Razer Kishi V1 vs Kishi V2: All You Need to Know
By Naila Syifa
Updated September 2023
Razer Kishi, first released in 2020, was a total game-changer for mobile gaming. It allowed gamers to play on their phones with console-level comfort and controls.
Now, Razer has released an upgraded version of the Kishi: the Kishi V2. What are the differences between the Kishi V1 and Kishi V2, and is it worth upgrading? Let's compare the two versions to find out.
| Specs | Razer Kishi | Razer Kishi V2 |
|---|---|---|
| Buy on Amazon | Buy on Amazon | |
| Price | $69.99-$99.99 | $99.99-$199.99 |
| Dimensions (Collapsed) | 94.3 x 134.1 x 37.3 mm | 92.2 x 180.7 x 33.9 m |
| Weight | 163 g | 123 g |
| Connectivity | Lightning or USB-C | Lightning or USB-C |
| System Requirements | iOS 9 or higher, or Android 8.0 or higher | iOS 13 or later, or Android 10.0 or higher |
| Audio Jack | No | No |
| Pass-Through Charging | Yes | Yes |
| Ultra-Low Latency Gameplay | Yes | Yes |
| Game Recording | No | Yes |
| Live Stream | No | Yes, YouTube and Facebook |
| Mobile App | Razer Kishi | Razer Nexus |
Key Takeaways
Razer Kishi V2 is better than Razer Kishi as it offers new features like recording or taking screenshots, live-streaming, Virtual Controller Mode, and new tactile buttons. V2 has an extendable bridge to support more smartphone types, while the V1 has a collapsible design for easy storage and portability.
Razer Kishi
Standard Features
✓ Compatible with Android and iPhone
✓ Ultra-Low Latency Gameplay
✓ Pass Through Charging
✓ Ergonomic Design
Razer Kishi V2
Upgraded Capabilities
✓ Compatible with Android and iPhone
✓ Ultra-Low Latency Gameplay
✓ YouTube and Facebook live streaming
✓ Virtual Controller Mode
#1 Price
Razer Kishi V2
The original Razer Kishi comes in 3 versions: Razer Kishi for Android ($79.99), for iPhone ($69.99), and for Android (Xbox Edition) ($99.99).
On the other hand, the Razer Kishi V2 is available in 3 versions: Razer Kishi V2 for Android ($99.99), for iPhone ($99.99), and for iPhone (Xbox Edition) ($119.99).
As we can see, the Kishi V2 is more expensive than the Kishi V1, especially the iPhone (Xbox Edition) version.
#2 Design
Razer Kishi V1
Both the Kishi V1 and V2 have an ergonomic design that provides both comfort and portability. Both models have a built-in Lightning/USB-C connector that you can connect to your phone's charging port, providing Ultra-Low Latency Gameplay with smoother and faster response than a typical Bluetooth or other wireless controller.
One difference is the original Razer Kishi is collapsible and can be folded to a smaller size, making it easier to carry around. However, this latch system makes it a bit more difficult to fit in your phone securely. On the other hand, the Kishi V2 is not collapsible, so it is not as portable as the V1. However, it features an extendable bridge that allows for easier and more secure placement of your phone in the controller. This is a trade-off you might want to consider.
Another difference between the two Razer mobile gaming controllers is that the Kishi V2 features new tactile buttons that are more responsive and provide better feedback than the Kishi V1. Two new buttons are also added to the Kishi V2, one to directly open the Razer Nexus app, and the other to quickly record or capture screenshots.
#3 Smartphone Compatibility
Razer Kishi V2
Depending on the version you buy (the Android or iPhone version), both Kishi V1 and V2 are compatible with a wide range of iPhone and Android smartphones. The Razer Kishi V1 is compatible with devices running iOS 9 or higher, or Android 8.0 or higher. Meanwhile, the Kishi V2 supports iOS 15.4 or higher, or Android 9.0 or higher.
The original Kishi V1 supports phones with older systems, but the new Kishi V2 is compatible with phones with larger dimensions. Its extendable bridge can support phones with a maximum dimension of 11.5 mm (thickness) x 170 mm (length). On the other hand, the Kishi V1 supports phones with lengths only up to 163.7 mm and thickness only up to 8.8 mm. That means, you probably should take off your phone case if you want to use the Kishi V1.
#4 Supported Games
Razer Kishi V1
In terms of supported games, the Kishi V1 and V2 don't have any major differences. Both support native mobile games that are compatible with controllers, including some popular titles like Call of Duty Mobile, Diablo, Fortnite, and Minecraft.
Cloud gaming services are also supported, so you can use the Kishi V1 or V2 to play games on Google Stadia, NVIDIA GeForce Now, Amazon Luna, or Xbox Cloud.
In addition, you can also stream games from your PC or console with remote play, so you can play your favorite games on Xbox, PlayStation, and Steam.
#5 Features
Razer Kishi V2
One feature that the Kishi V1 and V2 share in common is Pass Through Charging. This allows you to charge your phone while you're playing by connecting your charging cable to the controller's charging port, so you can play for longer periods without worrying about your phone's battery life.
Both Kishi V1 and V2 also offer a companion smartphone app, but they have significant differences. Kishi V1's Razer Kishi app provides a hub for supported games and settings, so you can launch your installed games quickly and discover new and popular titles.
Kishi V2's Razer Nexus app provides more than just a game library. It allows you to live stream through YouTube or Facebook Live, and the Android version offers Virtual Controller Mode to unlock controller support for touchscreen-only games. That means, you can remap the touchscreen controls to the Kishi V2's buttons, allowing for greater flexibility and compatibility.
Razer Kishi vs Razer Kishi V2
Final Thoughts
Razer Kishi V2
The Razer Kishi V2 is an upgrade from the Kishi V1 in terms of design, smartphone compatibility, and features. The new extendable design supports greater smartphone compatibility and more secure placement. Tactile feedback and the new app shortcut and screenshot buttons are also helpful. Moreover, the V2 comes with the new Nexus app with more features, including live stream support and Virtual Controller Mode.
In conclusion, upgrading from Razer Kishi to Razer Kishi V2 will take your mobile gaming experience to the next level.
If you like to read more about Mobile Gaming Controllers, check out our other relevant guides here:
Razer Kishi vs Blackbone One
Razer Kishi V2 vs Blackbone One
Backbone One (1st Gen) vs Backbone One (2nd Gen)
Don't miss out on tech
Subscribe to our newsletter to stay up to date on the latest tech trends and guides on the best gadgets around.
Recommended reading
