PlayStation Portal vs. Backbone: What’s the Difference?

Handheld gaming has never been so popular and equally accessible, making the choice between a PlayStation Portal and a Backbone One an important decision for gamers. Both devices promise to enhance the mobile gaming experience, so it’s essential to examine the nuances and intricacies of both.

We will explore the features, functionalities and compatibility as we look at the differences between PlayStation Portal Remote Players and Backbone controllers. Whether you’re looking for a handheld version of your PlayStation 5 console or broader gaming consistency across multiple platforms, you’re going to want to keep reading as we dive into the world of PS Portals and Backbones. 

If you’ve already looked into PS5 Digital Edition vs. PS5 and decided which PlayStation format you prefer, the next logical step is to pick up a PlayStation Portal. But, what is a PS Portal, anyway? The PlayStation Portal is a handheld gaming device that allows you to stream and play PS5 games on a portable controller with an LCD display and two side grips. The controller is similar to the PS5’s DualSense gamepad, with advanced haptic feedback, adaptive triggers and precise motion-sensing capabilities.

You will not be able to play a PlayStation Portal without already having a PS5 console and a valid PlayStation Network account. This lets a PS5 Portal easily connect to your existing PlayStation ecosystem, providing access to your library of digital games that are installed onto your PS5 console. A PlayStation Portal Remote Player also gives you access to online multiplayer features and it can be used anywhere in the home, even if someone else is watching the TV that your PS5 is connected to.

Unlike a PlayStation 5 console, a PS5 Portal can’t play media like movies or TV shows. It lacks a native web browser and traditional internet access. Instead, the Portal is exclusively designed for streaming PS5 games in handheld mode, making it an ideal companion to your PlayStation 5.

Instead of being a standalone device like the PS Portal, a Backbone requires a mobile device for its display and overall functionality. This unique design allows you to leverage the processing power and capabilities of your smartphone, transforming it into a powerful gaming platform. Whether you need a Backbone for Android or a Backbone for iPhone, there are compatible options available for both operating systems.

A Backbone One easily connects to your cell phone, either via Bluetooth, USB-C or Lighting, and securely fits onto each side of the device. With its ergonomic design, a Backbone controller provides tactile controls and responsive buttons reminiscent of the joysticks and buttons featured on traditional gaming controllers. Unlike a PlayStation Portal, the Backbone controller isn’t tethered to your console, letting you play games anywhere as long as you have a solid internet connection.

Although there are two different editions of the Backbone, the original Backbone One (sometimes referred to as the Xbox Backbone) and the Backbone One PlayStation Edition, both versions have the same gaming capabilities. Neither edition is exclusive to Xbox nor PlayStation. Instead, they are compatible with a wide range of mobile games available on both platforms (and PC), providing you with a more versatile gaming selection than the PS Portal.

The PlayStation Portal and Backbone One each have their own pros and cons. Both devices are great options that allow you to take your favorite PS5 games on the go, freeing you from the confines of your gaming chair and setup. However, a phone Backbone also lets you play Xbox and PC games, and, many smartphone screens now utilize OLED display technology, which lets you enjoy gaming with more vibrant colors and deeper blacks than the built-in LCD screen on a Portal.

If you do end up opting for a Backbone, It might be a good idea to look into how to turn your device into a handheld gaming console, ensuring you get the most from your gaming whenever you’re on the go. On the other hand, if you prefer a larger built-in screen, specifically-designed gaming hardware and the exclusivity with all things PlayStation, then the PS Portal might be the better choice.

Ultimately, consider your gaming preferences, the types of games you enjoy and how you envision your future handheld gaming endeavors. Whether you choose the versatility of the Backbone or the tailored experience of the PlayStation Portal, both devices take mobile gaming to the next level. So, get out there and let the games begin.