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For now I'm looking at the Gamesir X2 wired type-C controller:
But maybe you know alternative controllers that are equally good or even better? Would be nice if they have a similar form factor.
Thanks!
If you're looking to save money, you can use an Xbox or PS controller if you have one laying around. I used one for OpenMW for a long time and it worked really well.
I don't have a recommendation beyond that, though.
+1 on this. Bluetooth technology and connection with xb1/PS5 controller has improved over the last 5 years. I play PC games on my phone when I want to lay down. The holder is like $15 on Amazon or at stores as well.
I use parsec for streaming games from my PC and that's free as well.
I've been emulating PS2 on my phone and playing Armored Core 3 with a PS4 controller via Bluetooth without any issues. It's rad as hell
+1 for the Xbox controller. I got a telescoping controller for Xmas last year. I used it a bunch but the ergonomics were all wrong and I started getting persistent pains in my left hand. Switched to an Xbox controller I already had and the pain went away almost immediately.
There's the cheap $2 holders, and there're the more expensive ones that can have the phone "float" over the controller, balancing the weight better. I've seen ones with a ball socket too, so you can pivot the phone to portrait, great for DS emulators.
8bitdo SN30+ with the phone attachment clip. Best third party controller for damn near everything, not just mobile. I use it for desktop and mobile, I take it with me when traveling, it rules.
That's funny because I do have an 8bitdo SN30 Pro lying around but from what I see 8bitdo's smartphone clip is likely going to press on my phone's volume buttons given how they are laid out on the Pixel 7a 😕
It's actually got a soft padding inside the clip and a hollow sort of "bridge" area specifically to avoid that. Sometimes the bottoms get phantom pushed when you're putting your phone in but once it's secure it doesn't actually put pressure on them if the buttons are up top. The bottom is flat so you want to avoid using it with them oriented down. A case helps too as it adds even more resistance to button presses. I used it on my pixel 6 and now on my 7pro and have no issues. Many many hours of dead cells in the books.
8bitdo also makes a small version of the SN30 that's "Xbox" branded specifically for mobile gaming and has the Xbox buttons and layout. That version has a clip with an even more pronounced hollow for buttons on both sides. I REALLY like that clip, it's much more convenient for travelling but I find my hand cramps when I use that smaller controller so i only take it for trips if I absolutely can't make room for the bigger controller.
+1 for the GameSir.
I've used the Razer Kishi (HAAAAATED it), the GameSir X2 USB-C, the Stadia controller, and an Xbox Series X controller. If you already have them lying around, a game controller + stand is the cheapest way, but I just find it annoying because you either have to have your phone hanging off the controller or sitting on a table in front of you. The GameSir was the best for me; it's got a rigid back, pass-through charging, and you can remap the controls in the app pretty easily. It also perfectly fits my Pixel 6a, and even sits level when you account for the camera bar.
I have the gamesir, and I like it a lot. My one complaint though is that the USB-C is just too long to be "right" when I don't have a case on my phone, but just too short to work with a case on my phone. I really wish there was a way to adjust the depth of the plug. :/
Other than that, great little device!
If you are going to get the Gamesir, I'd recommend the X2 Pro, it's the same you mentioned but improved, with more precise joysticks and analog triggers. That's the one I got and it is more uncomfortable to hold than I thought, other than that good so far.
There are other options for telescopic controllers, like Razer Kishi or Backbone, with their pros and cons. And there is an upcoming controller called Vagabond Elo that seems like it's going to be the best one, but their cringe marketing makes me not trust them.
Or you can use an Xbox or PS controller with a clip for your phone, which is obviously much more comfortable to hold. But some people say the weight distribution on some simpler clips can make your hands get tired after a while.