ELO VAGABOND Review: The Ultimate Mobile Controller for iPhone 15 & Galaxy S24!
August 29, 2024 | by Smith Elsie
What’s up with all of you? Once again, it’s ETA Prime, and today we’re going to evaluate the brand-new ELO Vagabond, a mobile controller that has been causing quite a stir among gamers.
I’ve been closely following the ELO Vagabond for a few months now, and after seeing prototypes and hearing rumors about its capabilities, it’s thrilling to finally hold the finished product in my hands. Designed to elevate the mobile gaming experience, especially for owners of flagship smartphones like the Galaxy S24 and iPhone 15, it’s clear that ELO has put a lot of thought into this controller.
Design and Build Quality
The first thing that catches your eye with the ELO Vagabond is its full-size USB Type-C telescoping design. It’s built to accommodate a wide range of devices, from smartphones to 8-inch tablets like the iPad Mini and Lenovo Y700. Although it doesn’t support larger tablets like the iPad Pro and Galaxy Tab S9, within its intended device range, the Vagabond performs exceptionally well.
One of the standout features of this controller is its Hall-based analog sticks and triggers. These provide a level of precision and smoothness that’s hard to find in other mobile controllers. The full-size sticks are reminiscent of those found on premium console controllers, offering a more comfortable and responsive gaming experience than the smaller, less ergonomic analog sticks found on many other mobile controllers.
Button Layout and Ergonomics
The button layout of the ELO Vagabond shows a thoughtful design process. The D-pad, face buttons, and bumpers all utilize mechanical switches, delivering a satisfying tactile response. The D-pad, in particular, impresses me as one of the best I’ve tested, offering the perfect blend of responsiveness and firmness—crucial for accuracy during intense gaming sessions.
One unique aspect of the Vagabond is the inclusion of lockout switches and customizable extra keys around the back. If you’re prone to accidentally pressing the back buttons, these lockout switches allow you to disable them. This is a considerate innovation that highlights ELO’s commitment to providing a comfortable and customizable gaming experience.
Compatibility and Usability
Where the Vagabond really shines is in its compatibility. I’ve yet to come across another controller that includes spacers and rubber grommets to accommodate smartphones with cases on. Whether you prefer to game with a case or not, ELO even provides a measurement card to help you find the perfect fit for your device. This level of attention to detail ensures your device is secure, whether you’re gaming at home or on the go.
Setting up the controller is a breeze. Just slide your device into the USB Type-C connector, and you’re ready to go—no need to fuss with Bluetooth connections. Additionally, the controller features a 3.5mm audio jack, offering decent sound quality for mobile gaming, even without a preamp.
Performance
When it comes to performance, the ELO Vagabond delivers an experience that stands out in the crowded market of mobile controllers. Whether you’re gaming on an iPad Mini, Galaxy S24 Ultra, or iPhone 15 Pro Max, the controller’s Hall-based technology ensures that gameplay is fluid, responsive, and precise. The ergonomic design of the Vagabond further enhances comfort, even during those marathon gaming sessions.
Customization for Every Gamer
One of the key features that set the ELO Vagabond apart is its programmable back buttons. These can be a game-changer for many players, offering an added layer of personalization. Whether you want to disable certain buttons to avoid accidental presses or assign them to specific in-game actions, the flexibility is there. This feature caters to gamers who demand more control over their gaming experience, making the Vagabond not just a tool, but a companion in gaming.
A Revolutionary Tool for Mobile Gamers
For gamers on the go, the ELO Vagabond is tipped to be revolutionary, especially for those with high-end smartphones like the iPhone 15 and Galaxy S24. In this review, we’ll explore the Vagabond’s standout features and functionality, as well as why it’s quickly becoming a favorite among mobile gaming enthusiasts.
No Fuss, No Missed Presses
One of the Vagabond’s most impressive features is its ability to prevent accidental button presses. The lockout mechanism for the rear buttons ensures that you won’t accidentally trigger unwanted actions during gameplay. This alone makes the Vagabond an attractive option for those who prefer a hassle-free gaming experience. Once connected to your device, the Vagabond operates seamlessly, allowing smooth navigation throughout the operating system, just like any other Android controller.
Unleashed Software: A Comprehensive Tool
The ELO Vagabond’s functionality is further enhanced by the Unleashed software, which is a significant addition. This software allows you to remap buttons to your liking and calibrate the analog sticks and triggers. Calibration is simple—just rotate the analog sticks in a circular motion six times to get started. It’s worth noting that while the illumination around the analog sticks is a single color, you can adjust the brightness of the LED rings using the software.
However, one feature that Unleashed currently lacks is the ability to map physical buttons to on-screen touches for Android games like Genshin Impact. Although this is a minor drawback, the software indicates that this feature is “coming soon.” For now, Android users may need to rely on third-party apps to achieve this. On the iOS side, however, games like Genshin Impact and Call of Duty Mobile are compatible with the Vagabond straight out of the box.
Ergonomics and Performance
The Vagabond excels in ergonomics, offering a natural and comfortable grip that feels just right in your hands. The Hall-based triggers deserve special mention for their linear action, providing a snappy and fluid experience, particularly in racing games where precision is crucial. The analog sticks, also Hall-based, are a joy to use, offering a full-size feel that is both accurate and comfortable—far superior to the smaller, Switch-style sticks found on many other controllers. Thanks to the magnetic-based technology, you won’t have to worry about stick drift, a common issue with traditional analog sticks.
The D-pad on the Vagabond also stands out. ELO has done an excellent job with its design, and while some gamers might prefer a traditional D-pad over the mechanical switches used here, the responsiveness and shape make it ideal for fighting games. The design ensures that your thumb won’t get caught, allowing for smooth rolling motions essential for pulling off combos in games like Marvel vs. Capcom 2.
Compatibility and Charging
The Vagabond is compatible with a wide range of devices, including high-end smartphones like the Galaxy S24 and iPhone 15, as well as 8-inch Android tablets and iPad Minis. Whether or not you use a case, the rubber grommets and spacers included with the controller ensure a snug fit. When connected via USB Type-C, the Vagabond delivers a lag-free and reliable gaming experience.
While you can charge your mobile device while gaming, the Vagabond’s charging speed is somewhat underwhelming. It’s not fast charging, but at 10.7 to 11 watts, it’s sufficient to keep your device powered during extended gaming sessions. It’s not a deal breaker, but faster charging would have been a welcome addition.
Final Verdict
For gamers who value comfort, precision, and customization, the ELO Vagabond mobile controller is a strong contender. The combination of a well-designed D-pad with Hall-based analog sticks and triggers creates a controller that feels almost professional in quality. The Unleashed software adds even more value, offering a streamlined interface with a wealth of customization options.
However, the Vagabond’s $149 price point may deter some potential buyers. While it’s not the first mobile controller at this price, it does push the envelope of what many would consider reasonable for a mobile gaming accessory. That said, if you’re serious about mobile gaming and want a controller that delivers top-tier performance, the ELO Vagabond is certainly worth considering.
For those interested in purchasing the Vagabond or learning more, links to the official website are provided below. Stay tuned for future updates, including the eagerly awaited button mapping feature for Android users. Until then, happy gaming!