The Razer Kishi Ultra brings full-size, console-style grips and controls to compatible USB-C phones and small tablets. Announced on April 18, 2024, at a U.S. launch MSRP of $149.99 (€169.99 in Europe), it is a wired controller—not a wireless gamepad—and its larger design trades pocketability for a more familiar feel during longer sessions. Razer lists support for Android 12 or later, USB-C iPhone 15 and 16 models, select iPad mini models, and wired PC and Mac use.
What launched, and what did it cost?
Razer announced the Kishi Ultra on April 18, 2024. Its launch MSRP was $149.99 in the United States and €169.99 in Europe. Those are launch prices, not a guarantee of the controller’s current retail price. Razer’s product page is the place to check its current listing.
The important distinction from a compact telescopic controller is the shape: the Ultra is designed to feel more like a split, full-size console controller, with substantial handles and larger controls. It connects directly over USB-C. Razer says it cannot connect wirelessly to a phone or PC, so it is not a Bluetooth gamepad.
What makes the Kishi Ultra full-size?
Razer’s design uses full-size handles and thumbsticks, console-sized Hall Effect analog triggers, and a pro-controller-style layout. That can make the controller more comfortable and familiar for players used to console or PC gamepads, particularly in shooters, action games, racing games, and cloud-streamed titles. It also makes the unit bulkier than a pocket-friendly mobile controller; think backpack or travel bag rather than a trouser pocket.
#1 Best Overall
- PC REMOTE PLAY — The power of a gaming rig now fits the size of a pocket; stream games using a PC and launch them directly from mobile devices for an immersive experience with sharp, smooth visuals
- FULL-SIZED FORM FACTOR FOR PHONES AND IPAD MINI — Game directly on a phone or unlock new levels of mobile gaming with tablets up to 8 inches for a view worthy of the best AAA games
- PRO-GRADE CONSOLE CONTROLS & ERGONOMICS ON MOBILE — Dominate Mobile Gaming with the esports grade performance and comfort of Razer’s Pro console controllers; Kishi V2 Ultra features a Mecha-tactile 8-way d-pad & action buttons, Hall Effect triggers, programmable buttons, and ultra durable TPSiV analog sticks
- RAZER SENSA HD HAPTICS* AND CHROMA RGB — Experience high-fidelity haptics that are stronger, more detailed, and more nuanced than traditional console controller vibrations, complete with dynamic addressable Chroma RGB lighting *Requires Android 12 (and above) or Windows 11; not currently supported on iOS
- POWERED BY THE RAZER NEXUS APP — Launch games, customize controls, record and share gameplay, and keep the Kishi Ultra updated with the Razer Nexus App that can be brought up at the touch of a dedicated button
Controls and practical features
- Mecha-tactile ABXY buttons and eight-way D-pad: Clickier, shorter-feeling inputs than conventional membrane controls, with the D-pad intended to support more deliberate directional input.
- Hall Effect analog triggers: Magnetic sensing supports gradual trigger input for games that use analog throttle or braking. This applies to the triggers; it is not a guarantee against every kind of stick or control failure.
- Full-size thumbsticks: Larger than the sticks common on compact telescopic controllers, and more familiar for console-style aiming and movement.
- Programmable L4/R4 buttons: Extra inputs that can be mapped through Razer software.
- Razer Sensa HD Haptics and Chroma RGB: Haptics and lighting add features beyond basic button input, but availability depends on platform and software support.
- 3.5mm audio jack and USB-C pass-through charging: The jack supports wired headphones, while the pass-through port lets a connected phone charge during play.
The controller has no internal battery and draws power from the connected device. Pass-through charging supplies power to the phone; it does not mean the controller itself needs charging. Razer’s support FAQ covers these connection and power details.
Which phones, tablets and computers are compatible?
Compatibility depends on more than having a USB-C socket. Operating system, device dimensions, port placement, case thickness, and the game or app all matter. Razer’s current supported-device listing should take precedence when checking a specific model.
| Device category | Compatibility listed by Razer | Important qualification |
|---|---|---|
| Android phones | Android devices running Android 12 or later | Check Razer’s device list and physical fit; USB-C alone does not guarantee compatibility. |
| iPhone | iPhone 15 and 16 models | These are USB-C models. Older Lightning iPhones are not a direct fit. |
| iPad mini | Sixth-generation iPad mini and iPad mini with A17 Pro | Confirm the exact model against Razer’s current listing. |
| Android tablets | Tablets up to approximately eight inches | Fit also depends on the tablet’s dimensions and USB-C port placement. |
| PC | Wired USB-C use; the product guide lists Windows 11 64-bit | A compatible cable or connection arrangement may be needed. Wireless PC play is not supported. |
| Mac | Wired Mac compatibility was added in Razer’s October 15, 2024 firmware announcement | Use a wired connection; support is not wireless. |
Razer announced the original device support in its launch announcement. Its product guide provides computer and operating-system details, while the October 15, 2024 firmware announcement documents later additions, including wired Mac support.
