Review: Razer Kishi Mobile Game Controller/Gamepad for Android USB-C – Transforms mobile gaming with enhanced experience.

Dive into the transformative Razer Kishi mobile gaming controller offering low latency and cloud-based gaming... Read more

Mobile Gaming Revolution: An Introduction

When discussing the gaming world, the focus often lands on PC and console gaming. However, the landscape is changing, with mobile gaming taking a stride into the competitive space. This transition is not so surprising, given the advancements in mobile technology. From improved hardware and chipset to higher touch sensing and refresh rate panels, smartphones have become the perfect platforms for immersive and competitive gaming experiences.

Competitive Edge of Mobile Gaming

Mobile gaming has come a long way from being a casual pastime to becoming a valid alternative to PC and console gaming. What sets mobile gaming apart is its accessibility. The proliferation of smartphones means gaming is no longer confined to a specific location. With the right device, gamers can immerse themselves in their favourite games, whether they’re on the go or lounging at home.

Moreover, mobile games have evolved in terms of complexity and quality. They feature compelling narratives, next-level graphics, and intricate gameplay mechanics that could rival PC and console games. But it’s not just about the games themselves, it’s also about the potential for competitive mobile gaming.

Transformation of Mobile Games to Console Level

The rise in the popularity of smartphones has led many game developers to focus on crafting mobile versions of popular PC and console titles. However, a standard smartphone interface is not always optimal for competitive gaming. Herein lies the opportunity for innovative solutions that can transform the mobile gaming experience to console levels, making it more immersive and exhilarating.

One such solution is the use of external game controllers for smartphones, a concept that has received growing acceptance and popularity in recent years. These accessories help bridge the gap between mobile and console gaming, offering a more tactile and responsive gaming experience. They can dramatically influence how mobile games are played, adding an extra layer of realism to each session. Now let’s shift our focus to an exciting addition to this niche – The Razer Kishi.

Introduction To Razer Kishi: Universal Mobile Game Controller

• Razer Kishi is a universal mobile game controller
• Designed to support Android and iOS devices
• Offers ultra-low latency through direct physical connection

For gamers looking to elevate their on-the-go gaming experience, getting a mobile game controller can be a life-changing decision. Today, we’ll be taking a magnifying glass to the Razer Kishi – a universal mobile game controller that claims to transform your smartphone into a gaming console.

Initial Impressions

The first impression of the Razer Kishi is that it breaks the typical stereotype of complicated gaming gear. Its design and packaging are straightforward and simple, shedding the excess bulk commonly associated with gaming controllers.

But don’t let the minimalist exterior fool you. Despite the unassuming packaging, the Razer Kishi presents itself as a compact and mighty challenger in the realm of mobile gaming. It speaks of versatility – it’s designed to support both Android and iOS devices, taking into account the diversity of gamer needs and preferences.

Product Overview

What’s most intriguing about the Kishi is its lean toward being a plug-and-play device. Unlike some controllers that rely on Bluetooth connectivity, the Razer Kishi aims for ultra-low latency by harnessing direct physical connection. There’s something refreshing about its ease of access and immediate playability. Plus, the controller doesn’t need its own power source – a practical nuance that many gamers will appreciate.

Considering this initial overview, the Razer Kishi seems to dish out a lot of promises. Now all we have to do is to put it to the test, to find out if it delivers on these promises, or if it falls short on its potential.

Unboxing The Razer Kishi

• Razer Kishi unboxing is a straightforward process
• Packaging design prioritizes user convenience and safety
• Package includes essentials only, emphasizing functionality

I have to admit, unboxing the Razer Kishi was a fairly straightforward process. The simplicity of the packaging aligns with the user-friendly design of the device itself.

Packaging Details

The box, emblazoned with the eye-catching Razer logo, was simple yet classy, confidently suggesting the superior product inside. Put plainly, the packaging promises a top-tier product with its clean lines and minimalist approach.

Upon opening the box, one noticeable detail is the box’s dimensions. It seems the iOS box has a slightly elongated design to accommodate an additional padding for the smartphone. It’s pretty evident that Razer considered the delicate nature of expensive smartphones when designing this packaging.

