Quick wins for a faster PC:
Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Verdict: The Backbone One PlayStation Edition is a good compact controller for PS5 Remote Play, but it is not a handheld DualSense. Its low-latency wired connection, portability, official PlayStation integration, headphone jack and pass-through charging make it convenient. However, the virtual touchpad, limited DualSense feature support and smaller ergonomics stop it from being the perfect choice for every PS5 owner.
Backbone One PlayStation Edition: at a glance
- Type: Telescoping mobile controller for compatible iPhone and Android phones
- PS5 use: Streams games through PS Remote Play; it does not run PS5 games locally
- Connections: Choose Lightning or USB-C to match your phone
- Current USB-C compatibility: iOS 15 or later and Android 10 or later, according to Backbone
- Extras: 3.5mm headphone jack and pass-through charging
- Price: TechRadar reviewed it at $99.99/£99.99/AU$179; check current pricing before buying
The PlayStation Edition is an officially licensed Backbone controller designed in collaboration with PlayStation. It holds a phone between two controller halves, turning the phone into a portable screen for Remote Play, cloud gaming and controller-compatible mobile games. It is therefore an accessory for your existing devices, not a standalone PlayStation handheld.
Which Backbone model should you buy?
Do not choose solely by the PlayStation branding. The connector, generation and phone fit matter more.
- Check the connector. Older iPhones use the Lightning model. iPhone 15 and newer USB-C iPhones require the USB-C version. USB-C Android phones also need the USB-C model.
- Check the operating system. Backbone’s current USB-C listing specifies iOS 15 or later and Android 10 or later.
- Confirm the edition. Android buyers who specifically want the officially supported PlayStation Remote Play model should select the PlayStation Edition rather than assuming every Backbone One has identical integration.
- Check the generation. The second-generation USB-C model adds magnetic adapters intended to improve fit and case compatibility, plus a reshaped D-pad.
- Check the case and camera bump. Thin cases are more likely to fit than rugged, thick or camera-protection cases. Compatibility is broad, not universal.
The current product information is available on Backbone’s PlayStation Edition page and its USB-C product page.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →#1 Best Overall
- PLAY VIRTUALLY ANY GAME, ANYWHERE: Enjoy mobile gaming on the go. Play App Store hits like Call of Duty, Fortnite & Roblox, stream through Xbox Game Pass & GeForce NOW, or connect via Remote Play from PlayStation, Xbox, or PC.
- PRECISION CONTROLS: Crafted for accuracy and comfort, this compact phone gaming controller features ultra-wide analog triggers, high-precision thumbsticks, and a responsive D-pad/buttons. Designed for smooth, reliable gameplay across all your favorite titles.
- IN-APP EMULATOR READY FOR iOS USERS: Turn your mobile controller into a retro gaming hub! Import your own ROMs, play offline, and enjoy controller support with Backbone’s in-app emulator. Available to iOS users on version 18.4 or higher (Android version in development). A Backbone+ subscription is required, making it the ideal gift for gamers craving classic titles on the go.
- IPHONE COMPATIBILITY + CASE SUPPORT: Compatible with all iPhones that have a Lightning connector (iPhone 14 & older). For iPhone 15 and newer, see our USB-C version. Includes magnetic adapters for case support, making this a versatile mobile phone controller for Lightning-enabled devices.
- BACKBONE+ TRIAL INCLUDED: Unlock enhanced features with a trial membership, including game recording, friends list, and a universal launcher. With Backbone+, enjoy free instant access to a wide variety of games, enhancing your experience by letting you play immediately without paying for extra features. This gaming controller works out of the box. A Backbone+ subscription is optional and not required to play games
How good is it for PS5 Remote Play?
Setup requires a PS4 or PS5, a PlayStation Network account, the PS Remote Play app and a suitable network connection. Sony lists 5 Mbps as the minimum connection speed and recommends at least 15 Mbps for a better experience. Remote Play streams video from the console to the phone while sending your controller inputs back to the console; the game still runs on the PS5.