Rank #2
- FULL SIZED CONTROLLER FORM FACTOR — Console performance meets mobile convenience; play for extended periods in complete comfort and control with larger ergonomic handles that feel more natural to hold than standard mobile controllers
- FITS PHONES, IPAD MINI & ANDROID TABLETS UP TO 8" — Game on a phone or go even bigger; get a viewing experience worthy of the best AAA games with an innovative telescopic bridge that fits iPad mini and Android tablets up to 8 inches
- FULL SIZED TMR THUMBSTICKS WITH SWAPPABLE CAPS — Perfect your aim with high-precision, anti-drift thumbsticks that are superior to Hall Effect designs; customize them for more speed or precision with 2 swappable caps
- DUAL MOUSE CLICK BACK BUTTONS & CLAW GRIP BUMPERS — Enjoy the same ultra-responsive actuation found in our top gaming mice with 2 back buttons built into the controller’s ergonomic handles—topped with 2 claw grip bumpers for even more control
- POWERED BY THE RAZER NEXUS GAME LAUNCHER — Launch games, customize controls, record and share gameplay, and keep the controller updated with a free* app that can be brought up at the touch of a dedicated button. (*Razer Nexus does not require a fee/subscription, however some apps within Razer Nexus do)
Cases and connector fit
Razer says the controller works with most popular cases and includes interchangeable rubber cushions to accommodate different device thicknesses. A thick or rugged case can still prevent a secure fit, especially if it obstructs the USB-C port. Because the USB-C connection is relatively rigid, align the phone and connector carefully rather than forcing them together. A GamesRadar review also called out that fixed connection as less forgiving than a more flexible connector.
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1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesWhat do Razer Nexus and the haptics actually do?
Razer Nexus is a companion app for discovering and launching compatible games, remapping controls, recording and sharing gameplay, changing settings such as dead zones, and updating firmware. It also enables touch-control mapping in supported Android games. Razer says Nexus has no fee or subscription, though games and services opened through the app can have their own charges.
The Kishi Ultra has no onboard memory, so its settings are managed through Nexus rather than stored independently in the controller. Basic controller input does not make every Nexus feature mandatory, but customization, firmware updates, and touch mapping rely on software support.
Rank #3
- FULL SIZED CONTROLLER FORM FACTOR — Console performance meets mobile convenience; play for extended periods in complete comfort and control with larger ergonomic handles that feel more natural to hold than standard mobile controllers
- FITS IPADS & ANDROID TABLETS UP TO 13" — Experience larger than life mobile gaming; get a viewing experience worthy of the best AAA games with an innovative telescopic bridge that fits iPads and Android tablets up to 13”
- FULL SIZED TMR THUMBSTICKS WITH SWAPPABLE CAPS — Perfect your aim with high-precision, anti-drift thumbsticks that are superior to Hall Effect designs; customize them for more speed or precision with 2 swappable caps
- DUAL MOUSE CLICK BACK BUTTONS & CLAW GRIP BUMPERS — Enjoy the same ultra-responsive actuation found in our top gaming mice with 2 back buttons built into the controller’s ergonomic handles—topped with 2 claw grip bumpers for even more control
- POWERED BY THE RAZER NEXUS GAME LAUNCHER — Launch games, customize controls, record and share gameplay, and keep the controller updated with a free* app that can be brought up at the touch of a dedicated button. (*Razer Nexus does not require a fee/subscription, however some apps within Razer Nexus do)
Do not treat Sensa HD Haptics as a universal feature across every device. Razer’s product page identifies Sensa HD Haptics as Android-only. Razer’s launch material also described haptic feedback on PC, and its October 15, 2024 update added Rapid Trigger Mode, expanded compatibility, wired Mac support, and support for the Razer Freyja HD Haptic Gaming Cushion through Nexus. These are distinct from ordinary gamepad vibration and from audio-driven haptics; the specific game, platform, software, and firmware determine what works. Razer’s support documentation links to the compatible-games information.
How does it work with mobile games and remote play?
Native mobile games
Games with built-in physical-controller support are the most straightforward use: connect the Kishi Ultra and use the game’s controller controls. A controller cannot make a touch-first game natively support gamepad input.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Cloud gaming
The wired controls suit services such as Xbox Cloud Gaming and GeForce NOW when the device, account, network, service, and specific game support the intended setup. A title’s availability on a streaming service does not, by itself, guarantee identical controller behavior in every app.
