These are the best controllers for Xbox Cloud Gaming (xCloud) on iOS

Best
controllers for Xbox Cloud Gaming (xCloud) on iOS
iMore
2021

Best overall: Backbone One for iOS

You really cannot beat the Backbone One when it comes to convenience and iPhone compatibility. It was created specifically for iOS devices, after all, and doesn’t even work with Android. The best part is that it holds your iPhone in place at the center with a controller on either side, making it look very similar to a Nintendo Switch. That way, you can always see the buttons and screen at a glance while easily holding your phone in your hands. There’s a lightning dongle inside the controller, and you can connect a charger to an outside port for passthrough charging while you play.

When you first connect the Backbone to your phone, a notification will pop up asking you to download the Backbone app. This software isn’t needed to use the controller, but it creates an interface that allows you to easily jump between your various games. In many ways, it operates like the home screen on a console and really enhances the experience. The app also lets you adjust settings, voice chat options, and connect with other Backbone users.

There are really only two downsides to be aware of. The most glaring being that this is a very expensive device, though I consider it well worth it if you play xCloud regularly. Secondly, due to the nature of how it connects to your iPhone, it will be a bit wobbly. This is pretty standard for phone controllers of this kind, but something that might bother you nonetheless.

The Razer Kishi is actually the controller I myself use. All I have to do is slip my iPhone into the center, and then the dongle and controller sides keep it in place. I really love the layout and the feel of the buttons in my hands. There are removable rubber inserts on either side, which I swap out to fit my specific device. It’s compatible with many iPhones, but in my limited experience, I have noticed that it fits some phones better than others.

There is also a compatible Razer app, but it’s not that great. You’ll be able to interact with Apple Arcade and xCloud menus without problem, though. I love that this controller features passthrough charging, so I can continue to play and have it charge if the battery gets low. As with any mobile controller that attaches this way, it is a bit wobbly, but nothing out of the ordinary. When not in use, the controller reduces to a more compact shape and easily fits in bags or large pockets for transport. So, I can take it with me anywhere.

The Razer Kishi came out a few years ago and has become one of the most popular mobile controllers on the market. Because it’s no longer a new product, most stores have lowered the price a bit. Just make sure you purchase the iOS version and not the Android one, as this determines what kind of fit and inner dongle you receive.

Considering that the same company makes the Xbox One controller, you can expect it to work really well with all xCloud games. Plus, Microsoft will be able to assist with both controller and game troubleshooting if necessary. The buttons press in smoothly, and it pairs easily with just about any gaming device. The back is textured, and there’s a good weight to the controller too. However, it does run using two AA batteries, so you’ll need to be ready to replace those when the time comes.

Many people think this is the best console controller ever made. In fact, many other controllers are believed to have gotten their design by copying this one. It’s often said that this is the best option for people with larger hands, so if that’s you, it might be worth going for. You’ll need to purchase a phone clip or iPhone stand to use it more conveniently. Otherwise, you’ll be staring down at the screen uncomfortably for hours.

One of the biggest perks to the Xbox One controller is that it comes in several gorgeous colors, so you can choose the look you like best. The Xbox Series X/S Controllers also work, but they are more costly and harder to get ahold of right now, so I do recommend the Xbox One controller first and foremost.

Microsoft has done a lot to make Xbox Game Pass available to more players, including making the PS4 DualShock controller compatible with xCloud. There’s a heated debate over whether the Xbox controller or the PS4 controller feels better in your hands. But really, it just comes down to preference. Once you have it, all you have to do is connect your iPhone to the PS4 controller, and you should be good to go.

You should note that xCloud also works with the PS5 DualSense controller. However, none of the haptic feedback can be felt when using it. Since the PS4 controllers are less expensive and easier to get ahold of right now, I recommend them over the PS5 controller. Unless you already have one, of course.

You’ll want some kind of iPhone stand or phone clip to make it more convenient to use, though. Otherwise, you’ll have to prop your phone up or stare down at it from above, which isn’t the most comfortable angle for long stretches. It can last four to eight hours on one charge and gets recharged with the help of a micro USB cable.

Retro gaming is all the rage right now, and nothing beats playing classic titles like using a controller with a classic design. The Sn30 Pro+ has that light grey casing with purple and black buttons, reminiscent of the SNES. However, it also features modern conveniences like analog sticks, triggers, and hand grips.

The buttons can be remapped to fit your preferences, and the Bluetooth makes it easily able to connect to your iPhone and thus to Xbox Game Pass (xCloud). It features a USB-C charging port and will last up to 20 hours before needing a recharge. Note that a mobile gaming clip is not included and will have to be purchased separately.

In our PowerA MOGA Mobile Gaming Clip review, we stated this is the phone clip to get for xCloud, and we meant it. It is officially licensed for use with the Xbox One Controller. This means it fits perfectly onto it and is easy to uninstall when you’re done. Plus, it’s compatible with a large range of iPhones.

There are plenty of other gaming clips out there, like the Otterbox Mobile Gaming Clip. Still, PowerA’s option is affordable and fits the Xbox One better than many others do. That means that it will hold your iPhone more securely without wobbling about nearly as much. You’ll need to tilt and adjust the screen positioning for the best experience. However, since the controller is under the phone, it might obscure your view of the buttons from time to time.

If you have a different console in your house already, like the PS4 or Nintendo Switch, there’s likely a phone clip out there that you can use with those controllers. However, this one is specifically only designed for Xbox One.

Bottom line

If you want the very best controller for Xbox Cloud Gaming (xCloud) on iOS, you really ought to get the Backbone One. It was created specifically with iPhones in mind and has gotten the approval of thousands of mobile gamers. You can pack it up and take it with you anywhere or even charge your iPhone while it’s installed.

If you’re looking for more of a traditional gamepad, you can’t go wrong with the Xbox One controller. After all, Microsoft created it for Xbox and should have the best compatibility of any options available to you.

For those of you who already have an Xbox One console in your home, the PowerA MOGA Mobile Gaming Clip will let you attach your favorite Xbox One controller to your phone. It makes mobile gaming incredibly easy and is a lot cheaper on the wallet than other options out there.

Credits — The team that worked on this guide

Rebecca Spear Loves playing video games on every platform, including Xbox Game Pass (Cloud), and knows what makes for a good controller. You can follow her on Twitter @rrspear.