NVIDIA announced in January 2025 that it would bring GeForce Now to India. While it indicated at the time that the cloud gaming service would go live in the country sometime later in 2025, that didn't materialize, and after several delays, NVIDIA confirmed GeForce Now would become available in the country by the end of Q1 2026.

Thankfully, the wait is over. NVIDIA has confirmed that GeForce Now will go live in India starting later this week, April 16. The only caveat is that the service will be in beta, with those signed up on NVIDIA India's GeForce Now microsite getting access before anyone else. If you've registered anytime in the last year, you should get an email similar to what I just got:

Other than that, the service itself will be identical to what's available in other regions like the U.S. and U.K., with NVIDIA running its own servers in the country. While I didn't get pricing details at this time, I'll have more on this later in the week when the service officially goes live in the country.

To recount, GeForce Now is a cloud gaming service that lets you play your own games on just about any device. All you need to do is link your storefronts — whether that's Steam, Xbox, Epic Games, GOG, Ubisoft, and so on — and you can stream games on a web browser, with the heavy lifting done in the cloud. NVIDIA is bringing Blackwell-powered RTX 5080 servers to India, with 4K 120fps possible on the Ultimate tier. There's a free tier as well, and you have the Performance tier that serves as the middle ground.

The only unknown at this moment in time is the pricing, but with GeForce Now set to launch in India in just two days time, there won't be a long wait to find out just how much the cloud gaming service will cost in the country. As someone who's waited quite a long time to use GeForce Now in India, I'm excited that NVIDIA is finally launching it in the region.

This next entry goes out to all of those who need a good mobile gaming controller deal. Amazon's Big Spring Sale is offering 15% off the price of the GameSir G8 Bluetooth Controller, which is one of the best controllers we've tested for gaming on an Android phone.

This controller is like the Galileo G8, but you now get the upgrade of Bluetooth connectivity. We loved it upon its release for that and its ergonomic design with full-size triggers, long-lasting battery life, and its overall impressive value. The added discount definitely doesn't hurt either.

The GameSir G8 Plus also features customizable back paddles, hall effect thumb-sticks including an interchangeable design, and a wide range of compatibility across device types.

• See the full list of deals during Amazon's Big Spring Sale

✅Recommended if: you want a mobile gaming controller with reliable, realistic vibration, compatibility across a wide range of devices, and a customizable button map; battery life is super important to you when it comes to getting a mobile gaming controller; you'd prefer something with high-quality, fast-paced Bluetooth connectivity, rather than USB-C.

❌Skip this deal if: your phone or tablet has a massive camera island that might have clearance issues with the G8 Plus, and you'd rather find one more suitable; you need something with a headphone jack for immersive headphone or speaker gaming setups that require a wired connection; you'd rather upgrade to something on the premium level.

The GameSir G8 Plus offers a great gaming experience across a range of Android and iOS phones and tablets, as well as with other devices like the Nintendo Switch. It has industry-leading button and trigger reaction feel, with hall effect thumb-sticks, authentic, intuitive vibration, and customizable buttons and paddles that can be suited to your preferences.

Perhaps the biggest issues with this controller are its omission of a headphone jack, and the fact that it can have some clearance issues for phones with an especially large camera island. If these aren't going to be an issue for your needs, however, this small discount might just be the push you need to upgrade your mobile gaming setup.

GameSir clearly knows how to make a great gaming controller, and I regularly use the G8 Plus mobile controller with my Android devices. The brand also makes traditional controllers, and I've been using the G7 Pro for most of the last four months. The standard G7 Pro looks good in its own right, and coming in at $79, it is a decent choice overall if you need a controller that you can use with Xbox, Windows, and Android.

But what if you want something a little different? That's where the GameSir G7 Pro WUCHANG: Fallen Feathers Edition comes into the picture. As the name suggests, the controller is stylized after the action RPG, and it looks amazing. I have over a dozen controllers now, and there's no doubt that the G7 Pro Fallen Feathers is the best-looking of the lot. And retailing for $99, it doesn't cost that much more than the standard model either.

The blue and gold styling of the controller looks exquisite, and the body of the controller gets a Wuchang silhouette, with the sides getting a similar look as the Dragon Scale armor from the game. What I like is that the controller gets a textured design with resin, and the distinct finish makes a difference when using the controller. The rear has a blue finish, and you get a textured design that makes it easier to hold and use.

On that note, the G7 Pro Fallen Feathers is just as comfortable to use as any other Xbox controller, and it isn't heavy. The in-hand feel is much better than the four other Xbox controllers I own, and you get TMR sticks, hall effect triggers, and buttons with good tactility. In short, I have no doubt that this thing is built to last, and having used several GameSir controllers over the last three years, the one area I'm not worried about is durability.

You get four customizable buttons on the controller, and you can easily assign actions to these buttons via GameSir's software. There's also 3.5mm audio should you need to plug in IEMs.

The G7 Pro Fallen Feathers has standout connectivity; it gets a 2.4GHz dongle to pair with Xbox and Windows, and you get the standard Bluetooth 5.3 that I used to connect the controller to my Find X9 Pro, Pixel 10 Pro Fold, and Pixel 10 Pro XL. There are absolutely no issues with connectivity, and it did a great job with Windows as well as Android.

Oh, and if you aren't keen on the design, you can just switch out the faceplates — they're held together magnetically. I didn't bother doing so as I like the design quite a bit, but it's good to see this level of customizability built into the G7 Pro; you get the same on the standard model as well.

GameSir includes a lot of accessories in the box, including two D Pads, a 2.4GHz dongle, a three-meter USB-C to USB-A braided cable, and a charging station. The dongle can be slotted within the charging station, and this is a definite plus point as these dongles have a tendency to go missing.

There's a 1,200mAh battery, and battery life is quite decent — it's better than what you get with most Xbox controllers. It chargers via a standard 5W (5V/1A) protocol, and it takes just over two and a half hours to charge. There's no fast charging, and I don't mind that.

The G7 Pro Fallen Feathers does a great job while gaming; you get a good level of immersion thanks to the inclusion of four rumble motors, and the buttons, triggers, and joysticks are all of a high quality. While it is costlier than most Xbox and mobile controllers, you also get quite a lot of features, a design that's downright gorgeous, and decent battery life.

I never used to care about mobile gaming — the last thing I need is another reason to stare at my phone, after all — but I didn't realize that simply using the right Android controller could make the experience just as immersive and intense as any console or souped-up PC. 

That's exactly what I learned when I first started using the Razer Kishi Ultra, and lucky you, the Android gaming controller is now chilling with an outstanding 40% discount during Amazon's President's Day sale. 

• See the full list of deals from Amazon's President's Day sale

✅Recommended if: you want to play the best Android games with one of the best gaming controllers; you want a controller with directional haptics, programmable buttons, and an ergonomic design. 

❌Skip this deal if: you'd rather splurge on the newer Kishi V3 Pro; you use Apple products (the Kishi Ultra doesn't support haptics on iOS devices). 

The Razer Kishi Ultra is compatible with both Android and Apple devices (including all of the best gaming phones on the market), plus you get programmable buttons, hall effect triggers, and powerful haptics that feel just as immersive as any first-party console controller. 

The controller is easy to connect to your phone, and the full-size buttons are ergonomically-designed and comfortable enough for even the longest gaming sessions. The Ultra also comes with some stylish RGB lighting built directly into the device, while the companion app offers some additional controls and calibration settings.