Included Components

The device sits neatly in the box, cradled in protective foam. It also contains an instruction manual and, amusingly, a sticker from Razer. At first glance, you could easily question why there are no cables or additional parts. But, understanding that the Kishi is designed to integrate directly with your smartphone, eliminating the need for charging cables, it begins to make sense.

With the Razer Kishi, it seems you simply get the controller itself, no frills, no fuss. Simplicity is the game here, with focus being evidently put on functionality and ease-of-use.

You won’t find any superfluous items in this package. Every element serves a purpose and contributes to an overall sense of convenience and efficiency.

Takeaway:

The unboxing experience, much like the rest of this product, was designed for user convenience. It’s clear that Razer is selling a quality product and they want their consumers to know it. They’ve managed to achieve this without any unnecessary embellishments. The phrase “Less is more” truly comes to life with the Razer Kishi.

Key Features of The Razer Kishi

• Razer Kishi delivers near-instant responsiveness
• Available for both Android and iOS users
• Easy and convenient setup process

Now that we’ve discussed the device’s first impressions, it’s time to delve into the particulars of the Razer Kishi – the kudos and the gripes. Remember, my evaluation here comes from a standpoint of unbiased critique, based on my hands-on experience with the device.

Rapid Connectivity and Low Latency

The first thing that strikes you about Razer Kishi is its near-instant responsiveness . The device connects to your smartphone quickly, providing an ultra-low latency gaming experience. This feature is a significant attraction for gamers who swear by speed and detest lagging. However, do note that speed may vary slightly depending on your phone’s model and the game you’re playing.

Android and iOS Versions

Another fabulous aspect of the Razer Kishi is its versatility . The device caters to both Android and iOS users, which just broadens the horizon for gamers across different platforms. There is a minor variation in terms of packaging for these versions – the iOS box is slightly lengthier, accommodating padding for the smartphone. Rest assured, the user experience for both versions is equally top-notch. However, it’s always recommended to check compatibility with your smartphone model, to avoid any surprises later.

Easy and Effortless Setup Process

Now, let’s talk about the setup process . Here, the Razer Kishi scores major brownie points. The device comes in a compact, travel-friendly form and setting it up for the first gaming session is quite a breeze. The controller expands to fit your phone, irrespective of its size, thanks to the nifty ribbon system. The key is to slide in your phone correctly and voila, you’re all set!

However, watch out for the slightly flimsy feel . Though not a deal-breaker, it does make one wonder about its longevity. That being said, the ease of setup is definitely a delight for someone like me who prefers minimal fuss before diving into the gaming world.

My Experience With Device Setup

• Razer Kishi controller has straightforward setup process
• Offers rubberized grip to prevent phone scratches
• Compatible with different smartphone sizes and OS

The setup process of the Razer Kishi controller was, surprisingly, very straightforward. It was interesting to see how it came compressed in a small, very portable form factor. Initially, I was quite wary of the setup process, taking into consideration the possible complexities of working with such a small form factor device. But I’m glad to say that my doubts were misplaced.

Unpacking the Kishi Controller

As I unboxed the controller, the sheer compactness and the lightweight of the device were instantly noticeable, which was already in the plus column for me. The controller structure was well compressed, and all you had to do was pull two triggers to unleash the full form. It was a satisfying process. However, there was this awkward plasticky sound upon pulling triggers that slightly deterred the overall excitement. It would have been better if Razer had focused a little more on the noises the device makes.

Connecting the device

Connecting the controller to the phone was surprisingly simple. The process involved sliding in the side of the phone with the input first, firmly onto the controller, and then the other side. One of the highlights here was the rubberized grip on both sides which prevents scratching on the phone – a thoughtful addition by Razer considering how important the protection of the phone comes to gamers.

Setting it up with different smartphones

I went ahead and tested the setup process using different smartphones, namely iPhone 12 Mini, Samsung S21 Ultra, and Xiaomi MI 11. Regardless of the size and OS of the smartphone, the setting process was similar and took hardly a few minutes. In each case, strikingly, there was a light signaling that the device was correctly connected which was a reassuring sign.

Overall, the setup process was quite simple and user-friendly. However, the plasticky sound as well as the over-simplicity of the process left some room for doubts about the device’s durability which only time can answer.

