Contents
- 1 Next-Level Mobile Gaming With the Backbone Pro
- 2 A Wireless Gaming Experience Across Devices
- 3 Designed for Cloud Gaming’s Rapid Growth
- 4 Comparing Backbone Pro vs. Nintendo Switch: A Hands-On Experience
- 5 Superior Ergonomics and Intuitive Design
- 6 Is the Backbone Pro Worth the Price?
- 7 Final Verdict: Backbone Pro Sets a New Standard
Next-Level Mobile Gaming With the Backbone Pro
In a bold move to revolutionise handheld Gaming, Backbone has launched the Backbone Pro, a cutting-edge mobile controller designed to transform your smartphone into a powerful gaming console. Building on the success of the Backbone One, this new release introduces major hardware and design improvements, aiming to elevate ios and Android gaming experiences to console-like quality.
With full-sized joysticks, re-mappable buttons, and seamless Bluetooth connectivity, the Backbone Pro isn’t just an accessory—it’s an essential piece of equipment for serious mobile gamers.
A Wireless Gaming Experience Across Devices
What truly sets the Backbone Pro apart is its versatile wireless functionality. Unlike its predecessor, the Backbone Pro doesn’t require a physical connection to your phone. Thanks to its Bluetooth support, you can pair it with various devices—including smart TVS, tablets, and laptops—for a smooth, console-like experience on any screen.
This flexibility is especially beneficial when using cloud gaming platforms like Xbox Game Pass, allowing you to switch between devices without losing progress. Start a game on your TV, continue on your smartphone, and keep your momentum going—no cables or syncing hassles involved.
Founder Maneet Khaira explained the vision behind the design: “Gaming should be as intuitive and effortless as pairing AirPods. That’s the user experience we wanted to deliver.”
The Backbone Pro controller makes mobile gaming worth the hassle | TechCrunch https://t.co/fux4BLEj4v
— TechCrunch (@TechCrunch) May 11, 2025
Designed for Cloud Gaming’s Rapid Growth
Backbone’s innovation is timely. The mobile gaming sector is experiencing rapid growth, fueled by the widespread availability of high-speed internet and the rising popularity of cloud-based gaming platforms. Backbone is betting heavily on this trend—and winning.
Backed by high-profile investors such as Ashton Kutcher, The Weeknd, Post Malone, MrBeast, Amy Schumer, and Discord founder Jason Citron, the company has rapidly established itself as a top-tier hardware brand for mobile gamers.
Whether you’re a casual player or a hardcore gamer, the Backbone Pro brings console-quality performance to your fingertips, tapping into the expanding world of cross-platform Gaming.
Comparing Backbone Pro vs. Nintendo Switch: A Hands-On Experience
To evaluate the robustness of the Backbone Pro, I tested it by replicating my Nintendo Switch gaming habits on an iPhone. I downloaded titles like Stardew Valley and Hades, games I frequently enjoy on the Switch, to compare gameplay quality.
I was genuinely impressed after 13 hours of gameplay in just three days. While smartphone notifications can interrupt the flow, the comfort and responsiveness of the Backbone Pro made the experience more enjoyable than I expected. Surprisingly, I even preferred the Switch to the Switch regarding hand feel and ergonomics.
Superior Ergonomics and Intuitive Design
Backbone has nailed ergonomic design with the Pro. Where many mobile controllers or even the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller feel awkward or overly bulky, the Backbone Pro fits comfortably in the hand with zero adjustment period The design feels natural, user-friendly, and perfectly balanced—essential for fast-paced, action-intensive games like Hades.
That seamless comfort isn’t accidental. According to Khaira, the team used advanced prototyping methods, inspired by Meta’s rapid hardware development. By 3d-printing over 9,000 individual parts, Backbone fine-tuned every element of the Pro controller until it achieved perfection.
The result? A controller so refined that it makes Nintendo Joy-Cons feel like toys by comparison.
Is the Backbone Pro Worth the Price?
With all its premium features, the Backbone Pro doesn’t come cheap. At $169.99, it’s priced on par with a refurbished Nintendo Switch Lite. That said, it delivers unique value, especially for gamers who regularly switch between screens and platforms.
If you’re primarily a mobile gamer or enjoy the freedom of cloud-based gameplay, the Backbone Pro is a game-changer. However, if your setup doesn’t demand Bluetooth support or cross-device compatibility, the original Backbone One at $99.99 remains a solid and more budget-friendly option.
Final Verdict: Backbone Pro Sets a New Standard
The Backbone Pro controller isn’t just an upgrade—it’s a reimagining of what mobile Gaming can be. Its wireless capabilities, pro-level controls, and top-tier design deliver a gaming experience that rivals dedicated consoles.
For those who value comfort, performance, and versatility, the Backbone Pro is easily one of the best mobile gaming controllers on the market today.
