Controllers that can be attached to smartphones have a variety of names – telescopic, mobile, strech, clamp style and maybe there are more. There are also cheap clip on attachments or even sort of grips with buttons such as discontinued Gamesir F7 Flaw. But the industry and consumers seem to have all decided that the telescopic type controllers are the way to go. With one exception.
What are telescopic controllers?
Telescopic controllers are game controllers that stretch horizontally to fit around a smartphone, turning it into a handheld console — much like a Nintendo Switch. The phone slots in the center, with controls on both sides. Most connect via USB-C or Lightning, offering low-latency input and zero pairing fuss.
Best features:
- Telescopic design: Expands to grip various phone sizes, often with rubberized or adjustable padding for stability.
- Direct connection: USB-C or Lightning for minimal latency — better for cloud or competitive games.
- Ergonomic feel: Mimics console controllers, making long sessions more comfortable.
- No lag: Unlike Bluetooth, there’s no noticeable input delay.
- Pass-through charging: Most models let you charge your phone while playing.
Full list of telescopic controllers (last update: April 2025)
Backbone and Razer Kishi are huge brands pouring lots of money into marketing, but these are really good controllers, just a bit overpriced as of 2025. Gamesir and EasySMX are now making just as good and better controllers at lower prices. What’s better with them? Hall effect sticks, lower latency, back buttons and features like gyroscope, rumble and app for customization.
Compatibility is sort of an issue with mobile stretchy controllers as some will work with Android via USB-C, some via Bluetooth, some with iPhones. Some will also work with Nintendo Switch and PC if you are in a need of an extra controller for a local session.
| Controller | Platforms | Price | Connection | Sticks | Buttons | D-Pad | Other features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GameSir G8 Galileo | Android, iPhone 15/16 | $79.99 | USB-C (Passthrough) | Hall Effect | Membrane | Membrane | |
| GameSir G8 Plus | Android, iOS, Switch, PC | $79.99 | Bluetooth | Hall Effect | Membrane | Membrane | Rumble, gyro, 2 back buttons |
| Razer Kishi V2 Pro | Android, iPhone 15/16 | $149.99 | USB-C | ALPS | Mechanical | Mechanical | |
| Backbone One (Gen 2) | Android (USB-C), iPhone 15 Series (USB-C) | $99.99 | USB-C | ALPS | Membrane | Membrane | |
| Backbone One (Lightning) | iOS (Lightning port iPhones) | $99.99 | Lightning | ALPS | Membrane | Membrane | |
| GameSir X2s Type-C | Android, iPhone 15/16 | $59.99 | USB-C | Hall Effect | Membrane | Membrane | |
| Nacon MG-X Pro | Android or iOS version | $99.99 | Bluetooth | ALPS | Membrane | Membrane | |
| GameSir X3 Type-C / Pro | Android (USB-C) | $99.99 | USB-C | Hall Effect | Mechanical | Mechanical | Includes cooling fan |
| GameSir X4 Aileron | Android, iPhone 15/16 | $99.99 | USB-C | Hall Effect | Mechanical | Mechanical | Rumble, gyro |
| EasySMX M05 | Android, iPhone 15/16 | $44.99 | USB-C | ALPS | Membrane | Membrane | |
| EasySMX M10 | Android, iOS, Switch | $59.99 | Bluetooth | Hall Effect | Mechanical | Mechanical | Rumble, 2 back buttons |
| EasySMX M15 | Android, iPhone 15/16 | $59.99 | USB-C | Hall Effect | Mechanical | Mechanical | Rumble, 2 back buttons |
| 8BitDo Ultimate Mobile | Android | $49.99 | Bluetooth | Hall Effect | Mechanical | Mechanical | 2 back paddles |
| GameSir X5 Lite | Android, Switch | $29.99 | USB-C | Hall Effect | ? | ? | |
| Turtle Beach Atom | Android (USB-C) / iOS | $89.99 | Wireless Link, Bluetooth to phone | Analog (Likely ALPS type) | Membrane | Membrane |
Most Popular Telescopic Controllers
1. Backbone One (Gen 2)
- Platform: iOS & Android (Lightning & USB-C versions)
- Connection: Wired only
- Highlights: Premium build, companion app (Backbone+), official Xbox & PlayStation versions
- Best for: Cloud gaming, remote play, casual users wanting polish
2. Razer Kishi V2 / V2 Pro
- Platform: iOS & Android
- Connection: Wired (V2), Pro version adds haptics & 3.5mm audio
- Highlights: Clicky buttons, great ergonomics, Razer Nexus app
- Best for: Serious mobile gamers, Game Pass or GeForce NOW fans
3. GameSir G8 Galileo
- Platform: Android (USB-C)
- Connection: Wired & Bluetooth
- Highlights: Hall Effect sticks, swappable thumbsticks, great for phone cases
- Best for: Power users and emulation fans
There’s also something very unique coming – the MCON.
I love testing and writing about new tech. I focus on keyboards and controllers. I'm also a gamer and an engineer. Check out my Twitter for keyboard and controller news and reviews.
