Featured

Tt eSPORTS Contour iOS Mobile Gaming Controller Review

Introduction


The explosive growth in the mobile gaming market has legitimately challenged handheld consoles and rapidly become a huge money-maker for publishers. From iconic core games from the past such as Max Payne to newer classics like Hearthstone, there is something to suit everyone. While a huge proportion of games on the Android Play Store and App Store are very basic, there is a huge scope for visually demanding titles in the future. Unlike the console sector, mobile technology is constantly being improved upon and handsets could feature 6GB RAM in the next few years.

Touch-screen controls can produce a wonderful tactile experience and certainly expanded mobile gaming’s appeal with a casual audience. Despite this, many games desperately need a controller as the touch-control scheme is counter-intuitive and overly complicated. Thankfully, Thermaltake has you covered with the TT eSports Contour controller which utilizes Bluetooth and connects to any Apple device. Additionally, the Contour’s battery life is rated beyond 10 hours with a single charge and contains a rather nifty stand. The stand is able to transform an iPhone into a bonafide handheld gaming device. The question is, how does it feel in the hand?

Specifications

Packaging & Accessories 

The TT eSports Contour comes in an aesthetically pleasing red and black box which contains a clear section to view the product. Furthermore, the styling fits with Thermaltake’s gaming theme and the box’s size provides ample protection while making the internals easy to remove.

In terms of accessories, the Contour is fairly barebones and only bundled with a charging cable and user manual. This isn’t necessarily a negative point, as it cuts down on clutter and uses more environmentally friendly packaging.

A Closer Look

Here we can see the controller’s build quality and subtle Thermaltake logo which adds some flair without being too extravagant. The device’s layout is excellent and each button is positioned perfectly within a finger’s reach. Notice the extremely soft thumbsticks which feel lovely and a complete joy to use. In this closed position, the Contour looks like a regular controller and can be used with any model of iPad.

From this angle, we can see the four rear-triggers, USB connector and contoured design. Unfortunately, the L1 and R1 buttons are quite mushy and don’t leave a good first impression.

The controller houses both power and Bluetooth connectivity buttons which allow for fast pairing and virtually instant power states. I found it remarkably easy to press these dedicated buttons and felt it was more intuitive than using the Xbox’s traditional Guide function.

The back portion contains basic product identification and a clasp for lifting the integrated stand. On another note, the plastic feels rather sturdy and evokes a sense of confidence in the overall build quality.

Thermaltake decided to opt for an adjustable stand which exceeds 3.75 inches in height. As a result, most modern iPhones should fit without applying too much force. To test this, I even tried my aging iPhone 3G which just about slotted into position. Initially, I was concerned that the large degree of adjustment would lead to a fairly weak mechanism. Thankfully, this isn’t the case, and every phone I tried didn’t move at all after the initial setup.

Page: 1 2

John Williamson

Disqus Comments Loading...

Recent Posts

Trust Gaming GXT 609 Zoxa 2.0 PC Speakers

SOUNDS GREAT – Full stereo sound (12W peak power) gives your setup a booming audio…

3 hours ago

PowerA Wired Controller for Nintendo Switch

Special Edition Yoshi design Ergonomic controller shape with Nintendo Switch button layout Detachable 10ft (3m)…

3 hours ago

Logitech G Saitek PRO Flight Rudder Pedals

Fluid Motion: These flight rudder pedals are smooth and accurate that enable precise control over…

3 hours ago

Logitech G Saitek Farm Sim Controller

Heavy Equipment Bundle: Includes a steering wheel for heavy machinery, gas and brake pedals, and…

3 hours ago

Razer Ornata V3 X – Low Profile Gaming Keyboard

Low-profile Keys for an ergonomic gaming experience. With slimmer keycaps and shorter switches, enjoy natural…

3 hours ago

Glorious Gaming Model O Wired Gaming Mouse

Size & style: Ambidextrous lightweight mouse for gaming. Built for speed, control and comfort, with…

3 hours ago