All things said and done, the Razer Kishi Ultra is a great controller at a great price, but it's not the only option out there. The Kishi V3 Pro is Razer's newest model, and although it's going to cost you a bit more than the last-gen Ultra, it's also sitting with a 25% discount during Amazon's big sale. Both controllers are awesome, so take your pick!

I'm an absolute sucker when it comes to controllers, regardless of if they're for gaming on my desktop, phone, or even a tablet. Needless to say, as soon as I saw the Backbone Pro, I knew I had to have it, and now it's on sale for $35 off thanks to Black Friday.

That might seem like a steep price to ask for a controller, but the Backbone Pro is equipped with a bunch of features that you won't find anywhere else. And if this one isn't your cup of tea, then you might be interested in the Backbone One, which is also on sale for $20 off.

✅Recommended if: You want one of the most comfortable phone controllers that's ever been released, and one that has a bunch of extra features to enjoy.

❌Skip this deal if: You're on a budget, want a controller for larger tablets, or you're looking something that's a bit more portable and compact to toss in your bag when traveling.

What makes the Backbone Pro exciting for me is simply because of the ergonomics. I've always enjoyed the previous Backbone One controllers, but after gaming for just 15-20 minutes, my wrists feel like they're on fire. The Pro solved that problem, so now, the only time I experience discomfort is when I get lost playing Megabonk or Hades II for too long on my phone.

Ergonomics aren't the only reason why you should consider a Backbone controller, however. Namely, battery life is rated for up to 40 hours on a single charge, which is important if you're playing a game you just can't put down. Backbone also has a unique "TouchSync" feature built-in that makes its controllers compatible with practically all of the best Android games, even if they don't already have native controller support.

Backbone might not be as popular of a company as Razer when it comes to controllers, but it's actually been around for a few years. Since the release of the original Backbone One, we've seen a few iterations released for both iPhone and Android phones. In just 2025, Backbone has released the Backbone Pro, Backbone One Xbox Edition, an awesome Death Stranding 2 special edition controller, and the Backbone Pro Xbox Edition.

So while it might not have as many options to choose from compared to a company like GameSir, Backbone is definitely picking up a head of steam. And for good reason, as these are some of the most well-built controllers that I've ever used, to the point that I've never had any issues with any of my Backbone controllers over the years.

Black Friday 2025 - quick links

• Best Buy: up to 60% off Chromebooks, Android phones, and more
• Amazon: early discounts on headphones, smart home tech
• Walmart: early price drops on ASUS laptops, locked phones
• Samsung: new Galaxy XR headset, trade-in opportunities
• Verizon: free phones with new line, trade-in
• T-Mobile: free Galaxy phones, $300 back w/ 5G Home Internet
• Mint Mobile: 50% off Pixel 10, BOGO Unlimited plans
• AT&T: get a free Z Flip 7 with trade-in, new line
  
  More Black Friday coverage
• The best Google Pixel deals of Black Friday
• The best Samsung deals of Black Friday
• The best Motorola deals of Black Friday

There's no doubt that GameSir makes the best mobile gaming controllers; I use my G8 and G8 Plus controllers regularly, and they're brilliant. But if you don't need a full-size controller and are looking to play games on the go, the X5 Lite is a better choice. It is considerably smaller and lighter than the G8 Plus, and as it connects over USB-C, you don't need to worry about the battery running out.

The controller usually costs $35, which is pretty great in its own right. But now, you can get it for just $27 on Amazon, making it one of the most affordable mobile gaming controllers you can buy today.

✅Recommended if: You need a mobile gaming controller that connects over USB-C. The X5 Lite has good build quality, great buttons and triggers, anti-drift joysticks, and is generally a great bargain.

❌Skip this deal if: You need a Bluetooth gaming controller.

The X5 Lite comes in at just 135g, making it a great choice as a portable gaming controller. Connecting over USB-C means there's no problem pairing it with just about any Android phone, and I used it with my Pixel 10 Pro XL and Find X9 Pro without any issues. Where the controller has an edge over its costlier siblings is that it easily accommodates phones with huge camera islands, and this in itself made me want to use the X5 Lite more.

It also has an extending bridge that lets you slot in phones and tablets with ease, and the build quality is terrific — I didn't see any problems after three months of use. Interestingly, the controller gets USB-C passthrough charging as well, so you can easily charge your phone while using it. As it connects over USB-C, you can use it with newer iPhones and iPads in addition to Android tablets, and there isn't anything to configure as such.

Coming to the buttons, you get the standard ABXY cluster along with a D pad, hall effect joysticks, and shoulder-mounted triggers, and the buttons have good tactility. The joysticks are easily the best of any mobile controller in this category, and while it is on the smaller side, it isn't uncomfortable to hold in the least — GameSir did a good job in this regard.

Overall, the X5 Lite is a hassle-free mobile gaming controller that excels at the basics. It misses out on some of the extras you get with the X5s or the G8 models, but the fact that it costs just $27 makes it an unbeatable value.

What you need to know

• Following the Backbone One Xbox Edition earlier this year, Backbone is bringing the Xbox Edition to its Pro controller.
• The restyled mobile gaming controller adds a translucent green Xbox color and an Xbox button.
• It includes all the upgrades of the standard Backbone Pro, like Bluetooth LE connections and Hall Effect triggers.

Backbone makes some of our favorite Android gaming controllers, including the Backbone Pro. It's a telescopic controller that turns your phone into a gaming powerhouse and much more. Now, Backbone and Microsoft are teaming up once again, this time to release an Xbox Edition of the Backbone Pro. It's much like the Backbone One Xbox Edition released earlier this year, but with all the perks of the Pro controller.

As for looks, the Backbone Pro Xbox Edition tries to hit all the right notes for gaming nostalgia. The entire thing is translucent green and themed to match the original Halo Special Edition Xbox. It's uniquely Xbox in a way we haven't seen from the brand in recent years. By comparison, the black and white colorways of the Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S are uninspiring.

If you want to relive Xbox's golden age, you can do so with the Backbone Pro Xbox Edition. It sports full-size ALPS thumbsticks, laser-etched textured grips, and crucially, Hall Effect triggers. That's a major durability win, as it ensures the Backbone Pro will remain sharp and accurate even after years of gameplay. Beyond that, there are rear buttons and an Xbox button that jumps you into the Xbox app on Android.

The mobile game controller can do a lot more than just power your Android gameplay. It supports a feature called FlowState in the Backbone app that enables automatic device switching. A single button press can move your Backbone Pro Xbox Edition between your Android phone, PC, and TV.

Turn your Android phone into an Xbox

Xbox is more than just a console brand in 2025. Almost anything that can run Xbox Game Pass and utilize Xbox Cloud Gaming is now an Xbox, and that includes your Android phone. With the Backbone Pro Xbox Edition, your phone can look the part, too. It includes a free month of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate.

Aside from the clever color, Backbone Pro Xbox Edition has neat tech inside, like Bluetooth Low Energy support for long battery life. It can connect to devices over the hardwired USB-C port or wirelessly over Bluetooth. The former is for the lowest latency, and the latter is for the best compatibility.

Backbone Pro Xbox Edition is available now online, and it'll hit retail shelves in Best Buy stores nationwide starting Nov. 30, 2025. It costs $180, and is sold in the classic translucent green color. Those content with the basic Backbone experience can still grab the Backbone One Xbox Edition.

