Best products from r/AndroidGaming

There are really 2 classes of mobile controllers. You have the "pocketable" ones and you have the "full-sized" controllers.

Are you looking for something you can put in your pocket? Or is this going into a backpack or someplace where you'll have more room?

for the "pocketable" controllers, there aren't a ton of options. A few of the more popular ones:

• MOGA Pocket MOGA's first foray into controllers. No D-pad. Kind of cramped. Only 1 set of shoulder buttons. But it's only $18 right now (in the US at least).
  
• MOGA Hero Power Update version of the Pocket. Slightly larger and more comfortable. Has a d-pad. But still only 1 set of shoulder buttons.(fixed) Quite a bit more expensive at $45 USD.
  
• Ipega bluetooth controller d-pad, dual-analog sticks, 1 set of shoulder buttons. There are similar ones made by Nyko and some other companies. I think they're just re-brands of the same generic controller though. $22 USD
  
  I haven't used those, but from what I've read they work pretty well for shorter gaming sessions. An hour or more and your hand is going to feel pretty cramped though.
  
  for the full-sized controllers there are more options.
  
  
• PS3 controller with a gameKlip. I haven't used this myself but people are constantly praising it. Personally, I can't stand the analog stick placement on PS controllers, but if you like it then this is a good solution. However, you said that you're using a tablet, so the gameklip probably won't help you.
  
• XBOX 360 controller with an OTG cable. I use this one all the time. It works really well. Very comfortable, plenty of buttons. Although the d-pad sucks. Another downside is wires. You need the OTG cable to connect to either a wired XBOX controller, or to the xbox wireless receiver
  
• MOGA Pro / Pro Power I have the MOGA Pro, and I use it pretty frequently. I typically use the xbox controller at home, and the MOGA while on the road. It's about 3/4 the size of an xbox controller and therefore not quite as comfortable. It does work very well though. Haven't tried the Pro Power, but it's the newer version. Since they're the same price I'd pick the Pro Power over the older Pro.
  
• NYKO playpad I think this is really very similar to the IPEGA one in terms of build quality. However it has triggers as well as shoulder buttons, a d-pad, and extended grips. Plus it's cheap. Only $20 USD.
  
  One of the main benefits with the MOGA line of controllers is that they have the phone-holder clip built right in. But if you're using this for a tablet, then that doesn't really help you. Therefore I think I'd recommend that you get either an XBOX 360 controller or a PS3 controller. You simply can't beat the quality of those two. MOGA's coming close, but it's not there yet.
  
  
  |Controller Model|Full-Sized|D-Pad|Shoulder Triggers|Wireless|Phone-Holder|Price (USD)|
  |:--|:--|:--|:--|:--|:--|:--|
  |MOGA Pocket| | | | X | X | 18|
  |MOGA Hero Power | | X | X | X | X | 45|
  |MOGA Pro Power| X | X | X | X | X | 50|
  | Ipega bluetooth controller| | X | | X | X | 20|
  |NYKO Playpad | | X | | X | X | 15 |
  |NYKO Playpad Pro| X | X | X | X| | 20|
  | DualShock 3* | X | X | X | X | w/ gameKlip| 40|
  | Wired XBOX 360 Controller | X | X | X | | | 35|
  
  * Dualshock 3 controller (PS3 Controller) requires the Sixaxis app($2.50) and Root (if you want to use bluetooth instead of the OTG)
  \ Xbox 360 Controller requires USB OTG cable (~ $5 shipped)
  

I'm personally using this Beboncool controller, which does have a phone clip:

https://www.amazon.com/BEBONCOOL-Wireless-Bluetooth-Controller-Emulator/dp/B0171JGYF2/

It's certainly not the best controller in the world, but personally I'm happy with it overall. It holds a phone well, it's super cheap, it's compact, the battery last a long time and the controls work well enough. I mostly play RPGs or SRPGs so I don't play too many action-intensive games but I haven't noticed any input lag.

However, there is one problem at least for me: comfort. It's perfectly fine for short play sessions, but I wouldn't play with it for hours in a row. There's two main factors for this.

1. The controller is incredibly light, but the phone weight is not centered. I assume this issue affects most controllers with a top clip, but the controller lightness doesn't help. Basically, your phone is going to be heavier than the feather-light Beboncool, so physics dictate that it should tilt over. This means that you hold the light part in your hands, and the "heavy" part is hanging on top, trying to flip itself down. Kind of like holding an hammer: the weight is not centered around what you are holding.
   
