Ohsnap! MCon Mobile Magnetic Controller impressions

In a world where mobile gaming can be a player’s primary platform, controllers have become an increasingly demanding piece of hardware. Mobile controllers started with simple buttons that would have suction cups to be used on the screens covering the touch overlay. They have evolved to the point of simply creating a console style controller in size with a bracket to connect your device.

This has been an ever evolving side of the industry but Ohsnap! has really changed the game. The MCon controller was a standout mobile gaming device revealed at CES 2025. It was created by 19/20-year-old YouTuber and inventor Josh King in collaboration with accessory company Ohsnap (founded by Dale Backus). They took the value of having a sleek design with the importance of functionality that is easy to set up and supported for both iOS and Android devices.

The initial plan was to give it a try at CES 2026, but was unable to attend. Ohsnap was kind enough to send me a sample to spend some time with and see how it compares to the many mobile controllers I have used over the years. At first glance, its clever design reminded me of the old T-Mobile Sidekick (Yes, showing my age). I loved the slide up or flip screen and this was a cool way to show off the tech as seen in many promo videos from CES and other creators spending time with it.

I’ve had some time with the MCon and at first, my concern was it felt like my hands were too big for it and trying to play something like Fortnite which uses all the shoulder buttons caused some hand cramping, but after playing, realized I didn’t set up the handles on the back which are nestled neatly and can easily be overlooked if you are not looking at the box images or set up guide. (Shame on me).

In my defense, I’ve played with controls that are even made for consoles that are small and rectangular without the handles. The major difference is how important the handles come into play. The grip gives your fingers more flexibility when it comes to more complex controlled games like Fortnite. One thing to keep in mind is the overall experience will vary on device size and weight as well.

My testing was with a Pixel 7 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max which are both large and heavy. Seeing all the flashing videos of the controller snapping quickly into play mode was not as rewarding as its a slower slide up due to the weight but doesn’t change the performance more so the balancing in hand. To help combat that, you have an eject button on the face of the controller which lets you disconnect the magnetic portion that mounts to the phone and becomes a kickstand so you can hold the controller on its own and this is worlds better for anyone that suffers from arthritis or carpal tunnel. If you are planning to use it directly connected via the magnetic portion, your device needs to be magsafe supported or you can use an included adapter you can stick to your device or case.

Having the dual methods of using works really well and I appreciate that I can change my play style on the fly. The Bluetooth connection works well and didn’t experience any lag during my sessions. There is a USB-C port on the bottom where you can charge while you play but it will not charge your phone. The Mag Res Joysticks take a little getting used to with everyone adopting hall-effect sticks but they clearly cannot work here due to the magsafe based design could cause issues.

With CES 2026, Ohsnap also announced some newer designs which end up being even slimmer. The design is very stylized and can see the evolution of MCon to just get better with each model. I have enjoyed my time with the MCon and highly recommend it for anyone looking for a cool, sleek, and visually impressive controller that you can show off to your fellow gamer friends.

Check out the full Ohsnap prduct Line at the official site, here: https://ohsnap.com/collections/mcon/

Here are all the detailed specs/features for the MCon:

• Quick Launch: The button-activated slider raises your phone into playing position in one smooth motion.
• Kickback Mode: Allows you to remove the Control Cover and prop your phone up for tabletop play.
• Deployable Grips: Ergonomic handles lock open to reduce hand strain during longer gaming sessions.
• GameSir™ Mag-Res Joysticks: Ultra accurate, lower power consumption, anti-stick drift joysticks.
• Hall-Effect Analog Triggers: Console-grade triggers allow for precise control in throttle-based games.
• GyroScope: Enables motion-based input for tilt-to-aim, driving, or flying games.
• Protected Controls: When closed, MCON’s buttons and joysticks are safe from snags and damage.
• Auto On/Off: Automatic wake when opened; low-power standby when closed. No wasted battery.
• Portrait Mode: Rotate the MagSafe puck and play in portrait! We see you, emulator lovers.
• Bluetooth Multi-Connect: Connect up to 3 devices and quickly switch between them by double tapping the pair button.
• Made to Mod: MCON was designed to be moddable, upgradable, and repairable. We believe you should have the right to truly own your devices.
• Works With All Phones: MCON attaches to your phone with MagSafe and includes an adapter for non-MagSafe devices.