Razer has introduced the Prio, a new USB-C mobile game controller designed for smartphones that folds down to a remarkably small footprint. The Prio aims to combine the responsiveness and layout of a conventional controller with an ultra-compact design that makes it easy to carry when not in use.
Available now, the Razer Prio stands out for how compact it becomes when folded. The controller attaches to either side of a phone and connects via USB-C for low-latency input. When you’re finished playing, the Prio folds flat to a footprint similar to a credit card — just slightly wider and taller — while remaining substantially thicker. This compact form factor makes it far easier to stash in a pocket or bag compared with most mobile controllers. The unit weighs 101 grams, keeping it light enough for mobile use without sacrificing build stability.
Despite its small folded size, the Prio retains many of the features gamers expect. It includes low-profile thumbsticks with tactile feedback, a full D-pad, ABXY face buttons, and dual bumpers and triggers. To address the common issue of thumbstick drift, Razer designed the sticks around contactless sensors, which can provide longer-lasting, drift-resistant performance compared with older mechanical potentiometer designs.
Functionally, the Prio behaves like most phone-mounted controllers: it clips to each side of the smartphone and communicates directly through the USB-C connection. This wired approach reduces input lag compared with Bluetooth, which is particularly important for fast-paced games where responsiveness matters. The compact design does not compromise on control layout — buttons and sticks are positioned to preserve a familiar console-like feel while keeping the controller portable.
Razer positions the Prio as a highly portable option for mobile gamers who want a full-featured controller without the bulk typical of many attachable gamepads. The controller’s compactness, combined with contactless thumbstick sensors and a complete set of buttons and triggers, makes it suitable for a broad range of mobile titles, from casual touch-replacement games to competitive shooters and indie platformers.
In addition to design and controls, the wired USB-C connection preserves battery life on the controller itself and avoids pairing issues associated with wireless setups. The compact folded dimensions mean the Prio can be transported easily alongside a phone, rather than requiring a dedicated carrying case. For users who prioritize portability but still want a traditional control experience, this form factor can be a compelling trade-off.
Razer is selling the Prio at a price point comparable to other popular mobile controllers. Interested buyers should evaluate how the Prio fits with their phone size and gaming needs, especially if pocketability and minimal storage footprint are priorities. Potential buyers will also want to check compatibility with specific games and phone cases, since the controller clips to the phone’s sides and requires direct USB-C access.
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