The Best Phone Controller for Mobile Gaming in 2025

Mobile gaming has advanced significantly, demanding controllers that balance performance and portability. Today's smartphones and tablets handle console-quality games, making touchscreen controls inadequate for most titles. Modern phone controllers typically feature an expandable design, cradling your device within a shell equipped with half a controller on each side. Many, like our top pick, the Razer Kishi Ultra, boast thumbsticks and buttons rivaling traditional console controllers, some even including customizable extra buttons.

TL;DR - Best Phone Controllers

Razer Kishi Ultra

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SCUF Nomad

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Backbone One

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ASUS ROG Tessen

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GameSir X2s

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Whether you prefer substantial grips for extended play or a compact design for portability, numerous options cater to various needs and devices. Below are our top picks.

1. Razer Kishi Ultra

Best Overall Phone Controller

Razer Kishi Ultra

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The Razer Kishi Ultra delivers console-quality mobile gaming. Its expandable design accommodates smartphones and smaller tablets via USB-C, and it functions as a wired PC controller. Zero-latency gameplay makes it ideal for competitive and casual gamers alike.

Key features include full-size analog sticks and triggers, responsive Mecha-Tactile buttons, and customizable L4/R4 buttons. The Razer Nexus app integrates mobile games and services, offering settings for RGB customization, button remapping, and dead zone adjustments. Note that some features (Sensa HD Haptics, Virtual Controller Mode) are Android-only.

2. Scuf Nomad

Best Customizable Phone Controller

SCUF Nomad

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Scuf's Nomad controller brings pro-level customization to mobile gaming. Its robust build, Bluetooth connectivity, and built-in battery preserve your phone's power. Hall Effect joysticks prevent stick drift, and interchangeable thumbstick caps offer personalized comfort. Customizable rear paddles and the Scuf app provide extensive control over button mapping, trigger response curves, and dead zones. However, it currently only supports iOS, and lacks passthrough charging.

3. Backbone One

Best App-Integrated Phone Controller

Backbone One

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The Backbone One excels in hardware-software integration. Its simple design works across iOS and Android, featuring a Lightning or USB-C connector (check compatibility), passthrough charging, and a 3.5mm audio jack. The Backbone app provides a console-like experience, quickly launching games and streaming services like Xbox Cloud Gaming and PlayStation Remote Play. The second generation boasts improvements to the D-pad and magnetic adapters for broader phone compatibility.

4. ASUS ROG Tessen

Best Portable Phone Controller

ASUS ROG Tessen

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The ASUS ROG Tessen offers a foldable, portable design without compromising quality. It features responsive mechanical buttons and D-pad, smooth analog sticks, and customizable back paddles. The Armoury Crate app allows for extensive button remapping, but offers limited features overall. Note that it only supports Android and includes 18W passthrough charging.

5. GameSir X2s

Best Budget Phone Controller

GameSir X2s

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The GameSir X2s provides excellent value. It features Hall Effect thumbsticks eliminating stick drift, analog triggers, and passthrough charging. While compatible with iPhone 15 and newer, full app functionality (button remapping) is limited to Android. Its build quality is somewhat flimsy, and it may be uncomfortable for users with large hands.

Choosing the Right Mobile Gaming Controller

Consider these factors when selecting a controller:

• Compatibility: Ensure compatibility with your phone's connector (USB-C, Lightning) and check for case compatibility. Bluetooth controllers offer broader device support.

• Portability: Choose a compact, foldable design for on-the-go use, or opt for larger, more comfortable controllers for home use.

• Games: For casual games, a basic controller suffices. For competitive gaming, prioritize features like customizable buttons, back paddles, and high-quality analog sticks and triggers.