LeadJoy M1C+ Review: Mobile Gaming Controller That Ticks Many Boxes

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REVIEW – If you’re one of the nearly 3 billion people who enjoy mobile gaming, you’re probably all too aware that perfect controller is a bit of a challenge. Touchscreen controls certainly have their place, but let’s be honest here – they’re not all that good for a wide variety of gaming genres.

Enter the LeadJoy M1C+, a nifty little gadget designed to transform your smartphone into a gaming powerhouse. As more gamers swap out bulky consoles for the convenience of smartphones, the demand for accessories that can keep up is skyrocketing.

The M1C+ steps into this arena, promising to be more than just another controller attachment. It’s tailored for those who want to merge the ease of mobile gaming with the tactile feel of traditional gaming controllers.

And with the recent release of Sony’s PlayStation Portal (and its scarcity), we’re likely going to see a lot of similar products hit the market. As you’ve probably already surmised, that’s what the M1C+ is.

It’s very similar in form and function but designed for smartphones. With PS Remote Play a thing, it stands to reason that you can get your mobile gaming fix and PS5 gaming on the go – all in one handy unit.

LeadJoy graciously sent me a sample to test out for myself. I ran it through its paces and after 2 weeks of almost daily use, I’ve come to find a lot that I love and a few things that could be considered drawbacks. Let’s get right into it.

What I Liked

Responsive Controls: Exceptionally precise sticks and triggers enhance gameplay.
Ergonomic Design: Comfortable for long gaming sessions, reducing hand fatigue.
Universal Compatibility: Works seamlessly with USB-C iPhones and a range of Android devices.
Plug-and-Play Ease: No complex setup or software, just connect and play.
Charge While Playing: Enables continuous gaming without battery concerns.
Advanced Features: Includes rapid-trigger, turbo functions, and Hall-effect technology.
Social Sharing Support: Screenshot and screen recording capabilities for sharing gameplay.
Aesthetically Pleasing: Sleek design with attractive tri-colored crystal buttons.

What I Didn’t Like

No Headphone Jack: Lacks an audio output option for private listening during gameplay.
No Built-in Cooling Fan: Requires an additional purchase for optimal heat management during intense gaming sessions.
Only one color scheme: It comes in a white colorway with black accents, but that’s it. It would be nice to see other options available.

Unboxing Experience

Let’s start with my unboxing experience. The moment I got my hands on the LeadJoy M1C+, the anticipation was palpable. Upon opening up this thing, the first thing that greeted me was a quick start guide. Nothing too special here. Just a simple, straightforward map to getting the most out of this gadget. But there’s one thoughtful addition that caught my eye: rubber bumper pieces in different sizes.

It’s clear that LeadJoy has considered the variety of phone sizes in the market, ensuring a snug fit for each device. Rounding off the unboxing experience was a QA inspection tab. It’s a small yet reassuring nod to quality assurance that set a positive tone for the experience ahead.

In this initial encounter with the M1C+, it’s evident that attention to detail and user experience are at the forefront of its design. The stage is now set to dive deeper into what this device has to offer in the ever-evolving world of mobile gaming.

Tip: Use code 7YQOLWXK for 20% discount when you order the LeadJoy M1C+ from Amazon. Or, purchase it directly from the Official Website and use code fanm1c20 for a 20% discount.

Design and Build: First Impressions

The LeadJoy M1C+ strikes a harmonious balance between elegance and practicality. It’s compact, a feature that immediately stands out. This isn’t just a bulky add-on that hampers mobility; it’s a sleek, streamlined companion that complements the smartphone experience.

The lightweight nature of the device is a breath of fresh air. It doesn’t add any noticeable heft to the phone, ensuring that the gaming sessions remain comfortable even during extended use.

That’s not to say it feels cheap, mind you. Material quality shines here. The build feels sturdy, not giving off a cheap plastic vibe that’s all too common in the world of mobile gaming accessories. It’s a tactile treat, to be sure – smooth to the touch, yet with enough grip to ensure it stays firmly in hand when you’re playing your favorite game.

The aesthetic appeal is not lost in its functionality. With a design that’s both modern and minimalistic, it exudes a sense of sophistication that would appeal to any gamer who values style as much as performance.

Compatibility is a key aspect of the M1C+’s design. It seamlessly connects with USB-C iPhones and a wide range of Android devices, offering a broad spectrum of gamers the chance to elevate their mobile gaming experience.

I’m very happy that LeadJoy went with USB-C here, as it’s surprisingly not uncommon to see companies continue to use the now-archaic micro-USB. It’s this universal compatibility that proves to be a testament to its thoughtful design. It caters to a diverse gaming community looking for a reliable, high-quality gaming controller for their smartphones.

Setup and Compatibility

Setting up the LeadJoy M1C+ with my older Samsung Galaxy S9+ and newer iPhone 15 Pro Max was a breeze, a refreshing departure from the often-tedious process of configuring gaming accessories. The controller doesn’t require any complex installation or time-consuming software downloads. It’s a straightforward plug-and-play affair.

I simply connected the M1C+ to the phone’s USB-C port, and the transformation was instant. My smartphone morphed into a gaming console akin to the Nintendo Switch or PlayStation Portal, ready to take on any gaming challenge.

