Customer Ratings & Reviews

Last week, I had the opportunity to unbox the Backbone Pro, and I can say that it represents a significant advancement in mobile gaming technology. From the moment I held the device, I was impressed by its sleek and balanced design, which combines style and structural integrity exceptionally well. The setup process took approximately eight minutes. My initial gaming experience proved to be highly enjoyable. Whether I use my smartphone, tablet, or smart television, I can engage with my preferred games seamlessly and without inconvenience. Customization and Backbone App Customization is another highlight. Through the Backbone App, I created my controller profiles, remapped buttons on the fly, and toggled between devices in seconds. The Backbone App also unifies all my games, across mobile, console, and cloud, into one easy-to-access hub. I no longer have to shuffle through different launchers or apps; I open Backbone and see everything laid out neatly. Play Everywhere and Anywhere From the beginning, I was struck by the remarkable ease with which one can play anywhere and on any screen. Utilizing Bluetooth, I have been able to transition seamlessly between my Android smartphone, my Windows laptop, and my tablet without experiencing any disruptions. This efficient wireless connection eliminates the need for cumbersome cables, providing a stable and reliable link that consistently engages me in the gaming experience. For me, being able to play Xbox games remotely (or straight from the cloud) without needing the actual console is just incredible. I launched a Forza Horizon race from my phone while my Xbox was tucked away in another room, with no downloads and no fuss. Universal USB-C compatibility allows me to slide it onto my Samsung Galaxy 24 Ultra, thanks to the included adapters, ensuring a perfect fit every time. And if I want to go wired, it's just as straightforward: plug it into any USB-C port and play. Battery life has been phenomenal. I have gotten between 38 and 46 hours of continuous wireless gaming on a single charge. I lost count of how many sessions I squeezed in before needing to recharge; it’s true endurance gaming. The built-in audio support is the cherry on top: I can plug my headset into the 3.5 mm jack for crystal-clear wired audio, or pair Bluetooth headphones through the device I’m streaming from. In short, the Backbone Pro is a must-have for any gamer on the go. From its seamless cross-device functionality and pro-grade ergonomics to its insane battery life and audio capabilities, it delivers everything I need in one beautifully crafted package. This controller is for anyone serious about mobile and cloud gaming or who wants the freedom to play wherever they are. Trust me, this controller elevates the gaming experience.

Buy this if you have money to subscribe to a lot of apps so you can play your games. False advertisement. Every site you go through *especially if you use steam* wants you to subscribe before you can play the game. Or it will let play one game/campaign but after that the whole thing crashes out and the controller won’t anymore. I was so hyped about this and really saved up money but nah its not worth it.

Backbone is back with a new controller that aims to take everything that was great about the original and take it to the next level. Design-wise the pro controller follows the same design principle of the original for the most part. The most radical changes are the new thumbstick which are now full sized sticks similar to that of a regular controller and the handles. The thumbsticks feel good to use and you'll feel right at home if you're used to the xbox design. For those of you that love having additional buttons, the grips each feature an additional back button on the handles which have been thoughtfully designed to be easy to reach but not in the way of you're grabbing the handles properly. Moving onto the handles, there's been a bit of a bulk up in size compared to the original. This is important as the new bigger handles were necessary to house the batteries for the next big feature which is being able to use the controller as a standalone wireless Bluetooth controller. From the time I've spent using the controller, I haven't noticed any sort of lag or drop outs when using the controller and it's very easy to setup with compatible bleutooth devices. Moving onto the companion app, theres some new additions as well. The app now has support for a variety of emulators to use with more emulators being looked at on the way to be supported. This is big for the platform and gives some extra incentive for buying a backbone+ subscription. One small thing that I've noticed is that when having your phone connected it doesnt quite seem as stable on the left side which can be somewhat audible and visible as it moves slightly which I dont remember being noticeable on the original backbone. Also inside the case, there's a compartment with larger magnetic adapters which are intended to be used if you're not using a case on your phone but somewhat paradoxically the small adapter seems to give the room more space to breathe; with the larger adapter the camera bumb of the iphone 16 pro is uncomfortable pressed against the housing which made me feel that it may get scratched. Overall i think this is a great new addition to the backbone line up and is a worthly look if you don' already have a backbone or value the new features.

