I finally found a mobile game controller that’s as comfortable as the PlayStation Portal — and it actually feels like a real gamepad

The PlayStation Portal surprised many with its convenience and comfort, making it a hit despite being remote play only. Sony essentially took the DualSense controller and split it in half, placing an 8-inch screen in the middle for added comfort. However, for those who prefer platforms other than PlayStation, Sony essentially recreated the PlayStation Portal's design by taking the DualSense controller's larger handles and placing an 8-inch screen in the middle. This approach offered familiarity without compromising on comfort.

After testing out various mobile game controllers, I finally found one that provides the PlayStation Portal experience while incorporating the features of a pro controller. The Elo Vagabond is a mobile game controller that offers full-sized console ergonomics for your smartphone. Sporting swept-back handles, microswitch buttons, and anti-drift Hall Effect thumbsticks, it addresses the issue of cramped hand fatigue common on flatter mobile grips.

The Vagabond also includes pass-through USB-C charging, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and compatibility with phones up to mini tablets, transforming your mobile device into a true handheld console. Priced at $99, it's available at Elo.

Upon receiving the Vagabond, I was impressed by the number of rubber inserts included. Unlike Razer, which typically provides three pairs, Elo included six pairs with the controller. The controller is designed for durability, featuring tactile microswitch buttons instead of standard membrane ones, and magnetic Hall Effect joysticks to prevent stick drift.

A dedicated purple capture button is located next to ABXY, and the joysticks have purple anti-friction rings around their bases. When connected to your phone, the Vagabond also features subtle purple RGB lighting by default.

The rear of the Vagabond features two customizable rear buttons, which I appreciated as mapping them to frequently used face buttons provides relief to my right thumb. However, if you're not a fan of back paddles, there are toggle switches on either side to disable them. While I would have preferred true rubberized grips, the micro-textured, cross-hatched pattern molded directly into the back of the handles makes the Vagabond exceptionally easy to hold onto.

The Vagabond connects to your smartphone via a flexible USB-C connector that tilts up and down, making it easier to dock and undock your device without damaging the charging port. Elo also includes a hard carrying case that is exceptionally well-built and worth the extra investment for protecting your setup on the go. The case has a clever storage compartment designed to hold accessories like extra rubber adapters, making it ideal for travelers.

Unfortunately, the compartment was too tight to comfortably fit Elo's 240W Link USB-C to USB-C cable, but the built-in accessory storage is a valuable addition for a mobile controller built for travel.