When comparing XiaoMi Mi GamePad vs SteelSeries Free, the Slant community recommends XiaoMi Mi GamePad for most people. In the question“What are the best third-party game controllers for Android?” XiaoMi Mi GamePad is ranked 7th while SteelSeries Free is ranked 9th. The most important reason people chose XiaoMi Mi GamePad is:
The Xiaomi Mi GamePad feels great in the hand with its ergonomic design, and it almost feels like a mix between PS4 and Xbox One controllers.
Specs
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Pros
Pro Comfortable to use for hours on end
The Xiaomi Mi GamePad feels great in the hand with its ergonomic design, and it almost feels like a mix between PS4 and Xbox One controllers.
Pro Affordable without significant compromises
This controller can often be found for $10 cheaper than other similar controllers, but doesn't have any major sacrifices.
Pro Fully compatible with Android devices
This controller works with PC and most Android devices via Bluetooth. No additional apps or configuration is needed on Android, however some games on Windows need the Xoutput program to detect it as a Xbox controller.
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 No USB support
There is no way to connect through USB. This means you can't use it without batteries, which effectively increases the long-term cost of the controller.
Con Difficult to find in brick & mortar stores
Very few storefronts carry the controller making it difficult to find. Many people like to be able to see what they buy in person before putting their money forward, but that isn't the case here.
Con Only uses AA batteries
No internal rechargeable battery, only uses AA.
Con No phone holder
The device has no way to attach a phone like many other popular bluetooth controllers. This means you'll need to find a place to prop your phone up.
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.