As mobile gaming becomes increasingly sophisticated – and streaming console-quality games to smartphones becomes the norm – dedicated mobile controllers are no longer a niche accessory. The original Backbone One earned widespread acclaim as one of the best in the field. Now, Backbone is raising the bar with the launch of the Backbone Pro, a controller designed to deliver a premium, console-like experience across all your devices.
At first glance, the Backbone Pro builds on the strong foundation of the original, but it brings a host of thoughtful improvements. Ergonomically, it’s more comfortable to hold, with a refined design and a textured plastic finish that feels more elevated. Every element, from the clickier buttons with deeper travel to the upgraded full-size Hall Effect joysticks, has been reengineered for enhanced gameplay. Two new rear buttons, accessible by your ring fingers, add extra customization and control.
Beyond the USB-C connection for your phone, it now includes built-in Bluetooth, allowing you to use it with a laptop, tablet, smart TV, or other compatible devices. Short of dedicated consoles like the PS5 or Xbox Series X, the Backbone Pro is built to be your all-in-one controller.
The new functionality works in tandem with the Backbone app, which allows you to manage the different connections relatively easily.
Another standout feature – one Backbone fans will appreciate – is continued support for phone cases. Like its predecessor, the Backbone Pro includes swappable adapters to accommodate different phone sizes and case thicknesses. That means you don’t have to remove your case every time you want to game. In testing, it worked seamlessly with the iPhone 16 Pro (with a case), and should perform just as well with larger models like the 16 Pro Max.
The Backbone Pro is available now for $169.99 at backbone.com.
Photography courtesy of Backbone.
