If you’ve ever thought “it’d sure be nice to have just one controller to use between my phone, tablet, and TV,” then the Backbone Pro might be made for you. Backbone’s newest gamepad has the same phone-hugging design as its 2020 predecessor, but comes with a handful of distinct features — the most notable being that it can be paired via Bluetooth to any number of devices, not just phones. The rechargeable controller just got its first temporary price cut, going from $169.99 to $149.99 at Amazon and Best Buy. Best Buy indicates this sale will expire at the end of the day.
The Pro features more robust grips and bigger analog sticks (they’re ALPS, not Hall effect, sadly) while retaining the original’s hallmark feature, which is that Android and iPhone models with a USB-C port can be inserted into the controller, from which you can launch into Backbone’s polished dashboard. It effectively turns your phone into a console, with the ability to snap/record clips, chat with friends through the platform, and livestream, if you wish. It also has a USB-C port for passthrough charging, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and two customizable rear paddles.
The Pro offers more versatility than the original (the Pro is a solid wireless Steam Deck controller), and can perform a cool party trick, if you have the right hardware and subscriptions. If you start an Xbox cloud game streaming session from your phone, you can resume it from a TV that supports the Xbox app, and easily switch the Pro to control it there instead via Backbone’s mobile app.
While few competitors attempt Backbone’s multipurpose pairing, some outshine the Pro when it comes to being able to fit more devices, namely iPads and other tablets. The GameSir G8 Plus is $79.99 and can fit an iPad mini or a Nintendo Switch. The $199.99 Razer Kishi V3 Pro XL can be widened to fit a 13-inch tablet in its maw, and features TMR thumbsticks and a six-month subscription to Apple Arcade.
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