Historically, comparisons between the Backbone One vs Razer Kishi was a complete no contest. A total knockout with Mr Beast’s first tech release taking the mantle as the best mobile gaming controller on the market. However, the recent release of the Razer Kishi V2 makes a serious play to compete with Mr Beast’s much loved mobile gamepad and today, we’re pitting both of these titans head to head once more with our extensive Razer Kishi V2 vs Backbone One gaming controller showdown.
Returning blows, Razer’s brand new Kishi V2 learns from many of the past mistakes that the Original Razer Kishi V1 was tarnished with; meeting the benchmark previously set by the Backbone One. From ditching the Nintendo Joy-Con style to improved compatibility with mobile devices with it’s ”universally compatible” nature, there is much to look forward to with the Razer Kishi V2
But can the brand new Razer Kishi edge out and claim the title that has been held by Backbone for quite a few years now?
Scroll on down to read our full Backbone One Vs Razer Kishi V2 review and don’t forget to leave us with your thoughts in the comments below when you’re done!
Razer Kishi vs Backbone: The Design
For design, the Razer Kishi V2 mimics plenty that makes the Backbone One so special and has clearly learned from previous flaws. What used to look like third-party Nintendo joy-con controllers now resembles something more akin to actual gaming controllers which is a huge win for the Kishi V2.
Still, the Backbone One mobile gamepad has been donning this style of mobile gaming controller since inception so might feel a little cheated here. In fact, probably rather vexed considering the Kishi V2 just looks and feels a lot more premium.
Additionally, now that the Razer Kishi V2 is universally compatible with almost every mobile device, both controllers are equally as portable as you upgrade your phones. Historically, Backbone One would dominate this round, however, the Razer Kishi V2 has bridged the gap here also. Through it’s extendable design, Razer’s Kishi V2 now ensures that you do not have to remove your screen protector or case just to have a quick game.
Besides these two core features, both the Kishi V2 and the Backbone One sport very similar buttons with controls over capturing game clips or starting screen recordings. Both gadgets have buttons to launch each of the respective compatible apps and the buttons themselves are tactile buttons that feel premium.
Despite heavy similarities on design, overall, we would award the Razer Kishi V2 as the winner for design and grip; comparatively to the Backbone One. The reason for this being that the Razer Kishi V2 comes with the ability to program buttons which is currently lacking from the Backbone One.
Backbone One vs Kishi V2: Specifications & Features
Specifications wise, again, both controllers are highly similar. Both gaming controllers connect via USB Type C and come with pass through charging capabilities. There is low-latency across our testing when playing with both the Kishi V2 and Backbone One alongside clickable thumb sticks the we very much enjoyed on both devices.
Similarly, both gaming controllers are almost identical in physical size too with the Backbone One standing at (93.9 mm height x 176.2 mm width x 32.6 mm depth) and the Razer Kishi (92.2 mm height x 180.7 mm width x 33.9 mm depth). The width of course will extend up to a maximum of around 258mm for both devices as this is what is required to be compatible with larger phones.
The Razer Kishi V2 comes with the following features:
- A universal fit with extended bridge.
- PC and console game streaming.
- Low-latency connection.
- Programmable buttons.
- Dedicated screenshot and video recording.
- Pass through charging capabilities.
- Razer Nexus App
Conversely, the Backbone One gaming controller features the following:
- Collapsible and compact design.
- Low-latency connection.
- Play any game that supports controllers.
- Ability to capture game clips.
- 3.5mm headphone jack.
- Pass through charging capabilities.
Overall, for specifications, there is very little to choose between the two here with the Razer Kishi V2 perhaps edging out Backbone One slightly through the ability to program certain buttons. That said, the 3.5mm headphone jack is a super nice addition to the Backbone One as we don’t want people hearing our gameplay all of the time!
Backbone One Vs Kishi V2: Price
With both the Backbone One and Razer Kishi V2 available from around $170AUD, there will be absolutely no difference to your bank account regardless of your decision. We were slightly surprised that Razer did not attempt to undercut the Backbone One but that just shows there is mutual respect between both manufacturers.
That said, Backbone One is offering 3 months free access to Discord Nitro and 2 months free access to Google Stadia Pro with every purchase over $50 value which would sway us slightly in favour of Mr Beasts gamepad. But only slightly. Historically, Backbone have been renowned for offering freebies such as this with their gaming controller so keep an eye out for when your favourite console or streaming platform is added to the list as this might sway your decision.
If you are someone who preferences buying the latest gadgets, you might be swayed towards the newer Razer Kishi V2 over Backbone’s slightly older model. However, you’ve probably gathered already that there really isn’t too much to split between them regarding functionality; and ultimately, capability.
