Gadgets
I turned my Android phone into a gaming handheld for a fraction of the price

Summary
- Transforming an Android phone into a gaming handheld is a cost-effective alternative to expensive gaming consoles and laptops.
- Utilizing the GameSir X3 Pro mobile controller, Google Play Games, Steam Link, and GeForce Now can enhance the mobile gaming experience.
- With access to Steam and the PlayStation Remote Play App, you can enjoy a variety of titles on your phone with smooth gameplay.
Gaming handhelds like the Nintendo Switch, Asus ROG Ally X, and Steam Deck are popular because they let you play your favorite titles anywhere. They are compact, lightweight, and offer an authentic console-like experience with excellent graphics and responsive sticks and triggers.
Although I appreciate the latest gaming handhelds, I find them expensive and struggle to justify the cost. They are similarly priced to more powerful consoles, like the PlayStation 5 and entry-level gaming laptops, which arguably offer better value. With this in mind, I decided to create my own low-cost gaming handheld using an old Android phone to see how it would compare.
Samsung Galaxy S22
$625 $850 Save
$225
Related
4 reasons you don’t need a Switch 2 if you already own an ROG Ally X
Nintendo’s upcoming Switch 2 is impressive, but if you already own Asus’ handheld, you probably aren’t missing much.
1
Hardware conversion
Precise controls and cooling
Adding a mobile controller was the first and most significant step in converting my Samsung S22 into a gaming handheld. I added the GameSir X3 Pro because it’s relatively affordable and packed with the latest features like micro-switch triggers, hall-effect sticks, and rumble motors. It also features a built-in fan to ensure my phone stays cool, and a conveniently placed USB-C port to keep my phone charged while playing demanding games.
Adding a mobile controller was the first and most significant step in converting my Samsung S22 into a gaming handheld.
More importantly, the X3 Pro is comfortable for hours of use, and I can easily install and remove my phone in seconds with the spring-loaded locking mechanism. All I needed to do was slide my phone into the mobile controller’s USB-C port and plug in my charger to get the fan started, and I was ready to go.
-
Destination7 months ago
Singapore Airlines CEO set to join board of Air India, BA News, BA
-
Breaking News9 months ago
Croatia to reintroduce compulsory military draft as regional tensions soar
-
Tech News11 months ago
Bangladeshi police agents accused of selling citizens’ personal information on Telegram
-
Breaking News9 months ago
Bangladesh crisis: Refaat Ahmed sworn in as Bangladesh’s new chief justice
-
Productivity10 months ago
How Your Contact Center Can Become A Customer Engagement Center
-
Toys11 months ago
15 of the Best Trike & Tricycles Mums Recommend
-
Guides & Tips9 months ago
Have Unlimited Korean Food at MANY Unlimited Topokki!
-
Gaming9 months ago
The Criterion Collection announces November 2024 releases, Seven Samurai 4K and more