Abxylute S9 Mobile Controller

The Abxylute S9 Mobile Controller has been making waves in the mobile gaming community, promising console-quality precision and versatility at an affordable price. As someone who’s spent considerable time testing this controller, I’m excited to share a comprehensive review of its design, features, performance, and whether it lives up to the hype. Available on abxylute.com, the S9 is marketed as a premium mobile controller for smartphones and tablets. Let’s dive in.

Overview of Abxylute.com and the S9

Abxylute.com, the official website of Shanghai ABXY Tech, is a hub for gaming peripherals, with the S9 Mobile Controller as a flagship product. The site is clean and user-friendly, featuring sections for Products, Accessories, Blog, Reviews, and Support. Product pages are detailed, with high-quality images, specifications, and compatibility information, though load times can occasionally lag, particularly in the Blog section.

The Abxylute S9 is a stretchable controller designed to transform your smartphone or tablet into a handheld gaming console. Priced at around $79.99 (with early bird Kickstarter deals as low as $59), it competes with brands like GameSir and Razer but aims to stand out with its compatibility, customization, and console-like experience.

Design and Build Quality

The S9’s design is a blend of functionality and ergonomics, drawing inspiration from Xbox controllers. Its key design features include:

• Stretchable Mechanism: The S9 can extend to fit devices from 110mm to 216mm, accommodating phones like the iPhone 15/16, Android devices, and tablets up to 8.8 inches, such as the iPad Mini 6/7 or Lenovo Y700. This versatility is a major plus, though it makes the controller bulkier than modular alternatives.
• Ergonomic Grip: Weighing 250g, the S9 is lightweight yet sturdy, with textured grips that ensure comfort during long gaming sessions. The plastic build feels durable, though some users note the back buttons feel slightly “jiggly.”
• Customizable Components: The S9 comes with two interchangeable D-pads, two joystick caps of different heights, and replaceable faceplates (black or white by default, with colored options sold separately). Swapping these components is tool-free, though removing the D-pad can be tricky without a removal tool.
• Extended USB-C Port: A standout feature is the slightly longer USB-C connector, which allows the controller to fit devices with thick cases without needing to remove them. Silicone spacers are included to reduce strain on the port and ensure a secure fit.

The buttons and joysticks have a satisfying click, akin to an Xbox Series X controller, though some users prefer a sharper “click” for the ABXY buttons. The controller also includes a 3.5mm headphone jack with a DAC, a rare feature that enhances audio quality for wired headsets.

Minor Design Gripes

• Bulkiness: The stretchable design sacrifices portability; it’s not pocket-friendly.
• Camera Module Fit: Phones with large camera modules may not sit flush, causing slight wobble, though the controller remains usable.
• D-pad Sensitivity: Some users report false inputs when pressing the D-pad too hard, though this isn’t a dealbreaker for most games.

Features and Functionality

The S9 is packed with features that cater to both casual and hardcore gamers:

• Connectivity Options: It supports USB-C for lag-free performance and Bluetooth for wireless play, though Bluetooth introduces minor lag typical of such controllers. Switching between modes is simple via the M button and home button combo.
• Gaming Modes: The S9 offers multiple protocols—PS Mode, Xinput Mode, NS (Nintendo Switch) Mode, and Android Mode—making it compatible with Xbox Cloud Gaming, PS Remote Play, GeForce Now, and Nintendo Switch (when plugged in).
• Haptic Feedback: Dual rotor motors deliver powerful, adjustable vibrations (0%, 30%, 70%, 100%) that mimic Xbox controller rumbles, enhancing immersion in racing, FPS, and action games. However, vibration support depends on the game and platform, with limited support on iOS and some Android titles.
• Hall Effect Joysticks and Triggers: These ensure zero drift and precise control, with durability rated for up to 5 million rotations. The 6-axis gyroscope adds motion control for games that support it.
• Free abxy App: The app allows button mapping, joystick sensitivity adjustments, and trigger customization. It supports platforms like Xbox Cloud Gaming, PS Remote Play, and emulators like PPSSPP and Delta. However, iOS limitations restrict touchscreen mapping and local game additions, and the app’s game library is somewhat barebones.
• Passthrough Charging: The S9 supports 5V 1A charging, allowing uninterrupted gameplay.
• Programmable Back Buttons: These add flexibility for custom inputs, though their loose feel can be a minor annoyance.
  