Concerns Over Build Quality

• Razer Kishi’s build quality raises concerns
• Material choice and feel could be improved
• Sound and input responsiveness is unsatisfactory

When taking into account the overall user experience of a gaming console, the product’s build quality is a pivotal aspect to consider, and the same applies to the Razer Kishi. As much as I admired some features, there were a few concerns I couldn’t overlook, mainly centered around material choice and the feel of the device in my hand.

Material and Feel

For starters, the shell of the Razer Kishi is predominantly plastic. While this choice of material ensures that the device is lightweight and portable, it does sacrifice a certain sense of luxury that users might expect from a high-end gaming accessory. The overall feeling of the product is a bit “plasticky” and could come off as flimsy.

A particular area of concern is the back panel that expands to accommodate different phone sizes. When pulling it out, it has a slightly unstable, flexible quality to it. It’s understandable that this flexibility serves to adjust to an array of phone sizes, but it undermines the solidity and robustness you’d typically want in a gaming controller.

Sound and Input Responsiveness

Furthermore, the sound the controller makes when pressing the keys gives off a hollow impression, which makes the overall experience a tad less authentic. This might seem like a minor detail, but for serious gamers, haptic feedback can impact the overall perception of a device’s quality.

The input responsiveness of the buttons also follows a similar critique. The separation between the buttons (especially the R2 triggers) is a bit off-putting. There’s a lack of a clear, tactile feedback when pressing down on them, which can affect the gaming precision. To be more specific, the buttons feel somewhat mushy and don’t give that clicky sensation one would expect from a controller of this caliber.

In summary, while Razer Kishi tries to strike a balance between functionality and portability, the overall material quality and feel might not deliver the desired premium experience for demanding gamers.

Powering Up Razer Kishi: No Built-in Battery

• Razer Kishi lacks a built-in battery, uses smartphone power
• Features pass-through charging during gameplay

One of the first things that struck me about the Razer Kishi was its lack of a built-in battery. To some, this could be seen as a disadvantage, but in reality, it’s a quite practical design choice which seems to serve a specific purpose.

Smartphone Power Reliance

For the Razer Kishi, the power comes directly from your smartphone. There’s no need for any extra charging cables or power banks, which adds to its portability. In fact, it seemed to me that this feature made the device more convenient, especially for gamers on the go. Overly worrying about another device to charge felt unnecessary in my experience.

That being said, it is worth mentioning that relying on your smartphone’s power supply could potentially drain your phone’s battery faster, although I found that the controller doesn’t consume too much power.

Pass-through Charging Option

What sets the Razer Kishi apart is its pass-through charging capability. On each model, there’s a charging port — Type C for Android and Lightning for iOS. This feature allows you to charge your phone even while playing, which I found very handy during long gaming sessions.

Worth Noting: Of course, if your phone doesn’t have a long battery life or if you are running low on power, using the controller while charging could become a necessity rather than an option. Nonetheless, having the ability to charge your device while using it is a distinct advantage.

In summary, the non-existent built-in battery of the Razer Kishi might sound like a downside at first glance. But with its direct power sourcing from the smartphone and pass-through charging feature, the gaming sessions can continue uninterrupted.

Gaming Experience: Razer Kishi Gaming Controller

• Razer Kishi offers excellent game integration and performance
• Some Android games don’t recognize the controller
• Overall positive gaming experience with Razer Kishi

Once I managed to get the Razer Kishi setup and linked with my smartphone, it was time to put the controller to the real test – gaming. This involved checking out how well the device performed across a range of games and platforms, both natively on the mobile gaming platform and also using cloud-based gaming support.

Game compatibility and integration

For the iOS device, I used Call of Duty mobile. The integration went smoothly and I noted that there was direct integration, with no need to set up the controller separately. Upon launching the game, the controls were clearly displayed and I was ready to go! The game was responsive to the controller’s inputs and there was no noticeable latency. I did have to tweak the sensitivity a bit, but overall, gaming experience on iOS was impressive.

Android gaming, on the other hand, was not as smooth. I noticed with Call of Duty mobile on my Samsung S21 Ultra, the app didn’t seem to recognize the controller. On checking the settings, it seemed like it was looking for a Bluetooth controller. However, Fortnite on the same device worked impeccably and I was even able to remap some buttons. So, the gaming experience may vary among different games and platforms.

