Based on materials from android-softwares.com
Most of the games for Android have been developed with touch screen control in mind. But, nevertheless, there are cases where the traditional joystick is much more useful. This is especially true for games that were ported to Android from the console, as well as for those where the use of the touch screen is simply impossible (for example, if these are VR games in which the smartphone is simply in your face )
There are a lot of controllers on the market today, you can choose any design and any size. When compiling a selection, price or form factor was not a decisive argument. But due to the fact that ultraportable controllers did not stand up to comparison, most of the devices here are approximately the same shape and size, as well as a design similar to the controller from the Xbox. Or at least a Playstation controller.
Now let's get to the point.
MadCatz GameSmart C.T.R.L.
Mad Catz C.T.R.L. works with both Android and PC. With devices on Android with which this controller was tested (Shield Tablet, Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge, Nexus 6, Nexus 6P, etc.), it worked without problems, but paired with a PC on Windows, there were problems, for example, the lower shifts were not assigned correctly, there were smaller difficulties.
Designed by C.T.R.L. gravitates towards the traditional arrangement of elements, as in the Xbox 360, which became the key to its popularity among controllers for PC and Android. There are two analog sticks, a D-pad, 4 main action buttons on the front (A, B, X, Y), Start, Back, a sync button, two triggers, and two smaller shifters. Perhaps one of the best extras is the two front multimedia buttons that act as play / pause, fast forward, rewind, and volume control. This is especially useful when using the Gear VR and for controlling the HDMI-connected Shield Tablet across the room.
C.T.R.L. there is another unique feature – three different modes that are activated by toggling the three-position slider. The far left is GameSmart mode, basic for use with Android. In the center is the mouse mode, which works on both PCs and devices with Android. It gives you a full-fledged mouse cursor that you control with the left analog stick. Finally, switching to the right allows you to use the controller in PC games.
In terms of batteries, this controller uses the AA type and is capable of providing approximately 40 hours of continuous play. Even if you do not need so much, in any case, in this part, you will not experience problems with the device.
For those looking for a game controller that you can insert your phone into, Mad Catz C.T.R.L. there is a screw fastening. When it is removed, a strange protrusion and a hole remain on top, and this is not very encouraging, however, there is nothing particularly terrible here either. The mount itself holds the phone well thanks to the sliding 'grip', and this is true for any device.
Overall, C.T.R.L. not only works great, but also feels good in the hands, it weighs enough for those who like to 'feel the thing in their hands', but does not seem too bulky. We can recommend it to all those who are interested not only in the feel of the gadget, but also in special additional functions such as working as a mouse, supporting a PC and working with media content.
Steel Series Stratus XL
If MadCatz impresses with its media features, good phone holder and 'feel of the thing', the Stratus XL is without a doubt the coolest design Bluetooth gamepad we've reviewed. It has a great look and a good color scheme – black with orange and gray accents, and it also feels great in the hands. Nice weight, but not excessive, and the device feels solid enough.
Like MadCatz C.T.R.L., this controller resembles that of the Xbox, but the button layout is more like a Playstation. The two joysticks are pushed down and in a row, with the D-pad at the top left. On the other side there are four main action buttons (A, B, X, Y), and in the center there are three unique buttons, on the end there are standard four shift keys.
SteelSeries Stratus XL is PC compatible and Android, if Android it works equally well with any game that supports controllers, including your favorite emulators.
As for the power supply, after 8-10 hours of use, there was no need to replace the AA batteries. In other words, the result will be no worse than any other controller that runs on AA batteries, such as the Xbox 360 and Xbox One.
Unfortunately, this Android controller is more tailored for tablet users and those who want to use it in tandem with a PC, since there is no phone holder here. You can of course get a phone case with a kickstand, but this will limit portability. However, if you want a controller that looks and feels great, you can't go wrong with the SteelSeries Stratus XL.
Moga Pro Power
Despite the fact that the gadget is already several years old, the Power Pro is still one of the best controllers, and not only in the Moga range, but in general on the market. Yes, it does feel a little cheaper than the previous two, but the rechargeable lithium-ion battery and integrated phone holder make this a great option for gamers looking for the ultimate portable solution.
The controller includes two analog sticks with click function, a D-Pad, four action buttons, Start and Select buttons, two triggers and two shifters. Once again, we see the influence of the Xbox 360 / One on the layout of the elements. The design is dominated by black with slight orange accents.
The rough plastic on the sides makes this Bluetooth controller easy to grip for Android, and it's heavy enough to feel good in your hands. Of course, by sight and touch it cannot be compared with the Stratus XL, but it cannot be said that it loses by a huge margin.
Battery life should be fine here, but if you run out of it, just plug the controller into the microUSB slot so you can charge the controller without having to replace the battery. Moga Pro Power also has the unique feature to charge your phone from the built-in battery, although this will drain it quickly.
One important point – don't mess with the MOGA app. Use the gadget like a regular game Bluetooth controller for Android, and don't bother with software, it's best. And if you need the gamepad to work with a PC, remember that Pro Power was not counted on for this and it is better to look for something else if this functionality is important to you.
Razer Serval
The Razer Serval is a Android game controller that also works with Windows and Mac computers.
Once again, we have a device with a design similar to the Xbox, with a traditional set of buttons, two analog sticks, two shifters and two triggers. You can also notice at the bottom of the Back and Home buttons for use with Android, as well as three buttons in the center that can be used to turn off the controller or for specific games (they do not work in all).
Feels like this controller loses to everyone else in the hands. The part where the battery is located protrudes noticeably, and because of this, the gadget is perceived a little uncomfortable in the hand. As for the plastic, it also gives a somewhat cheap feel. From the point of view of design, you cannot call it ugly, but the pattern looks clumsy.
Runtime is comparable to other controllers powered by AA batteries, no problem.
The Razer Serval is slightly more expensive than most of the comparison participants, while they look both better and more expensive. However, it is a good controller with goodies like responsiveness, great integration with Android back and home buttons and a handy phone holder. So if it did not become a priority choice when buying it, it would be great to receive it as a gift.
Sminiker
Probably, you are now thinking: what is it all about – Sminiker? Yes, yes, this is an unknown Chinese brand copying the Playstation … but do not rush to be indignant.
The purpose of this collection was not only to collect the best, but also to offer an affordable option for someone who wants an 'adult' controller, but does not worry about cheaper materials and other less significant disadvantages. And here Sminiker looks in its place. However, in its place could be any ten-dollar gamepad from AliExpress, which would cope with the main task – to demonstrate the functionality of such a device. Well, then you can look for options that are less budgetary and more interesting … or carry your hard-earned money to the next Chinese.
Surely, dear readers, you have your well-deserved favorites among game controllers. Share in the comments!