Razer Kishi Android Mobile Controller on sale

Mobile controllers allow you to play competitively while you’re away from home. The Razer Kishi offers a familiar Xbox control system to handle imprecise touch controls. Since its release in 2020, more Android mobile games and cloud services are compatible with its USB-C connection. Although Razer has since updated the controller, the original version offers incredible value at its reduced price.

The Razer Kishi works with Android phones measuring between 5.7 inches and 6.45 inches long. This includes many of the best smartphones, but buyers should check their phone’s dimensions before ordering. The Kishi uses a sliding backplate to fit more devices. On the right side of the controller is a USB-C port that connects to compatible phones. Once inserted, you should never worry about potentially disastrous falls. The build quality of the Kishi is impressive for a 163 gram accessory, allowing it to withstand abuse.

If a mobile controller takes up too much space, you might be hesitant to carry it on the go. When not in use, the Kishi folds up to become more compact. However, this does not impact its functionality, which mirrors popular Xbox controllers. Mobile gamers have access to XYAB face buttons that look and react like buttons on console controllers.

The Kishi sports two clickable analog sticks and a tactile D-Pad on its left side. The upper bumpers and triggers are accessible without straining your fingers. In addition to a familiar controller experience, the controller also has View, Menu, and Xbox buttons.

How does Kishi make mobile gaming competitive?

Mobile controllers take various approaches to pair with smartphones. Some options, like the Turtle Beach Atom, connect via Bluetooth. With USB-C, the Kishi physically connects to Android phones. This leads to the lower latency performance that competitive gamers demand. The Kishi also has no internal battery and requires no recharging. With a USB-C passthrough port, gamers replenish their phone’s power without interrupting gameplay.

Many mobile games rely on capacitive touchscreens, which has slowed the acceptance of controllers like the Kishi. Now popular titles like Asphalt 9: Legends become more realistic with precise inputs. Cloud gaming is another reason why mobile controllers are in demand. The Kishi includes services such as Xbox Game Pass, GeForce Now and Steam Link. These apps stream an endless number of games to PC and consoles that require a standard controller setup. Razer plans to discontinue its Android app soon, but it does provide a list of compatible titles.

The Kishi V1 leaves some iPhone gamers out of the fun. An alternative version was designed only for the Lighting ports of iPhone 11-13 models. Even though recent Apple phones have USB-C ports, users are reporting failure to connect to the Kishi currently on sale. On the other hand, the Kishi Ultra is compatible with modern Android and iPhone smartphones and tablets. Buyers pay extra for the Ultra but will benefit from drift-resistant Hall effect analog sticks and Sensa HD haptic feedback.

The Kishi successfully shrinks the size of full-size devices like the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro. However, there are other affordable candidates with advantages. The GameSir G8 Plus widely supports phones using Bluetooth. Additionally, it is a highly customizable controller, encouraging owners to change its button layout.