Razer Kishi V2 Mobile Gaming Controller for Android: Console Quality Gaming Controls – RZ06-04180100-R3M1

The Razer Kishi V2 Mobile Gaming Controller for Android is the latest iteration in Razer’s line of mobile gaming peripherals, offering a console-quality gaming experience on your Android smartphone. Designed to enhance mobile gaming with physical controls, the Kishi V2 boasts several improvements over its predecessor, including new tactile microswitch buttons, improved ergonomics, and expanded compatibility with various Android devices. This controller aims to bring the precision and feel of traditional console gaming to the mobile platform, making it an ideal accessory for serious mobile gamers.

### Design and Build Quality

The design of the Razer Kishi V2 is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. It takes cues from modern console controllers, featuring a more streamlined and ergonomic design than the original Kishi. The V2 is lightweight yet sturdy, with a robust plastic build that feels solid in hand without being overly bulky.

**Compact and Portable:**
One of the standout features of the Kishi V2 is its compact and portable design. The controller collapses into a smaller form factor when not in use, making it easy to carry around in a bag or even a large pocket. This portability is a significant advantage for gamers who are frequently on the move and want to enjoy console-quality gaming wherever they are.

**Ergonomics:**
Razer has improved the ergonomics of the Kishi V2 compared to its predecessor. The grips are more contoured and comfortable, providing a better fit in the hands, especially during extended gaming sessions. The controller is designed to accommodate a wide range of hand sizes, making it comfortable for most users. The placement of the buttons, triggers, and thumbsticks is intuitive, allowing for natural and comfortable gameplay.

**Build Quality:**
The build quality of the Kishi V2 is excellent, as expected from Razer. The controller feels durable and well-constructed, with no noticeable flex or creaking when in use. The buttons and triggers have a satisfying tactile feel, thanks to the microswitches that Razer has incorporated into the design. These switches provide a clicky, responsive feedback that enhances the overall gaming experience.

**Adjustable Fit:**
The Kishi V2 is designed to fit a wide range of Android smartphones, including those with cases, thanks to its adjustable design. The flexible bridge in the middle can expand to accommodate larger phones, and the controller connects directly to your device’s USB-C port, ensuring minimal latency and a stable connection.

### Controls and Functionality

The Razer Kishi V2’s controls are one of its most impressive features. The layout closely resembles that of modern console controllers, with dual analog thumbsticks, a D-pad, face buttons, shoulder buttons, and triggers. This familiar layout makes it easy for console gamers to transition to mobile gaming without any learning curve.

**Microswitch Buttons:**
The V2 features new tactile microswitch buttons, which provide a noticeable improvement over the membrane buttons used in the original Kishi. These buttons offer a crisp, responsive feel with a satisfying click, making gameplay more precise and enjoyable. The buttons are also highly durable, designed to withstand the rigors of intense gaming sessions.

**Analog Triggers:**
The analog triggers on the Kishi V2 offer variable input, similar to those on a full-sized console controller. This feature is particularly beneficial for racing games, where precise control over acceleration and braking is crucial. The triggers have a good amount of travel, providing the resistance needed for nuanced control.

**Thumbsticks:**
The thumbsticks on the Kishi V2 are smooth and responsive, with a level of precision that rivals those found on high-end console controllers. The concave design of the stick tops provides a comfortable grip, ensuring that your thumbs stay in place even during intense gameplay. The thumbsticks are also well-calibrated, offering excellent control over movement and camera angles.

**D-Pad:**
The D-pad is another area where the Kishi V2 shines. It is more responsive and precise than that of the original Kishi, making it suitable for a wide range of game genres, from platformers to fighting games. The D-pad has a slightly clicky feel, thanks to the microswitches, which adds to the overall responsiveness.

**Additional Buttons:**
In addition to the standard controller buttons, the Kishi V2 includes two programmable multifunction buttons located next to the triggers. These buttons can be mapped to different functions, allowing for more customization based on the game you are playing. This is a valuable feature for competitive gaming, where quick access to certain actions can make a significant difference.

### Performance and Compatibility

Performance is a critical aspect of any gaming controller, and the Razer Kishi V2 delivers on this front. The controller is designed to provide a near-zero latency gaming experience, thanks to its direct connection to your smartphone via the USB-C port.

**Low Latency:**
One of the main advantages of the Kishi V2 over Bluetooth controllers is its low latency. Because it connects directly to your device’s USB-C port, the controller provides a faster and more stable connection, which is crucial for competitive gaming. This direct connection ensures that your inputs are registered immediately, with no noticeable lag, providing a smoother gaming experience.

**Wide Compatibility:**
The Kishi V2 is compatible with a wide range of Android smartphones, including flagship models from Samsung, Google, and OnePlus. The adjustable design allows it to fit most phones with USB-C ports, even those with protective cases. This broad compatibility makes the Kishi V2 a versatile choice for Android users.

**Game Support:**
The Razer Kishi V2 is compatible with a wide variety of games, including popular titles like “Fortnite,” “Call of Duty: Mobile,” “Genshin Impact,” and “Asphalt 9.” The controller works seamlessly with cloud gaming services like Xbox Cloud Gaming, Google Stadia, and Nvidia GeForce Now, allowing you to play console-quality games on your smartphone. Additionally, the Kishi V2 is supported by the Razer Nexus app, which provides an optimized game library and customization options for the controller.

### Battery Life and Power Management

One of the benefits of the Kishi V2’s direct connection to the smartphone is that it does not require a separate battery. Instead, it draws power directly from your device’s battery, which eliminates the need for charging the controller itself. This design choice also helps keep the controller lightweight and portable.

