Mobile gaming is the best it's ever been. I love that I can just bust out my phone and dive into a few minutes of high-quality action, adventure or racing games whenever and wherever.
However, using touchscreen controls was cramping my style (and cramping my hands), and I grew tired of blocking large portions of my view with my thumbs. So a few years ago, I upgraded to the Backbone One mobile controller for a better grip and better control. My on-the-go gaming has never been the same.
It was a great deal then, and it's an even better one now with this Amazon Prime Big Deal Days deal slashing the price to just $60 -- a solid 40% off its usual price. If that wasn't already enough to make this a must-snag deal, it also includes a free carrying case.
Keep in mind that this offer won't last forever. You have only one day left to take advantage of it, so make sure you act fast.
The PlayStation Edition of the Backbone One has the same buttons found on Sony's DualSense controllers, but it's compatible with more game-streaming services than just PlayStation Plus. It also supports streaming from Xbox Game Pass, Apple Arcade, Amazon Luna and more.
This Prime Big Deal Days deal applies only to the first-generation Backbone One, which features Apple's Lightning connection and is compatible with the iPhone 14 and older. Newer iPhones and Android devices that use USB-C charging will not be compatible with this version.
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The Backbone One has responsive analog triggers and great tactile buttons, as well as clickable thumbsticks. All this means the controller is perfect for cloud-based gaming.
Want to play the games installed on your phone instead? No problem. This controller works great with those as well. It's also equipped with a pass-through charging port, so you can charge your phone while you're playing, plus a headphone jack for plugging in your favorite gaming headset.
If you're in the market for just about anything else, make sure you check out our coverage of the Amazon Prime Big Deal Days deals that still remain -- at least for now. There are still plenty of offers to be found, even though the event draws to a close on Oct. 8.
Top gaming deals available today, according to CNET's shopping experts
Curated discounts worth shopping while they last.
- Xbox Wireless Gaming Controller (2025): $51 (save $14)
- Logitech G Astro A50 Wireless Gaming Headset: $315 (save $85)
- Official Luna Wireless Controller: $40 (save $30)
- Elgato Stream Deck XLR: $180 (save $120)
- Baseus 100W USB-C cable: $10 (save $5)
TECH DEALS OF THE WEEK
- $38 (save $102)
- $599 (save $200)
- $270 (save $330)
- $16 (save $10)
- $165 (save $85)
Why this deal matters
Backbone One controllers are designed to be convenient, tactile and comfortable. Although updated versions of this controller with USB-C connectivity are available for newer iPhones and Android phones, today's major price cut only applies to the Lightning connector version of the Backbone One device.
However, if you're looking to zero in on a well-priced game controller and step up your gaming experience on an older iPhone, now's an excellent time to swoop in. The Backbone One also includes a carrying case, making it easy to toss in a bag and take your gaming on the go.
Looking for more gaming deals? You'll find plenty of bargains on games and accessories for the PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch available right now.
CNET is always covering a wide array of deals on tech products and much more. Start with the hottest sales and discounts on the CNET Deals page, and sign up for the CNET Deals Text to get daily deals sent straight to your phone. Add the free CNET Shopping extension to your browser for real-time price comparisons and cash-back offers. And peruse our gift guide, which includes a full range of ideas for birthdays, anniversaries and more.
