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MOGA XP5-X Plus review: An Xbox One controller but better and made for phones
August 08, 2025
Moga XP5-X Plus
What we like
What we don’t like
If you want a gaming controller for your smartphone, there are literally hundreds from which to choose. For a controller to really rise to the top, it needs every important feature and to come in at a reasonable price. As we’ll talk about in this MOGA XP5-X Plus review, this controller does all that — and more.
However, there is the problem of “too much of a good thing,” and that might be the ultimate downfall of the XP5-X. Although I’d be hard-pressed to point you to a more powerful, all-around controller on the market, I might not recommend the XP5-X to casual gamers.
Read on to find out what I mean!
What is the MOGA XP5-X Plus?
If you quickly glanced at the MOGA XP5-X Plus, you might think it’s just an Xbox One controller. In a way, you’d be correct, as this product is an officially-licensed Xbox product designed to work withMicrosoft xCloud, the game-streaming service. As such, it looks and feels like a real Xbox controller and even features the classic Xbox green color palette.
Related:Xbox Series X: Everything you need to know
However, the MOGA XP5-X Plus is not designed for use with an Xbox console. In fact, itdoesn’t work with Xbox consoles, which is interesting. Instead, it works with smartphones, tablets, and PCs either through Bluetooth or wired connections.
The big differences between the XP5-X Plus and a regular Xbox One controller are as follows:
Who is the MOGA XP5-X Plus for?
In years past, mobile gaming was very simple — think Angry Birds or Candy Crush. Nowadays, mobile gaming phenomenons likePUBG MobileandFortniteare more complex and players might demand something better than on-screen controls. Those gamers will love something like the MOGA XP5-X Plus.
Related:The 15 best Android games available right now
Additionally, the power of flagship Android processors is finally allowing forconsole emulationthat can go toe-to-toe with entry-level PCs. With all the standard buttons of console controllers, as well as even more re-mappable triggers, emulation fiends will adore this setup.
Finally, the primary reason this controller exists in the first place: Microsoft xCloud. Microsoft’s game streaming service acts almost like a Netflix-for-games. For a flat monthly fee, you can stream dozens of Xbox games from Microsoft’s servers directly to your phone. If you plan on using xCloud, this controller is what you’re looking for: it works with the service out-of-the-box.
What’s in the box with the MOGA XP5-X Plus?
Inside the North American retail box of the MOGA XP5-X Plus, you’ll find the following:
What devices are compatible?
If you’re the kind of person who holds onto their Android phones and tablets for a really long time, we have good news: the MOGA XP5-X Plus is compatible with any Android device running Android 6 Marshmallow or later. That should cover pretty much everything out there.
Related:The best Android phones for gaming you can get
According to MOGA, the included smartphone clip can fit any phone that is under 79mm (3.12in) wide or 8mm (0.33in) thick. However, these dimensions are almost certainly conservative. I used the clip with aSamsung Galaxy S20 Ultrain a very thick protective case that amply exceeded these dimensions and it worked without issue. I am confident in saying that pretty much any phone on the market will fit in the clip — just ignore what MOGA is saying here.
As far as PCs go, you should be able to use this with any modern computer. MOGA doesn’t list out the operating systems or versions it supports, but the controller is capable of both DirectInput and XInput, so that covers pretty much everything.
Does the MOGA XP5-X Plus work with iPhones?
The XP5-X Plus is geared towards Microsoft xCloud, which is unavailable on iPhones. As such, there is no official compatibility with iPhones (or iPads, for that matter). None of the included cables have Lightning connections, either, so it’s clear the controller isn’t meant for iPhones.
However, iPhones do support Xbox One controllers, which this controller essentially duplicates via Bluetooth. In that sense, this controller could work with iPhones over Bluetooth — but MOGA does not officially support it.
What I like about the MOGA XP5-X Plus
What I don’t like about the MOGA XP5-X Plus
MOGA XP5-X Plus review: Is it worth it?
TheMOGA XP5-X Plusis, without a doubt, one of the best mobile-centric controllers I’ve ever used. It nails the basics out of the park. The fact that it’s got a huge rechargeable battery pack with an amazing smartphone clip included just makes it even more awesome.
At around$70, the XP5-X Plus is also affordable. The MSRP for a bonafide Xbox One controller is$60and that’s without the rechargeable battery system and phone clip. The MOGA XP5-X Plus is a bargain in comparison.
There are some drawbacks. The reliance on outdated tech (Micro USB, ugh) as well as the less-premium feel don’t work in the controller’s favor. Moreover, the sheer number of buttons and toggles might be a power user’s dream, but a casual gamer may be overwhelmed. If you don’t know the difference between DirectInput and XInput or don’t have the need for remappable buttons, this will probably be too much machine for you.
As I said at the top of this review, there are many, many controllers on the market. If you don’t care for the MOGA XP5-X Plus, theRazer Kishihas a much different design but has a lot of the same features. We have a full roundup ofthe best controllers for Android phonesthat’s an invaluable resource if you’re on the hunt!
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