Backbone One sale drops iPhone game controller cost by 50% [UPDATE: Sale ended]

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Backbone One USB-C game controller review
Backbone One USB-C game controller makes high-end gaming a pleasure on iPhone.
Photo: Ed Hardy/Cult of Mac

Backbone One (USB-C), which ranks among the absolute best clip-on game controllers for iPhone, is on sale at half the usual cost. That’s right, a Best Buy exclusive deal knocks $50 off.

This is an amazing one-day offer, and the controller makes a great gift for the gamer in your life, so don’t wait.

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Game controller makes iPhone gaming so much better

Playing FPSs or RPGs on an iPhone can be challenging. Running and shooting then rapidly switching weapons to launch a grenade is a struggle with controls on a touchscreen. It’s too hard to keep your fingers in the right spots.

But BackBone One (USB-C) wraps a physical game controller around the iPhone. You have access to the familiar sticks, triggers, D-pad… everything.

I have one of these and I love it — read my review to see why.

I’m a huge fan of role-playing games, but refuse to play any that don’t let me use a BackBone One or other external controller. Apple builds support for this type of accessory into iOS, and most of the good RPGs take advantage of it.

The most recent version includes a USB-C connector so it’s compatible with iPhone 15 and iPhone 16 models. And a telescoping design lets it fit all of them, no matter the size. It also works with many Androids.

Backbone One sale: 50% off!

The second-generation Backbone One (USB-C) launched a year ago at $99.99. And it’s this version that’s on sale from Best Buy. It’s way down to $49.99 — easily the best price for the product I’ve ever seen. Christmas and Hanukkah are coming up… hint, hint hint.

And the deal is Friday only. What are you waiting for? Don’s miss this phenomenal Backbone One sale.

Purchase it from: Best Buy

As noted, this is a Best Buy exclusive. That said, the game controller is 30% off its regular price on Amazon, lowering the cost to $69.99.

Best iPhone game controller
Backbone One iPhone/Android game controller
5.0
$99.99

Backbone One (USB-C) game controller adds real buttons, sticks and triggers to the newest iPhone models, and Androids too.

Pros:
  • Controls are always responsive.
  • Slim and light design
  • Can adapt to iPhone cases
Cons:
  • Grips are practically nonexistent
01/09/2025 02:57 pm GMT

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