Mobile controllers came a long way last year, going from imperfect, too-small-for-comfort quick fixes to full-fledged gamepads that had been cut in half. Razer's Kishi Ultra controller was one of the products that led that trend, and its larger size makes it more comfortable than almost any other mobile controller.
However, in typical Razer fashion, it's also more expensive than any of its competitors, so I'm happy to recommend it while it's discounted. Right now, for example, it's been randomly discounted $20 off its introductory price of $149, until $129.99 at Amazon.
But there's another twist to the story, because one of the best mobile controllers I've been keeping a close eye on for a while now is the ELO Vagabond, which I initially covered when it hit Kickstarter. Now it's available for the world to get, but it's new. I haven't even tried it yet, but it seems like a natural rival for Razer's Kishi Ultra. As it happens, there's also a discount on Amazon, with a discount and $5 coupon deal that starts it from $120. up to $94.99.
As I say, I have yet to try the new Vagabond controller, but I think these two mobile controllers will have a lot to fight for given their similar designs and larger sizes.
Should you buy the Razer Kishi Ultra?
The Razer Kishi Ultra isn't actually my favorite mobile controller, even if smaller options like the Backbone aren't comfortable for me. My top pick is the GameSir G8 Galileo, because it's a larger size than the usual options without putting too much effort into a backpack. It also offers back buttons and is cheaper than the Kishi Ultra.
| Row 0 – Cell 0 | Razer Kishi Ultra | ELO Vagabond |
| Back buttons | No | Yeah |
| Additional bumpers | Yeah | No |
| Connection | USB-C | USB-C |
| Compatibility | Xbox, Razer PC Streaming, iPhone, Android, | Xbox, iPhone, Android, PS remote play |
| Hall Sensor Control Levers | No | Yeah |
So Razer's latest mobile controller has its work cut out for it, but this type of gamepad really comes down to personal preference. If you're not so concerned about back buttons and just want the largest, most comfortable mobile controller out there, Razer is the one to go for. You get some extra buttons on the shoulders which can still be just as useful as the back buttons.
But that's where the ELO Vagabond seems to match up with the Kishi, which is why I'm so excited to see how they compare. The Vagabond has a lot to offer, including back buttons, Hall sensors, and grips that look even longer than Razer's. Again, it's also more affordable, but I find it hard to recommend it until you've tried it.
Of course, all of these controllers use an offset stick design, and one of the only alternatives if you suffer from thumb cramps is the Scuf Nomad, but that option has a smaller size comparable to the Backbone.
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