• The list in brief
1. Best overall
2. Best controller
3. Best budget
4. Best travel
5. Most comfortable
6. Best adapter
Cloud Gaming has become an integral part of the videogame industry, with Microsoft’s Xbox Cloud Gaming (xCloud for short) leading the charge and Nvidia GeForce Now having a larger than-ever library of games. Xbox Cloud Gaming can allow Xbox console games to be accessed on a gamer’s mobile phone or tablet so they can be played anytime and anywhere. In addition, if you combine Xbox Cloud Gaming with Microsoft’s Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription service, players can play hundreds of the best Xbox games while on the go.
While many Xbox Cloud Gaming titles can be played using touch-screen control, traditional controllers are still the best method to play games as controllers have more precise read inputs and are more comfortable to hold. Since cloud gaming hit the market, there's been a neverending storm of accessories to transform your phone into a portable Xbox console, of differing quality. There's nothing stopping you using a standard Xbox controller, but if you want to experience your games as you would on other popular handhelds like the Steam Deck and ROG Ally, mobile controllers and mounts are considered a better alternative for cloud gaming.
Since there are so many to choose from, I have compiled a list of the best Xbox Cloud Gaming controllers that will let you experience Xbox Cloud Gaming at its best., and these are the ones I recommend to family and friends.
Jen is a Writer for Windows Central, with a passion for all things gaming and Microsoft. She has been playing Xbox since the Xbox 360 era and has used, abused and broken more Xbox accessories (sometimes on purpose) than you can shake a controller at. She's an avid user of Xbox Cloud Gaming and completed games in their entirety on the cloud without so much as a megabyte downloaded to her console, so can advise on cloud controllers with confidence.
The quick list
The best device for Xbox Cloud Gaming
You're not going to like this answer, but the absolute best device to use for Xbox Cloud Gaming isn't a controller at all—it's the Logitech G Cloud. I was skeptical, too, but I can't help but love it. What is the closest thing to our actual Xbox handheld right now? This is. It's not cheap, and our review shaved off score for price alone, but if you can get one on sale, it's the most comfortable handheld gaming device on the market.
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The best mobile controller for Xbox Cloud gaming
The Razer Kishi has been through a few iterations now, culminating in the practically perfect Razer Kishi Ultra. This cloud controller, which even works with Fold phones, has the same HyperSense Haptics as Razer's audio products for more immersion than you would normally get from a cloud controller. The buttons are quiet for sneaky gaming; and it even throws in that signature configurable RGB Chroma lightning. It's not cheap, but if you want the best, this is it.
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Best budget controller
If the price of the Razer controller sends shivers down your spine, then the GameSir X2s is a cheaper alternative with impressive tech packed inside. GameSir has made crafting value controllers a fine art, and you'll get hall-effect sticks for lifetime protection against stick drift and hall-effect triggers for precision.
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Best travel controller
While it may seem odd to have a 'best travel' for a controller that relies on cloud gaming and, therefore, good internet, I include the Turtle Beach Atom because of its cool compact design. If I'm staying away from home, this is what gets thrown in my bag. Its chunky controls are comfortable, and there's no need to remove your phone case, as it's Bluetooth.
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The most comfortable cloud controller
If you're looking that feels more like a traditional Xbox controller, well the GameSir G8 Galileo is for you. Again packed with hall-effect tech, this controller is like a controller sawn in half and is the most comfortable on the list. Even the thumbsticks can be swapped to your taste.
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Best adapter for Cloud Gaming with any controller
You don't have to go and buy a whole new controller for Cloud gaming, just use the one you have and pick up a clip to attach your phone. This one is Xbox licensed so has the Microsoft stamp of approval.
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The best controllers for Xbox Cloud Gaming in 2024
Why you can trust Windows Central Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test.
Below you'll find why I've chosen each product as the best in it's respective category. Many of these have been reviewed either by myself or had hands on time with any one of the team here at Windows Central.
The best overall device for Xbox Cloud Gaming
When talking about modern day handheld gaming consoles, you'll often see the Steam Deck, Nintendo Switch and Rog Ally vying for the top spot. The handheld that's mostly left out of the discussion is the Logitech G Cloud, mainly because its a purely cloud based device, but also because the price isn't necessarily realistic for most consumers. With that being said, I absolute love it, and owning a few handhelds, this is the most delightful to hold of all of them. If I want to play a cloud based game, the Logitech G Cloud delivers the best experience. I just wish it wasn't around $300.
