Razer Kishi Ultra Mobile Controller Review – The Best Mobile Controller in 2024?

TouchArcade Rating: Razer's Kishi Ultra mobile controller, initially hinted at in an April update to the Razer Nexus app, has finally arrived. Boasting features like customizable analog stick deadzones, it's the priciest mobile controller I've encountered, yet justifies its cost through enhanced functionality and broad device compatibility. While I've long relied on the Razer Kishi and Backbone One, the Kishi Ultra, much like the Hori Split Pad Pro's impact on the Switch, has redefined my mobile gaming experience.

Razer Kishi Ultra – Package Contents

The $149.99 Razer Kishi Ultra package includes the controller, rubber cushions (labeled for iPhone, iPad Mini 6th gen, and Android), stickers, and an instruction manual. The absence of a carrying case or pouch at this price point is a notable omission. However, the controller's packaging and build quality maintain Razer's usual high standards. The rubber cushions, provided in pairs, cater to different devices, though unnecessary if using a case.

Razer Kishi Ultra Compatibility – iPhones, Cases, Android, and iPad Mini

Unlike many telescopic mobile controllers limited to iPhone and Android, the Razer Kishi Ultra extends support to tablets like the iPad Mini 6th generation. Its USB-C connectivity boasts impressive compatibility. My testing encompassed the iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 14 Plus, and wired connection to my iPad Pro. While I didn't test Android or Windows, experiments with my Steam Deck (wired) revealed detection as a generic Xbox gamepad, successfully playing titles like NBA 2K25 and Bakeru (demonstrating functional rumble).

Razer Kishi Ultra Buttons, D-pad, and Triggers

The Razer Kishi Ultra's performance exceeded expectations. Initial concerns about the d-pad proved unfounded; it performed flawlessly in games like Garou: Mark of the Wolves ACA NeoGeo, Hades, and Hitman Blood Money Reprisal. Shoulder buttons and triggers mirror the responsiveness of Razer's previous controllers. Analog sticks offer smooth, comfortable control, while the clicky face buttons, despite a longer travel distance than anticipated, remain satisfying.

Extended gameplay sessions (several hours playing Zenless Zone Zero while charging via passthrough) confirmed the comfort and responsiveness of the d-pad, buttons, and triggers. The textured grip, while not rubbery, provides excellent control and sustained comfort. While I generally disregard Chroma lighting on controllers, I would have appreciated dynamic lighting synchronization with on-screen gameplay, similar to the Razer Kitsune.

Razer Kishi Ultra – New Features

The Kishi Ultra's standout feature is its full-size form factor. Unlike its compact predecessors or the Backbone One, it provides a full-sized console-like feel. This might not appeal to those seeking a compact solution, but it's not intended to be one. The full-size design makes it the most comfortable mobile controller I've used.

Additional features include app-controlled Chroma customization, haptics (Android and Windows), and virtual controller mode (Android only). The virtual controller mode is beneficial for Android games lacking native controller support on iOS, such as Genshin Impact. Other features include a 3.5mm headphone jack, 15W passthrough charging, and L4/R4 shoulder buttons.

Razer Kishi Ultra iOS Limitations – Haptics and Virtual Controller Mode

Haptics and virtual controller mode are exclusive to Android (and Windows for haptics), absent from the iOS version. While I'm less concerned about virtual controller mode, the lack of haptics on iOS is a significant drawback, especially considering the superior haptic feedback found on PS5 and Switch.

Razer Kishi Ultra Price Point – Value Proposition

For many, a wireless PS5 or Xbox controller offers a superior and more affordable iOS gaming solution. However, for those seeking a telescopic, phone-attached controller, the Kishi Ultra's $150 price tag represents a premium offering compared to the $99.99 alternatives. The added comfort justifies the extra cost for some, but the iOS feature limitations diminish the overall value proposition compared to the full Android experience. Long-term joystick drift remains a potential concern.

Razer Kishi Ultra – 2024's Best Mobile Controller?

Compared to Razer's more compact controllers, the Kishi Ultra's full-size design offers a significant upgrade in comfort. Similar to the Hori Split Pad Pro, I find myself appreciating both full-size and compact options. The Kishi Ultra's comfort is unmatched, but its bulkier size impacts portability. It's primarily a home-use controller for me.

The lack of hall-effect analog sticks at this price point is disappointing, raising concerns about potential future drift.

Having reviewed Backbone One and Razer Kishi models, I'm eager to explore the GameSir lineup.

Razer Kishi Ultra 2 Wishlist

For a future iteration, hall-effect analog sticks are a must. Smoother edges around features like the passthrough charging port would enhance the design. While L4/R4 buttons are appreciated, bottom-mounted paddles would offer a more natural feel. L5/R5 paddles with remapping would be a welcome addition. Finally, a carrying case is essential for a controller at this price point.

Razer Kishi Ultra Review Summary

The Razer Kishi Ultra is ideal for users accustomed to full-sized controllers, offering superior comfort, a responsive d-pad, and satisfying face buttons. The iOS feature limitations are disappointing, but overall, it's a significant contribution to the mobile controller market. A carrying case would greatly enhance its practicality.

Razer Kishi Ultra review score: 4.5/5

Amazon Link: Razer Kishi Ultra

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