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PowerA Moga XP5-X Plus Review: The Best Bluetooth Gamepad for Xbox, PC, and Mobile Gaming.
Design and Build Quality
Aesthetics
Alright, let me get this out of the way. The PowerA Moga XP5-X Plus looks clean. Straight up, it’s like an Xbox controller went to the gym, got ripped, and decided to moonlight as a mobile gaming beast. You’ve got that classic Xbox vibe with offset sticks, tactile ABXY buttons, and triggers that feel ready for action. It’s familiar but still fresh. That adjustable phone clip? It’s a mixed bag. While it works well with smaller devices, larger phones like my Android test device made it wobble slightly during intense gameplay. Not a deal-breaker, but something to note if you’re rocking a big-screen phone. For a closer look at how it stacks up against other options, check out this guide to the best mobile game controllers to see where the XP5-X Plus fits into the big picture.
Materials
Now, let’s talk feel. You know how some controllers feel like you’re holding a toy? Yeah, not this one. The XP5-X Plus feels sturdy, like it’s built to survive your most intense gaming moments and maybe a rage quit or two (don’t ask me how I know). The textured rubber grips on the sides are perfect for marathon sessions. Whether your hands are dry or you’re sweating out the final round in an adventure game, this gamepad isn’t slipping. The buttons and analog sticks are smooth but not flimsy. Everything feels deliberate, like PowerA actually asked, “What do gamers want?” before designing this thing.
Comfort
Let’s be real. Comfort makes or breaks a controller, especially if you’re gaming for hours. This one delivers. Yes, it’s a little heavier than your standard Xbox controller, but that’s because of the built-in power bank (more on that later). The weight is balanced, though, so it’s not like you’re bench-pressing while gaming. The grips are ergonomic, and your hands fall naturally into place. No awkward clawing, no cramping. Whether you’re grinding on PC, Android, or Project xCloud, this thing feels like it was built for real gamers.
Performance and Usability
Controller Responsiveness
Performance-wise, the XP5-X Plus delivers. The buttons and triggers feel sharp and responsive, and the analog sticks are smooth with just the right resistance. Whether you’re exploring open worlds or precision-timing platform jumps, this controller stays reliable and accurate. On Xbox Cloud Gaming, PC, and Android, it held up beautifully.
Latency
Latency can be a dealbreaker for some gamers. Over Bluetooth, I noticed a slight delay. Not enough to ruin the experience, but if you’re all about that precision, wired mode is the way to go. Using a USB connection eliminates lag entirely, making it perfect for timing-based games.
Battery Life
Now, that 3000mAh power bank? Absolute game-changer. It gave me about 10 hours of continuous gameplay while also charging my phone mid-session. For mobile gaming, this kind of endurance is practically unheard of. Even if you run out of juice, the XP5-X Plus charges quickly with the included USB cable.
Ease of Setup
Getting started with the XP5-X Plus is straightforward. Pairing over Bluetooth with an Android phone or connecting to PC is quick, and the remappable buttons are easy to configure. If you want a hands-on walkthrough, check out my YouTube review for a full demo and setup guide.
User Experience
While the phone clip is a great addition, it’s not perfect. It’s stable with smaller devices but gets a little wobbly with larger phones. Adjusting your phone’s position can help, but it’s something to keep in mind if you’re using a big-screen Android device. Beyond that, the textured grips, well-placed buttons, and intuitive layout make every gaming session enjoyable and frustration-free.
Verdict: Should You Buy It?
Let me break it down. If you’re serious about mobile gaming, dabbling in Xbox Cloud Gaming, or need a dependable PC controller, the PowerA Moga XP5-X Plus is an absolute steal. It’s versatile, comfortable, and packed with features that set it apart, like that built-in power bank. Sure, it’s a little heavier than average, and the phone clip isn’t perfect for larger devices. But for $69.99, you’re getting premium build quality, multi-platform support, and a gamepad that’s ready for just about anything.