The Turtle Beach Atom, a video game controller designed for mobile phones, is finally seeing a release for iOS devices. The Turtle Beach Atom debuted last year in December for Android phones, competing with other similar devices such as the Backbone and the Razer Kishi. The controller splits in half, allowing you to place your mobile phone inside, and connects using Bluetooth.
The controller will not be compatible with all iPhones, requiring at least an iPhone 11 or newer to function. However, if you have one of those models, it’s worth considering whether or not the Atom is worthwhile.
Should You Purchase the Turtle Beach Atom?
Turtle Beach is known for producing great quality accessories and peripherals for gamers, so it’s no surprise they’d tap into a budding market of mobile game controllers. Especially with the advent of services like Apple Arcade, which boasts a library of games such as Dead Cells, Stardew Valley, and even NBA 2K23, a controller for your phone is more useful now than ever.
RELATED: Turtle Beach Atom Controller Review – Is This Mobile Controller Splitting Opinions?
The Atom is sleek and simple while offering all the features gamers need in a controller. It doesn’t actually connect to a phone via a cord but rather connects via Bluetooth, making the experience all the more seamless. The controller also boasts incredibly low latency, which is very handy for more hardcore titles.
There are a couple of caveats that you should know about before taking the plunge. Unlike the Backbone and the Razer Kishi, the design of the Atom doesn’t allow for charging while playing. If you like to play for extended periods of time, you’ll want to take that into consideration.
SEE ALSO: EA Sports Announce FC Mobile, the New and Improved Version of FIFA Mobile with First Time Cover Star
The design is also a bit awkward since it comes in two pieces that connect to both sides of the phone. It may not feel completely secure while using, and that can throw off your gameplay experience if you aren’t adjusted to it. It’s unlikely to actually fall off of a phone during use, but the ergonomics certainly leave something to be desired.
Also, if you intend to use the controller to play Xbox Game Pass games via Xbox Cloud Gaming, be forewarned that doing so requires a Game Pass Ultimate Subscription, which is a bit of an upcharge from the standard subscription. However, if you’re seeking a controller for all of your Apple Arcade titles and you can deal with all of the hurdles, then the Turtle Beach Atom might be the one you’ve been waiting for.
When Can You Purchase the Turtle Beach Atom?
If you’re starting to get sold on the Atom for iOS, you won’t have to wait for long to get your hands on it. The Turtle Beach Atom for iOS will be available on September 11th and is currently available for preorder through the Turtle Beach website and via Amazon. The launch price for the Atom is $79.99. So, will you be purchasing an Atom? Let us know in the comments!
Follow us for more entertainment coverage on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.