**Power Consumption:**
While the Kishi V2 does draw power from your smartphone, the impact on your device’s battery life is minimal. The controller is designed to be energy-efficient, ensuring that it does not significantly drain your phone’s battery during gameplay. However, for extended gaming sessions, you may want to keep a charger handy, especially if you’re playing graphically demanding games.

**Pass-Through Charging:**
One of the standout features of the Kishi V2 is its pass-through charging capability. The controller includes a USB-C port that allows you to charge your smartphone while gaming, ensuring that you don’t run out of battery during extended sessions. This feature is particularly useful for cloud gaming, which can be battery-intensive.

### Software and Customization

The Razer Kishi V2 is supported by the Razer Nexus app, which enhances the overall user experience by providing customization options and access to a curated library of games.

**Razer Nexus App:**
The Razer Nexus app is a central hub for managing your Kishi V2 controller and accessing compatible games. The app allows you to remap the controller buttons, adjust sensitivity settings for the thumbsticks and triggers, and update the controller’s firmware. The Nexus app also features a game launcher that organizes your installed games and highlights new titles that are compatible with the Kishi V2.

**Customization Options:**
One of the strengths of the Kishi V2 is the level of customization it offers. Through the Razer Nexus app, you can remap the multifunction buttons to suit your playstyle, adjust the sensitivity of the thumbsticks, and even tweak the trigger dead zones. This level of control allows you to fine-tune the controller to your preferences, making it a highly versatile tool for gaming.

**Firmware Updates:**
Razer frequently releases firmware updates for the Kishi V2, which can be installed through the Nexus app. These updates ensure that the controller remains compatible with the latest games and Android versions, while also addressing any performance issues or bugs. Regular updates help to extend the lifespan of the controller and keep it running smoothly.

### Pros and Cons

The Razer Kishi V2 has a lot to offer, but like any product, it comes with its own set of pros and cons.

**Pros:**
– **Console-Quality Controls:** The Kishi V2 provides a gaming experience that closely mirrors that of a traditional console, with responsive buttons, analog triggers, and precise thumbsticks.
– **Low Latency:** The direct USB-C connection ensures minimal input lag, which is crucial for competitive gaming.
– **Portability:** The collapsible design makes the Kishi V2 easy to carry, making it an ideal choice for gaming on the go.
– **Wide Compatibility:** The controller is compatible with a broad range of Android smartphones and works seamlessly with popular cloud gaming services.
– **Customization:** The Razer Nexus app provides extensive customization options, allowing you to tailor the controller to your preferences.
– **Pass-Through Charging:** The ability to charge your device while gaming is a significant advantage for long gaming sessions.

**Cons:**
– **Price:** The Kishi V2 is on the pricier side compared to other mobile gaming controllers, which might be a deterrent for budget-conscious gamers.
– **Limited iOS Support:** While there is a version of the Kishi V2 for iOS, the Android version does not support iOS devices, limiting its cross-platform utility.
– **No Built-In Battery:** While the lack of a built-in battery keeps the controller lightweight, it also means that it relies entirely on your smartphone’s battery.

Conclusion

The Razer Kishi V2 Mobile Gaming Controller for Android is a significant upgrade over its predecessor, offering a premium mobile gaming experience with console-quality controls. With its tactile microswitch buttons, precise thumbsticks, and responsive analog triggers, the Kishi V2 delivers the performance serious mobile gamers demand. Its low-latency, direct USB-C connection ensures that your inputs are registered immediately, making it a reliable choice for competitive gaming, especially in fast-paced titles where precision is key.

The ergonomic and portable design makes it comfortable for extended use while still being easy to carry on the go. The controller’s wide compatibility with various Android devices and cloud gaming platforms like Xbox Cloud Gaming and Nvidia GeForce Now further enhances its appeal, providing a versatile tool for gaming across multiple platforms.

The Razer Kishi V2 does come with a higher price tag compared to other mobile controllers, but its advanced features and performance justify the investment for those who prioritize quality and a seamless gaming experience. The pass-through charging feature is a welcome addition, ensuring that you can play for extended periods without worrying about draining your phone’s battery.

Overall, the Razer Kishi V2 is an excellent choice for gamers looking to elevate their mobile gaming experience to console-like levels. Its combination of high-quality build, thoughtful design, and exceptional performance makes it one of the best mobile gaming controllers available on the market today. If you’re a dedicated mobile gamer or someone who frequently uses cloud gaming services, the Kishi V2 is a worthwhile investment that will significantly enhance your gaming sessions.

All very well

There is much option for Android such as backbone galelio g8 backbone one gen 2 etc but Razer kishi V2 is good at what other do, overpriced like every Razer product, build quality is solid , if this version come at price of below 5k inr then it’s a good deal to grab it , but there is no 3.5mm jack for audio which is con compare to backbone which is really disappointing.

Es un mando perfecto o casi perfecto.

Han solucionado en parte los problemas de ajuste con moviles con la parte de la camara que sobresale, solo hay que cambiar las funditas de plástico por unas que trae, el ajuste es bueno.

La calidad de los botones es igual que el anterior, normal, no es como las de un mando de Xbox o ps5 pero los joysticks son decentes.

El unico punto negativo que me pongo respecto al anterior es que si bien ha mejorado la construcción y parecen mas robustos, lo que mas me gustaba de los anteriores es que se plegaban y ocupaban muy poco espacio, estos no, ademas que el puerto usb es rigido por lo que recomiendo tener cuidado al conectarlo, podría tener algo de movilidad porque parece que un dia se va a partir y se va a quedar dentro.

Por lo demas muy contento, perfecto para combinarlo con xcloud.

Touch screen issue – leave gamepad stop working , right joystick is not up toark as screen touch game play , mapping button basic only , slow gamepad for small kids