The Backbone connects directly to the phone rather than relying on Bluetooth. That can reduce controller-side delay and avoids pairing another wireless device. It does not, however, remove stream latency. Video encoding, Wi-Fi congestion, packet loss, cellular coverage, distance from the console and the PS5’s upstream connection still determine how responsive Remote Play feels.
What it does well
- Compact, lightweight design that is easier to carry than a full-size controller.
- Official PlayStation styling and Remote Play support on iPhone and Android.
- Responsive face buttons, sticks and triggers in independent testing.
- Wired audio through the 3.5mm headphone jack. Sony specifically notes that the Pulse 3D headset can connect through the controller.
- Pass-through charging, allowing the phone to charge while connected.
- Compatibility with both PS4 and PS5 Remote Play.
TechRadar reported low input delay in Remote Play and cloud gaming, but network conditions remained the decisive factor. In practical terms, this controller can work very well on a strong home network and still feel frustrating over weak Wi-Fi or congested mobile data.
The virtual touchpad is the biggest problem
The controller does not include a physical central PlayStation touchpad. During Remote Play, touchpad input is activated by double-tapping the phone’s screen. That is workable, but it is less immediate than pressing or swiping on the DualSense touchpad, particularly in games that use frequent touchpad clicks or gestures.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsThis is the central reason the PlayStation Edition is not a perfect PS5 controller. The white design and PlayStation buttons suggest a DualSense-like experience, but the hardware does not reproduce the DualSense’s physical touchpad, adaptive triggers or full haptic feature set. Sony warns that audio, haptic effects and other features vary by device and platform. See Sony’s official product announcement for those limitations.
Rank #2
- Collapsible and compact design
- Lowest latency connection
- Play games that support controllers
- Capture clips and screenshots
- Pass-through charging and 3.5mm headphone jack
Controls and comfort
The face buttons, analogue sticks and triggers are generally solid, but this is a smaller controller than a DualSense. Independent testing described the D-pad on the reviewed model as loose or less satisfying than the other controls. The menu, screenshot, Share and Backbone shortcut buttons sit relatively low and can be awkward to reach.
That compactness is an advantage for travel and short sessions. It is less clearly an advantage for long play sessions. Larger controllers give your hands more support, and a large phone can make the Backbone feel top-heavy even though the controller itself is light. Players with large hands may prefer fuller grips such as those on the GameSir G8 range.
The best fit depends on your use:
- Travel and occasional Remote Play: The Backbone’s low weight and slim profile are major benefits.
- Long sessions: A DualSense, GameSir G8+ or another larger controller is likely to provide better support.
- Fighting games and complex inputs: The compact layout, D-pad and streaming delay are less attractive.
- Slower games and casual play: RPGs, turn-based games, racing games and farming games are a more natural fit.
Internet quality matters more than the controller
A direct USB connection can reduce the delay between pressing a button and the phone receiving that input. It cannot fix delay introduced by Remote Play itself.
For the best result, connect the PS5 to the router by Ethernet if possible, use a strong 5 GHz Wi-Fi connection near the phone, and test the setup before relying on mobile data. Download speed alone is not enough: latency, upload performance, packet loss and congestion matter too. Cellular Remote Play may also consume significant data depending on play time and stream conditions.
TechRadar found Remote Play usable in favorable conditions, with better results in games such as Gran Turismo 7 and Stardew Valley than in complex inputs during Street Fighter 6. That distinction is important: the Backbone can be responsive while the overall streaming experience is still unsuitable for timing-sensitive competitive play.
Rank #3
- ALL-IN-ONE GAMING BUNDLE: Experience the ultimate mobile gaming setup with the BACKBONE One PlayStation Edition Gaming Bundle. This bundle includes the BACKBONE One PlayStation Edition Gaming Controller and a BACKBONE carrying case, providing everything you need to elevate your mobile gaming.
- PREMIUM PHONE CONTROLLER FOR GAMING: Transform your device into a gaming console with the BACKBONE One PlayStation Edition Controller. Featuring ultra-responsive analog triggers, accurate thumbsticks, and a reshaped D-pad, it offers console-quality gameplay on the go. Compatible with GeForce NOW, Apple Arcade, and PS Remote Play for seamless streaming.
