Nacon MG-X Pro Rapid Review
With the continual improvement of cloud gaming comes the inevitable launch of more Bluetooth gaming controllers. The MG-X Pro is the latest Bluetooth device from Nacon that turns your Android phone into a wireless controller, allowing you to play your favourite Xbox games on the go. We reviewed the MG-X in our Christmas Gift Guide and were quite impressed even though it did have its flaws. Read on to find out if we felt that the latest offering from Nacon is deserving of its Pro title.
Design and Feel
While only available in black, the MG-X Pro looks and feels the part. It is made out of plastic, but it doesn’t feel cheap in the slightest. Its textured grips give you the confidence that it’s not going to slip out of your hands during more intense gaming sessions. A vast improvement over the MG-X is the triggers. They feel far more reactive and like those found on the official Xbox controller. The thumbsticks are also textured, meaning that you’re able to get a good grip.
When you attach your phone to the controller, it feels secure, which is reassuring considering that your phone is one of the most expensive purchases you make. The MG-X Pro works with Android phones up to 6.7 inches, and initially, my OnePlus 9 made the controller feel particularly wide in hand, but you soon get used to this, and it becomes very comfortable to use. The lightness of the MG-X Pro means that you won’t suffer from arm ache or soreness and further enhances the feeling of comfort.
Connectivity
The MG-X Pro connects to your Android phone using Bluetooth 4.2, and while this could have had the potential for input lag, I didn’t notice any at all. When playing games like Halo Infinite, I performed as well, or as badly, as I usually do. Using Bluetooth 4.2 instead of the latest 5.2 ensures that you’ll be able to connect to a wide range of Android smartphones.
Compatibility
The MG-X Pro is designed for use with Xbox Cloud Gaming and works exceptionally well with it. However, in my testing, I was pleasantly surprised to learn that I could also use it to play my Stadia games. Unfortunately, games like PUBG Mobile and Call of Duty Mobile are not supported.
Battery Life
Nacon advertises that a fully-charged MG-X Pro offers 20 hours of gaming, and I can confirm that this is indeed accurate. Battery life is so impressive that I’ve only had to charge it once.
An LED status light indicates the current battery level, and when it is low, the MG-X Pro can be charged with the included USB-C cable and any charging plug, for example, a smartphone charger. You can use your controller while it’s charging so you can continue your gaming without interruption.
X Marks the Spot
The MG-X Pro works perfectly with the Xbox Game Pass app, and you’ll be playing some of your favourite games on the go in no time at all.
If you’re an Xbox gamer, the MG-X Pro will quickly feel familiar thanks to the buttons’ layout, and the Nexus button works like you would expect when using the Game Pass app on Android. The only thing missing is a dedicated screenshot button found on the newest Xbox controllers.
Conclusion
Overall, I was impressed with the MG-X Pro. It’s comfortable, works seamlessly with Xbox Cloud Gaming, and offers brilliant battery life. If you’re looking to get into cloud gaming and need a controller for your Android phone, the MG-X is an excellent option. At the price of £79.99, it’s not the cheapest or the most expensive on the market, but I feel that the price is more than fair for what you’re getting.
Rapid Reviews Rating
4.5 out of 5
4.5
You can read more about the MG-X Pro on the Official Nacon website.
You can purchase your own MG-X Pro from Argos in the UK.