3D printable gamepad plugs into smartphones for portrait playing

Pocket-sized gamepad revives retro handheld gadgets

Modder Maximilian Kern creates a 3D printable, pocket-fitting gamepad that plugs directly into smartphones so users can play games in portrait mode. The personal device revives the days of the handheld gadgets. This time, handy users can 3D print the components, from the housing to the button mechanisms. The modder says the project is a way for him to finally play around with using resin around 3D printed components. Because of this, he’s able to produce a gamepad with a transparent casing, making the board and internal setup of the device visible.

The maker uses RP2040, a dual-core microcontroller designed by Raspberry Pi, for the 3D printable gamepad for smartphones. It has a configurable USB interface, making it ideal for the portable device. Then, it uses GP2040-CE firmware. It’s the interface that allows users to adjust input settings and firmware options using just a web browser and without needing to install any software. The firmware is also a reason why the device can support common gamepad protocols and a wide range of applications, including emulators and retro mobile games.

all images courtesy of Maximilian Kern (Max.K)

3D printable gamepad for smartphones uses USB-C

The 3D printable gamepad for smartphones connects directly to them or a compatible device using a USB-C port. It works because of the connection itself and does not use Bluetooth or internal batteries. It functions as a USB Human Interface Device (HID) controller, so most operating systems have no issues recognizing it without the need for additional drivers. Yes, the device is ideal for portrait-mode gaming, but the modder says the button layout also supports landscape orientation. With this, users configure and remap the button commands on their computer.

Because the gamepad for smartphones is 3D printable, handy users can even personalize the design of their device. The modder adds that gamers can modify and replace the parts of his open-source design (most of which are commercially available). While the 3D printable gamepad for smartphones revives the days of the handheld gadgets, Maximilian Kern knows it’s not for everyone. For one thing, the USB-C connector might get stessed if users are not careful. ‘But it’s a nice way to enjoy emulators on smartphones, and since the 2-layered PCB has only a few components on it, the whole device is pretty inexpensive,’ he says.

handy users can 3D print the components, from the housing to the button mechanisms