If you’re looking for a wraparound mobile controller, chances are you’ve come across two big names. The Razer Kishi V2 and Backbone One may look similar, but beneath the surface there are many features, design factors, and compatibility differences that make your decision difficult. We’ve spent countless hours thumb tapping with each model, and both are excellent gamepads. However, there are certain use cases where one makes more sense than the other.
The wraparound design was first introduced when mobile controllers were just starting out in the big leagues. The Switch-like approach cuts a gamepad in half and positions it on either side of your gaming phone’s screen, increasing convenience and allowing the controller to be powered by your device.
Deviating from the original Kishi model this year, the Razer Kishi V2 is a relative newcomer. However, the Backbone One has been a staple for a number of years and even has its own official PlayStation release. We’ve wrapped our hands around each one and summarize what makes these controllers unique.
TL;DR: Backbone One vs. Razer Kishi V2
backbone one
- $99.99
- iPhone only
- Expandable bridge design
- backbone app
- Screenshot and record button
- pass-through charge
- 3.5mm headphone jack
Razer Kishi V2
- $99.99
- iPhone and Android models available
- Expandable bridge designi
- Razer Nexus app
- Screenshot and record button
- pass-through charge
- No headphone jack
Backbone One vs Razer Kishi V2: Compatibility
The first thing to clarify, which might make your decision easier, is that the Backbone One is only compatible with the iPhone. However, if you’re an iOS user, you can use the gamepad with a variety of versions, including larger Pro and Pro Max versions with the use of a free adapter. In addition, any iOS game that supports controllers is compatible with the Backbone One.
The Razer Kishi V2, on the other hand, comes in both iOS and Android compatible models, although software support is a little softer. You can’t use it with PlayStation Remote Play on Android, for example, and the list of supported games omits some heavyweights, including Call of Duty Mobile and Genshin Impact. If these make up a larger part of your roster, the GameSir X3 is worth checking out.
Both controllers have drawbacks in their compatibility, but considering Backbone knocks out half the market, Razer wins.
Winner – Razer Kishi V2
Backbone One vs Razer Kishi V2: Software
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There is no doubt the Backbone One offers superior software over the Kishi V2. The official Backbone app offers a smooth, intuitive user interface to make your smartphone truly feel like a console. Holding all your Xbox (via Microsoft’s streaming service), Google Stadia and iOS titles side-by-side streamlines your mobile gaming experience in a way few other controllers replicate, and all in superb quality. While game chat, groups, and screenshots won’t be the deciding factor for some, their smooth implementation is the icing on the cake.
In contrast, the Razer Nexus software feels a bit clunky. Again, you can see your games side-by-side, but only those downloaded via the Google Play Store, and in an oddly low-resolution format. The rest of the main home screen is taken up by recommended games that the Kishi V2 can handle, but this isn’t an exhaustive list – you’ll still be looking for compatible titles outside of the app.
One of the only things the Razer Nexus app has to offer is the ability to remap your extra M1 and M2 buttons (the Backbone One relies on native iOS settings for this function), although you only have them present assign to inputs on the controller .
Winner – Backbone One
Backbone One vs Razer Kishi V2: Features
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Both the Backbone One and the Razer Kishi V2 come with a selection of additional features beyond the traditional face buttons and thumbsticks. However, the selection offered differs greatly. Here you have to make some decisions about what is important to you on a daily basis.
If you are looking for ease of use and a simple plug and play experience, the Backbone One is for you. With pass-through charging and a 3.5mm jack for each headset, life is a little easier here. The Razer Kishi V2 supports pass-through charging, but you’ll have to rely on a wireless gaming headset or gaming earbuds for audio as there’s no output.
However, the Kishi V2 also bundles additional remappable buttons, positioned right next to the upper bumpers. However, as mentioned above, these can only be configured to a pre-existing command on the gamepad. However, they are still useful for mapping a dodge or toggling a sprint.
The Kishi V2’s only drop is in audio. So when you factor in the extra buttons, there’s better overall functionality with Razer.
Winner – Razer Kishi V2
Backbone One vs Razer Kishi V2: Performance
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Neither the Backbone One nor the Razer Kishi V2 ever got stuck in our own tests. Both are gamepads with low latency, quick response times, and fast thumbsticks. However, there are some significant differences in the overall feel of each device.
While the Razer Kishi V2 offers a snappy, super-sensitive set of front buttons, each equipped with micro-switches for a particularly satisfying experience. This results in super fast gameplay and a nice response to twitch reflexes. If anything, these buttons sometimes feel a little too light when mis-pressed, especially during more breakneck moments – an issue compounded by the fact that these buttons are closer together than on the Backbone One.
In contrast, Backbone’s face buttons feel heavy and dense. There’s still a nice clack with each squeeze and you can pocket and roll quite easily, but moving from one to the other makes the stiffness particularly noticeable here. This becomes even clearer with the D-Pad. While Razer has opted for lighter mechanical clickers among its directional arrows, Backbone’s offering is a bit clunky in comparison. However, you’re essentially trading sensitivity here for a soft, cushioned landing.
Winner – Razer Kishi V2
Which ones should you buy?
The Razer Kishi V2 has won in almost every category, so it would be tempting to call it the best and move on. However, there will be a fair number of people for whom the Backbone is a far better alternative – and that’s because of the one category this device tops: software.
The Backbone One’s app is so excellent that it pares some of its minor feature and performance quirks. In contrast, Razer Nexus makes the Kishi V2 experience more difficult than it needs to be. You can find out which ones are more suitable for you below.
Should you buy the Backbone One?
Buy the Backbone One if you:
Who should buy the Razer Kishi V2
Buy the Razer Kishi V2 if you:
We also round up The best PC controllers if you are looking for something for your main setup, as well as those The best Xbox Series X controllers and Xbox One controller also.
