Razer’s New $100 Game Controller Folds Right Up for Your Pocket

Razer's latest $100 game controller, the Prio ultracompact, is the company's most portable offering yet. Traditionally, Razer mobile controllers have been bulky and required a tote bag for transport; however, the Prio can fit in a pocket. This portability may be a standout feature. While standard mobile controllers enable phones to function as handheld gaming devices, they are usually not pocket-sized. If you're already carrying a controller bag, a full-size Nintendo Switch 2 or a Steam Deck may be considered.

The Prio weighs 101 grams, similar to a bar of soap. When folded, it resembles a small wallet and can attach to larger phones, such as Apple's iPhone 17 Pro Max and Samsung's Galaxy S26 Ultra. The controller connects directly over USB-C and features a full-size controller layout, including two thumbsticks, a four-way D-pad, face buttons, and shoulder button triggers.

Comparable to most video game console controllers, it is set to launch as Samsung and Google unveil their 2026 phone lineups, and anticipation builds for Apple's Sept. 9 event, which is expected to showcase new iPhone models.

The Razer Prio is compatible with both iPhone and Android devices. This compact mobile gaming controller arrives at a time when consoles are becoming pricier due to a memory shortage driving up electronics costs. Nintendo's Switch 2 has increased by $50 to $500, Microsoft's Xbox Series X with a disc drive is now $800 (up $300 from its $500 launch price), and Sony's PlayStation 5 with a disc drive is now $650 (up $150 from its $500 launch price).

With prices rising, a portable controller for gaming on a phone may prove to be a more affordable alternative to owning a video game console.