PuK Modular Gaming Hardware review – “A genius new take on mobile controls”

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  • PuK Triggers are responsive but can only be used in games with HUD customisation settings
  • The Thumbstick offers a comfortable alternative to virtual joysticks
  • The ergonomic PuK Grips are lightweight

An exceptional controller can significantly enhance the experience of mobile gaming. However, imagine a world where a full-sized controller isn’t necessary. Instead, consider a scenario where individual components of a controller could be attached to your smartphone. This is exactly what the innovative Puk Modular Gaming Hardware Ecosystem offers. Crafted specifically for mobile use, the Puk system consists of Grips, Triggers, and Thumbsticks, each effortlessly connectable to your phone.

Each Part of the PuK Modular Gaming Hardware Ecosystem is sold separately

The grips and Thumbstick, both of which retail at $24.99, come in cardboard boxes, while the triggers ($14.99) arrive in a small clear plastic container. Each piece of hardware comes with a card containing a QR code that directs you to the user manuals.

The PuK Thumbstick features a green protective shield, a black base, and a black joystick. Initially, the joystick and base may seem like a single piece due to their magnetic connection. Yet, with a gentle push, they can effortlessly separate from each other.

To get started with PuK’s latest thumbstick, launch any game you prefer that includes an on-screen joystick. Position the anchor at the back of your device correspondingly to where the on-screen joystick appears. Lastly, align the thumbstick over the virtual joystick on your screen.

The PuK Thumbstick Replaces Annoying Virtual Joysticks

The joystick is the same size as most virtual joysticks, so it doesn’t take up too much of your screen. And the anchor keeps it from sliding across your screen. It’s also compatible with many cases, meaning you won’t necessarily have to undress your phone to use it. It took a bit of getting used to, as I usually push pretty far with virtual joysticks and had to adjust to the limited movement of a physical stick.

After getting used to it, I found it remarkable that it enabled me to guide my character in Call of Duty Mobile and Vampire’s Fall 2 with exceptional accuracy. Additionally, its rubberized surface keeps your thumb comfortably centered on the thumbstick, minimizing the risk of unintentional movement of your character.

Because the PuK thumbstick functions similarly to a regular external controller’s thumbstick, providing direct control over on-screen elements, there shouldn’t be any lag issues in response time. It allowed me to swiftly switch targets, take cover, and dodge enemies with ease. While the PuK thumbstick may appear costly compared to its features, if you share my dislike for virtual joysticks, it’s a worthwhile investment, particularly since it’s compatible with games that don’t support controllers.

PuK Modular Gaming Hardware Ecosystem Offers Comfort via its PuK Grips

PuK’s modular grips are surprisingly useful. The ergonomic design and textured rubber back make it feel like you’re holding a standard controller. This makes long play sessions feel way more comfortable. Furthermore, the grips are lightweight, so you won’t experience hand fatigue.

PuK Grips work well with phone cases that are no wider than 11.3mm. As the connection is semi-permanent due to adhesive, it’s advisable not to stick them directly onto your phone. Instead, the manufacturer suggests attaching them to a budget, lightweight case, which you can easily replace with your usual case when playing games.

Attaching PuK Grips to Your Phone Case

To attach the grips, turn your phone screen-side down, peel the cover off the sticky pad, and press the grip onto your phone, then repeat for the other side. The device also comes with extra sticky pads of varying sizes, allowing you to customise the fit to your phone.

Unfortunately, the PuK Grips don’t work well with the PuK Thumbstick if your phone is compact, such as the Samsung Galaxy S22, because they obstruct the sides of the back, preventing a proper attachment of the Thumbstick anchor. This was unfortunate, as the combination would have greatly enhanced gaming comfort. However, it’s good to note that the grips are compatible with the PuK Triggers.

PuK Triggers Only Work with Titles Offering HUD Customisation

The PuK Triggers only work with games such as Call of Duty Mobile and Fortnite, which have built-in HUD and Layout customisation options in their settings. Open the game you want to play and go to settings, then align virtual buttons with the two bars on the front of each trigger. Since it’s designed for games with customizable controls, you can place the triggers anywhere along the edge of your phone, so experiment to find the optimal placement for maximum comfort.

Each of these control setups has two buttons on both the right and left triggers, amounting to a total of four customizable options. By pressing a trigger, it pushes the corresponding bar towards the screen, thereby activating the aligned button. I discovered that once you overcome the initial setup and customization hurdles, these controls are both responsive and user-friendly.

The PuK Modular Gaming Hardware Ecosystem is Utterly Ingenious

PuK has taken an intriguing concept and developed it into an overall charming Modular Hardware Ecosystem, revolutionising the world of
mobile controllers
. The PuK Thumbstick is easy to set up and lets you control your avatar with precision.

Simultaneously, the Triggers offer a responsive and straightforward setup, and the PuK Grips boast durability and ease of use. Although you’ll need to select a case for permanent attachment, opting for an affordable one doesn’t present a significant challenge.

In simpler terms, using the Grips and Thumbstick together while playing games on a smaller phone might not be possible unless the controls are adjustable. And even with customizable controls, you’ll need to position the virtual joystick near the center of the screen, which can feel uncomfortable or awkward.

Indeed, the PuK Mobile Gaming Modular Hardware Ecosystem is an impressive piece of technology that I strongly suggest you explore.

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2025-06-20 06:48