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Dedicated cloud gaming handhelds fromLogitechandRazerpromise to deliver a AAA console-like experience in your pocket. But instead of spending hundreds on a cloud gaming handheld, maybe you should use the one you already own—your smartphone.
Cloud Gaming Handhelds Are Basically Smartphones
Your smartphone can’t play DVDs, but it can stream movies from Netflix. The same idea applies to cloud gaming—instead of loading Red Dead Redemption or The Last of Us on an expensive console or PC, you can stream it to your underpowered phone, Chromebook, or smart TV through a service like Xbox Cloud Gaming.
As cloud gaming becomes more popular, AAA titles will grow more accessible. A subscription fee is a lot cheaper than a new Xbox or PlayStation! Still, Logitech and Razer hope that you’ll buy their dedicated cloud gaming handhelds, which cost hundreds of dollars.
Related:GameSir X2 Pro-Xbox Mobile Controller Review: A Comfortable Cloud Gaming Companion
These cloud gaming handhelds are basically smartphones.Logitech’s G Cloudhandheld runs an outdated version of Android and uses a years-old Snapdragon chipset. It can even install apps and games from the Google Play store! (Though it doesn’t support mobile networking, which is a bit odd.)
That said, the Logitech G Cloud may offer a better cloud gaming experience than a smartphone. Not only does it have an integrated controller, but it uses a custom Android launcher (basically a custom home screen) and has a 16:9 display (the same aspect ratio as a TV, so it won’t add a letterbox to console games). Oh, andRazer’s Edge 5Ghandheld leverages Verizon’s network for mobile cloud gaming!
Are these perks worth a few hundred dollars? For most people, the answer is probably “no.” Your phone is perfectly equipped for cloud gaming, and chances are, you already own a smartphone-compatible gamepad. Until you’ve tried cloud gaming on your phone, I don’t suggest buying a product like the Logitech G Cloud or Razer Edge 5G.
Logitech G Cloud
The Logitech G Cloud is specially designed for cloud gaming, though it also works with Android games. And unlike a smartphone, it has an integrated controller and a 16:9 display.
All You Need Is a Gamepad
Unless you’re really good at using a touchscreen, you need a controller for cloud gaming on your phone. Nearly any controller will work, though I suggest using one that’s popular and compatible with services like Xbox Cloud Gaming or NVIDIA GeForce NOW.
Here are some cloud gaming controllers for your smartphone:
Related:Razer Kishi Controller Review: The Best Android Gamepad I’ve Ever Used
I strongly suggest using a controller that attaches to the sides of your phone, such as theRazer KishiorBackbone One. These devices make your smartphone feel like a Nintendo Switch, they’re incredibly portable, and they often use a wired connection to eliminate lag.
But an Xbox or PlayStation controller will also get the job done. And you can always buy a small,affordable adapterto clip your smartphone to the top of an Xbox or PlayStation gamepad.
Once you’ve tested cloud gaming on your smartphone, you may decide that a dedicated handheld isn’t worth the money. Of course, if you aren’t already using a cloud gaming service, you need to find one that’s worth trying.
Razer Kishi Mobile Game Controller/Gamepad for Android USB-C: Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, xCloud, Stadia, GeForce NOW, Luna - Passthrough Charging - Low Latency Phone Controller Grip - Samsung, Pixel
The Razer Kishi connects to your phone through its charging port, offering a mobile gaming experience that’s free of latency. It’s available for both Android and iPhone.
WEPIGEEK Controller Mobile Phone Holder/Cellphone Mount/Clip Compatible with Microsoft Xbox/Xbox One/Xbox Series X/S/Xbox Elite 1 /Series 2 /Steelseries Nimbus Controllers?not Controller
Pair your smartphone with any Xbox controller using this affordable clip!
Which Cloud Gaming Service Should You Use?
Here are the three big cloud gaming services:
For most people,Xbox Cloud Gamingis the way to go—it has a wide selection of games, it only charges you a dollar for your first month, and since it’s tied to Game Pass Ultimate, it unlocks a ton of free games for your Xbox or PC.
The second most popular cloud gaming service, NVIDIA GeForce NOW, is the best option for hardcore PC gamers. GeForce NOW lets you stream titles you already own in your Steam or Epic library, and it offers the highest-quality graphics of any cloud gaming platform. (Also, GeForce NOW offers a free tier!)
Related:Why Cloud Gaming’s One Killer Feature Sold Me On the Future
Xbox Game Pass Ultimate
Xbox Game Pass Ultimate lets you stream a massive catalog of games to Xbox consoles, PC, and mobile for a surprisingly great price.
NVIDIA GeForce NOW lets you play the games you already own through the cloud. Plus, it offers the highest quality graphics of any cloud gaming service.
Amazon Luna
Amazon Prime members can check out a few games for free, any plenty of unique bundles are available at reasonable prices. However, its catalog of great games is split across different subscription packages.