   A phone is not heavy obviously, but having it off-centered like that for prolonged period becomes uncomfortable, and I THINK it's the main cause of discomfort. By comparison, I also own an Ipega 9023 for tablets (it kind of turns your tablet into a Switch): it's a much heftier controller and my tablet is heavier than my phone, yet even with the added weight it stays comfortable for longer. While I can't vouch for it in any way since I never tried it (and that it's not a pretty controller), I think that a central-held phone controller like the Ipega-9055 might be a good idea.
   
   
2. It's pretty flat and small. While it makes the controller very portable, it also means that it lacks the curves of a Playstation or XBox controller. It's obviously better than the old NES controller, but it doesn't fit your hands as well. I'm not sure how much of an issue it would be by itself (ie. without a phone in the clip), but it's not ideal.
   
   It's cheap, portable, reliable and responsive; however if you are planning on using it for hours at a time, I'd suggest you look elsewhere.

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I sincerely hope that you enjoy the game, share it with your friends and family and leave us a review :p.

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Heroes Evolved has partial controller support. It works best with a telescopic controller like the Fyldigi Wee so you can still reach the screen with your thumbs when needed. Also the Wee comes with access to a touch mapping app developed by the manufacturer that has preset mappings for games like Arena of Valor. Ymmv, I don't really play AoV on mobile but I do have hundreds of games of Heroes Evolved using a controller (some champions work better than others).

https://www.amazon.com/Bounabay-Wireless-Telescopic-Bluetooth-Controller/dp/B06XKSNCTM/

Linkme: Heroes Evolved

I actually just got that one in your post OP:
(https://www.amazon.com/dp/B077L8656T/)

I actually really like it. Haven't used it a lot yet, but it feels pretty good in my hands. Fits my Note 8 pretty well. Feels like my old PSP.

I've noticed a fairly large amount ot input-lag though...not sure if it's a controller issue or a general Bluetooth issue.

Firstly, thank you so much for the detailed response. I knew nothing about this stuff so this is insanely helpful! I just have two questions if that's okay:

You mentioned that the controllers will work with emulators on Android no problem which is good to hear since that's what I'm getting it for, but I'm wondering how exactly they work. The emulator programs I've used don't seem very advanced and they don't have a lot of options. Maybe if you can just tell me what you had to do to get your own controllers working that'd be great

Also this one that you showed me: https://www.amazon.com/Bounabay-Wireless-Telescopic-Bluetooth-Controller/dp/B06XKSNCTM/ looks nice and portable and exactly what I'm looking for, but what exactly is the USB stick in the picture for?

Thanks again for all the help!

It's not true. They're fully analog, but do have shitty sensitivity. It's very easy to test and confirm though with something like Mupen64Plus FZ with a bit of tweaking down the sensitivity in that emulator (one of the few that allow it).

The problem is that Android by default sets "generic" controllers (as specified by the generic.kl keylayout file with enormouse deadzones and sensitivity settings (4096 when it should realistically be somewhere between 512 and maybe 2048 at most).

I will say I've had better luck with the analogs on the BTC-938, a similar controller. Just be aware that one's got a better d-pad overall IMO, but the break-in period for it is rough. Thing is stiff as a board and barely recognizes diagonals out of the box. Once you wear it in though (took me a couple weeks, maybe 12-15 hours of gaming total) it's a great pad.

I use a controller (if you call it that) with triggers. I don't think it helps me play but it certainly helps me not get hand cramps. look into using claw, all the really good players use this setup, not triggers.


Mine's kind of like this https://www.amazon.com/COOBILE-Controller-Joysticks-4-5-6-5inch-Compatible/dp/B07HQT3GVM/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?keywords=pubg+mobile+controller&qid=1571022760&sprefix=pubg+&sr=8-3

It's super cheap thin plastic though.

I've been playing a lot more Android games now that I've upgraded to a Pixel 2 XL. I love this phone. I have very big hands (I'm 6'7"... generally most things are too small for me) and even when I customise the button layout for, say, My Boy! or My Old Boy! I still find my hands getting cramped after a while.

I have been looking at controllers that allow phones to clip on, and there's quite a few on Amazon Canada that look good. I am leaning towards the GameSir G3s with included bracket, GameSir T1s (slightly more expensive for some reason?) or the "Mad Giga". I also was considering the Bonusis STK7003 though it's more expensive and looks like it might be flimsier. Those are all generally within my budget -- $30-45ish.

When I used my Vita a lot, I had to buy a handgrip attachment for it, and even then I would still get hand cramps. It's very difficult to tell from the pictures which of these is the largest. As reference, I really like the size of the Steam Controller, which I've used a lot, and PS3 controllers are good for decent lengths of time as well (though I do eventually cramp up with those as well).