Rank #4
- FULL SIZED CONTROLLER FORM FACTOR — Console performance meets mobile convenience for iPhone* and Android; play for extended periods in complete comfort and control with larger ergonomic handles that feel more natural to hold than standard mobile controllers (*iPhone 15 series and up)
- FULL SIZED TMR THUMBSTICKS — Perfect your aim with high-precision, anti-drift thumbsticks that are superior to Hall Effect designs
- DUAL MOUSE CLICK BACK BUTTONS — Enjoy the same ultra-responsive actuation found in our top gaming mice with 2 back buttons built into the controller’s ergonomic handles
- UNPARALLELED CASE COMPATIBILITY — Fits many popular phone cases thanks to an innovative USB C ‘island’ design and thicker depth clearance than other controllers
- POWERED BY THE RAZER NEXUS GAME LAUNCHER — Launch games, customize controls, record and share gameplay, and keep the controller updated with a free* app that can be brought up at the touch of a dedicated button. (*Razer Nexus does not require a fee/subscription, however some apps within Razer Nexus do)
Touch-only games on Android
Nexus offers touch-control mapping for supported Android games. Mapping translates controller inputs into touch actions, but support and results vary by game; it is not a universal substitute for native gamepad support.
PlayStation Remote Play
Razer says iOS supports PlayStation Remote Play natively. On Android, its support instructions say to launch PS Remote Play through Razer Nexus with virtual controller enabled. If controls do not respond, check that setup before troubleshooting the controller itself.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What do independent reviews say about the trade-offs?
GamesRadar tested the Kishi Ultra for more than a month as its primary mobile controller. The review praised its larger grips and full-size thumbsticks, especially for first-person shooters, but found the stick dead zones somewhat large for precise aiming and criticized the fixed USB-C component. The reviewer’s findings are useful context, not a guarantee that every player or device will feel the same.
Best Value
- FULL SIZED CONTROLLER FORM FACTOR — Console performance meets mobile convenience for iPhone* and Android; play for extended periods in complete comfort and control with larger ergonomic handles that feel more natural to hold than standard mobile controllers (*iPhone 15 series and up)
- FULL SIZED TMR THUMBSTICKS — Perfect your aim with high-precision, anti-drift thumbsticks that are superior to Hall Effect designs
- DUAL MOUSE CLICK BACK BUTTONS — Enjoy the same ultra-responsive actuation found in our top gaming mice with 2 back buttons built into the controller’s ergonomic handles
- UNPARALLELED CASE COMPATIBILITY — Fits many popular phone cases thanks to an innovative USB C ‘island’ design and thicker depth clearance than other controllers
- POWERED BY THE RAZER NEXUS GAME LAUNCHER — Launch games, customize controls, record and share gameplay, and keep the controller updated with a free* app that can be brought up at the touch of a dedicated button. (*Razer Nexus does not require a fee/subscription, however some apps within Razer Nexus do)
The design’s main compromise is straightforward: the larger handles and controls can be more comfortable for sustained play, but the controller takes up more space and is less convenient to carry. A wired connection avoids wireless pairing and controller charging, but gives up wireless freedom. And a premium feature set is less compelling if your games do not support physical controls or you do not want to configure touch mapping.
Who should consider buying it?
- Consider it if you want full-size grips and thumbsticks for longer sessions, shooters, action games, or cloud gaming; use a supported USB-C phone or small tablet; and are comfortable carrying a bulky wired controller.
- It may suit you if you want one wired controller for a compatible phone or iPad mini as well as PC or Mac, or you value extras such as programmable buttons, a headphone jack, and pass-through charging.
- Look elsewhere if you have a Lightning iPhone, require wireless play, or prioritize a controller that fits easily in a pocket.
- Think carefully if you use a thick case, mostly play touch-first games, or are buying primarily for Sensa HD Haptics on iOS or iPadOS, where Razer does not list that feature as supported.
How it compares with other controller setups
| Option | Best fit | Trade-off versus the Kishi Ultra |
|---|---|---|
| Razer Kishi V2 USB-C | Players who want a smaller, less expensive Razer telescopic controller | Its U.S. launch MSRP was $99.99 and its European launch MSRP was €119.99; it is less focused on full-size, pro-controller-style ergonomics and lacks the Ultra’s broader feature set. See Razer’s Kishi V2 USB-C page. |
| Compact telescopic controller | Commuters and players who put pocketability first | Generally a better match for small carry, but not for the Ultra’s full-size grip and stick design. |
| Bluetooth gamepad with a phone clip | Players who want wireless play or a controller usable across more devices | Less integrated as a phone setup and requires a separate clip; the controller-and-clip combination may be less convenient to carry. |
The Kishi Ultra is best understood as a portable console-style controller rather than the smallest or most universal mobile accessory. Its case is strongest for players who prioritize grip comfort, larger controls, and a direct wired connection—and accept the size, platform limits, and launch-level premium positioning that come with them.
Quick Recap
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