The Backbone Pro is hands down the best controller for mobile gaming. It feels so premium and well built. The grips are also so very comfortable and it actually feels like you’re holding a full sized controller in your hand. You get plenty of battery life if you choose to go Bluetooth mode (up to 40 hours) and it charges pretty quick also. It’s really nice to be able to play using just Bluetooth. Allows you to connect it to a PC, console or phone without having your phone docked. The thumb sticks feel pretty good. I was worried they’d be too short and cramp up my hands but these feel full sized and comfortable. All the other buttons and functions work well. The Backbone app is also very solid. Very well made and I haven’t had any issues with it. I’ve been gaming for a very long time and never thought I’d see the day where you could use a phone to play triple A games via the cloud or remote play. Absolutely wild. Overall, I’m very pleased with this controller. If you like to game on the go you should definitely consider this controller.

I recently updated from my original Backbone controller to the usb-c version due to upgrading my iPhone XR to the iPhone 16 pro max and that controller was a noticeable upgrade but after receiving the new pro version, OMG! I love how much more bulky it is. It actually feels like a regular console controller now. I also love the extra buttons on the handles because now I can configure the buttons for sprint and melee. The buttons seem a tad bigger and are more clicky which I love. Triggers and shoulder buttons feel great as well as they seem to be redesigned. The thumb sticks feel great as I never really had a problem with them on any of my controllers. They feel more contoured though for better use. The controller still has the different adapter sizes for compatible phones which is good works great with phone cases so there’s no need to remove your case if you want to play mobile games. I did t have a problem with the Bluetooth pairing. It was pretty easy to connect if you don’t want to use WiFi. I always prefer WiFi though because Bluetooth sometimes interferes with audio or other signal but I didn’t have any problems will using it at home. Worked great! The usb-c pass though is good for charging while game and I’m glad they kept it on this controller. There’s also the return of the 3.5 mm audio if you want to connect earbuds. I’d say this pro controller actually holds up to its name and is definitely worth the extra $60. The build feels even more solid and sturdy over the upgraded usb-c controller I just purchased and doesn’t feel flimsy what so ever. I would recommend this to any mobile gamer. Also, not only is this controller for use with mobile it also works for pc and tablets as well and works great! Backbone hit a home run this time with the Backbone Pro! Love this controller! Great job Backbone!

I've used quite a number of different phone-mounted game controllers over the years and, at least in my experience, This Backbone Pro is the best of the bunch. The first thing I noticed was the premium feel of this unit. Yes, it's plastic, but it doesn't feel plasticky. It has weight - not enough to make it feel uncomfortable, but enough to feel sturdy and substantial. I have large hands, so the controller is probably a bit too small for me, but it's still comfortable enough to play games without feeling that extended-use fatigue (at least not very quickly.) Keypresses are smooth. The joysticks have a much more fluid movement than what you would find on the cheaper alternatives. Playing my various games on this device are a pleasure. Yes, this is also the most expensive controller I've ever had, but smooth feel of it makes me (almost) forgive that. Software-wise, the Backbone app is pretty simple. The best selling point for me is the built-in emulator: I can load up my old NES ROMs and the system work exceptionally well. Note, it's not necessary to use the app for Xbox Cloud or Steam, but it does help to keep things in one place. There's also a bluetooth function where you can connect the controller to other devices that may not fit into the controller, itself. This, too, works as well as any other bluetooth controller, so nothing bad there. Overall, I'm really loving this controller! If I were to have one complaint, I would say that, for the price, it should have a simple case included with it.

