Already have a cloud gaming handheld

Dedicated cloud gaming handhelds from Logitech and Razer promise to deliver an AAA console-like experience in your pocket. But instead of spending hundreds on a cloud gaming handheld, maybe you should use the one you already own: your smartphone.

Portable Cloud Gaming Devices Are Basically Smartphones

Your smartphone cannot play DVDs, but it can stream Netflix movies. The same idea applies to gaming in the cloud, rather than uploading red dead redemption either The last of us on an expensive console or PC, you can stream it to your underpowered phone, Chromebook, or smart TV through a service like Xbox Cloud Gaming.

As cloud gaming becomes more popular, AAA titles will become more accessible. A subscription fee is much cheaper than a new Xbox or PlayStation! Still, Logitech and Razer expect you to buy their dedicated cloud gaming handhelds, which cost hundreds of dollars.

These portable cloud gaming devices are basically smartphones. Logitech’s G Cloud handheld runs an outdated version of Android and uses a Snapdragon chipset from years ago. You can even install apps and games from the Google Play store! (Although it doesn’t support mobile networks, which is a bit strange.)

That said, Logitech G Cloud can offer a better cloud gaming experience than a smartphone. Not only does it have a built-in controller, but it uses a custom Android launcher (basically a custom home screen) and has a 16:9 screen (same aspect ratio as a TV, so you won’t be adding a letterbox to the Console games ). Oh, and Razer’s Edge 5G Handheld takes advantage of Verizon’s network for mobile cloud gaming!

Are these benefits worth a few hundred dollars? For most people, the answer is probably “no.” Your phone is perfectly equipped for cloud gaming and you probably already have a smartphone compatible gamepad. Until you’ve tried cloud gaming on your phone, I’m not suggesting buying a product like Logitech G Cloud or Razer Edge 5G.

All you need is a Gamepad

unless you are really good When using a touch screen, you need a cloud gaming controller on your phone. Almost any controller will work, though I suggest using one that is popular and supported by services like Xbox Cloud Gaming or NVIDIA GeForce NOW.

Here are some cloud game controllers for your smartphone:

I highly recommend using a controller that sticks to the sides of your phone, like the Razer Kishi or Backbone One. These devices make your smartphone feel like a Nintendo Switch, are incredibly portable, and often use a wired connection. to remove the delay.

But an Xbox or PlayStation controller will also do the job. And you can always buy a small, affordable adapter to attach your smartphone to the top of an Xbox or PlayStation gamepad.

Once you’ve tried cloud gaming on your smartphone, you may decide that a dedicated handheld isn’t worth it. Of course, if you’re not already using a cloud gaming service, you need to find one worth trying.

Which Cloud Gaming Service Should You Use?

Now that Google Stadia is in the grave, there are only three major cloud gaming services to choose from. And luckily, they’re all pretty unique. You’ll quickly know which service is right for you, especially if you’re already an Amazon Prime or Xbox Game Pass subscriber.

These are the three big cloud gaming services:

For most people, Xbox Cloud Gaming is the way to go: It has a wide selection of games, it only charges you a dollar for your first month, and since it’s tied to Game Pass Ultimate, it unlocks a ton of free games for you. your Xbox or PC.

The second most popular cloud gaming service, NVIDIA GeForce NOW is the best choice for serious PC gamers. GeForce NOW lets you stream titles you already own in your Steam or Epic library, delivering the highest-quality graphics of any cloud gaming platform. (Plus, GeForce NOW offers a free tier!)

And of course, Amazon Luna offers several free games to Prime subscribers. But Luna doesn’t always match the performance of Xbox Cloud Gaming or NVIDIA GeForce NOW, and its best games lurk behind an additional monthly fee.

Unfortunately, cloud gaming requires a decent internet connection. Before you sign up for a cloud gaming service, try checking your internet speed: Microsoft suggests a download speed of 10 Mbps for cloud gaming on a smartphone, although 40 Mbps or more is ideal.