Amazon Luna Controller

Reviewing the Amazon Luna Controller

Amazon Luna is a cloud-based gaming service that can be accessed on many devices, including Windows, Mac, Fire TV, Fire tablet, iPhone, iPad, Chromebook and Android devices. It’s an excellent way to access an extensive library of games at a low price, but it can be challenging to play many games without a proper gaming controller.

That makes the Amazon Luna Controller an intriguing purchase for gamers who want a controller to boost their performance and comfort while playing. With a classic design and several premium features, the Amazon Luna Controller seems like a no-brainer. The BestReviews Testing Lab has thoroughly tested it to determine how well it functions.

Testing the Amazon Luna Controller

BestReviews has a group of testers who test products in a real-world environment. The testing team was asked to describe their experience with traditional and cloud gaming and then proceeded to unbox the Amazon Luna Controller to examine its capabilities and functions. The testing lab focused primarily on testing the following: how good it feels in hand, game latency, battery life and ease of pairing it with different devices such as a Fire TV, Fire tablet, PC and Mac.

The BestReviews Testing Lab strives to investigate every claim Amazon makes about the Luna Controller. For this article, the testing lab aimed to verify if the controller offers reduced latency when working in tandem with Cloud Direct, if it has precise and responsive controls, provides long-lasting comfort and if gamers can easily switch from screen to screen.

What is the Amazon Luna Controller?

The Amazon Luna Controller is a gaming controller built for Amazon Luna, Amazon’s cloud gaming service. It weighs approximately 281.5 grams and has a design similar to a traditional gaming controller, featuring a four-way directional pad, two analog thumbsticks, four front action buttons and four shoulder action buttons.

See how it compares to other products in its space — check out our reviews for the best gaming controllers for Android.

Amazon Luna Controller price and where to buy

The Amazon Luna Controller costs $70 and is available on Amazon.

How to use the Amazon Luna Controller

The Amazon Luna Controller connects to devices via Wi-Fi. However, unlike other gaming controllers, this controller requires an additional smartphone app to be downloaded. Once you download and install the Amazon Luna app to your primary gaming device, you don’t need to sync it with other devices; all you need to do is sign into your account. It also offers Bluetooth connectivity if you prefer to hook it up to individual devices.

Amazon Luna Controller benefits

Gamers accustomed to using Xbox controllers will be pleased with the Amazon Luna Controller, since the design and button layout is nearly identical. Games are responsive, and there are no latency issues no matter what type of game you play, including those with high-speed action such as shooters, adventure and racing games.

Screen-switching is a neat feature that lets users effortlessly and quickly change screens to play something else. There’s no need to sync the controller to a new device, and once a player transfers to a new screen, the old game will automatically shut off. The controller can be paired to the Steam app on a PC through Bluetooth, though it’s necessary to download Amazon’s Bluetooth driver so your computer can identify the controller.

Another plus is the integrated Alexa button, which gamers can use to search for titles and launch games. There's also a headphone jack for private listening.

Amazon Luna Controller drawbacks

The buttons feel stiffer than premium controllers of standard gaming consoles, and the controller’s weight is unbalanced since most of it is concentrated in the center. The left and right trigger buttons are positioned higher than a PlayStation or Xbox controller, making it uncomfortable to use when playing some games for extended periods.

While controllers with replaceable batteries offer more battery life, a rechargeable controller would be much more convenient. Most gaming controllers have rechargeable batteries, so this design choice is a bit archaic and a questionable move from a trusted electronics brand such as Amazon. Those used to using PlayStation controllers might find it awkward to get used to since it’s designed similarly to an Xbox controller.

Should you get the Amazon Luna Controller?

The Amazon Luna Controller has several desirable features and an ergonomic design, but it’s relatively expensive and might not be worth it for serious gamers who want a reliable controller. It’s best for casual gamers, but the same should be said about Amazon’s Luna service.

Serious gamers are better off looking into a gaming console such as an Xbox, Playstation or PC. However, those who want to access games on the go will appreciate the simplicity of Amazon Luna. This controller improves the Amazon Luna gaming experience and is a satisfactory purchase if you plan on using the cloud-based gaming service often.