abxylute S9 vs M4: Which Mobile Gaming Controller Should You Buy?

abxylute S9 vs M4: Which Mobile Gaming Controller Should You Buy?

Mobile gaming isn’t just about tapping on a screen anymore. If you’re serious about performance, you want the same level of control you’d get from a console. That’s where abxylute comes in. The brand offers two very different controllers built for different types of gamers: the feature-packed S9 telescopic controller and the ultra-portable M4 snap-on gamepad.

Choosing the right one can mean the difference between frustration and truly seamless, satisfying gameplay. Here’s a full breakdown to help you decide.

abxylute S9 Features

The abxylute S9 is built for serious mobile gamers who want console-level performance without compromise. It combines Hall Effect sticks, premium analog triggers, real vibration feedback, and a telescopic design that expands from 110mm up to 216mm. It supports everything from standard smartphones to large tablets (up to 8.8 inches), delivering a true handheld console experience.

Hall Effect Joysticks and Triggers for Zero Drift

The standout feature is Hall Effect technology. Both the thumbsticks and triggers use magnetic sensors, eliminating traditional mechanical wear and preventing stick drift. The thumbsticks are rated for five million rotations, while the triggers offer 256 levels of analog sensitivity for ultra-precise control.

This ensures consistent performance over time without the jumpy inputs common in standard controllers.

Dual Vibration Motors with Four Intensity Levels

The S9 features dual asymmetric rotor motors that deliver stronger and more immersive feedback than most mobile controllers. You can choose from four vibration intensity levels depending on your game style. Go heavy for racing and shooters, or lighter for precise aiming.

6-Axis Gyroscope for Motion Controls

The built-in 6-axis gyroscope enables smooth motion aiming and steering in supported games. Titles like Call of Duty Mobile, PUBG Mobile, and Genshin Impact benefit from more precise aiming and enhanced immersion. Motion controls also improve racing and platform games by allowing tilt-based interaction.

Customizable Controls and Professional Build Quality

The S9 includes three interchangeable D-pad styles, two stick cap heights, and two programmable back buttons for custom macros. Its weight and ergonomics are similar to a full-size console controller, with anti-slip matte grips for long sessions.

The extended 9mm USB-C connector fits most phone cases without removal, and the built-in 3.5mm headphone jack with USB DAC ensures high-quality audio during gameplay.

abxylute M4 Features

The abxylute M4 takes the opposite approach by focusing on portability above all else. Weighing just 56 grams and roughly the size of a deck of cards, it’s designed for gamers who want real controls without carrying bulky hardware.

Ultra-Lightweight Pocket-Sized Design

Measuring 74.8 × 69.5 × 15mm and weighing only 56g, the M4 easily fits into your pocket. It comes as a two-piece set: the main controller and a precision-milled aluminum magnetic ring that functions as a MagSafe mount, protective button cover, and multi-angle kickstand.

MagSafe Snap-On Attachment System

The M4 magnetically snaps onto MagSafe-compatible iPhones (iPhone 12 and newer) and select Android devices with magnetic support. For non-MagSafe phones, an adhesive magnetic ring is included so most devices can use the snap-on system.

You can also detach the controller and use it wirelessly while your phone stands on the kickstand, giving you both handheld and tabletop play options.

Optimized for Retro Gaming and Emulators

The M4 is especially well-suited for retro gaming and emulators such as Delta, RetroArch, PPSSPP, and DraStic. Its PSP-style slider circle pads and responsive D-pad work perfectly for 8-bit, 16-bit, and early 3D games.

While it’s not designed for competitive 3D shooters, it excels at classic platformers, RPGs, and retro titles like Super Mario World or classic Pokémon games.

10–13 Hour Battery Life

Unlike the S9, the M4 has its own built-in 300mAh battery. It provides approximately 10–13 hours of playtime per charge, typically reaching around 12 hours in real-world usage.

Which Controller Is Right for You?

Modern Mobile Games

If you primarily play modern AAA mobile titles such as Call of Duty Mobile, PUBG Mobile, Genshin Impact, Diablo Immortal, or Zenless Zone Zero, the S9 offers superior control. Hall Effect triggers provide smooth acceleration control for racing, and larger thumbsticks improve aiming precision in shooters. Combined with gyro aiming and vibration feedback, it delivers a more immersive experience.

Operating System Compatibility

Apple users may prefer the M4 for its seamless MagSafe snap-on design that requires no clamps. The T-shaped grip works especially well for vertical iOS games.

The S9 supports USB-C iPhones but performs best on Android, where users gain access to full mapping support, multiple input modes, and broader compatibility.

Emulator Gaming

Both controllers handle emulation well, but for different situations. The S9’s full-size grips and sticks are ideal for long, comfortable sessions at home. The M4 is perfect for quick retro gaming sessions on the go due to its compact design and responsive D-pad.

Summary Comparison Table

Feature abxylute S9 abxylute M4
Weight 250g 56g
Form Factor Telescopic wraparound MagSafe snap-on
Connection USB-C (primary), Bluetooth 5.3 Bluetooth 5.3
Joysticks Hall Effect thumbsticks Slider circle pads
Triggers Hall Effect analog (256 levels) Digital hair triggers
Vibration Dual motors, 4 levels None
Gyroscope 6-axis motion controls None
Battery Powered by device 300mAh (10–13 hours)
Audio Jack 3.5mm with USB DAC None
Back Buttons 2 programmable None
Price $69–$89 $49
Best For Modern games, long sessions, precision Retro games, portability, casual play

Conclusion

The abxylute S9 and M4 aren’t designed to replace each other. They serve different gaming needs.

The S9 prioritizes precision, immersive feedback, and full-featured performance for modern mobile gaming and cloud gaming. The M4 focuses on extreme portability and quick-access retro gameplay.

If maximum control and performance matter most, choose the S9. If portability and convenience are your priority, the M4 is the smarter pick.