Razer Kishi Review (iPhone) - Best Game Controller for iOS?

Summary

This video provides a hands-on review of the Razer Kishi, a portable gaming controller for iOS devices with a lightning connector. The host demonstrates how to set it up with various iPhone models, highlights its compact design, and assesses its performance in games like Oceanhorn 2, Pac-Man, and Asphalt 9. The controller is praised for its responsive thumbsticks and low latency, but the right joystick and D-pad could be improved. It supports pass-through charging but not headphones. Despite the $99 price tag, it’s recommended for frequent mobile gamers.

Takeaways

• 🎮 The Razer Kishi is a portable gaming controller designed for iOS devices with a Lightning connector.
• 📱 The controller is compact and easy to carry, making it highly portable for on-the-go gaming.
• ⚙️ It features a flexible design that allows users to insert their phone by stretching the controller to fit, including the larger iPhone 11 Pro Max.
• 🧩 Extra spacers are included to accommodate different iPhone sizes, although the iPhone SE fits less snugly.
• 🔋 The controller does not have a built-in battery and draws power from the phone itself, with minimal impact on battery life.
• 🔌 The controller supports pass-through charging via a Lightning port, though it does not support wired headphones.
• 🎮 Joysticks provide better control than using the touchscreen, but the right joystick placement is slightly awkward for some users.
• 🎯 The buttons and triggers work well, though some users might find the d-pad and buttons a bit 'mushy'.
• 🚗 The controller performs well with games like Asphalt 9, with responsive controls and low latency due to its direct connection.
• 💰 Priced at $99, it is one of the best portable game controllers for smartphones, though the cost may not be justified for casual gamers.

Q & A

What is the Razer Kishi with a Lightning connector designed for?

The Razer Kishi with a Lightning connector is designed for iOS devices, allowing users to connect their iPhones to the controller for a better gaming experience.

How does the Razer Kishi differ from its USB-C version?

The Razer Kishi with a Lightning connector is designed for iOS devices, while the USB-C version is for Android phones. The Lightning version has a Lightning connector, and the USB-C version has an indicator light and a play button instead of the three lines button.

What is the size of the Razer Kishi when not in use?

The Razer Kishi is small and portable, fitting comfortably in the hand and easily thrown into a bag.

How does one set up the Razer Kishi for use?

To set up the Razer Kishi, you turn it over, press the tabs to open it, and then stretch the mechanism to place the phone inside, snapping it into place.

What iPhone models are confirmed to be compatible with the Razer Kishi?

The script does not specify which iPhone models are confirmed to be compatible, but it mentions that the iPhone SE (2020 version) works with it, and there are extra spacers included to accommodate different iPhone sizes.

Does the Razer Kishi have a built-in battery?

No, the Razer Kishi does not have a built-in battery; it gets its power from the phone itself.

What is the purpose of the Lightning port on the Razer Kishi?

The Lightning port on the Razer Kishi is used for pass-through charging, allowing the phone to be charged while the controller is attached.

Can you use wired headphones with the Razer Kishi while gaming?

No, the Lightning port on the Razer Kishi is only for charging. To use headphones, you would need to connect wirelessly via Bluetooth.

How does the Razer Kishi perform in terms of latency during gaming?

The Razer Kishi has very low latency due to its direct connection to the phone via the Lightning port, which is better than using a Bluetooth connection.

What are the user's thoughts on the placement of the right joystick on the Razer Kishi?

The user wishes the right joystick was placed higher, closer to the A button, as it feels too low and requires using the middle part of the thumb instead of the tip.

How does the Razer Kishi compare to other portable game controllers for smartphones?

The user considers the Razer Kishi their favorite among portable game controllers for smartphones due to its responsiveness and ease of use.