The Backbone Pro USB-C is the perfect controller for mobile and cloud/streaming from your couch. This is the USB-C version so if you are hanging on to an older iPhone or other brand that doesn't use USB-C this will not work for you. I tested this with a google pixel 9a and an iPhone 16 pro max as well. Both phones felt great to use with the controller. Setup is fairly simple adjust the controller snap in your phone and off you go. There is a backbone app that has a subscription model that lets you cloud game for a cost but honestly I don't use it and don't feel like I'm missing out on anything. I setup steam streaming from my home gaming pc with my phone plug in the phone and I was off playing my favorite games on my phone. The buttons feel good and the grip feels the right size for my hands. I felt both the google and iPhone screens looked crisp after some resolution adjustments from the PC. Overall this phone does everything I was looking for in a couch gaming on my phone solution. The backbone app would give you some great cloud gaming options if aren't looking to stream from a console or existing PC but its completely optional, which I appreciate not being forced into anything. No regrets here, buy it.

Feels like a real controller. The ergonomics are great even without docking a phone. The build quality has been improved in every way yet it stays true to the original in many ways. I might be in the minority but I am glad the hall effect sticks are gone. These seem more accurate. Using a Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra with a case fits easily with room to spare. I also paired it to my Hisense TV via bluetooth. It works perfect even though I learned the games available are few and far between on Google TV OS. So far automatic control mapping has been perfect. The monthly subscription is optional. I personally am getting tired of everything having an optional subscription. Again most core features are not paywalled but why have one at all on a $170 controller. That's a high price already before a subscription. Those things aside I love it. The app is great and really helps you discover new games. If you have an xbox live subscription that would make this a much better value. They nailed everything you could and made an excellent product but lost a star by going a little too far with the financial greed on the backend.

Like most, I didn't wait to read any instructions, I just clicked in my phone and went to work. On installation, I was met with a registering screen, and a prompt to download the app, which I did and registered. The first thing I notice is the latency, there is none! Smooth movements, satisfying clicking from the buttons and the controller fits perfectly in my hands like any console I've ever played. The controller itself fits naturally into my hand, and I notice no discomfort and extended play. Even when closed without a device installed, The width is perfect! In comparison to having a gaming controller from a console. After the initial charm were off, I then went to search some documentation to see how everything worked, and I must say, I'm impressed by all the features they've integrated into this controller. They literally thought of everything to make it be your one-stop shop for mobile gaming. The app itself is very clean and fluid. It serves almost as a digital gaming Netflix. It has games that are available, games to purchase, and the option to add things to the app. The app itself is free, but if you want to get the best out of the app, you have to be a paid subscriber to several services or at least on a lower free tier. For instance, the native installed apps are Nvidia GeForce Now, Xbox, PS, and Steam, all of which push towards paid subscriptions for optimal experiences. If this is the boat shirt in, then the app and the backbone pro will be amazing. All of your major content in one app that is seamless to navigate. I immediately signed up for the pro trial for 30 days, so I couldn't tell you offhand what would be missing on the free version of the backbone app, but they do make that clear on their site. I will say for reference, I am an Xbox ultimate subscriber, and have a good steam library. Library. When playing cloud on Xbox or going to my steam library, I had no issues getting up and going. The downer of the app is that you can't add whatever you want. So far, all I've seen is apps that are tailored for the backbone app. Fortunately, this isn't a hindrance as the controller works flawlessly with or without the app. Exit the app, go to my on phone apps, and as long as controller is supported, click and good to go. A couple of features I tried that work pretty well. Touchsync(premium feature) gave some of the games that had no control to support a good frame of reference for use. When using the controller. The game anywhere function is a little misleading as it's pretty much just plug and play on any of your devices. The illusion they gave is that you can press a button and jump from screen to screen to screen, but that isn't the case. Regardless, it's nice to be able to have one controller that I can move around the house with and it instantly works. With no latency, great feedback, good app integration, and overall flexibility, this is the ultimate mobile gaming controller. I only wish it was wide enough to click onto my tablets. Alas, it is not, but I'm enjoying it nonetheless.