  
  
  
  
  

App Limitations

• iOS Restrictions: Apple’s policies prevent touchscreen mapping, limiting the app’s utility for non-controller-supported games.
• Mapping Gaps: The app doesn’t support combo button mapping (e.g., RT + A), and saved profiles could be more robust.
• Tutorial Clarity: Some users find the app’s tutorials for gyro settings and mapping unclear, though Abxylute is addressing this with video guides.

Performance in Gameplay

The S9 shines in various gaming scenarios:

• Cloud Gaming: It excels with Xbox Cloud Gaming and GeForce Now, delivering precise controls for titles like Forza Horizon 5 and Call of Duty. The Hall effect joysticks and triggers ensure smooth aiming and driving.
• Remote Play: PS Remote Play and Xbox Remote Play work seamlessly in their respective modes, with minimal setup required.
• Local Mobile Games: Games like Roblox, Genshin Impact, and Call of Duty Mobile feel console-like, though iOS games without native controller support require workarounds.
• Emulation: The S9 is a favorite for emulation, particularly with Delta for Nintendo DS games, where the iPad Mini’s screen can mimic the DS’s dual-screen setup.

During testing, the controller connected instantly via USB-C, and Bluetooth pairing was straightforward. The joysticks and triggers responded accurately, and the haptic feedback added depth to action-heavy games. However, the lack of touchscreen mapping on iOS was noticeable for games like Zenless Zone Zero, where controller support is inconsistent.

User Feedback and Insights

Abxylute conducted a survey of 191 S9 users, revealing high satisfaction:

• Recommendation Score: 9/10, with users praising its versatility and build quality.
• Top Genres: Action/Adventure, RPG, and FPS/TPS dominate, aligning with the controller’s precision controls.
• Software Rating: 7.96/10, with ongoing updates addressing user requests for better tutorials and customization.

Common praises include the controller’s comfort, responsive buttons, and compatibility with large devices. Criticisms focus on the app’s limitations, D-pad sensitivity, and the lack of standalone functionality for consoles like Xbox or PS5 without a powered device.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Affordable price ($79.99 retail, $59 on Kickstarter).
• Wide compatibility with phones and tablets up to 8.8 inches.
• Console-quality controls with Hall effect joysticks, haptic feedback, and gyro support.
• Customizable components and free app for control mapping.
• Extended USB-C port accommodates thick cases.
• Supports passthrough charging and includes a headphone jack.

Cons:

• Bulky design reduces portability.
• iOS app limitations hinder touchscreen mapping.
• D-pad can register false inputs under heavy pressure.
• Back buttons feel loose for some users.
• No standalone functionality for Xbox/PS5 without a powered device.

Comparison to Competitors

Compared to the GameSir G8 ($79.99) and Razer Kishi Ultra ($150), the S9 offers better value for its price. It matches the G8’s stretchable design but adds Bluetooth, a headphone jack, and more customization. The Kishi Ultra supports larger tablets but is pricier and lacks the S9’s spacers for cased devices. The S9’s app, while not perfect, is free, unlike some competitors requiring subscriptions.

Who Should Buy the Abxylute S9?

The S9 is ideal for:

• Mobile gamers seeking a console-like experience for cloud gaming, remote play, or emulation.
• Budget-conscious players wanting premium features without breaking the bank.
• Users with cased devices or large tablets like the iPad Mini.

It’s less suited for:

• Gamers needing a compact, pocketable controller.
• iOS users reliant on touchscreen mapping for non-supported games.
• Those wanting a standalone controller for consoles without a phone or tablet.
  
  
  

Conclusion

The Abxylute S9 Mobile Controller is a standout in the crowded mobile gaming market. Its blend of affordability, versatility, and console-grade features makes it a top choice for transforming your phone or tablet into a gaming handheld. While the app’s iOS limitations and minor design quirks (like the D-pad and back buttons) hold it back from perfection, ongoing firmware updates and Abxylute’s responsive support suggest a commitment to improvement.

For under $100, the S9 delivers exceptional value, especially for cloud gaming and emulation enthusiasts. If you’re ready to elevate your mobile gaming, head to abxylute.com or check out their Kickstarter for deals. Have you tried the S9? Share your thoughts below!