Performance Feedback

In terms of performance, the Razer Kishi delivers as promised. With nearly zero latency, the gaming experience was seamless and enjoyable. Its performance was particularly notable when playing Fortnite, where the quick and responsive inputs made the gameplay much more immersive. The controller truly transformed the smartphone into a sort of mini-gaming console.

Critical Evaluation

Though the controller worked well with the various games I tested, it was pretty obvious that the quality of the gaming experience largely depended on the game’s potential integration with the controller. This is something to bear in mind, as not all games may work as seamlessly with the Razer Kishi.

Highs:

• Excellent integration with certain games like Fortnite and COD on iOS.
• Pretty much zero latency, enhancing gaming performance.

Lows:

• Some games on Android did not recognize the controller.
• The response of some of the buttons could be improved for a more tactile experience.

In conclusion, the gaming experience with the Razer Kishi gaming controller was largely positive, providing a whole new dynamic to mobile gaming. Despite a few hitches, I felt the controller met the high expectations set by Razer’s reputation in the gaming industry.

Cloud-based Gaming Support: An Added Advantage

• Razer Kishi supports reliable cloud-based gaming.
• Compatible with Xbox Game Pass and Playstation Remote Play.
• Cloud-based gaming still requires high-speed, stable internet.

One key selling point of the Razer Kishi that truly stands out is its reliable support for cloud-based gaming. Playing console games on the go has been a pipe dream for many gamers out there, but with Razer Kishi, this is made possible.

Xbox Game Pass and Playstation Remote Play

When I first tried out the cloud-based gaming support, I used the Xbox Game Pass. Much to my delight, it worked splendidly. There wasn’t even a hint of lag, and the controller responsiveness felt instantly familiar, as if I was playing right on an Xbox console. Seeing a title from my Xbox library running smoothly on a mobile screen was an impressive sight to behold.

But I didn’t stop there. I also tried the device with Playstation’s remote play feature. It delivered just as well, further confirming that whether it’s an Xbox or Playstation game you want to play on your smartphone, the Razer Kishi has got you covered.

Yet, as unbiased and critical as I aim to be, it’s important to mention that cloud-based gaming is still in development and doesn’t come without drawbacks. For instance, a high-speed and stable internet connection is a prerequisite to enjoy these games without interruption. Furthermore, the game selection is not as broad as the traditional console’s libraries. This, however, doesn’t take away from the innovative feature that is being able to play console-level games on a mobile phone, all thanks to the Razer Kishi.

In conclusion, the Razer Kishi’s cloud-based gaming support is indeed an added advantage for serious gamers who are constantly on the move and cannot always be tethered to a traditional gaming console. As cloud-based gaming becomes more advanced and widespread, the relevance and usefulness of the Razer Kishi are likely to increase.

Critical Evaluation: Razer Kishi Pros and Cons

• Razer Kishi offers remarkable performance and portable design
• Cons include build quality and weight handling issues

Wrapping things up, let’s delve into the nitty-gritty details of the Razer Kishi and evaluate its pros and cons. We’ll be critical, unbiased, and give a fair judgment for an informative understanding of the product.

Pros

1. Performance: The Razer Kishi delivers quite well in terms of performance. It’s remarkably responsive with low latency. Gaming sessions ran smoothly, greatly enhancing the overall mobile gaming experience.
2. Design: The design considerations are commendable. The fact that it caters to different phone sizes is an absolute plus. The pass-through charging feature and the speaker grill cut-outs exhibit forethought and attention to detail.
3. Portable: The compactness of this controller is a major selling point. Slip it into your bag or pocket without hassle.

Cons

1. Build Quality: Remember the flimsiness we mentioned? Yes, the Razer Kishi does feel a tad plasticky and cheap. Unfortunately, the buttons seem mushy, and the R2 triggers somewhat unsettling.
2. Weight Issue: The Razer Kishi struggles with heavier smartphones. The situation where it pops up under pressure was a touch annoying. More robust sealing or grip could be a great improvement.
3. Lack of an Internal Battery: While the pass-through charging helps, battery drain could become an issue during extensive playtimes.