The genius of the M1C+ lies in its adaptability, particularly evident in the fitting process with the rubber bumper. This feature is thoughtfully designed to accommodate various phone sizes, but with the iPhone 15 Pro Max, it fits like a glove.

I only had limited access to other smartphones, such as an older Google Pixel and Motorola G Play. But each device I tried fit well. The rubber bumper snaps onto the phone effortlessly, enveloping it securely and confidently. It’s not just about securing the phone, though; the bumper plays a crucial role in the controller’s cooling fan mechanism.

The free sample I received did not come included with the unique cooling fan. Kind of a bummer, but it is what it is. Intense gaming sessions can cause devices to heat up rapidly, but the M1C+ counters this with this optional add-on. The rubber bumper ensures that the phone sits flush against the controller, allowing for optimal heat conduction.

This design not only enhances the gaming experience by keeping the phone cool but also contributes to the longevity of both the smartphone and the controller. The M1C+ turns the challenge of heat management into a non-issue, allowing gamers to focus on what they love most – gaming.

But I must say – even with a two hour gaming session, I didn’t really feel like a fan was needed. My phone stayed cool without it, although I imagine it would definitely be a nice add-on.

Functionality and Features

I really appreciate that there’s no need for a lengthy setup or cumbersome pairing processes. I just plugged the controller into my phone, and the games were ready to roll. This simplicity extends to one of its most practical features: the ability to charge the phone while gaming.

This dual functionality ensures that even during marathon gaming sessions, I’m not left scrambling for a power source. The M1C+ effectively marries uninterrupted gameplay with continuous charging, and that’s an undeniable boon for any serious gamer.

Advanced Control Features

Hall Effect sticks and triggers make all the difference, and I couldn’t be happier that they’re incorporated into the M1C+. I’ve waxed poetic about Hall Effect technology plenty. In short, it’s an advancement that elevates the gaming experience.

These components are remarkably responsive, translating even the slightest movements into precise actions in-game. This responsiveness is not just about accuracy; it significantly reduces the frustration of “drift,” a common issue in older or lesser-quality controllers.

Adding to this is the rapid-trigger function, which offers a tactile and swift response to your gaming sessions. The turbo function is another standout feature, enhancing the A/B/X/Y/LB/RB/LT/RT buttons. It’s particularly useful in action or combat games, where rapid button presses can be the difference between victory and defeat.

Aesthetic and Functional Design

This accessory doesn’t just perform well; it looks good doing it. The dual-colored crystal ABXY buttons and D-pad aren’t just visually appealing; they offer a smooth and satisfying tactile experience. The buttons respond with a crisp click, providing a sense of precision and control that touchscreens can’t match. Beyond button configuration and function, you’re also given the ability to share your gameplay with others.

And in today’s gaming world, sharing gameplay is almost as important as the play itself. The M1C+ supports this trend with its screenshot and screen recording capabilities. This feature allows me to capture epic gaming moments or record entire sessions for later review or sharing. It’s a thoughtful addition that recognizes the social aspect of modern gaming, ensuring that players can easily share their experiences with a wider community.

LeadJoy’s M1C+ is more than just a gaming controller; it’s a multifunctional device that enhances every aspect of mobile gaming. From its practical charging capabilities to its advanced control features and social-sharing support, it’s clear that this controller is a game-changer in the truest sense.

Putting the M1C+ to the Test

My journey with the LeadJoy M1C+ through the realms of mobile gaming was nothing short of impressive. Kicking things off with PUBG, the controller’s precision became immediately apparent.

Every movement, from subtle aiming adjustments to rapid-fire sequences, was executed flawlessly. The controller felt like an extension of my own reflexes, a critical factor in the fast-paced, high-stakes environment of an FPS game. I also tried it on Call of Duty Mobile and it worked equally well. No issues to speak of.

Switching gears to Hongkai: Star Rail, a different aspect of the M1C+’s capabilities came to light. Here, the gameplay is less about reflexes and more about strategic maneuvering. The controller adapted seamlessly, proving its versatility across gaming genres. The smooth operation of the sticks and triggers made navigating and executing game strategies a breeze.

Throughout these gaming sessions, two things stood out: responsiveness and comfort. The controller responded to every command with pinpoint accuracy, a testament to its high-quality build. This responsiveness didn’t just enhance the gaming experience; it transformed it. Comfort, often overlooked in gaming accessories, was a highlight with the M1C+.

Its ergonomic design ensured that even after hours of gaming, there was no discomfort or strain. The lightweight nature of the controller meant that my hands and wrists remained fatigue-free, allowing me to focus entirely on my gaming strategy.

Final Verdict

LeadJoy’s M1C+ is a commendable fusion of style, functionality, and performance. It stands out with its responsive controls, ergonomic design, and cooling efficiency, catering well to the demands of modern mobile gamers.

While it’s not without its limitations, particularly its lack of an internal (or included) cooling fan, its strengths make it a strong contender in the mobile gaming accessory market. It’s a noteworthy option, priced at $69.99, which is a very fair cost considering all that it offers.