Abxylute M4 review: Smart design can't save a cramped controller

Review Abxylute M4 review: Smart design can't save a cramped controller Wesley Hilliard 0 e-mail BlueSky Mastodon X Facebook Reddit Fri May 29 2026, 03:03 PM EDT · 6 minute read Abxylute M4 review: a tiny MagSafe controller Review Rating Buy from Amazon -> If you buy through our links, we may get a commission. Read our ethics policy . The Abxylute M4 joins the growing trend of tiny iPhone controllers with an excellent concept, but its tiny layout and iPhone placement make it tough to use. I have mixed feelings about the Abxylute M4. It should be the perfect pocketable companion controller for my iPhone. However, multiple problems emerged the first time I picked it up. This device wants to be small enough that it can snap to the back of your iPhone when it isn't in use. It also has to be pocketable while holding a battery and having all of the buttons a modern game would need. Abxylute achieves these goals, and I'm glad they pursued it in the first place. The problem isn't with the device's execution, but the issues created by such a tiny form factor. I definitely don't hate it, but I'm not sure it fits entirely into its intended use case very well. Let's get into it. Abxylute M4 review: Design and features The Abxylute M4 is a 2 3/4-inch by 3-inch square-ish controller with a magnetic ring stand attachment. It is meant to attach to the rear of your iPhone while holding it aloft in landscape. Abxylute M4 review: The smallest viable iPhone controller This is in direct opposition to the GameSir Pocket Taco , a similarly sized controller that grips the bottom of the iPhone in landscape. They both connect via Bluetooth, but they're distinct in nearly every other aspect. The model I'm reviewing has Gamecube-like controllers with a purple case, green A button, red B button, and yellow right analog stick. It is downright cute and nostalgic. On paper, this should be the perfect portable controller. I believe it is the smallest-sized minimum viable controller with