The battery life of the Logitech G Cloud 6000mAh battery is a cut above its competitors. For example, when our very own Zachery Body reviewed the Logitech G Cloud, they tested it by playing games and downloading apps for two days with several hours of standby-mode breaks while being connected to the Wi-Fi, and it still had 68% battery life to spare. Despite already owning a Steam Deck, I was intrigued and tried the Logitech G Cloud for myself. I didn't need one, but I was glad I had it.
Barring connectivity issues with Xbox Cloud Gaming servers and a user’s personal Wi-Fi speed, the Logitech G Cloud can run Xbox Cloud Games almost flawlessly with little to no input delay. In addition, it can also run cloud-based games from Steam Link and NVIDIA GeForce Now. On top of that, it is more than capable of downloading emulator platforms from the Google Store and running games from classic consoles like the NES, Super Nintendo, Nintendo 64, Nintendo DS, Game Color, Gameboy Advance, Sega Genesis, Atari 2600, and even old PC titles from the 1990s.
However, there are some caveats to be aware of before purchasing a Logitech G Cloud. It comes at a steep retail price of $300, and most Android games aren’t compatible with the console’s built-in controllers. If you're looking for purely Xcloud gaming though, this is the real deal. Its the closest to an actual Xbox handheld we have right now.
The best controller for Xbox Cloud gaming
Our Razer Kishi Ultra review shows it as one of the finest controllers out there. The latest in Razer's Kishi range takes Cloud Gaming to the next level, including haptic feedback. It's expensive for a mobile controller, but it really gives you the best of the best experience if you use Cloud gaming for a significant amount of time.
Critically acclaimed for high-performance laptops, neon headsets, and many other devices related to gaming, the Razer Kishi Ultra controller is the culmination of Razer’s many years of refining and perfecting their craft. The Razer Kishi Ultra takes everything but the kitchen sink and throws it at creating the perfect mobile controller, its ergonomics being the best of all the Kishi range to date, but including pro features like audi-based haptics for Android games.
The Razer Kishi Ultra controller seamlessly integrates into your phone, is easy to hold, and the materials are durable and lightweight, if not a little bulky compared to other more travel-friendly options. The button layout is classic Xbox style with asymmetric sticks, and it's just an incredibly comfortable controller with almost full-size side grips. The buttons are some of the best on a cloud controller, with that pleasing 'clicky' feedback.
In addition, the Razer Kishi Ultra is compatible with nearly every modern USB-C Android phone. When we first previewed it, we even managed to fit a fold into it, no small feat for a mobile controller. Unbelievably, it can even fit a whole iPad mini in its 8-inch-wide clamp. The split controller feel is essentially like holding a Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma, a controller we also love for Xbox, and even shares the signature lighting.
That being said, the price of the Razer Kishi Ultra may give cause for concern as the retail price is around $150, much higher than previous models. However, considering that the Kishi Ultra controller significantly improves upon nearly every facet of the V1 and V2 controllers, from ergonomics, refined inputs, materials, and more, the steeper price tag is worth it in the long run.
Best budget controller for Xbox Cloud gaming
GameSir was among the first third-party companies to design and ship out high-quality gamepads with full Xbox Game Pass and Xbox Cloud Gaming compatibility for Android devices and has maintained a steady flagship position on the market since then. GameSir continued to preserve its pedigree in the GameSir X2s type-C controller. This controller builds upon the successes of the previous GameSir controllers with improved ergonomics, cleaner inputs, and the addition of hall-effect sticks, which gives it an extra level of longevity and bang for your buck.
The GameSir X2s makes your mobile look akin to a Nintendo Switch, clamping around most modern Android phones with a USB-C port, and now the most recent iPhone 15. Compared to its cousin, the GameSir X3 review shows how this later revision brings many improvements by removing the cumbersome fan and refining the buttons, analog sticks, D-Pad, bumpers, and triggers for more precise inputs.It does remove the rear mappable buttons from the GameSir X2 Pro which we also reviewed as a solid controller for Xbox cloud gaming, so it's down to you if the rear buttons or higher quality sticks are most important to you on a mobile controller.
The compact size of the GameSir X2s may be a drawback for some, and it can make it slightly uncomfortable to grip and play games for longer gaming sessions for players with larger hands. If that's likely to be an issue, I will stump up the extra cash for the extremely comfortable GameSir G8 Galileo, which closely mirrors the ergonomics of an Xbox controller but has that extra bulk that will be noticeable when traveling.
If you can see past the size, and want something compact and durable, then the GameSir X2s will serve you well, as there are few Xbox accessories out there that can match this product's high level of quality for the low price point. The GameSir X2s is available at local electronics retailers and online retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, and the official GameSir store.
