review – Cloud gaming allows us to play AAA games on phones and tablets, but games that use touchscreen controls leave a lot to be desired. The SteelSeries Stratus+ is designed to solve this problem with an Android/PC game controller that integrates a phone stand, so you can play on the go.
What is it?
SteelSeries Stratus+ is a dual joystick Game Controller It has a removable mounting system for mobile devices. Stratus+ is compatible with Android devices via Bluetooth and can also be connected to a PC via USB. Borrowing the stick layout from the PlayStation controller, the Stratus+ has a standard layout with an 8-way directional pad, four action buttons, shoulder bumpers and triggers, and dual clickable thumb sticks. Dedicated back/select and forward/start buttons flank the central home button, with an LED indicator light in the top center.
What’s in the box?
- SteelSeries Stratus+ Game Controller
- USB-A to USB-C playback charging cable
- Travel Slim Phone Holder
Features and Specifications
feature
- Android, Chromebook and PC Compatibility
- Detachable phone holder
- Nvidia GeForce now recommends gamepads for cloud gaming
Specification
- Connectivity: Bluetooth LE v4.1 or wired USB
- Compatibility: Android 4+ (wireless), PC (wired)
- Battery: Li-Ion, 90+ hours
- Weight: 244 grams
impression and performance
Out of the box, the SteelSeries Stratus+ game controller is lightweight and feels natural in the hand. The buttons are comparable to a basic Xbox controller, and don’t feel mushy like you sometimes use third-party controllers. As shown below, the controller is very similar in size to the Xbox controller.
As expected from SteelSeries, the Stratus+ game controller performs on par with first-party mainstays. The trigger travel is shorter than expected, and it’s responsive — a complement to the Hall-effect magnetic sensor. From the joystick we observed minimal dead zone. Stratus+ gameplay is very smooth, with no noticeable lag between input and execution.
The phone mount is attached by sliding in a rubber gasket that is attached to the controller housing. It’s extended just enough to accommodate the tested Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra, but if a mounting solution is what you’re after, Galaxy Fold owners should look elsewhere. It’s worth noting that the weight of the phone causes the controller to be top-heavy and lean back when laid flat on a surface.
The phone mount for the SteelSeries Stratus+ game controller is frictionally attached from the metal rod of the mount into the rubber grommet on the top of the controller. This mounting system works and has the advantage of not putting a clip or phone on anything on the controller itself. The stand usually stays secure and in place, but if you move the controller (eg, drop it down and pick it up again), the stand may start to swing freely a little.
what do I like
- Build Quality and Performance
- The phone holder is removable and will not get in the way
- Long battery life
what would i change
- The phone mount could be more sturdy
- Wider device compatibility
final thoughts
With support from Microsoft, Sony, Google, Amazon, and Nvidia, cloud gaming is becoming a more viable platform. As technology continues to improve, hardware-agnostic access to AAA game libraries is the way of the future. It’s easy to see that a controller needs to serve this market, and SteelSeries is up to the task with quality products. The SteelSeries Stratus+ game controller is a must-have for Android and Chromebook-exclusive gamers. However, the value proposition without Stratus+’s broader platform support is a bit shaky. Modern Xbox controllers are Bluetooth capable and can be used for the same purpose, although there is no built-in phone mount (although third-party mounting options are available).
price: $59.99
where to buy: SteelSeries and Amazon
source: Samples for this review provided by SteelSeries.
