The Razer Kishi V2 for iPhone is out there to buy at present for $99.99, following the launch of the Android-only Kishi V2 in July. That is the model’s second era of Nintendo Swap-like controllers for iOS units that make cell gaming really feel extra like a actual console expertise.

In case you have been considering of upgrading from the unique Razer Kishi or iOS controller, then there are a few advantages. Two new multi-function shoulder buttons can be remapped in the Nexus app (Razer’s personal gaming hub) when you take pleasure in enjoying extra advanced video games, and there’s a devoted button that may take you to the Nexus app instantly, although its capabilities of dealing with iOS integration stay to be seen provided that Apple doesn’t permit for native app streaming.

Compatibility for telephones and connections apart, the design for each the Android and iOS Kishi V2 is sort of equivalent. This implies the iOS model of the Kishi V2 shares the similar criticisms, together with uncomfortable buttons and a lack of a 3.5mm audio jack for those who want direct headphone connectivity. All the buttons and thumbstick features are the similar throughout the iOS and Android fashions, and each measure in at 3.6 x 7.1 x 1.3 inches and weigh 4.3 ounces.

Talking of buttons, these have been modeled after the tactile microswitch controls featured on one other Razer product, the Wolverine V2 console controller. We famous in our evaluation of the Kishi V2 for Android that whereas these mechanical buttons impressed on the Wolverine V2, on this smaller controller, a lack of journey makes them much less spectacular on the Kishi.

Picture by Cameron Faulkner / The Verge

The evaluation additionally notes that the Kishi V2’s efficiency falls flat in opposition to a competing Lightning-only product, the $99 Spine One. Razer seems to have taken some hefty inspiration from its competitors when designing the second era of Kishi cell controllers, although that mattered much less for the Kishi V2 for Android as Spine’s providing was designed for iOS customers. Now that customers have a selection between the two instantly competing merchandise, the constructive suggestions relating to the Spine One’s Lightning charging and three.5mm audio passthrough, software program integration, and common in-hand consolation may win over even loyal followers of Razer’s {hardware}.

The Kishi V2 for iPhone requires iOS 15.4 or later and is suitable with fashions from the iPhone SE (first- and second-gen) by means of to the iPhone 13 collection. In case you’re ready to snap up the upcoming iPhone 14, then present rumors counsel that it’ll nonetheless be rocking a Lightning connection, however we received’t know for positive if the Kishi V2 for iOS will assist it till it formally hits the market.