Mobile gaming continues to grow, even with the rise of dedicated Android gaming handhelds. But to get the best experience, you'll definitely want to grab a controller because touchscreen controls are just awful. As luck would have it, my favorite phone controller is down to $69.99 for Amazon's Big Prime Day Deals, a discount of almost 50%.

What makes the ROG Tessen more unique than pretty much every other phone controller is how portable it is. This is because unlike the rest, the ROG Tessen can actually collapse and fold in half, making it great for throwing in your bag. But that's not the only reason why you should snag the Tessen for yourself.

• For more on Prime Day 2025, check out our ultimate shopping guide

✅Recommended if: You want an ultra-portable controller to play your favorite games on your phone, from anywhere.

❌Skip this deal if: You want a controller that works with tablets, or you'd prefer one with Bluetooth instead of USB-C.

So yeah, the ROG Tessen folds in half, and that's pretty awesome on its own. But ASUS didn't stop there, as this controller even includes a few buttons that can easily be remapped to whatever you need.

It also connects with a variety of phones, including foldables, provided that the screen is 7-inches or less. ASUS might've been able to push things a little further, but seeing as the Tessen connects to your phone using USB-C, it just wasn't possible.

With that USB-C port, it not only ensures ultra-low latency for mobile gaming, but the ROG Tessen also allows for passthrough charging. The only "catch" is that you're limited to 18W charging speeds, which should be enough to keep your phone topped off, but temper expectations.

• Amazon Prime 30-day FREE trial: Most deals are Prime-exclusive
• See all the Prime Day deals: USA | UK | Canada | India
• Rival sales: Best Buy | Walmart | Dell | Newegg | HP | Target
• Phone deals: Best Buy | Walmart | Samsung | Amazon | Verizon | AT&T

Controllers are a dime a dozen, so when there's a good deal on an even better controller, we like to call focus to them. The latest of which is for the 8Bitdo Ultimate Mobile Gaming Controller, which is currently on sale for $0.50 shy of its lowest price ever. And the best part is that you don't have to wait for the next Prime Day if you want to get a controller and save money now.

It's easier than ever to find a good controller to fit your gaming needs, regardless of if you playing games on a desktop rig or from your phone. 8Bitdo is one of the more recognizable third-party brands out there, and after years of focusing on just Bluetooth controllers, it ventured into the mobile gaming space.

Annoyingly-long name aside, 8Bitdo took everything that it's learned over the years and implemented that into a controller for your phones. This includes everything from featuring Hall Effect joysticks and triggers to remappable buttons via the accompanying 8Bitdo app.

✅Recommended if: You're looking for an affordable phone controller from a brand that makes some of the best controllers out there.

❌Skip this deal if: You want a controller that offers passthrough charging or can accommodate small tablets like the Legion Tab Gen 3.

Telescopic controllers are available either with a USB-C port for connecting to your phone, or they rely on Bluetooth. The 8Bitdo Ultimate Mobile Gaming Controller falls in the latter category, so that might be something worth keeping in mind if you're sensitive to latency.

As for compatibility, this controller will basically work with any device that offers a Bluetooth connection. But when it comes to figuring out whether it will fit your phone, 8Bitdo thought of that too. The landing page states that the Ultimate Mobile Gaming Controller "fits mobile devices ranging from 100mm to 170mm in length,"

This means that it will even work with many of the best Android phones and foldable phones, without really needing to think twice. Sadly, the same can't be said when it comes to tablets, as even smaller gaming tablets like the Lenovo Legion Tab Gen 3 are still too large for 8Bitdo's mobile controller.

8Bitdo has long been at (or near) the top of of the gaming controller mountain, so we were obviously excited when a controller designed for phones was released. Plus, even if it weren't on sale for under $40, it's about half the price of many of its competitors. Thankfully, that doesn't really matter, as you can save $10 and get one of the best controllers for your Android phones.

Although much of my gaming has been relegated to my phone or retro handheld, I still try to squeeze in a few minutes of old-fashioned PC gaming when I can. However, I'm not really a fan of using a mouse and keyboard, as a good controller goes a long way. For the better part of the past year, there's been one controller on my desk, and it's currently $20 off for Prime Day.

Obviously, we're not strangers to GameSir, but until I got the Super Nova, I never really considered them for anything other than mobile gaming. At the time, I was using my Xbox Elite Series 2 Core, but the rubber grips had started to wear off, and something was going on with the left joystick.

But I've always been a sucker for Xbox controllers, so I figured I would end up just buying another one to replace it. Almost a year later, and that has not happened, with the Super Nova still being docked right on my desk.

• Prime Day is LIVE: See the full list of Amazon deals

✅Recommended if: you want an Xbox Elite controller experience at a fraction of the price, or just want a good controller that comes with a charging dock.

❌Skip this deal if: you prefer the ergonomics offered by a DualSense-style controller.

Ever since the Super Nova arrived, I haven't looked back, as it remains my go-to controller whenever playing AAA games on my PC. It probably won't take long to realize why I might like this, since it's basically the same design as Microsoft's controller, down to the rubberized grips.

The controls are all nice and responsive, and I don't even feel the need to install GameSir's Nexus app on my PC. Part of that is because I'm pretty basic and don't really use things like the paddle controls on the back. What I do use, however, are the trigger switches. This shortens the travel distance before the input is recognized, and is an absolute necessity when I'm playing Call of Duty.

And on top of all of that, I never have to worry about plugging in or replacing batteries, as the Super Nova comes with a charging dock. So when I'm done playing, I just put it back on the dock until the next gaming session rolls around.

Prime Day 2025 Android deals — quick links

• Prime Day is LIVE July 8-11: see the full list of Amazon deals
• Phones: major discounts on Samsung and Pixel
• Tablets: discounted Galaxy Tab and iPad
• Wearables: up to 45% off Garmin watches
• Most Prime Day deals are members-only: sign up for the 30-day trial

• For more on Prime Day 2025, check out our ultimate shopping guide

While I absolutely love being able to play games and emulate old systems on my phones and tablets, touch screen controls are the worst. So if you're like me and prefer physical controls, the GameSir G8 Plus is down to its lowest price ever for Prime Day.

Unlike the G8 Galileo, the G8 Plus connects to your devices via Bluetooth instead of USB-C. This is helpful as some phones and tablets don't have a centered USB-C port, but you also can get by without needing to remove the case.

Even at its retail price of $99, I'd wholeheartedly recommend the G8 Plus to anyone. But seeing as it's almost 40% off at $63.99, it's an absolute no-brainer.

• Shop all Amazon Prime Day deals

✅Recommended if: you want a controller for gaming on the go, regardless of whether it's for a phone, a foldable, or tablet.

❌Skip this deal if: you need something a bit more compact or that offers charging passthrough.

My favorite feature of the G8 Plus has nothing to do with the Hall Effect joysticks, built-in gyroscope, or excellent vibration motors. Instead, it's the fact that with a little bit of help, this controller can be expanded to fit much larger devices like the 14.6-inch Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra.

When trying to do so, it almost feels like you're going to break the backplate, but that's by design. It's meant to separate far enough for you to be able to move past the two plastic stoppers on the inside.

This is such a popular controller that there are solutions like 3D printed mods from RRtronics to keep everything in place without worrying about messing up the springs. And if you prefer having a USB-C connection instead of Bluetooth, the GameSir G8 Galileo is also on sale for Prime Day, so you can get practically the same experience, minus the Bluetooth.

