When comparing SteelSeries Stratus XL vs SteelSeries Free, the Slant community recommends SteelSeries Free for most people. In the question“What are the best third-party game controllers for Android?” SteelSeries Free is ranked 9th while SteelSeries Stratus XL is ranked 12th. The most important reason people chose SteelSeries Free is:
The SteelSeries Free has a built in rechargeable battery that is charged through a USB cable. This makes it more convenient than a AA or AAA battery powered controller, as you won't have to worry about always having extra batteries on hand. Also, a rechargeable battery is cheaper in the long run.
Specs
Ranked in these QuestionsQuestion Ranking
Pros
Pro Comfortable to hold
This is a full sized controller, and feels similar to the Xbox controllers. Its curves help it fit comfortably in your hand, and the controller doesn't become uncomfortable to hold even for extended periods of time.
Pro Simple setup for both Android and Windows
Setup on Android is as simple as pressing the pairing button on top, and pairing it to your Android device like any other Bluetooth accessory. Windows setup is slightly trickier, but still easily manageable for nearly anyone.
Pro Great joysticks
The joysticks are indented on top, giving your thumb extra grip. The texture is also grippy, making the grip that much better. In addition, these joysticks can be pushed in like on console controllers which acts like an additional button.
Pro 40 hours of gameplay per 2xAA battiers
On a single pair of AA batteries you can expect 40 hours of game time. There are 4 lights on the front that indicate the battery life which will blink when there is about 20 minutes of battery life left.
Pro LED status lights
The 4 dots in the bar near the top of the controller are 4 LED lights which give you pairing information, as well as indicate battery life.
Pro Built in rechargeable battery
The SteelSeries Free has a built in rechargeable battery that is charged through a USB cable. This makes it more convenient than a AA or AAA battery powered controller, as you won't have to worry about always having extra batteries on hand. Also, a rechargeable battery is cheaper in the long run.
Pro Small and portable
The SteelSeries Free is pretty small and only weighs 1.91 ounces, meaning it is very pocketable and easy to carry around.
Pro 3rd party app support
Luckily there is a third party app that allows for customization of the inputs on this device. It is called Game Controller 2 Touch and has full support for the SteelSeries Free.
Pro First party app available
SteelSeries provides a free app on the Google Play Store to set up ones device.
Cons
Con Bulky
Unlike many of the other controllers mentioned here, this one doesn't fold, and it isn't flat so it can't easily fit into a pocket. You'll need a purse, murse, backpack or satchel to carry it around which makes this a less attractive option if you'll be gaming on the go.
Con Uses AA batteries
Instead of an incorporated battery which can be recharged via a cable, this controller uses disposable batteries. You'll need to keep some on hand, and this will add to the overall cost over a length of time instead of simply being able to recharge the controller.
Con Only two shoulder buttons
Many ports and games utilize four shoulder buttons, meaning some games will not work with this controller.
Con First party app is useless
Apparently the SteelSeries Engine app does not work as advertised and is pretty much useless.
Con The tiny size makes your hands feel cramped after a while
While it's very portable, your hands are going to be squished after playing on it for a few hours.