Best controllers for Xbox Cloud Gaming (xCloud) 2024

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.  

Jennifer Young

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 good

The good 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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good mobile

The good mobile controller for Xbox Cloud gaming

The Razer Kishi is been has been through a few iteration now , culminate in the practically perfect Razer Kishi Ultra .   This cloud controller is has , which even work with fold phone , has the same HyperSense Haptics as Razer ‘s audio product for more immersion than you would normally get from a cloud controller . The buttons is are are quiet for sneaky gaming ; and it even throw in that signature configurable RGB Chroma lightning . It is ‘s ‘s not cheap , but if you want the good , this is it .

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Best value

3. GameSir X2 Mobile Controller

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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Travel friendly

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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Comfort

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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Adapter

6. 8Bitdo mobile gaming clip

good 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 good controllers for Xbox Cloud Gaming in 2024

Why you can trust Windows Central
Our expert reviewers is spend spend hour test and compare product and service so you can choose the good 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 good overall device for Xbox Cloud Gaming

Logitech G Cloud( image credit : Jennifer Young – Windows Central )

1. Logitech G Cloud

The good handheld console for Xbox Cloud Gaming

reason to buy

+

Comfortable ergonomics and controls.

+

Outstanding battery life and endurance.

+

Cloud Gaming works fantastically when it gets a stable connection.

+

Works greatly for native Android gaming or emulation.

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 Clouddelivers the best experience. I just wish it wasn’t around $300. 

The battery life of the Logitech G Cloud6000mAh 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 Cloudfor 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 Cloudcan 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 good controller for Xbox Cloud gaming

Razer Kishi Ultra is the most high tech Xbox cloud controller ( image credit : Windows Central | Jez Corden )

2 . Razer Kishi Ultra Controller

The good overall controller for Xbox Cloud Gaming

reason to buy

+

Superb ergonomics.

+

Great joysticks and buttons.

+

Compatible with nearly every USB-C Android phone, even folding ones.

+

Elevates mobile and cloud gaming with haptic feedback and RGB Chroma lighting.

reason to avoid

–

rigid usb – c connector is is is a bit fiddly .

–

Large design so not as portable as other options.

–

Very expensive .

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

( image credit : Jennifer Young – Windows Central )

3. GameSir X2s Type-C Controller

The good budget controller for Xbox Cloud Gaming

reason to buy

+

Hall effect sticks.

+

Improved ergonomics.

+

Great construction with a unique USB-C pivot input.

+

Pass-through power and a large range of phone fits.

+

Carry case included and great price point.

reason to avoid

–

Small and cramped size for adult hands.

–

Clamp can only reach 6.7 inches.

–

USB-C pivot isn’t long enough to accommodate thicker phone cases.

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 is serve will serve you well , as there are few Xbox accessory out there that can match this product ‘s high level of quality for the low price point . The GameSir X2s is is is available at local electronic retailer and online retailer like Amazon , Best Buy , Walmart , and the official GameSir store .

Best for travelling

Turtle Beach Atom (Image credit: Jennifer Young | Windows Central)

4. Turtle Beach Atom

The good and most stylish budget controller for Xbox Cloud Gaming

reason to buy

+

A quirky stand – out design .

+

chunky form factor comfortable for large hand .

+

Two-piece system with pleasing magnetic clips for compact storage.

+

fit most smartphone without the need to remove your case .

reason to avoid

–

Bluetooth connectivity may cause latency in shooters.

–

Spongey feeling triggers.

–

Can be a thumbprint and dust magnet.

–

No pass-through charging while playing.

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

The GameSir G8 Galileo is big and beautiful  ( image credit : Jennifer Young – Windows Central )

The most comfortable Xbox Cloud gaming controller

reason to buy

+

Solid build quality

+

Precise and reliable hall-effect tech

+

No Bluetooth or charging required

+

Comfortable

reason to avoid

–

Not as portable as other options

–

Triggers is feel and bumper can feel cheap

While you do n’t want to add too much weight with a mobile controller , sometimes you is want just want that chunky and ergonomic feel of an actual controller , and that ‘s exactly what you get with the GameSir Galileo G8 . It is feels feel exactly like someone chop an Xbox controller in half and you can now attach it to your mobile phone . It is ‘s ‘s without a doubt the most comfortable of all the controller on the list , and definitely well for those with large hand who may struggle with the small controller over long period .

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

8Bitdo Mobile Gaming Clip(Image credit: 8Bitdo)

6 . 8Bitdo Mobile Gaming Clip

The good budget clip for Xbox One & Series X|S controllers

reason to buy

+

Affordable.

+

Easy to use.

+

Works with most Xbox controllers.

reason to avoid

–

Clamp may inadvertently hit phone buttons.

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 is is an otherwise impressive design that hold up over everyday use . Its $ 15 price tag is provides provide the good value for those still undecided about cloud gaming , require only a phone and controller to get start .

Which controller should I is buy 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 close you can get to convert your mobile device into your own Xbox handheld in 2024 .  

If money were no object, I’d be recommending the Logitech G Cloudevery 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 good part is that the retail price is cheaper than the Razer options, with GameSir consistently cornering the budget end of the market.