Prime Day 2025 Android deals — quick links

• Prime Day is coming: see the full list of Amazon deals
• Phones: major discounts on Samsung and Pixel
• Tablets: discounted Galaxy Tab and iPad
• Wearables: up to %45 off Garmin watches
• Most Prime Day deals are members-only: sign up for the 30-day trial

For everything on Amazon Prime Day, head to our ultimate shopping guide.

Mobile gaming has come a long way since its inception, and nowadays Android controller deals pop up fairly often. One of these offers is an exceptional 50% off the Razer Kishi V2 at Amazon, bringing a normally-$100-controller down to just $50.

Like many Android controllers, the Kishi V2 allows users to program controls in, allowing them to control touchscreen-based games. It includes the nearly ubiquitous controls and buttons layout, featuring a d-pad and analog stick on the left, four buttons and a lower analog stick on the right, and two-level triggers. The included extendable bridge also makes the controller capable of fitting most Android phones, and it also includes a USB-C connection for low input latency gaming.

✅Recommended if: you're looking for a gaming controller for Android for under $50; you want a gaming controller that allows you to use your smartphone as a built-in screen like a true handheld console; you're looking for something with an ergonomic design.

❌Skip this deal if: you'd prefer to upgrade to the Kishi V2 Pro with improved haptics; portability is a major selling point for you, and you'd rather get a foldable unit like the Asus Rog Tessen.

At just $50 during the current Amazon sale, the Razer Kishi V2 is definitely a strong competitor around this price point. It features USB-C connection for low-latency gaming, as well as passthrough charging to your phone. The extendable bridge is compatible with just about any size of Android phone, and Razer says this controller is compatible with a gaming library of over 1,000 games. Users can also play games that were designed to be played on a touchscreen through the controller's mappable buttons.

The Kishi V2 is fairly slim and portable, though there are definitely other options out there that fit that particular bill even better.

I like using TKL keyboards when I'm at my desk, but I get a decent amount of writing done on the iPad Pro M4 and Xiaomi Pad 7 these days, and on those devices, I prefer smaller keyboards. I have a half-dozen 60% keyboards that I switch between, and in the last two months, I used MonsGeek's Fun60 Ultra with either tablet.

MonsGeek is one of several dozen Chinese brands that make mechanical keyboards these days, and its products have a good design and decent value. What I like about the Fun60 Ultra is that it uses TMR switches that are easily configurable, and the small size means it is great to use anywhere. This 60% keyboard is a good value as well, coming in at $89 on Amazon and $95 on the brand's site. That gets you the multi-mode variant with Bluetooth and 2.4GHz connectivity, and it's the one I'd recommend.

The Fun60 Ultra has a clean design, and it doesn't take up anywhere as much room as a full-sized keyboard. It has a 61-key configuration, and it pairs with Windows and macOS in addition to Android and iOS. The build quality is fantastic; it is one of the sturdiest sub-$100 keyboards I used, and the all-metal chassis gives it rugged durability.

The aluminum construction is a clear differentiator, and what I also like is that MonsGeek went to the effort of providing shine-through legends on the keys. That's not the case with most keyboards I use — which only provide diffused lighting — and while it's a small thing, it makes a noticeable difference in daily use.

The keys are made out of PBT plastic and are of a good quality, and they make the keyboard enjoyable to use. I tend to switch out the default keys and add my own (I like the LOTR Elvish set), but I didn't feel the need to do so in this instance, and that's mostly down to the shine-through legends.

Oh, and did I mention that the RGB lighting gets bright? You get a good range of visual effects out of the box, and you can easily customize the lighting based on your preferences. The Akko Glare switch that's used on the keyboard has a see-through housing that does a great job diffusing light.

Thanks to four rubber feet at the bottom, the keyboard stays planted on a desk, and while it is on the heavier side (it weighs 2.24lb), it is easily portable. After two months of rigorous use, I don't see any issues with the build quality whatsoever, and the Fun60 Ultra is clearly built to last.

There's a lot to like when it comes to connectivity as well; I used the keyboard predominantly via Bluetooth, but also tested it with USB-C to connect to my Windows machine. Bluetooth connectivity is solid, and it stayed paired to my iPad Pro M4 without any problems. The 4000mAh built-in battery lasts long, and I only had to charge the keyboard once a week.

Interestingly, the keyboard has 8000Hz polling when used with USB-C, and this gives it a little extra versatility if you want a smaller-sized gaming keyboard that's portable. On that note, the keyboard has an Arm Cortex-M4 platform and TMR switches that unlock the Fun60 Ultra's defining characteristic: adjustable actuation point.

Like hall effect switches, TMR switches use a magnetic design, and they deliver better accuracy and granular customization of the actuation point. The Akko Glare linear switch has a 3.4mm travel and minimum 25gf actuation with a max of 48gf, and you can set the actuation point to as low as 0.01mm, delivering instantaneous key presses.

This makes a sizeable difference, and having used several hall effect keyboards over the course of the last year, I'm glad to note that the Fun60 Ultra is among the best in the budget category. The switch doesn't have any wobble whatsoever, and the tray-mounted design makes it highly stable. In short, it has been a delight to use — both for gaming as well as day-to-day writing.

Another unique addition is the ability to add regular 5-pin switches; most hall effect boards only have the provision to slot in magnetic switches, but with the Fun60 Ultra, you can mix magnetic switches with regular mechanical ones, and that's great to see. You'll need to use MonsGeek's software to change the actuation point, and while it has its share of quirks, it gives you extensive customizability.

Ultimately, I didn't think I would use the Fun60 Ultra as much as I did; the rock-solid design combined with the TMR switch makes it a great budget keyboard, and the added customizability and vibrant RGB lighting allow it to stand out. The best part is the value; this is easily one of the best sub-$100 mechanical keyboards you can buy in 2025.

I like what GameSir is doing with its product portfolio; I used the G8 Galileo quite a bit in the last year, and immediately took to the Bluetooth-enabled G8 Plus when it debuted. With the Tarantula Pro, GameSir is delivering a versatile controller that can be used with your phone, Windows gaming machine, and handheld consoles like the Switch and Steam Deck.

The Tarantula Pro debuted at the end of last year for $69, and it is now available on Amazon for $58. I got the standard variant, and there's a model with an integrated charging stand that's available at GameSir's website. The controller is sold in a single color scheme, and you get a good value considering the number of features available.

Let's start with the design; the Tarantula Pro is similar to Sony's DualShock 4 controller thanks to a thinner body with elongated sides. It has a good in-hand feel, and while on the heavier side at 263g, it isn't uncomfortable to hold in the least. Weight distribution is ideal, and build quality is fantastic — there isn't anything to critique in this area.

The black color option is accentuated with a camo design at the front, and the back has a textured finish that makes it easy to hold and use the controller. The buttons are easily accessible, and have good tactility; the D-pad has good actuation, and the triggers are highly customizable — you can switch between a hair trigger mode and standard analog trigger, and there's a distinct feel to the hair trigger mode that comes in handy when playing shooters.

The joysticks use TMR sensors touted to be even more effective than hall effect modules, and they're a delight to use; there's no stick drift whatsoever, and after six months of use, I don't have any issues with any of the buttons or triggers. The only point to note is that the ABXY cluster uses membrane buttons, and they don't quite have the same tactility as the rest of the controller.

I like that there are two customizable buttons at the back, and in total, you get nine programmable buttons on this controller. Setting macros and assigning action keys to buttons is done via GameSir's mobile utility, and it is pretty straightforward to use. Interestingly, you can change the positioning of the ABXY cluster via a gear that sits to the side of the buttons.