- PROTECTIVE BACKBONE CASE FOR TRAVEL: Keep your BACKBONE One controller safe with the included BACKBONE carrying case. This sleek, lightweight case provides excellent protection with molded foam, absorbing bumps and keeping your gear secure, whether you’re on the move or at home.
- COMPREHENSIVE GAMING EXPERIENCE: With the BACKBONE ONE PlayStation Edition controller and carrying case, enjoy seamless integration with your device for a premium gaming experience. Play PlayStation games via PS Remote Play or explore Apple Arcade and leading cloud gaming services with low latency, while the BACKBONE app organizes your content for easy access to all your favorite games.
- GAME ON, WHEREVER YOU GO: Why settle for less? Get the BACKBONE One PlayStation Edition Gaming Bundle for unmatched portability and performance. Whether you’re gaming at home or traveling, the compact design of the BACKBONE One controller and case ensures you never miss a moment of play, anytime, anywhere.
It works without a PS5
A PS5 or PS4 is required only for console Remote Play. The controller also works with controller-compatible iPhone and Android games, supported cloud services such as Xbox Cloud Gaming, and PC streaming services. Backbone presents its app as a launcher for these experiences, but individual games and services must support controllers.
Do not assume that every mobile game accepts a gamepad, that every cloud service supports every feature, or that the Backbone app is required for basic controller operation in every title. Backbone’s current product information also states that wired PC, laptop or tablet mode requires Backbone+; subscription benefits and pricing should be checked separately because they can change.
Backbone One versus the alternatives
| Alternative | Better for | Trade-off |
|---|---|---|
| DualSense plus phone mount | Full PS5 controls, a physical touchpad and long sessions | Less portable; requires a mount and Bluetooth pairing |
| PlayStation Portal | A dedicated, larger-screen PS5 Remote Play experience | Less versatile than a phone and cannot replace a general mobile controller |
| GameSir G8+ MFi | Larger grips, Hall-effect sticks and rear buttons across iPhone and Android | Heavier and less pocketable |
| GameSir G8 Galileo | Android users prioritising comfort and value | Bulkier and aimed at Android rather than iPhone in the reviewed version |
| Razer Kishi Ultra | Premium features and a larger controller format | More expensive and less portable |
A DualSense with a phone clip is the stronger choice if you mostly play at home and want the closest possible mobile version of the PS5 control experience. Portal is better if you want a dedicated screen and do not want phone notifications, calls, cases or battery management involved.
The Backbone is more versatile than Portal because the phone can also run native games and multiple cloud platforms. The GameSir alternatives offer more substantial grips and features, but their extra size undermines the Backbone’s main advantage.
Who should buy it?
Buy the Backbone One PlayStation Edition if:
- You already own a compatible iPhone or Android phone.
- Portability matters more than full-size comfort.
- You want one controller for PS Remote Play, mobile games and cloud gaming.
- You mainly play slower-paced, racing, RPG or casual games remotely.
- You value official PlayStation integration, wired audio and pass-through charging.
- You accept using an on-screen touchpad substitute.
Choose something else if:
- You expect a handheld DualSense.
- You frequently need physical touchpad clicks or swipes.
- You play competitive shooters or fighting games where timing is critical.
- Your phone is too large, uses the wrong connector or does not fit with its case.
- You want Hall-effect sticks, rear buttons, built-in vibration or adjustable controls.
- You mainly play at home and already own a DualSense.
- Your home or mobile internet connection is unreliable.
Final verdict
The Backbone One PlayStation Edition is an excellent convenience accessory, not a perfect replacement for a DualSense or a dedicated PlayStation handheld. It makes PS5 Remote Play easier to carry and quick to start, and its cross-platform usefulness gives it value beyond PlayStation. But the virtual touchpad and reduced DualSense feature set are meaningful compromises for PS5 owners.
Buy it for portability, simple phone-based Remote Play and flexibility. Skip it in favour of a DualSense with a mount, GameSir G8+ or PlayStation Portal if comfort, a physical touchpad and a more complete PS5 experience matter more than pocketability.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