I don't do it as often as I'd like, but I love playing retro games. I grew up starting with an old Colecovision Pong & Target shooting console and moved my way up over the years. So connecting with my childhood by playing those old games is something I enjoy. Only thing is I think I've gotten too old and can't repeat a level hundreds of times to pass it (thank you Game Genie!). The Backbone Pro fits pretty comfortably in my hands and I had no fatigue after an hour of playing Rygar. The directional pad was responsive and the sticks performed remarkably well. I usually hate sticks but these are decent. Hall effect would have been better for long term us and more responsiveness. The position of the side buttons make them easy for me to actuate, but I haven't had a need to use them yet since most of the games I played so far didn't really need that many buttons. Fitting the Fold into the Backbone Pro was perfect. I used the attachments made for phones with cases but they include on for phones without cases. I was a bit nervous the phone would fall out but it was as steady as it could be. No wobble or slips. I love the pass-through charging. It allowed for fast charging while my phone was docked into the Backbone. So if you game a little too long, you can always top off the battery by using a charger or battery pack. I may resub to Game Pass or getting GeForce Now running and play a couple more modern games. But I'm still a MNK player, so I won't be playing very many PC games with a controller.

I received this controller from Best Buy to review. I previously owned the original Backbone PlayStation Edition and was already a fan of the design and layout, so I was curious how the Pro model would compare. From my first time holding it, I could already tell it was a welcome upgrade. The controller feels more natural in the hands, with better contours and a more comfortable grip for longer sessions. I also loved the new customizeable back buttons, adding flexibility without getting in the way. Setup was easy with the app, simply plug in and you’re ready to go. The backbone app still stands out as a great option for managing games across iOS as well as cloud services like Xbox and Steam. I use it daily as my hub to launch my favorite games. I've tried a variety of games including Call of Duty Mobile and the included Emulator app and all worked flawlessly. The controller is still compact and works great for traveling, easily fitting in my backpack. I only wish it had a case included with it to protect it on the go.

The Backbone Pro is hands down one of the most versatile and enjoyable mobile gaming controllers I’ve had my hands on in a while. This thing is like the Swiss Army knife of gaming controllers easily adaptable and switchable across multiple platforms. Whether I’m pairing it up with my iPhone, PC, laptop, or running through emulators, the Backbone Pro just gets the job done with zero drama. Starting with the design, for something this compact, it’s impressive how full-size it feels. It’s extremely lightweight, but not in that cheap plasticky way. This thing is solid. There’s almost no flex when you stretch it out to insert your phone, and it fits snugly, even with my phone case on. I had to remove the pre-installed adapter to get the right fit, but it was simple, and it comes with extra adapter sizes in the box, which is a great touch. The controls feel premium, Triggers are smooth with a nice spring to them.Buttons are crisp and snappy. The thumbsticks, almost full-on Xbox controller size, which is wild for a controller this portable. They’ve got a great feel and travel range, making precision inputs feel natural. Now, what really blew me away was how effortless the connectivity is. Using Bluetooth, I can bounce between my iPhone, laptop, and even my desktop without any hiccups. It plays beautifully with Apple Arcade, App Store games, and my personal favorite, emulators. That’s where the Backbone Pro really shines for me. I’ve been using it to play my entire retro library via the RetroArch app from the App Store, and it’s like carrying a retro console in my pocket. If you’re a fan of emulation, or even curious about getting started, this is THE controller you want. The responsiveness and comfort are next level for long sessions, and it feels like a real console experience. Plus, the Backbone app adds even more to the experience. Now, full disclosure, it’s a subscription service at $39/year, but you get a 7-day free trial to test it out. And I’m not usually the type to subscribe to controller specific apps, but this one has me reconsidering. It pulls everything together in one slick interface and even includes a beta emulator built-in, which is wild. If Backbone keeps building on this platform, it could easily become a central hub for mobile and emulator gamers. Battery life is another strong point. I’ve had to charge my phone way before I ever needed to juice up the controller. And it includes USB-C passthrough charging on the controller itself, which smartly prioritizes which device needs power. If I had to nitpick, I’ve got a few minor gripes… For the price point, I really wish the thumbsticks were Hall Effect or TMR sensors for better long-term durability and zero drift. The start/select buttons are oddly placed near the bottom, which just feels unnatural. Putting them up top would’ve made more ergonomic sense. The two rear programmable paddles are a nice bonus, but they’re tucked in too far to hit comfortably in the heat of gameplay. Still, none of those take away from how much I love this thing. Overall, The Backbone Pro is absolutely killing it when it comes to mobile gaming. From Apple Arcade to emulation and Bluetooth multi-platform play, this controller brings real console-grade quality in a travel friendly form. It’s got smart design, solid performance, and just enough bells and whistles to make you feel like you’re holding a premium piece of gear. If you’re deep into retro gaming, or just looking for a high-quality portable controller that can do it all, this is it. Whether you’re gaming on the couch, at the airport, or in your car during dance practice intermission, the Backbone Pro makes every session count. I highly recommend it.