There's RGB lighting as well, and like everything else, it is customizable. The controller charges via USB-C by default, but if you get the charging stand accessory, you can use the magnetic connector at the back and charge it that way. Battery life is decent thanks to a 1200mAh unit, and I didn't see any problems in this regard.

The Tarantula Pro is great for gaming, and while I prefer Xbox-styled controllers, I didn't have issues using it in marathon gaming sessions. The dual rumble motors deliver great feedback, and battery life still holds up after six months of use. The only limitation (as it were) is that the sheer number of combos and configuration tweaks available means you'll need to refer to the manual often to tweak the settings to your liking.

Outside of that, there isn't a whole lot to fault. If you like the design of Sony's controllers and want an aftermarket solution with better joysticks and triggers, you'll enjoy what the Tarantula Pro has to deliver.

Let's just get this out of the way — there are so many mobile controllers at your disposal that we probably don't actually need anymore. Especially if it's just a one-off or one with a different color compared to what was originally released.

That being said, an exception should be made for controllers and other peripherals that hit that nostalgia bone in the right way. Such is the case with the Backbone One: Xbox Edition, which came as a surprise announcement on a random Thursday in March.

The Backbone One was originally launched all the way back in 2020. Then, an updated iteration landed in 2023, implementing a few improvements while also arriving after Apple made the switch from Lightning to USB-C and introducing the PlayStation Edition.

Fast forward to 2025, and there's now an Xbox Edition, but it doesn't just slap lipstick on and call itself a by different name. Backbone worked with Microsoft to bring us a controller with the same Translucent Green color scheme as the original Halo Special Edition Xbox. And it looks simply incredible.

While the PlayStation Edition ditches the ABXY buttons to match up with the shapes on the DualSense controller, you won't find a dedicated PlayStation button. On this latest iteration, the "Capture" button has been (somewhat) surprisingly replaced by an Xbox logo. I say somewhat because I can only assume that this was probably one of Microsoft's requirements before signing off on such a collaboration.

It would've been awesome to have the original Xbox logo, but let's be honest; it's not like there's really much real estate to work with here. Plus, who cares?!? I seriously haven't been this excited about a controller since Nintendo started releasing modern versions of its classic controllers.

While my excitement levels are off the charts, Backbone isn't the only company working with Microsoft on similar collaborations. Earlier this year, 8Bitdo released the Retro 87 keyboard and Retro R8 Mouse, both of which are also equipped with the same Translucent Green shell from the original Xbox.

8Bitdo also added a bit of extra flair, as the directional keys are translucent and aim to match up with the ABXY colors from the Duke. Now, I want to see what other accessory makers can come up with, provided that devices or accessories are created with some guidance from Microsoft.

That last little bit is important, as it's not like the idea of attempting to invoke nostalgia is new. Far from it. However, most of the time, there's a difference when a company just tries to do something on its own versus when it's able to work with whatever company made the original. And I can't help but feel like that shows very well here.

Last year, Sony refreshed its lineup of devices to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the original PlayStation. Unfortunately, I missed out on getting my hands on any of those before the scalpers got there, but I keep thinking about how it was also a missed opportunity. Imagining a Backbone One styled like the 30th anniversary DualSense would be simply incredible, and you can bet the house that I would have tried to buy one.

Just like how I immediately ordered the new Xbox Edition as soon as I saw that it was announced.

One of the things I love most about the Meta Quest platform is its simplicity. It's a console, so the only thing I need to do to play games is put it on my head and start the game. So, it's not often that I try out crazy accessories that add layers of complexity to the experience.

But the Roto VR Explorer chair is the coolest gaming chair I've ever used and is especially helpful if you suffer from motion sickness when playing VR games. Despite being a veteran VR gamer for the last decade, "smooth turning" in VR games still makes me feel woozy and dizzy, but the Roto VR Explorer chair fixed all that.

Roto VR Explorer is a made-for-Meta Quest chair that rotates when you turn your head, recreating the feeling of inertia that takes place in your inner ears when you physically move around in real life. It works with all Meta Quest games but has special integrations in games like Dig VR. It's pricey at $800, no doubt, but I've never used a piece of immersive equipment that's this easy.

Digging with authenticity

Dig VR launches today, November 14, and brings about authentic heavy machinery simulation with a mission structure similar to Power Wash Simulator or Lawn Mowing Simulator, plus plenty of minigames to keep things fresh.

Part of the authenticity, at least in my case, is playing the game while sitting in the Roto VR Explorer chair, which wirelessly connects to Dig VR to rotate and vibrate along with the machinery I'm using. It creates one of those all-important moments of immersion that you can only get in VR.

There's just something ridiculously cool about being in a simulator that moves and shakes at a theme park or arcade, but something even better about it being in your own house. When I moved the digger and felt the chair realistically jerk and turn along with the machinery, I knew I had found something special.

Dig VR's controls allow you to use the controller in a more traditional video game way, using dual joysticks to move the rig around and control the boom arm for digging, or opt for the full simulator approach and grab the physical controls inside the cockpit.

The two levers in the middle move the individual treads underneath the digger, letting you move it around in any direction you want. The top section of the digger is mechanically separate from the bottom portion where the treads are, so you have separate joysticks that can be grabbed and tilted in any direction to spin the cockpit and move the boom arm.

I'm not usually super into simulation games, but the feeling of authenticity I got from controlling this big digger while sitting in the Roto chair convinced me that I ought to try them more often. I'd need to be in the mood to do so — this game is simulating a job that people usually get paid to do, after all — but carving out my own business in the quaint town of Diglington was surprisingly enjoyable, especially with the Roto chair.

Of course, if you don't have the chair or don't want to spend the money on it, Dig VR is still a lot of fun and has options to significantly simplify the control scheme to minimize frustration. My son preferred using the joysticks on the controllers, for instance, while I found that locking in-game controls to just wrist rotation made it easiest for me to control the diggers.

The game has over 70 different customization options for each digger, and you'll get new diggers and tool heads throughout your time in the career mode. If you're not feeling the scored mode, there's also a zen sandbox mode for each level that lets you dig to your heart's content.

It even has multiplayer, so you can dig in while chatting with friends. Sometimes, you just need a fun activity to get the good conversation flowing, and Dig VR is a strangely ideal way to do this.

I've never used a gaming chair like this one

The Roto VR Explorer chair, as you might imagine, given its price, isn't just made for Dig VR. Rather, it works with any Meta Quest game. Better yet, there's no configuration involved to get playing. Just attach the Pokeball-looking puck somewhere on your Quest — I found sliding it on the top strap to work best — and turn your head to turn the chair.

You don't even need to plug anything in since it's totally wireless and operates independently from your Quest. I had actually assumed a manual or some instruction was left out of the box because this felt overly simple! Even the puck is wirelessly charged when placed in the cradle in the base of the chair, ensuring it's both charged and paired with the chair automatically.

The puck can be connected to your headset via the 3.5mm audio jack to enable rumble, but I've found that I don't care much for haptic motors that use sound to create the effect. It's too reliant on a game's sound effects working perfectly with the speaker and you almost always have to turn music completely off which just kills the vibe for me.

That little puck will automatically pair with any Bluetooth earbuds or headphones, something that's not usually possible with VR since Bluetooth products have added latency. I used the crazy affordable CMF Buds Pro 2 to test because they have a built-in audio dial on the case.

While I didn't care for the sound-driven haptics very much, a game like Dig VR with its native integration — just hit "connect to Roto VR Explorer" in the game's menu — will more intelligently use this haptic motor without the extra unneeded vibration that comes from the sound-driven implementation.

