Gone are the days where you need a great PC or a console to get some gaming done, especially on the go. You don’t even need to try and snag a Nintendo Switch, as your smartphone features many of the most popular titles that you would want to play. Or in the case of Google Stadia, you can play some AAA titles in the cloud.
And while it’s great to be able to get some gaming sessions in from your smartphone, you’ll need some accessories for mobile games. We’ve rounded up some of our favorites that you should consider picking up to improve your mobile games.
Controllers
8BitDo SN30 Pro+
Regardless of whether you are playing some retro games or just want a comfortable controller, the SN30 Pro+ is a fantastic choice. This features USB-C charging, connects via Bluetooth, and you can use it with so much more than just your smartphone. 8BitDo has made it possible for the SN30 Pro+ to be used with your smartphone, Switch, Windows, or macOS devices, making it a jack-of-all-trades pick.
Google Stadia Controller
At launch, Stadia was all bark and no bite, but as time has passed, that has changed as there are a few AAA titles on the docket, including Destiny 2 and Red Dead Redemption 2. The best part is that you don’t even need to rely on your Chromecast anymore, as Stadia can be played on your smartphone from wherever you are. But just like with the likes of an Xbox or DualShock controller, you’ll need to pick up a phone mount for the best experience.
Razer Kishi
An annoying part about many of these controllers is that you’ll need an additional smartphone clip to get an all-in-one experience. That’s where the Razer Kishi comes in, as the two sides of the controller can be separated, then you just plug your phone and clasp the controllers shut. This provides latency-free gaming, something that just can’t be matched with a Bluetooth connection.
Xbox One or PlayStation DualShock 4 Controller
It doesn’t matter if you’re in one camp or the other, but either the Xbox One or DualShock 4 controller can be used for mobile games. Chances are you already have one of these around the house if you’re a gamer, and if you have the updated Xbox One controller, you can use Bluetooth. Just make sure you get a solid smartphone clip to match your controller.
Controller Clips
PowerA MOGA Mobile Gaming Clip
This controller clip has been around for a little while, and it’s not going away anytime soon. PowerA’s MOGA Gaming Clip was designed in partnership with Microsoft’s Xbox department. The clip is compatible with phones measuring in up to 3.12″ and folds away for quick and easy transport. Plus, it will give you plenty of different viewing angles depending on the phone you’re using.
OIVO PS4 Phone Mount Clip
DualShock 4 controller users should snag OIVO’s Phone Mount Clip. There’s a two-in-one-clamp to keep your phone secure, along with being able to adjust it as far back as you’ll need. This kit also includes a USB OTG cable to connect your phone to the controller, and there’s even an adjustable stand if you don’t want to use the clip itself.
8Bitdo Smartphone Clip
When it’s time to sit back and play some of your favorite retro games or side-scrollers, there’s really no better option than 8BitDo’s SN30 Pro+. This controller clip makes it so you can use your new controller with your smartphone of choice, without needing to rely on another way to prop your phone up.
Orzly Phone Mount Clip
Those are enjoying Google Stadia and want to play more on your phone and less on your Chromecast or Chromebook, then this clip from Orzly is your best bet. The clip snaps into place on your Stadia Controller, then props your phone in the perfect position to be able to game for a few hours. Or at least until you get so frustrated that you need to step away.
Headphones
Razer Hammerhead USB-C Headphones
Wireless headphones are really fantastic, but sometimes there are latency issues, and that’s just not good for mobile games. The Razer Hammerhead USB-C headphones are our favorite pick to get some gaming done, and there are a few reasons why. Razer includes Comply Foam Tips for a better fit, there are Active Noise Cancellation and even a built-in DAC for better audio quality.
Samsung Galaxy Buds+
There are a lot of truly-wireless headphones to pick from, but the Galaxy Buds+ have a great balance of functionality and solid sound quality. You’ll get up to 11 hours of listening time before needing to charge them back up, and there’s Ambient Aware onboard so that you can have a conversation with someone in the room but stay focused on the game. Plus, these work with just about every Android phone, along with iOS devices.
Sony WH-1000XM3
While we continue to wait for Sony’s next great headphones, the WH-1000XM3’s are still the best of the best. There’s Active Noise Cancellation, which is best of its class, voice assistant support, and up to 30-hours of battery life. Plus, these headphones are so comfortable that you’ll want to keep wearing them even when the game is over.
Treblab xFit
When you need some headphones that are solid, do the job, and don’t break the bank, then the TREBLAB xFit is perfect. Bluetooth 5.0 is onboard, along with IPX6 water resistance, and 30 hours of battery life. But the best part is that you can get a full recharge in under an hour, or you can use either earbud independently while the other one re-charges.
Mpow H17 Active Noise Cancelling Headphones
Our favorite budget-friendly over-ear headphones come from the folks at Mpow. These provide up to 45 hours of battery, active noise cancellation, and foldable earcups to go along with the included carrying pouch. The biggest benefit of the H17 is the same as the xFit, as a 10-minute charge will give you two hours of listening time.
Portable Chargers
Anker PowerCore Essential 20000mAh
Anker is the king of portable chargers, and the PowerCore Essential is our favorite for on-the-go charging. In addition to getting 20,000mAh of capacity, Anker includes a PowerPort III Nano One for 18W fast charging, along with a USB-C to USB-C cable. Plus, you’ll get the peace of mind having an 18-month warranty from Anker if anything happens to your charger.
RAVPower 15000mAh Power Bank
RAVPower has shifted its focus for its portable chargers to providing sleek and slim options to keep your devices powered. The RAVPower 15000mAh Power Bank offers a max output of 30W, a USB-C and USB-A port, and a convenient LED display to show you how much juice is left. And when the clock hits 0, you can get this back to 100 in less than four hours.
AUKEY 20000mAh Travel Charger
This portable charger from AUKEY sports a 20,000mAh capacity, along with Quick Charge 3.0 and the ability to charge your smartwatch or headphones with the “low-current mode”. If you’re someone who doesn’t just game on your smartphone but also has a Nintendo Switch, this charger will provide an extra 12 hours of gameplay.
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