Design and Build Quality
The SteelSeries Stratus XL represents a significant improvement over its predecessor, adopting a design philosophy that clearly draws inspiration from Microsoft's Xbox One controller. I found the controller's resemblance to the Xbox One gamepad immediately apparent, featuring the same familiar button layout and overall aesthetic, with the notable exception of symmetrical thumbstick placement reminiscent of PlayStation controllers.
The build quality impressed me considerably more than the original Stratus. Whilst constructed primarily from plastic, the Stratus XL feels substantially more robust, with a matte finish that provides excellent grip during extended gaming sessions. The controller weighs approximately 8.4 ounces, striking a comfortable balance between premium feel and portability.
A removable battery compartment on the rear houses two AA batteries, which SteelSeries thoughtfully includes in the package. Four LED indicators on the front provide clear battery life feedback, ensuring you're never caught off guard by a dead controller mid-game.
iOS and Android Compatibility
Where the Stratus XL truly excels is its compatibility with iOS and Android devices. I tested the controller extensively across various iPhones, iPads, and Android smartphones, finding the Bluetooth connectivity consistently reliable. The controller supports iOS 7 and later, as well as Android devices running 3.1 or higher.
Setting up the Stratus XL proved refreshingly straightforward on both platforms. On iOS devices, the pairing process through Settings worked flawlessly, whilst many games recognised the controller automatically without requiring manual setup. Android compatibility proved equally impressive, with the controller working seamlessly across different manufacturers' devices.
The controller's MFi (Made for iPhone) certification ensures broad compatibility with iOS games, and I found over 600 compatible titles available on the App Store at launch. Popular games like Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas, Asphalt 8, and Call of Duty all benefit dramatically from physical controls.
Gaming Performance
During extensive testing with mobile games, I found the Stratus XL delivered consistently impressive performance. Racing games like Asphalt 8 felt dramatically more enjoyable with physical controls compared to touchscreen alternatives. The analogue triggers provided excellent pressure sensitivity, allowing for nuanced acceleration and braking control that touchscreen inputs simply cannot match.
Button feedback proved excellent throughout testing, with each input registering reliably and responsively. The shoulder buttons and triggers feature smooth operation with appropriate resistance, whilst the clickable thumbsticks offer precise control for camera movement and character navigation. I experienced virtually no input lag during gameplay, with the Bluetooth connection maintaining consistent responsiveness.
The transformation of mobile gaming with the Stratus XL is remarkable. Games that felt clunky or imprecise with touch controls suddenly become genuinely enjoyable. First-person shooters benefit enormously from dual-stick control, whilst racing games gain the precision that makes them competitive with dedicated console experiences.
Battery Life and Connectivity
One of the Stratus XL's standout features is its exceptional battery life. SteelSeries claims over 40 hours of continuous gaming, and my testing confirmed this impressive figure. The two included AA batteries lasted through weeks of regular gaming sessions, making the controller ideal for extended play without constant charging concerns.
The reliance on AA batteries initially seemed like a step backwards compared to rechargeable alternatives, but the exceptional battery life quickly won me over. Unlike many Bluetooth accessories that require frequent charging, the Stratus XL simply keeps working. When batteries do eventually expire, replacement proves both quick and inexpensive.
Bluetooth connectivity remained stable throughout testing, with the controller maintaining connections reliably across various devices. The pairing process is straightforward, and reconnection to previously paired devices happens automatically in most cases. Multiple controllers can be paired to single devices for local multiplayer gaming.
Notable Limitations
Despite its many strengths, the Stratus XL suffers from one significant omission that impacts mobile gaming. The absence of a device clip or mount means users must prop their iPhone or iPad against stands or lay them flat during gameplay. This limitation feels particularly frustrating given the controller's mobile gaming focus.
Many competing mobile controllers include adjustable clips that securely hold devices at optimal viewing angles. The Stratus XL's omission of this feature forces users to seek alternative mounting solutions, which somewhat undermines the controller's portability advantages. For living room gaming with Apple TV, this proves less problematic, but mobile gaming sessions require creative device positioning.
Additionally, the controller lacks haptic feedback or rumble functionality, which reduces immersion in supported games. However, this omission helps maintain the impressive battery life and keeps manufacturing costs reasonable.
Value and Pricing
At £65, the SteelSeries Stratus XL occupies premium territory within the mobile gaming controller market. This pricing places it above most budget mobile gaming accessories whilst positioning it below dedicated console controllers. The question becomes whether the enhanced mobile gaming experience justifies this investment.
For serious mobile gamers who regularly play controller-supported titles, the Stratus XL's build quality and performance easily justify the cost. The transformation it brings to mobile gaming experiences, particularly for complex genres like action games and racing simulations, proves substantial. However, casual users who only occasionally game on mobile devices may struggle to justify the premium.
Compared to the original Stratus at £60, the XL's additional £5 delivers significantly improved ergonomics and build quality. This modest price increase feels entirely justified given the substantial improvements in comfort and reliability.
Verdict
The SteelSeries Stratus XL successfully addresses the original Stratus controller's shortcomings whilst establishing itself as the premier mobile gaming controller available in 2015. The improved build quality, exceptional battery life, and broad iOS/Android compatibility create a compelling package for serious mobile gamers.
Whilst the lack of a mobile device clip represents a notable limitation, I found the Stratus XL's strengths significantly outweigh this omission. The controller excels at transforming mobile gaming experiences, making complex games genuinely playable and enjoyable on smartphones and tablets.
At £65, the Stratus XL isn't an impulse purchase, but for users who regularly game on mobile devices, it represents excellent value. The controller delivers console-quality control experiences to mobile platforms, making it an essential accessory for serious iOS and Android gamers. However, the price point may deter casual users who only occasionally require physical controls.