The chair itself is expertly crafted and well-made, with strong metal parts and connectors that won't bend. Putting it together is a bit like assembling something from IKEA, although it'll take you less time if you're not an idiot like me, who apparently can't read directions.

A port on the swivel cylinder underneath the chair magnetically connects to the haptic motor, and there's even an ingenious USB-C port on it so you can charge your Quest while you play. This is situated on the back of the column and moves with the chair to ensure you don't get tangled in it.

The cushions on the chair and back are all quite firm, so they should hold up well over time. The material used to cover the pads is also easily cleanable if you sweat a lot while playing.

While all of this is very cool, the most important part of the chair is the fact that the physical movement completely fixed the dizziness I feel when using smooth turning in VR. While I've always used snap-turning in VR games to mitigate this issue, smooth turning is far more immersive especially when paired with natural head movements.

In fact, the Roto VR Explorer worked perfectly with every game I tried. Racing games with smooth turning, like EXO Cars, or even other simulators like Lawn Mowing Simulator, work incredibly well for different reasons.

EXO Cars is a fast-paced racing game that would usually make me feel a bit dizzy, but the subtle movement the chair makes when turning my head to anticipate turning the car mimics real inertia enough to make it feel comfortable. Lawn Mowing Simulator is much slower but still feels great in the chair for the same reason EXO Cars does.

But what about games that don't have you riding in vehicles? Those all work perfectly with the chair, too!

While I only made a video of me playing Batman Arkham Shadow, I also played several other games including Metro Awakening, Medieval Dynasty, and even Blade and Sorcery to test out the stability of the chair and its ability to quickly move around.

What I found was that this is significantly better than any old swivel chair for a number of reasons. First, the heavy steel design ensures the chair stays put even on carpet. There are also wheel locks to keep it in place for other surfaces. If you happen to tip the chair a little bit, an alarm will sound, so you know you need to calm down a bit. I only ever heard this alarm when sitting down in the chair, though.

Second, it moves where you look. This meant I stopped using the right stick to artificially turn and, instead, treated movement in the chair more like I was standing. The difference, of course, is that I wasn't using the lower half of my body at all. This is great for folks who need to remain seated for any physical reason or just want to have a more relaxing session.

Ironically, I found that I enjoyed playing Metro Awakening better while seated in this chair because it eliminated the feeling that I needed to stay physically crouched while sneaking around in the game. Sure, I could use the game's virtual crouch by clicking the thumbstick but where's the fun in that?

It might be expensive but I've been thoroughly impressed with the Roto VR Explorer chair. It's more than just a boring old swivel chair as it provides the necessary inertial movement to combat motion sickness. You could use your legs to move a swivel chair around but it doesn't register in your brain the same way and it's a lot more work. Might as well just stand if you're going to do this, in my opinion.

Overall, this chair is incredibly impressive and did exactly what it was designed to do: completely eliminate motion sickness in VR.

When I reviewed the G8 Galileo gaming controller earlier in the year, it was evident that GameSir was onto something special. The full-size controller just feels better to hold and use, and the hall effect thumbsticks and triggers are better than what's on console-grade controllers.

With the G8 Plus, GameSir is reusing the same design, but eschewing USB-C connectivity in favor of Bluetooth. In doing so, it is making the G8 Plus compatible with a significantly wider range of devices, including Android phones and tablets, iPhones, iPads, the Nintendo Switch, Windows, and just about anything that takes a Bluetooth controller.

That means you get the same great features as the G8 Galileo, but with the added convenience of Bluetooth. In short, if you're in need of a new mobile gaming controller, there really isn't anything better right now.

GameSir G8 Plus: Pricing and availability

GameSir unveiled the G8 Plus mobile gaming controller on July 29, and it is now on sale globally. The G8 Plus is available for just $79 on Amazon, and that's a bargain considering what you actually get. The regular G8 with USB-C connectivity also costs the same, and I'd argue that the Bluetooth model is much more versatile.

You can also pick up the controller from the brand's own website. Just like the standard edition, there isn't a carrying case bundled with the package — that's an additional $15 if you're buying the controller on Amazon.

GameSir G8 Plus: What I like

GameSir nailed the design of the G8 Galileo, and it isn't changing anything with the G8 Plus. The controller has a full-size design, and there's a textured finish at the back that makes it easy to hold and use. The size is easily one of the best things about the G8 Plus; having full-size triggers, action buttons, and thumbsticks is just much more convenient, and the contoured design is comfortable.

Another plus point is the customizability; the faceplates detach easily, and you can switch out the thumbsticks — two additional sizes are bundled in the package — and even the configuration of the X, Y, A, and B action buttons, ideal if you're pairing it with the Switch.

The action buttons and D-Pad have good tactility, but it's the triggers and thumbsticks that differentiate the G8 Plus. GameSir uses hall effect magnetic sensors, and that means you'll never see any stick drift; while I've only had the G8 Plus for a month, I used the G8 Galileo for the better part of a year now, and even after hundreds of hours of use, it has the same great feedback as day one.

The triggers have a great range of motion and excellent feedback, and the fact that you can change the size of the thumbsticks is an added bonus. There are two paddles at the back, and setting these up with in-game actions is relatively easy.

Coming in at 314g, the G8 Plus is 60g heavier than the G8 Galileo. The added weight is due to the 1000mAh internal battery, and thankfully, the heft is balanced on both sides (there's a 500mAh battery underneath each section). The added weight is noticeable, but it doesn't cause any fatigue even after extended gaming sessions.

While the G8 is available in a grey color scheme, the G8 Plus switches to a darker grey that looks a little better. You still get the same rubber bridge that ensures the controller doesn't damage your phone, and the left side has good enough extension that you can slot in tablets without a lot of hassle.

Cases aren't an issue either, and I was able to use my Pixel 8 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max with rather bulky cases attached. There's enough clearance available, and the phone is held snugly between the two halves. The matte texture of the G8 Plus doesn't attract smudges, and overall, there isn't anything to fault on the design side of things.

Getting started with the G8 Plus is about as straightforward as it gets; pairing over Bluetooth is seamless, and it maintained a rock-solid connection. The GameSir logo has an LED ring that changes color based on what device is connected to it; Android is yellow, iOS is blue, Switch is red, and so on. You can change modes by selecting the record button and one of the action buttons, and you can easily switch between devices.

In terms of day-to-day performance, there isn't a mobile gaming controller that is as good as the G8 Plus. The triggers and buttons have fantastic feedback, and I know I've said this a few times by now, but the fact that you get full-size buttons makes all the difference. I used mobile controllers that are aimed at portability, and they're not as much fun to use — particularly during marathon gaming sessions. That isn't a problem with the G8 Plus.

GameSir G8 Plus: What I don't like

As the G8 Plus retains the same design as the G8 Galileo, it shares the same drawbacks. If you have a phone with a large camera island, you can't slot it into the controller. I had issues with the Xiaomi 14 Ultra, Vivo X100 Ultra, Find X7 Ultra, and even the Magic 6 Pro. The only phones that didn't have clearance issues were the iPhone 15 Pro Max and Pixel 8 Pro, so I ended up using the G8 Plus with these devices most of the time.

However, there is a workaround; as there's no need to connect over USB-C, I was able to slot in the X100 Ultra in a way that the camera island sits flush with the rubber back of the controller (instead of slotting into the extended section), and while it isn't as secure a fit, it is usable.

