smartphone based on Android and iOS, connects via Bluetooth 4.0. Can connect to PC via Wi-Fi. The device was developed with the participation of cybersportsmen, so it has excellent ergonomics and functionality. Xiaomi has introduced more than 20 improvements that allow you to achieve maximum results in games.
The uniqueness of the wireless gamepad for the phone is the presence of a 6-axis gyroscope. Together with adjustable sensitivity, this allows for faster aiming in shooters and battle royale games. The design of the controller is similar to the model from Xbox One and Series X/S: the left stick is moved up for more convenient movement of heroes or a car in games.
The mount allows you to place phones and small tablets with a diagonal of up to 7″. The case is made of high-quality plastic with a textured coating that prevents the setup from slipping out of your hands. The assembly is performed at the highest level: nothing crunches or plays. All buttons have passed factory tests and can withstand more than 1 million clicks.
The modern Nordic 32bit chip ensures a minimum connection delay of 6 milliseconds, and a capacious battery will keep the Bluetooth gamepad in working condition for up to 80 hours. Deep immersion in the gameplay is guaranteed by two electric motors built into the controller handles. Thanks to them, the user receives realistic feedback in racing and fighting games, and shooting in Call of Duty reaches a new level.
The wireless gamepad for Xiaomi phone is equipped with three additional buttons for customization in games, and the triggers are equipped with computer mouse microswitches with a short key stroke. The gadget provides high frame rates Flymapping (up to 120 fps).
Cons: the rear bumper is not analog, so it does not respond to the degree of pressure.
Mad Catz Micro CTRL R Mobile Gamepad
One of the most popular models on the market. The existence of ]Mad Catz[/anchor] is in question, but the controller itself is very decent. PC and Android are supported, the case is assembled at the highest level, nice plastic, attention to small design details that other manufacturers often forget about.
On the front panel there are two sticks located diagonally, there is a very convenient cross, and several buttons necessary for working with a smartphone or computer. The ABYX keys are not colored, but the developers decided to install additional multimedia functions for scrolling video or music here. If you plan to use the device with a TV set-top box, then this is a cool feature; in other situations, not so much.
It is worth mentioning separately about the mount for the smartphone holder - it is located on the top edge, and if you want to play on your smartphone, but do not have a stand or case, then this is an ideal option. If you don’t need the holder, then you can easily remove it and get a regular gamepad. There is a mode switch on the bottom edge that allows you to conveniently work with your computer.
Peculiarities:
- price - 3890 rubles;
- PC support, Android 3.0 and higher;
- powered by two AA batteries;
- cool gaming brand.
May not like:
- about a third more expensive than competitors.
Microsoft Xbox One Crete
- Connection types: USB, Bluetooth.
- Supported platforms: Windows, Xbox.
The Xbox One controller is a strong competitor to the Sony gamepad. With native support on Windows, it's the perfect choice for hassle-free PC gaming. The device is distinguished by high quality materials and a comfortable design, as well as the presence of strong vibration feedback, a headset jack and a textured surface of the case that improves grip.
Price: 3,990 rubles.
Buy
Satechi Universal
A clear advantage of this model is its exceptional compactness. Yes, the Satechi Universal is not as comfortable in the hands as previous models, but in terms of size it clearly wins. Plus, in addition to its size, the device is attractive with support for iOS, Android and PC. The ability to buy one gamepad for two mobile platforms and a desktop computer at once attracts even more advantages than competitors.
The body shape of the model is reminiscent of the Xbox One controller, only in a more compact design. The sticks are located diagonally, the D-pad is not divided into separate buttons, and the ABYX keys are colored as needed. The last point is generally very rare, as you may have noticed. There is a mode switch on the bottom edge of the case, additional buttons for working with the interface are located on the front panel.
Inside the case, on top, there is a retractable holder for a smartphone. You simply pull the frame up, insert your smartphone and play. This is a great solution, because the user does not need to carry an additional mount. The controller runs on a built-in battery, the average battery life is 6 hours.
Peculiarities:
- price - 2500 rubles;
- PC, Android, iOS support;
- powered by built-in battery;
- classic ABYX buttons;
- built-in phone holder.
May not like:
- The holder is limited to a smartphone diagonal of 5.8 inches.
What games can you play?
Modern models of Android TV set-top boxes provide users with the opportunity to play more than 150 different applications. At the moment they are free.
The developers assure that many programs for Android phones will also be adapted for the TV screen. To fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere on the screen, you can purchase a special device with a USB or Bluetooth connection.