In any case, any recommendations or information about which of these controller types are good for large hands would be greatly appreciated! I could potentially just buy a controller-grip shaped case, but I think I'd prefer to actually have a full size controller.

If you're interested in a Playstation layout controller, I recently started using the 8BitDo SF30 Pro (or SN30 Pro) for emulation on the Android. It works PERFECTLY with Rules of Survival. I also opted for the phone clip which has come in SUPER handy.

Can I suggest my own project, John On Fire? Works fully offline, both free and paid versions.

​

By "the family" I figured you either have your own family, or you're traveling with family, in which case you might not have the means to purchase the full version. If that's the case just PM me and I'll send you a free unlock key (I hope I can help make your long road trip more bearable :) ).

It also has full controller support so its great for in the car, optimized for an Xbox One controller. I made this specifically for people who are on long plane rides with no internet, but I suppose it would work great for in the car too.

Free Version:

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.xksoftware.johnonfire

Full Version:

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.xksoftware.johnonfirefull


Amazon Store Link if you have a Fire Device:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07RCBQQT1/

Here's a forgotten favorite of mine: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/teamimpulse/impulse-game-controller-and-key-finder-pocket-acce

it's been replaced and outclassed by the 8bitdo zero which is cheaper, smaller, and has more buttons.


Here's another little guy that will always have a place in my heart https://www.amazon.com/SteelSeries-Wireless-Controller-Bluetooth-Samsung/dp/B009AOFNU4 it's the smallest controller I know of that is truly comfortable.

The fire tv and ouya versions of this game are playable sideloaded on practically all Android devices:
https://www.amazon.com/Ansimuz-Elliot-Quest/dp/B00R1SXPRO

You only need a gamepad or if you are root you can play it using touchscreen controls with apps like tincore or gamekeyboard+.

Elliot Quest is a pretty cool console game with 3 different endings and a lot of secret areas and bosses, great for Android tvs and boxes. Available on Steam too.

8Bitdo SN30 Pro Controller Windows, macOS, & Android - Nintendo Switch https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0748S1VDC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_Ex.8BbK2VZ6YS

This is the one I have. I did wear out the left joystick, because I played a lot of Zelda BOTW on it. It syncs up almost effortlessly to any device with Bluetooth. There is also an adapter thingy that can mount your phone on top of the controller. It is a pretty wonderful little device.

I'm using The G4 version for almost two years by now and never had any issues. It's easy to configure, worked with every controller supported app i've tested. smooth triggers, sits in hand nicely, .....and THE LIGHTS! Damn they are bright

(lights can be turned off of course)

​

https://www.amazon.com/GameSir-G4s-Bluetooth-Wireless-Controller/dp/B01HNXGKT6

I recently got some triggers that are pretty decent, Here's a link.

Check Amazon for something like this.

But make sure to look at what size phone they fit, some are very small.

Wow, it's on a helluva sale right now on Amazon. Good thing I spent every dime I could find on my daughter for Christmas or I might be forced to take advantage of the sale haha.

I'd love that if it fit other phones.

EDIT: Found this though it looks fairly cheap: https://www.amazon.com/Bounabay-Wireless-Telescopic-Bluetooth-Controller/dp/B06XKSNCTM/

EDIT 2: So I just got that controller, mini review:

It is very cheap, the joysticks, the d-pad, the buttons, are just mediocre. The biggest problem over-all is the right joystick is in an absolutely awful location, you cannot comfortably use the buttons without rubbing against it. The only positive is it is more comfortable to hold than the top-mount you often see, just as long as you don't use the buttons. Overall would not recommend.

https://www.amazon.com/dainslef-Controller-Smartphone-Microsoft-Steelseries/dp/B01MSX55FM

I only wish I could rotate my phone into the portrait orientation but aside from that I'd definitely recommend it

Sorry for the people who linked to the Google Play Store and posted things that aren't even on Amazon App Store. They didn't read your post, it seems. I would recommend Terraria for sure. Wayward Souls is a pretty solid choice too. I couldn't recommend Monument Valley, I've never played it.

Yeah I use the iPega PG-9023 which is big as can be, no where remotely pocketable, nor durable enough to be thrown in a bag. It basically makes my devices like a giant PSP, but I'm good with just playing at home or a long road trip where I don't have to worry about stuff.

I bought the NES30 Pro and I love it. To use it on your SNES Classic I believe you'll need this dongle.

There is also a controller that looks more like the SNES gamepad if that's what you're after.