Because the G8 Plus connects over Bluetooth, it misses out on two extras that I used extensively on the G8 Galileo: 3.5mm jack and passthrough charging. There is a USB-C port on the side of the controller, but that's to charge its internal battery.

GameSir G8 Plus: The competition

There's no shortage of mobile controllers, and the Backbone One continues to lead the pack. That said, if you want a controller with full-size buttons, I'd recommend the G8 Galileo; it eschews Bluetooth in favor of USB-C, but you get passthrough charging and the convenience of a 3.5mm jack. At $79, it costs the same as the G8 Plus.

Scuf's Nomad is a good choice if you want a smaller controller that has high-quality triggers and buttons. It isn't as comfortable to hold and use as the G8 Plus, but it's easier to carry on the road, and it has Bluetooth connectivity.

GameSir G8 Plus: Should you buy it?

You should buy this if:

• You want a mobile controller with Bluetooth
• You need full-size triggers and buttons
• You want excellent battery life
• You need hall effect thumbsticks

You shouldn't buy this if:

• You have a phone with sizeable cameras
• You need a controller with a 3.5mm jack and passthrough charging

GameSir didn't make any design modifications to the G8 Plus, and that's a good thing. The G8 Galileo is arguably the best Android game controller around, and a big part of its allure is the size; the ability to use full-size triggers, thumbsticks, action buttons, and D-Pad on a mobile gaming controller is wonderful, and it is the main reason why I like the G8 so much.

The G8 Plus follows in the same vein, and Bluetooth integration makes it easier to use. There's absolutely no lag or delay when using the controller, and the triggers are among the best you'll find in this segment. It is heavier than the standard G8, but the added heft isn't too noticeable, and battery life has been terrific.

To sum up, there isn't much to fault with the G8 Plus, and if you need a mobile gaming controller that connects over Bluetooth, it's my go-to recommendation.

If there's one complaint I have when it comes to being able to do this for a living, it's the constant neck and shoulder pain. Looking down at my phone, tablet, or laptop for years has done a number on me. While I have a home office with plenty of monitors, that doesn't really help me if I'm away from home or just want to sit in another room.

A few months ago, I became a dad for the first time, so needless to say, I haven't left the house much. However, I recently had to take a sporadic, last-minute trip out of town. While I was trying to figure out what to bring with me, I opened a drawer and saw the Xreal Air 2s staring at me. So I tossed the case in the bag, not really thinking that I would actually use them, but they would be there if I wanted to.

Being that this was a last-minute trip, I didn't really have the best seats in the house. I sat in the middle seat of the last row, so needless to say, there wasn't much room for spreading out. After a bit of turbulence, I grabbed my Steam Deck and the Xreal Air 2s. In no time, I was entrenched in Hades 2, and before I knew it, we were landing.

After grabbing some grub and getting to the hotel, I tried to settle in but realized I had left my trusty Chromecast behind. Some hotels have smart TVs so it just stays in the bag, but this one in particular didn't have any "smart amenities." I'm not much of a channel surfer these days, so I lamented in my disappointment and decided to sit down and get some work done.

One of the neat things about the Xreal Air 2s and other smart glasses is that they are essentially just "plug-and-play." This means you don't need to install anything if you plan on using them as a monitor. However, if you have a phone like the Galaxy Z Fold 5 or MacBook, Xreal's Nebula app can be installed to add even more versatility. That said, I didn't even bother, as I just needed to not be crouched over my laptop screen.

Instead, I just plugged the glasses into my MacBook and started working. All of the audio came through the built-in speakers on the glasses, so I didn't need to worry about my music being too loud to disturb those staying in adjacent rooms. A little while later, I closed up my laptop, grabbed my Steam Deck, and plugged in the Air 2s.

The one problem, if you want to use these kinds of smart glasses with many gaming handhelds, is that you'll eventually need to charge. Unless you have the Lenovo Legion Go, which sports two USB-C ports, you'll either need to stop using the glasses or rely on some type of adapter.

Thankfully, I thought about this when packing, so I made sure to toss the Xreal Hub into my tech pouch. This was only recently released, and it allows you to charge your device and use your glasses at the same time. It supports up to 45W charging speeds, but more importantly, you don't need to worry about video degradation, as the Hub supports 120Hz pass-through.

Another realization that I've come to is that I really could have left almost all of my tech gear at home. Instead, I could have just taken the Xreal Glasses, my Galaxy Z Fold 5, a Bluetooth controller, and a Bluetooth keyboard. Then, I'd be able to enjoy a larger screen, get work done with Samsung DeX, and still be able to play some games, all from a single device. I mean, that's kind of the dream, and it is something that I plan on trying the next time I take a trip.

There is one glaring trade-off that I continue to find when using different AR/XR glasses. I have yet to find a set that stays on the bridge of my nose without needing to constantly be pushed back up. It's really more of an annoyance than anything else, but I figured it was worth pointing out.

Along those same lines, I always feel like the glasses aren't close enough to my face. I don't mean in the sense that the virtual screens aren't large enough, but that there's just too much of a "gap" between the glasses and what I can see out of my peripherals. Obviously, this isn't a problem with my Quest 3, but that's much more bulk to bring onto a plane that I didn't want to deal with.

I have yet to try out the new Viture Pro Glasses, and Xreal's Air 2 Ultra glasses won't be shipping until sometime in July. I'm not convinced that either of those would solve my peripheral light bleed "problem." Maybe I'll just 3D print some blinders or see if the community has come up with any solutions.

In the meantime, this trip taught me that I need to add the Xreal Air 2s to my everyday carry backpack. And, that I need to get my hands on the Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses to see what else I can prune from my everyday carry.

Most of my gaming is done on my Windows rig or the PlayStation 5, and while I tend to play a few casual titles on my phone, they don't need a controller. I didn't bother with mobile controllers up to this point, but using the Steam Deck reinvigorated my interest in handhelds (I'm obsessed with Balatro), and I wanted to see what Android has to offer.

It didn't take long to realize that Android has a lot of amazing games, so I needed to get my hands on a mobile controller. I have a dozen PS5 and Xbox controllers, but I wanted something designed to be used with a phone, and my search led to GameSir, specifically the G8 Galileo.

The G8 Galileo is GameSir's latest mobile controller, and it has a lot of unique features. It has full-size triggers and buttons, and it is just as comfortable to use as the Scuf Reflex Pro, my preferred PS5 controller. It has an extensible design that can easily slot in a variety of phones, and the USB-C port pivots, making it incredibly convenient to attach a phone to the controller.

If you've tried out a mobile controller but weren't satisfied with the sizing or build quality, you should take a look at the G8 Galileo.

GameSir G8 Galileo: Pricing and availability

GameSir unveiled the G8 Galileo in November 2023, and the mobile controller costs just $79 on Amazon. You can also buy it for the same $79 retail price via GameSir's website, and while you don't get a carrying case with the package — unlike other GameSir products — you can buy a bundle by shelling out an additional $10.

GameSir G8 Galileo: Design and features

The G8 Galileo is larger than other mobile controllers, and this is a good thing. Using it against GameSir's X3 controller, the difference is immediately noticeable — the full-size D-pad, triggers, and buttons make it feel closer to using an Xbox controller, and that goes a long way while gaming.

The fit and finish is outstanding; the G8 Galileo feels much better in-hand than the X3, and the contoured design at the back with the textured finish makes it incredibly comfortable to hold and use. That said, it is on the heavier side at 251g, and when you add the weight of a phone, you're going to notice the heft, particularly during marathon gaming sessions.

