Mobile Gaming Holiday Gift Guide 2024

When it comes to mobile gaming it’s crazy how far the technology has come. Players went from playing incredibly basic experiences, or emulations of classics, to an iPhone playing Resident Evil 4 Remake. This is nothing short of incredible, though to truly experience everything these platforms have to offer, there are a number of fantastic accessories. Since this can be a big investment, this guide will highlight some of the best accessories in the mobile gaming space.

Controllers

ELO Vagabond

After a successful kickstarter campaign ELO eSports released their first mobile gaming controller, Vagabond. Poised to be the “pro controller” for mobile platforms, it performs surprisingly well. Not only does it feature Hall Effect, and mechanical controls, it feels amazing to hold.

It delivers well on the promise of a pro controller for mobile platforms, and is more than capable of playing your favorite game on the go. Best of all, they’re running some nice discounts right now, along with a number of accessories that will help take it to the next level. And for those still on the fence, feel free to check out our review where we gave it an Editor’s Choice.

CRKD Atom

With it being so small it can fit on a keyring, Atom is the perfect companion for someone not looking to use precious pocket/backpack space over a controller. In addition to that, it offers 10 hours of battery life, a wide variety of fun colors/designs, and has the incredibly fair MSRP of $20.

One of the biggest benefits of mobile gaming is not having to carry additional equipment. However, that isn’t the best way to experience a lot of games, and naturally certain concessions need to be made. This is where CRKD’s Atom controller really stands out.

Phone Accessories

Ohsnap!

While options like CRKD Atom sound great on paper, one of the biggest downsides is needing to angle your phone. Several options exist, with the most notable being PopSocket, though these can take up more space/change how you hold a phone. This is where I like Ohsnap!’s Snap Grip Luxe.

The high quality take on the popular accessory offers works in a number of configurations, including a kickstand, without adding much bulk. It’s also reusable, so this is can investment that can work on future devices, or simply be removed if there are issues with it.

The reason why we listed the company instead of the product is the wide array of accessories that can be paired with it. For example, Snap Grip Wallet is six or so RFID blocking wallet that has the aforementioned grip built-in. Said grips can also be paired with their Desk Power Kit for a great stand that doubles as a charger.

HyperX Cloud MIX Buds 2

Following feedback from their original true wireless gaming headset, HyperX set out to create a better product. This ended up being the Cloud MIX Buds 2, which recently released. It boasts Bluetooth 5.3, ANC, up to 26 hours of battery life, and a tiny USB-C dongle.

The dongle is a huge advantage, as it seamlessly works with most USB-C devices. So I can plug it into something like the ROG Ally, move it to my phone, and then when I get home instantly connect it to my computer/gaming console. It’s a great way to ensure a fantastic connection, without having to rely on bulky headphones, or strictly Bluetooth. The only downside is it does not pair well with things like Vagabond.

MAGEASY Sacoche Bag

Recently there has been a big push for slings, and other low capacity bags. One solid option in this category is MAGEASY’s Sacoche bag. Centered around being a low profile, yet still stylish, design it offers quick access to key things, and an interior that opens with even more options. It’s a great option for someone looking to bring their phone, wallet, controller, headphones, key documents, keys, and more without using a big bag, or pocket space.

INNOCN Portable Monitor

Similar to Ohsnap!, another way to address the controller dilemma is by utilizing a portable monitor. With INNOCN offering sizes in 13″, or 15″, it’s an experience much closer to what you’d expect at home. And with options including OLED screens, it can match, or even improve on your phone’s base experience.

Naturally, this isn’t as practical as the minimalist approach we’ve had thus far, but it has a lot of interesting use cases. One such example is going on a trip, and using it to better experience your game(s) on the go. It’s also nice because it has uses beyond simply being a gaming accessory. It can be used to better examine photos, watch videos without having to rely on tablet/laptop, or alternate between productivity tasks. Plus, with it being about the size of a tablet it isn’t too bad in most set ups.