Verdict
The ASUS ROG Tessen is a well-designed, premium gaming controller aimed at the mobile gaming community. While it comes with a hefty price tag, it delivers on performance and functionality, especially for Android users. Its foldable design and advanced features make it a standout choice for serious gamers on the go, but some ergonomic issues and lack of iOS support could be a deal-breaker for others.
Pros & Cons of ASUS ROG Tessen
Key Features
🗜️ Folding Design: The ROG Tessen folds to fit most phones, shrinking down for easy storage and portability.
🎮 Rear Paddles: Two additional rear buttons give it a console-like feel and more control options.
🔌 Pass-Through Charging: Play and charge your device simultaneously with the USB-C connection, ensuring uninterrupted game play.
🔧 Customizable Buttons: Remap buttons to suit your gaming style, giving you a competitive edge in various titles.
⚡ RGB Lighting: Adds a touch of style, but beware—it can drain your device’s battery if left on.
Introduction
The ASUS ROG Tessen aims to fill a niche in the mobile gaming market, offering a high-quality, compact controller for Android devices. Inspired by controllers made for ASUS’s own ROG Phone series, it brings the same level of detail and functionality to a broader audience. Despite being a standout in terms of design and features, it’s not without its flaws. With no iOS support and a shape that may not suit everyone, it’s a bit of a mixed bag. However, for Android users looking for a premium mobile gaming solution, it’s hard to beat.
Design
The ROG Tessen is as stylish as mobile controllers come. With its angular design and LED trim, it’s clear this is a product aimed squarely at gamers.
The foldable feature is the star here, allowing the controller to collapse into a compact form that’s easy to stow away. But this design is more than just aesthetic.
It also means the Tessen can fit a wide range of Android devices, thanks to its adjustable size and multiple rubber inserts that secure your phone in place.
The build quality is solid, with a combination of matte and glossy finishes that give it a premium feel. The buttons, too, are top-notch. The microswitches offer satisfying feedback, making each press feel deliberate and precise.
The rear paddles are a nice touch, giving the controller a professional feel that’s rare in mobile gaming accessories.
However, the design isn’t perfect. The controller’s shape isn’t the most ergonomic, especially for those with larger hands.
The grips are a bit too short, and during longer gaming sessions, this can lead to discomfort. The asymmetrical thumbsticks are small and not recessed, which might be an issue for those used to larger, more contoured designs.
Performance
In terms of performance, the ASUS ROG Tessen doesn’t disappoint. It connects via USB-C, ensuring a stable, lag-free connection. This direct connection means there’s no need to worry about Bluetooth latency or battery life, making it ideal for competitive gaming.
The microswitch buttons are a highlight, offering fast, responsive inputs that make it easy to execute complex maneuvers in games like Dead Cells or Call of Duty Mobile. The rear paddles are another standout feature, allowing for more advanced control schemes typically found on high-end console controllers.
However, the controller’s support in games is hit or miss. While it works flawlessly in some titles, others may not recognize the inputs correctly, or certain in-game functions may not be accessible.
This is more of a software issue than a hardware one, but it’s something to keep in mind if you plan to use the Tessen across a wide variety of games.
The RGB lighting is a fun touch, adding a bit of flair to the controller. However, it’s not just for show. It can also drain your device’s battery if left on for extended periods, so it’s best used sparingly.
Latest Deals
ASUS ROG Tessen
the is available on Amazon and other major retailers. The price is on the higher side, typically around $110, but deals and discounts can sometimes be found. If you’re looking for a high-quality, versatile mobile gaming controller, the Tessen is worth considering, especially if you can snag it on sale.
Final Thoughts
The ASUS ROG Tessen is a fantastic option for those serious about mobile gaming. Its compact, foldable design, high-quality buttons, and rear paddles set it apart from the competition. However, it’s not perfect. The shape may not suit everyone, and the lack of iOS support limits its versatility.
If you’re a dedicated Android gamer looking for a premium, portable controller, the ROG Tessen is a solid choice. For casual gamers or those on a budget, there are more affordable options out there. But for those willing to invest, the ROG Tessen offers a top-tier mobile gaming experience that’s hard to beat.
In conclusion, the ASUS ROG Tessen is a great piece of kit for those who know they’ll use it to its full potential. It’s not the most comfortable or the cheapest, but its features and build quality make it a compelling choice for dedicated mobile gamers.