Best for travelling
Products from Turtle Beach are widely regarded as some of the best third-party gaming accessories on the market, ranging from high-quality and affordable headphones and controllers. Recently Turtle Beach have dabbled into the Cloud Gaming market and has produced their first cloud-enabled controller to fit onto your smartphone, impressing in my Turtle Beach Atom review.
This controller sports a quirky design that can accommodate players with larger hands thanks to its bulky appearance, providing them with high levels of comfort for longer gaming sessions. It also features a creative two-piece magnetic clip system where the two halves of the controller can clip together to become smaller and make it more portable-friendly. In addition, the Turtle Beach Atom can attach itself to your phone without removing its protective case.
However, there are a few caveats to consider when purchasing the Turtle Beach Atom. While the buttons and analog sticks are satisfying to use, the triggers, on the other hand, are too spongy to use. This can unintentionally make playing certain games like shooters harder as the spongy triggers won't register your inputs half of the time.
Another point of contention is that this controller doesn't have a pass-through charging section like most mobile controllers. You can only recharge the Turtle Beach Atom while it is in its compact travel mode. This means you can't play with it while it's low on batteries or charge it while you play. On the bright side, the controller compensates for this by having a 20-hour battery life.
Despite those flaws, the Turtle Beach Atom is an incredibly comfy and stylish controller with a practical design that allows it to be easily stored for travel. It is usually sold at lower prices than its premium competitors, like the Razer Kishi V2 and the GameSir X2 Pro controller.
So, if you're looking for a budget controller that is designed to be held by larger hands and stands out from the crowd in terms of visual aesthetics, look no further than the Atom. It's available for purchase via online retailers like and on the official Turtle Beach website.
Most comfortable Xbox Cloud controller
While you don't want to add too much weight with a mobile controller, sometimes you just want that chunky and ergonomic feel of an actual controller, and that's exactly what you get with the GameSir Galileo G8. It feels exactly like someone chopped an Xbox controller in half and you can now attach it to your mobile phone. It's without a doubt the most comfortable of all the controllers on the list, and definitely better for those with larger hands who may struggle with the small controllers over long periods.
GameSir again has managed to pack in hall-effect technology to one of their best value controllers but has taken out the faff and gimmicks of cooling fans that we saw in the GameSir X3. The Galileo can be used alone or with the use of companion software, which is rather nifty and allows you to remap touchscreen controls to the physical buttons (if mobile gaming is your primary interest). The USB-C connector also pivots within the device so you can fit your phone in easily without risking damage to the port. Other thoughtful details like a rubberized base and the swappable thumbstick for customizing to your preference make this a great choice for cloud gamers.
Best adapter for Xbox Cloud gaming
Phone clips for Xbox controllers start at incredibly affordable prices, and the 8Bitdo mobile gaming clip should top your list. This mount features all the fundamentals and some added frills, especially suited to those wanting to try cloud gaming. If you're unsure whether game streaming is right for you, it's an investment that won't break the bank.
While this clip is relatively simple, it offers improvements over the random Amazon-exclusive brands with cheap alternatives. It's robust and easy to use, maintaining a firm grip without damaging official controllers and won't falter under the weight of heftier smartphones. It also comes with two clips to switch between different Xbox controllers, so this will fit whether you have the old Xbox One controller, the Series S|X, or Elite editions.
The 8Bitdo mobile gaming clip is an otherwise impressive design that holds up over everyday use. Its $15 price tag provides the best value for those still undecided about cloud gaming, requiring only a phone and controller to get started.
Which controller should I buy for xCloud?
Xbox Cloud Gaming presents a new, exciting method for players to experience the best Xbox Games out there — all by simply connecting to your mobile device through a stable internet connection. Among all the controllers on this list, the Razer Kishi V3 Pro Xbox Edition takes our top spot for the best overall controller for Xbox Cloud Gaming, as it is the closest you can get to converting your mobile device into your own Xbox handheld in 2024.
If money were no object, I'd be recommending the Logitech G Cloud every time, as in my opinion the price is the only thing holding this device back from being the absolute no brain choice for an Xbox Cloud gaming device. It's simply a joy to use, but needs to come down perhaps to $200-$250 for me to hand on heart recommend it over something with higher specs like a Steam Deck or ROG Ally.
Finally, we have the GameSir G8 Galileo, which improves upon previous iterations of GameSir controllers and provides a comfortable and ergonomic solution to turn your mobile into a handheld powerhouse of gaming. It features well-constructed hall[effect triggers and sticks that detect your inputs with precise accuracy. The best part is that the retail price is cheaper than the Razer options, with GameSir consistently cornering the budget end of the market.
