Gadgets

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

Published

3 weeks ago

May 4, 2025

Empowerment

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

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

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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.