The Backbone Pro is the latest iteration of the popular Backbone mobile controller. An evolution of the Backbone One, the Backbone Pro incorporates many of the features that have endeared its predecessor to mobile gamers in a more robust and full-size design. Boasting 40 hours of wireless play and support for Android and iPhone 15/16 via USB-C connection, the Bacokbone Pro aims to be the definitive mobile controller.
Modelled after the Backbone One, the Pro offers a similar overall design with a few distinct differences. The dimensions and weight of the Backbone Pro, for instance, are larger in every category, measuring 101.1 x 180.7 x 49 mm. It also weighs 203g, up from the One’s 139g. The result is a controller that feels much more robust in hand and much more comparable to an Xbox or PlayStation controller.
The secondary result of the redesign is that the Backbone Pro feels much sturdier in hand, a welcome upgrade over other mobile controllers I’ve tested, such as the ASUS ROG Tessen. While the Tessen is a great controller, admittedly, the Backbone Pro feels more comfortable in my hands and much more reminiscent of the size of my Xbox controllers, which is a welcome design choice.
“The inclusion of full-size ALPS joysticks is a welcome upgrade over the smaller, Joy-Con-style sticks common on mobile controllers.”
As for button layout, Backbone has made a few choices I like and a couple I question. The inclusion of full-size ALPS joysticks is a welcome upgrade over the smaller, Joy-Con-style sticks common on mobile controllers. The result is joysticks that provide fluid, precise control. This is immediately noticeable when playing Fortnite or Call of Duty on my Poco F7 Ultra, as firing and movement feel significantly better than with other mobile controllers.
The one critique of the joysticks has nothing to do with the functionality, but rather placement. Due to the full size of the joysticks (both in terms of size and height) and the right stick’s relative placement to the A, B, X, and Y face buttons, I found it often awkward to reach over the right stick to press the A button. Again, this is most pronounced on titles that require both joysitcks. While manageable, it is a bit frustrating.
The reality is that with mobile controllers, surface space is at a premium, so there are severe limitations on button placement at the best of times. On other mobile controllers, such as the Tessen above or my Razer Kishi, this is because the more compact joysticks provide better clearance for the face buttons. The sacrifice is that these same joysticks don’t provide the same level of precision and smoothness as a full-size ALPS stick.
Until a more innovative controller layout is designed, this appears to be the cost of a higher-quality controller experience, a consideration when selecting a controller. If you are someone who regularly plays more competitive shooter titles, it’s worth the learning curve of moving from the joystick to the face buttons for more fluid movement and precise aiming.
Alternatively, the Backbone Pro does come with two additional, mappable buttons that can take on the function of the A button. Managed via the Backbone App (iOS and Android), the Backbone Pro’s entire button list can be modified and mapped to meet your layout needs. It’s simple to manage and takes only a few moments.
As for the placement of the mappable buttons, they are positioned perfectly for the natural resting place of both ring fingers. This results in easy access and quick response, especially if remapping the A button is a priority for you. It’s smart and well-designed.
Examining the rest of the controllers, Backbone has provided a USB-C port for charging and connectivity on the bottom of the right palm grip, as well as a 3.5mm audio jack on the left palm rest for easy connection. Triggers and bumpers are both well placed and naturally align with your hands. The quality and construction of the Backbone Pro are top-notch, and it feels much more durable and comfortable than most mobile controllers I’ve worked with.
As for compatibility, the Backbone Pro is compatible with most Android phones, as well as iPhone 15/16, via the built-in USB-C port located on the right side of the controller. Thanks to its expandable design and additional mounting clips, the Backbone Pro can accommodate most-sized phones even with the case, a welcome design choice.
Dropping your phone into the USB-C port creates a plug-and-play experience. The controller is immediately recognized and ready for action. No software required. That being said, the Backbone App does provide a host of key features, such as button mapping, firmware updates and game management that are both necessary and helpful.
“Despite this small critique, the Backbone Pro is an excellent controller and would benefit those who enjoy more competitive mobile titles and love playing with a full-sized controller.”
One of the key features of the Backbone Pro is its console-like controller experience. The Backbone App enables easy connection to game streaming services, such as Xbox and Steam. It allows for sorting and organizing games from these services and others in a single, centralized location. It’s one of the better thought-out controller apps I’ve worked with, bringing together multiple services into one central hub.
A new feature for Backbone is the inclusion of full Bluetooth support. This allows the controller to be used without needing to mount a phone. Ideal for tablets or TVs, the mode provides an additional level of connection and arguably allows for connection to older iPhones mounted in the controller (although not officially supported).
Connecting your device via Bluetooth follows standard Bluetooth connection practices with a pairing button conveniently located beside the audio jack on the Backbone Pro. Once connected, the Backbone Pro provides 40 hours of use on a single charge thanks to the built-in, rechargeable batteries located in each of the palm grips.
The Backbone Pro is a solid controller that is almost perfect. Its overall size and connectivity provide an excellent user experience. The inclusion of full-size joysticks is also a welcome change, although it comes at the cost of an awkward transition from stick to face button. Despite this small critique, the Backbone Pro is an excellent controller and would benefit those who enjoy more competitive mobile titles and love playing with a full-sized controller.