So, either way, you’ll be onto a winner.
Razer Kishi V2 vs Backbone 1: Device Compatibility
The good news for Razer fans is that the Razer Kishi V2 is universally compatible with almost all Android devices thanks to the new and improved extendable arm. This also includes any mobile devices that make use of screen protectors or phone cases which is a must improved design from the original Kishi V2
Officially, Razer state that the Kishi V2 is compatible with the following devices:
- Samsung Galaxy S8 / S8+ / S9 / S9+ / S10 / S10+ / S20 Series / S21 Series / S22 Series
- Samsung Galaxy Note 8 / Note 9 / Note 10 / Note 10+ / Note 20 Series
- Razer Phone and Razer Phone 2
- Google Pixel 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6, and many other Android devices
Although not all Android phones such as the Huawei P40 Pro are featured on this list, Razer have also stated that the max supported smartphone dimensions are as follows: 11.5 mm (thickness, including camera) x 170 mm (length). Comparing most leading mobile manufacturers, chances are the Razer Kishi V2 will work comfortably with your mobile device.
As for the Backbone One controller, the Backbone One can be used with any iOS device running iOS 15 or later. A list of iPhones capable of running iOS 15 or later. This includes popular models such as the iPhone 13, iPhone 12, iPhone XS, iPhone 8 and more. A full list of compatible Backbone One phones can be found here on the official support forum.
For Android users, however, you will need to wait until at least November 2022 to be able to use the Backbone One gaming controller. Despite being an iPhone only controller since inception, Backbone have since released an Android version to compete against the rising popularity of the Razer Kishi V2.
Both devices will comfortably fit on your phone and with any mobile phones with larger cameras, optional adapters are available for a more secure fit. Once again, it’s a complete stalemate for which gaming controller is better for device compatibility.
Razer Kishi V2 vs Backbone 1: Compatible Games
When comparing the Backbone One Vs Razer Kishi V2 for compatibility with games, Razer has somewhat improved but still falls a little short comparatively to Backbone.
While the Razer Kishi V2 is universally compatible with mobile devices, unfortunately, the same cannot be said for it’s compatible with video games. A huge concern with the original Kishi was the lack of compatibility with some of the greatest video games of all time and the Razer Kishi V2 somewhat solves this issue. But only somewhat.
It’s like buying a one-handed gaming keyboard only to find that you are limited to FPS games and have no ability to chat with your friends. The technology is great, but hindered.
That said, through now being compatible with PC and Console games via streaming services, you immediately gain access to a much broader range of titles that are compatible with the Razer Kishi V2. However, third party hardware or subscription services may be required to access the complete library and what games are compatible have not exactly been made clear.
Conversely, Backbone One is compatible with any games that are compatible with gaming controllers which immediately unlocks a whole world of opportunities. With a new facelift that playstation fans will adore, you can enjoy your Backbone One gaming controller on the PS Remote Play App alongside any gaming streaming service; including Xbox game streaming.
This has been the case for a while now which is incredible. The complete list of Backbone One compatible games is extremely easy to access too.
For this alone, Backbone One is still the better mobile gaming controller for anybody who doesn’t just play common titles like Fortnite where the Razer Kishi V2 will ultimately shine. Although, depending on Razer’s development strategy, this could change very quickly as new games that are released are most likely to be compatible with both.
Should you buy the Razer Kishi V2 or Backbone One Gamepad?
There really isn’t much between the Backbone One vs Razer Kishi V2 with both controllers donning equally as impressive specifications and clout. Despite the Backbone One still holding greater diversity with compatible games and freemium connections to Google Stadia + Discord, the Razer Kishi V2 is a slightly better mobile gaming controller in our opinion for durability and playability.
The major toss up between the two here will ultimately boil down to which games you like playing and whether you prefer mobile gaming controllers with headphone jacks or not. The Kishi V2 is slightly better than the Backbone One for Android users whereas this can be flipped entirely for iPhone users seeing as the Backbone One was originally made as a dedicated iOS device.
Although Razer’s ability to stream PC and console games sounds impressive, you will struggle with some games for complete performance. When Razer do finally get to grips with game compatibility, we don’t think Backbone will be able to match the Kishi for performance. But, if the original Kishi V1 is anything to go by, this could be some time to come and, come that point, it would not be surprising for Backbone to release a new model for their own gaming controller.
With that said, both gaming controllers still do come with some small compromises and we are yet to find a mobile gaming controller that blends both of these 2 phenomenal pieces of hardware together! However, for now, it’s the Razer Kishi’s new and improved V2 model that, for all of the previous flaws, takes the crown.
What’s your take on the Razer Kishi V2 vs Backbone One? Hit us up in the comments with which controller you prefer and why!
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