Terraria is pretty great on mobile if you can get it.

This is ok, I didn't find sensitivity to be good for FPS:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06XKSNCTM/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Also trying this, hasn't yet arrived, will know if its a go by the 9th:
https://www.geekbuying.com/item/Handjoy-nPRO-Wireless-Bluetooth-Gamepad-Black-380661.html

Got a lot of hope in teh last one...

I was on a similar quest. I landed on the 8bitdo sf30 pro. It's fantastic. Easy setup and if you get the xtander clip, you can attach your phone to it. Check out my old thread for more of my feedback.

Fuck the PS3 controller and Gameklip, use this. It's really really great. Really great.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00MUG3JPU/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Looks like an update on this.

And I've had that one for a while now, and it's great.

Wow, wasn't aware that those existed, I'll definitely get those or some similar in the future, but I was thinking something a little more like https://www.amazon.com/COOBILE-Controller-Joysticks-4-5-6-5inch-Compatible/dp/B07HQT3GVM/ref=mp_s_a_1_13?adgrpid=56839764395&gclid=CjwKCAjwibzsBRAMEiwA1pHZri1L8yJUbzFYBTgAp0CLWPxxicfaHPVzBvyt347lo8gJSyJ4MDd10xoCK_kQAvD_BwE&hvadid=274730130154&hvdev=m&hvlocphy=9021714&hvnetw=g&hvpos=1t1&hvqmt=e&hvrand=3103615639918144489&hvtargid=kwd-513054632637&hydadcr=3685_9924384&keywords=android+gaming+controllers&qid=1569713966&sr=8-13

You might not be able to use prime on it anymore, but
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0783538GQ/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
is really good. I have it, and everything just worked right out of the box. For fortnite though, the dpad does not seem to work. Everything else the dpad works fine though.

I have one of these. It is pretty quiet and works quite nicely. Biggest drawback I can see for some people is the size. It is small.

Sony actually released a mount themselves, it's pretty good https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00N9OBTAE/

Wow, I was searching about this yesterday!

Here are my findings:

• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=luyDKZxf28I&feature=youtu.be
  
• http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2729819
  
• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CGMxOFypPFo
  
• http://www.amazon.com/Sony-GCM10-Control-Smartphones-4-8-Inch/dp/B00N9OBTAE/ref=pd_sim_107_7?ie=UTF8&dpID=41lcYrJpUtL&dpSrc=sims&preST=_AC_UL160_SR111%2C160_&refRID=1YGVF8GXHY2WXEZFBPWC
  
• http://nyko.com/products/smart-clip

The Flydigi Wee (also rebranded as Bounabay) is an awesome controller that I can't recommend enough and it's only roughly $5 above your budget. [Here's](Bounabay Wireless Telescopic Bluetooth Controller Gamepad for Android System,Black https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B06XKSNCTM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_onVCCbSF27VG3) a link to it on Amazon. It mentions that it comes with a flash drive for setup but I never needed it. I literally just held the Bluetooth button until it paired and used it straightaway.

Having said all that, there are two caveats. The first is that the telescoping function only extends so much and may not fit on an extremely long phone. I have a Moto Z2 Play and it just barely fits. The other caveat is that the screenshots show you can add on screen button and map them to the controls - I've never used that functionality because I haven't had to. The controller has just worked with all of the apps and emulators I've tried it with.

I recently bough a GameSir G3s. It seems to work pretty well so far, and I like that I can switch it to mouse mode for use with an Android box I have hooked up to the TV in addition to my phone.

I have tried it with my PC but only really to test out the pairing. It seemed to work fine there too.

http://smile.amazon.com/GameSir-G3s-Bluetooth-Wireless-Controller-Android-VR-PC-TV-PS3/dp/B019H5II8Y

I've had this one for about 4 months and it has been great: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B019H5II8Y/ref=pd_aw_sim_63_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=TDQJ6XJN909GR60P4ZDA

I hear about them a lot more than MOGA which are solid controllers too.

Xbox one s controller.

I've used them all. 8bitdo, Gamesir etc etc. They all pale in comparison to the build quality and versatility of the real thing. I combine it with a phone clip I bought on Amazon (https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/aw/d/B01MSX55FM/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1503518159&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=Xbox+Phone+clip&dpPl=1&dpID=51MnZCCgXQL&ref=plSrch)

Only issues you may have is that its not perfectly portable (but it's not exactly bulky either) and the BT connection isn't 100% with every phone. I've never had a problem using it with both Sony and Samsung handsets but I've heard of others having issues with other brands. If you have an Xbox owning friend with one they might let you test it first.