The G8 Galileo is available in a grey color scheme, and it looks decent enough in its own right. The faceplate is attached magnetically to the controller, and is easily detachable. But seeing as how the brand doesn't sell faceplate designs (yet), you don't get much in the way of customization. What you do get is a choice of three thumbsticks — short, tall, and dome — and you can easily switch these out as needed.

Slotting in a phone is pretty straightforward; the G8 Galileo has an extensible design with the left side stretching outward, and while GameSir says the controller can accommodate phones with large camera modules, that isn't the case. Most 2024 phones had an issue with the fit; the Find X7 Ultra, Xiaomi 14 Ultra, Magic 6 Pro, Vivo X100 Pro, and even the OnePlus 12 jutted out as there just wasn't enough clearance for their camera housings.

Thankfully, the iPhone 15 Pro Max, Pixel 8 Pro, and the regular Xiaomi 14 slotted into the G8 Galileo without any issues, so I used the controller with these phones. The Zenfone 11 Ultra would have been an ideal choice, but as its USB-C port isn't centered, it just looked awkward when attached to the controller.

Cases aren't a problem, as long as they're not rugged; I use a case with my Pixel 8 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max, and there was enough clearance to fit both phones comfortably. My favorite feature is the pivoting USB-C port; it just allows you to slot in a phone with a minimum of hassle, and there's no worry of the port snagging on a phone when you take it out.

While there's clearly a lot to like on the design side of things, the G8 Galileo isn't geared for portability. The mobile controller is just too big, and unlike other GameSir controllers, you don't get a hard shell carrying case — that obviously hinders its usability outside the house.

GameSir G8 Galileo: Performance

The best thing about the G8 Galileo is that it is just like an Xbox controller in daily use, and that gives it a distinct edge. Most mobile controllers I used to this point had smaller buttons and triggers, and that gets annoying really fast. Thankfully, that just isn't an issue with the G8 Galileo, and it is just as comfortable as a regular controller.

The buttons have great tactility and feedback, and the triggers have a good range of motion. The textured back design makes holding and using the controller easier, and even though it gets heavy once you add a phone, it isn't too uncomfortable even with extended gaming sessions.

What I also like is that it has paddles at the back, and they're easily configurable; you don't need to do fiddle with the software. There's no drift issues with the hall effect thumbsticks, and even with extended use, they held up just fine — there are no problems in this area. If the bundled thumbsticks aren't to your liking, you get different-sized options in the package, and it's easy to switch them out.

There's a 3.5mm jack on the controller as well, and it allows you to easily plug in IEMs. Another useful addition is pass-through charging; you can charge your phone by plugging in the charger to the USB-C port located on the side of the G8 Galileo.

The G8 Galileo is terrific in daily use; it automatically works in titles that can be played with a controller, and there's no latency whatsoever — as you'd imagine. The biggest differentiator is the larger size, and it allows the controller to be comfortable even after extended gaming sessions. In fact, it's for this reason that I ended up playing a lot more than I thought I would via my phone.

If you prefer cloud gaming, the G8 Galileo integrates with GeForce Now and Amazon Luna. I tested it with Steam Link, and there were no problems.

GameSir G8 Galileo: The competition

The Backbone One is still one of the best mobile controllers around. It is on the smaller side and is easier to take on the road, but you miss out on full-size buttons, and there are no paddles on the back. And at $99, it isn't as affordable as the G8 Galileo.

I use Scuf's controllers extensively, and the brand just rolled out its first mobile controller, dubbed Nomad. It connects over Bluetooth 5.0 and is designed to be used with iPhones, and like the G8 Galileo, it has full-size triggers and thumbsticks. Coming in at $99, it is costlier, but if it's anything like the Reflex or Instinct controllers, it should be fabulous.

GameSir G8 Galileo: Should you buy it?

You should buy this if:

• You want a mobile controller with great build quality
• You need a controller that's extremely comfortable
• You need a plug-and-play device that doesn't need any tinkering
• You need hall effect thumbsticks

You shouldn't buy this if:

• You need a portable mobile controller
• You have a phone with an oversized camera island

As I said at the beginning, I haven't paid much attention to this category in the past, but GameSir's G8 Galileo delivers everything I need in a mobile controller. The size is just right; it is large enough to get a comfortable grip, and the buttons and thumbsticks are terrific.

Passthrough charging and the addition of a 3.5mm port make it just that little more versatile, and I like the pivoting USB-C connector — I paired the controller with a lot of phones, and I wasn't worried about the port damaging any device. The only quibble is that it doesn't work with phones that have sizeable cameras, and that's most high-end phones these days. That said, it wasn't an issue with the Pixel 8 Pro or the iPhone 15 Pro Max.

I didn't see any issues with the build quality either in the six months I used the G8 Galileo, and while it isn't as easily portable as GameSir's other products, it is one of the best mobile controllers around.

What you need to know

• Razer has announced the Kishi Ultra and an updated version of the Kishi V2.
• The Kishi Ultra features a USB-C port and can be expanded to fit devices up to the size of the iPad Mini.
• This new controller offers "Pro Grade Ergonomics" along with "Sensa HD Haptics" and can even be used to play games on your PC.
• Pricing starts at $149 for the Ultra and $99 for the updated Kishi V2, with both controllers available now.

If there's one thing that we know for sure, it's that people love to play games on their phones or tablets. There are already a plethora of great controllers out there, but the Razer Kishi Ultra might just top them all.

This new controller hopes to turn you into a pro with its ergonomic design and a long list of standout features. Getting the mundane stuff out of the way first, the Ultra connects to any of the best Android phones via the USB-C port on the right side. It's also equipped with pass-through charging and a 3.5mm headphone jack if you prefer the latency of wired earbuds over wireless earbuds.

There are a couple of ways that Razer hopes that the Ultra will stand out in an increasingly crowded market. The first of which is the expanded device support, as the Ultra can now be expanded to connect with the 8.3-inch iPad Mini. This is great news for fans of foldable phones, as you don't have to worry about the Ultra not working with the likes of the Galaxy Z Fold 5 or OnePlus Open.

With the USB-C connection, you have much more added versatility than you might have thought. Not only will it work with the latest Android phones, the iPhone 15 lineup, and the iPad Mini, but the Razer Ultra can also be used as your primary controller from your PC, accomplished by just plugging the USB-C cable into your computer.

That's not even the best part about the Ultra. Razer is bringing its Sensa HD Haptics to its top-of-the-line controller, something that is not often seen in this space. At launch, there are a few games and apps that can take advantage of the Ultra's native haptics. These include many of the best emulators for Android but also include Xbox Cloud Gaming, Fortnite, and more.

Even more games are capable of taking advantage of the Kishi Ultra's "audio-based haptics," and Razer is hoping to see the list grow as developers jump on board. Paired with the Razer Nexus app, you're able to adjust the sensitivity of audio haptics and enable "voice rejection," so a character interaction doesn't accidentally trigger the haptics.

Speaking of the Razer Nexus app, this aims to be your one-stop shop for everything when it comes to gaming on your phone. This includes acting as a game launcher, calibrating thumb stick dead zones, remapping buttons, and more. As the Kishi Ultra also comes with RGB, you'll use the Nexus app to change the colors and Chroma lighting effects.

With a controller as feature-rich as the Kishi Ultra, you'll need to get your wallet ready. The Kishi Ultra retails for $149 and is available worldwide starting today.