With the backbone two, this has changed the game drastically. The buttons doesn’t even feel the same. It’s more comfortable than the first one from there. I can actually play more games than I can ever. Furthermore, I’ve seen the quality that it brings out on my phone is outstanding. I don’t even know what to say they out done themselves with this item

I had some user error that made me think it wasn’t working properly. My iphone would randomly disconnect during games but Android worked flawlessly. I ended up taking the case off of my iPhone and then it started working perfectly. There are two sets of adapters for the backbone, one for phones with cases and one for without. I realized my case was extra unusable. I took off the adapter entirely on the USB C side of the backbone and I could then use my iPhone with the case and everything worked perfectly. Fortnite, world of warships, and some Xbox cloud gaming worked excellent. I love that their app allows you to access Xbox cloud gaming on an iPhone and not through the browser (which really doesn’t work well). I don’t love it that it is an extra subscription to use a subscription but it also makes sense and isn’t that much to turn your phone into a pretty capable mobile gaming device. I don’t really game on my phone. It’s the perfect place to do it as sometimes you just have to wait so why not, but i’m terrible at using my touchscreen to control stuff, I know it is a learned skill as my kids are quite good at it, but even they are like phone screens are just to small to really see what is going on while trying to use the screen for control as well. but adding this controller to the phone suddenly it is like holding a switch in your hands and is just perfect. Obviously there are different games but i’m willing to actually look at the games now that the phone is usable for casual gaming. Iphone, it worked perfectly after I figured out the case issue. Android worked perfectly for several games. Roblox not going through the backbone app had some issues on Android but games like Fortnite worked flawlessly without the backbone subscription. I tried to put an ipad mini in the backbone but it was slightly too big, so if that is your plan don’t bother trying. The Samsung fold 6 ends up fitting a little weird with the screen jutting out of the bottom instead of the top like i had hoped. Overall, it is designed for a regular candybar phone and changes the game completely for using your phone for gaming in my opinion. I love that it has an Aux port as well as a USB C charging port which charges your phone and the Aux port enables you to use a wired headset if you so choose. I am in love with the simple design that just works on this, the only thing that could make it better is if it opened up half an inch more to allow me to use my ipad mini.

Excellent product - huge upgrade over the original Backbone Pro. Full size joysticks, quiet face buttons, super comfortable handles and now wireless Bluetooth letting you play games on any device. Plus, they added back buttons for even better play. Truly a pro product - super light, super precise and works with everything. Strong recommend.

The joy cons being full sized is a huge upgrade from before. Also, now they have adapter kits to fit phone's with cases, its perfect. Best mobile accessory out there.

The ergonomics are extremely off putting imo, i hit right stick whenever i press the a button, the back paddles are awkwardly placed. Buttons feel awfully cheap for something that is nearly $200?!?! The only reason i give this a 2 star is that i appreciate someone making this able to be used independently hopfully razer or (fingers crossed) asus will make a follow up to wildy unpopular tessen lol

I purchased this expecting I could still use PS remote play. So far I have not been able to get the pro to work AT ALL with remote play on the playstation. Am i missing something?!