Backbone One - Lightning (2nd gen) vs Backbone One (2023)

Both are the same Backbone One controller with the same shape, D-pad and low-latency wired connection; the only real decision is your phone's port. The Lightning model fits iPhones with a Lightning port, while the USB-C model fits Android phones and USB-C iPhones. Owners praise the build, comfort and near-zero lag, but some report a fragile internal ribbon that breaks if the controller snaps shut, and a few units fail within months. Buy the connector that matches your phone; there is no feature reason to pick one over the other.

• Choose the Backbone One Lightning if you have an iPhone with a Lightning port and want the collapsible design with a 3.5mm headset jack and pass-through charging.
• Choose the Backbone One USB-C if you have an Android phone or a USB-C iPhone and want the same controls with magnetic adapters for a better fit.