Checkout the gamesir G4s it holds my phone great and works with everything. Comes with a USB receiver and Bluetooth mode. Use it on my PC and my phone without issues

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01HNXGKT6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_8t-NybHM652FV

Take a look at 8bitdo's controllers, especially the SF30 Pro.

There's even a separate clip you can get for it.

I use mine with my Note 8 and it works great for everything I've thrown at it. It's also compatible with computers and the Switch.

Just ordered one of these, https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0748S3GXG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_t1_HSD4AbKMVTBVQ

Haven't used it my self yet, but heard alot of good about it. Can also be used with a Nintendo Switch and PC out of the box.

Looks like I can get this one in Canada and the reviews are solid:

ElementDigital Bluetooth Game Controller Wireless Telescopic Bluetooth Gamepad Joystick Game Handle Cell Phone Attachable BTC-938 Saitake STK-7003 Gamepad Controller 5-10 Inch (Just Android) https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0783538GQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_hTAACbXR1GCP5

Terria is also free!

I just got the same controller off Amazon and was debating returning it and picking up one of these instead. I just can't seem to get a comfortable grip. It feels like the sticks are too close to the base of my thumbs and I have to reach back.

BEBONCOOL Wireless Bluetooth Game Controller
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0171JGYF2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_2yhEybM86RN2E

I've had two MOGA controllers. The original was a nice form factor (similar to the beboncool) but had super shitty analog sticks and wasn't hid. The pro one I have also stopped working as an hid controller.

How about this one: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00MUG3JPU/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Same concept, only $30 bucks, better reviews, and seemingly also better build quality for the buttons.

(Note that most low star reviews are from ios users, where it apparently doesn't work well. This subreddit should be fine)

searched amazon for android controller

This was like 3rd or 4th down

https://www.amazon.com/BEBONCOOL-Wireless-Bluetooth-Controller-Emulator/dp/B0171JGYF2/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1526922313&sr=8-3&keywords=android+controller&dpID=513Q6eD0Q5L&preST=_SY300_QL70_&dpSrc=srch

Right here my good man!

Looks like you can get a new Amazon app thing from www.amazon.com/androidapp

If that isn't working, try: https://www.amazon.com/505-Games-Terraria/dp/B00G6ZTM3Y/

No idea if/when the Amazon version is getting 1.3

I just got this and like it a lot

Dainslef Foldable Mobile Phone Holder Smartphone Clamp Game Clip For Microsoft Xbox One xbox 1 Game Controller For Iphone Samsung Sony HTC LG Huawei https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MSX55FM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_UqwJAb6KJ740C

My 2nd gen Xbox One controller worked well with my S8 and Note 8 over Bluetooth.

I've seen a couple people mention here that a DS4 + this mount work just fine on the 6P. May want to give that a try.

If you want something portable, I use a Steelseries which is $25 off amazon http://smile.amazon.com/SteelSeries-Wireless-Controller-Bluetooth-Tablets/dp/B009AOFNU4/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1427576444&sr=8-1&keywords=steelseries+gamepad

This is what I've had forever, it's fine BEBONCOOL Android Wireless Game Controller for Android Phone/Tablet/Samsung Gear VR/Game Boy Emulator, Works with Bluetooth (Red) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0171JGYF2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_oN3HDbEYANVQH

Amazon just emailed me this suggestion: Sony GCM10 Game Control Mount. It appears to use a suction cup instead of a vice type clip so you can use portrait mode.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01HNXGKT6/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Is what I got. And it has worked perfectly so far! The holder holds my Galaxy S8+ no problem.

I use a Sony GCM10 PS4 for my ps4 controller. Dont know if it works with ps3 thoug. I live in sweden and dont know if it is availible elsewere.
https://www.amazon.com/Sony-GCM10-Control-Smartphones-4-8-Inch/dp/B00N9OBTAE

Maybe this?

Edited for formatting

Meanwhile, here's a telescopic BT controller for thirty bucks that will probably perform about the same.

Im looking at these for when I get my razer phone;
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0171JGYF2/ref=ox_sc_act_title_6?smid=ATD293HIUAW1A&psc=1


https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07GLBDC37/ref=ox_sc_act_title_5?smid=A1FGGUSLMR1JVY&psc=1

The gamesir g4s and t1s both feature USB dongles that you can plug into PC for wireless gaming. They are also Bluetooth for connecting to Android. G4s is Xbox controller layout, and t1s is closer to PS4 layout. They can also be hooked directly to Android or PC via USB cable if you do not want to use wireless.

G4s

T1s