In conclusion, the Razer Kishi has its fair share of hits and misses. It does have great features that can potentially revolutionize mobile gaming. However, improvements can be made, particularly in build quality and weight handling.

Final Verdict: Transforming Gaming Experience With Razer Kishi

If you’re an ardent mobile gamer, then the Razer Kishi is a dedicated gaming accessory you may want to consider. It seamlessly transforms your regular smartphone into a more immersive gaming console, which is pretty remarkable.

Pros

• The build quality, while mostly plastic, is decent enough for everyday use. The compact design and portability make it perfect for on-the-go gaming. From my experience, low latency and rapid connectivity were truly standout features. Also, the separate versions for Android and iOS ensure a more customized fit for various smartphones.
• The easy setup process and native support for mobile games add to the overall user experience. One feature I have to particularly highlight is the smart provision for pass-through charging that allows you to power up your phone as you play.
• Moreover, the compatibility with cloud-based gaming services like Xbox Game Pass and Playstation Remote Play takes mobile gaming to a new level, allowing you to dive into an array of console-quality games right from your phone.

Cons

• Though the lightness of the controller makes it portable, it occasionally gives off a flimsy, feeble feel. The back panel could be steadier to avoid accidental detachments during intense gaming sessions. Also, a few buttons tend to feel a bit mushy and could benefit from more tactile feedback.
• Some extent of inconsistency across platforms was observed. The controller wasn’t recognized as readily with all games – a con that could be attributed more towards game developers than the controller itself.

So, is it worth it? If you’re a casual gamer just looking to enhance your Candy Crush experience, this might be overkill. But for a more serious mobile gamer looking to dip their toes into competitive, console-like gaming on a phone, the Razer Kishi is a compelling choice. It does have a few areas for improvement, but on the whole, it takes your gaming experience up a notch.

Ultimately, as in most purchases, it boils down to costs versus benefits. For the benefits it offers, the Razer Kishi may just be the missing puzzle piece in your mobile gaming adventures if you’re ready to overlook the minor flaws.

Should you buy the Razer Kishi Mobile Game Controller/Gamepad for Android USB-C?

Buy it if…

You Are A Zealous Mobile Gamer

The Razer Kishi offers exceptional integration with mobile games, swiftly transforming your smartphone into a competitive gaming console.

You Prioritize Low Latency

Powered directly by your smartphone, the Razer Kishi offers ultra low latency, making it an excellent choice for gamers seeking quick and responsive game controls.

You Desire Ease of Setup and Portability

The setup process for the Razer Kishi is straightforward and its compact size allows for easy portability, making it ideal for gamers on the go.

Don’t buy it if…

You Prefer Sturdy Build Quality

Some gamers may find the Razer Kishi’s overall plastic construction a bit flimsy and non-premium, contrary to the durable nature of conventional gaming consoles.

Responsive Triggers And Buttons Are A Must

The R2 triggers and buttons on the Razer Kishi lack the tactile response and may feel a bit mushy, potentially hampering the gaming experience for some.

You Use Heavier and Larger Smartphones

While the Razer Kishi is designed to accommodate various phone sizes, it tends to pop out under pressure with heavier phones, such as the Samsung S21 Ultra.

FAQ

Does Razer Kishi support all smartphones?

Razer Kishi comes in two versions: one for Android and one for iOS. It’s designed to fit many different phone sizes due to its ribbon system.

Does the Razer Kishi need to be charged?

No, it does not have a built-in battery or a charging option. It relies on the smartphone’s power to operate.

Can the Razer Kishi be used while the phone is charging?

Yes, the Razer Kishi supports passthrough charging. You can connect a charger to the controller, and it will charge your phone.

Is there a difference in the experience between the Android and iOS version of Razer Kishi?

From the review, it appears there may be slight differences in how some games integrate with either version, but overall, the experience should be pretty similar.

Does the Razer Kishi support all mobile games?

Based on the review, Razer Kishi works very well with native mobile game support. However, integration may vary depending on each particular game.

Is there a latency issue with the Razer Kishi?

No, the Razer Kishi offers minimal latency due to its direct connection to the smartphone.

Is the build quality of the Razer Kishi durable?

While the Razer Kishi is made out of plastic and can feel a bit flimsy at times, it serves its purpose and offers easy portability.