8BitDo’s FlipPad: The Ultimate Portable Game Boy Experience for Your Phone

Both 8BitDo and GameSir unveiled compact gamepads at CES 2026, designed to transform smartphones into handhelds reminiscent of the Game Boy. GameSir’s Pocket Taco hit the market months earlier, but the anticipation for 8BitDo’s FlipPad has proven worthwhile. While the Pocket Taco may cater better to certain players and devices, the FlipPad offers a thinner, lighter, and more affordable option that’s convenient for on-the-go gaming without relying on touchscreen controls.

The FlipPad ranks among 8BitDo’s smallest gamepads yet, connecting directly to your smartphone via its USB-C charging port instead of Bluetooth. This design choice eliminates the need for a rechargeable battery, allowing the FlipPad to remain attached to your phone when you slip it into your pocket.

The underside of the FlipPad features a thin rubber layer to protect your phone’s screen from scratches and enhance grip. However, since it’s secured only by the USB-C connector, it can wiggle slightly during gameplay.

The USB-C connector is fixed and not adjustable. While it worked seamlessly with OnePlus and Google Pixel phones in thin silicone cases, it struggled to connect with my iPhone 16 Pro when encased in a thicker folio-style case.

One of the standout features of the FlipPad is the absence of charging hassles or Bluetooth pairing when switching between devices. Its hinged USB-C connector allows the controls to flip out of the way, granting full access to your smartphone’s touchscreen without needing to disconnect the gamepad.

8BitDo is renowned for its high-quality hardware, and the FlipPad feels as premium as its pricier console controllers, with button labels etched directly onto most buttons. However, while the D-pad and ABXY buttons utilize silicone membranes, they feel stiffer and clickier compared to other 8BitDo controllers.

The buttons are responsive but have less travel, which may take some getting used to. A more contentious design choice is the placement of the two pairs of shoulder buttons, which are arranged in a single row on the front of the gamepad rather than on the top edge. This design may help maintain a slim profile, but it can feel awkward to use your index fingers for shoulder buttons while your thumbs manage the rest.

Keep in mind the controller’s limitations: it only works with vertically oriented games, and you may need to adjust their positioning on-screen to avoid obstruction by the gamepad. I tested the FlipPad with Game Boy, GBA, Super Nintendo, and Sega Genesis games using Delta and RetroArch emulators on my iPhone. Delta centers games vertically when using a controller, but they can be partially obscured by the FlipPad. This can be easily remedied by enabling touch controls and using a skin that positions the game higher on the screen.

The FlipPad comes in two color options: an all-black version and one inspired by the original Game Boy’s colors. Preorders are now available, with the gamepad set to release on July 30th for $29.99.

While the FlipPad is slightly cheaper than the $34.99 Pocket Taco, it’s essential to note that the Pocket Taco has its advantages. Although I prefer the FlipPad’s sleek design, I lean towards casual gaming and classic Game Boy titles. Others might favor the Pocket Taco’s larger D-pad and buttons, which offer a softer feel, or its shoulder buttons positioned on the back of the phone for easier access.

The Pocket Taco is bulkier and heavier than the FlipPad, but its clamping mechanism feels more secure, accommodating thicker cases. Its rechargeable battery also prevents draining your phone’s battery during play and allows it to function as a standalone wireless controller for various devices, including the Switch. While I enjoy the FlipPad, the Pocket Taco still presents a compelling option for just an extra $5.