The Best Phone Controller for Mobile Gaming in 2025

The evolution of mobile gaming demands controllers that seamlessly blend 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 and providing 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 offering 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 prioritize larger grips for extended play or a compact design for easy transport, 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 design, reminiscent of the Razer Wolverine V2, features an expandable section for smartphones and smaller tablets, connecting via USB-C. It also functions as a wired PC controller. Direct connection ensures zero latency, ideal for competitive and casual gaming.

The Kishi Ultra boasts full-size analog sticks and triggers, responsive Mecha-Tactile buttons, and customizable L4/R4 buttons. The Razer Nexus app integrates your mobile games and services, allowing easy access to cloud gaming platforms and customizable settings (some Android-only). Its size, however, might be considered bulky.

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 sturdy build and Hall Effect joysticks (eliminating stick drift) offer a premium feel. Interchangeable thumbstick caps and customizable rear paddles provide personalized control. The Scuf app allows for further customization, but the button layout is unconventional, and it currently lacks Android support and 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 and passthrough charging. The Backbone app provides a console-like experience, easily launching games and streaming services. While lightweight, its thumbsticks and triggers are relatively small.

4. ASUS ROG Tessen

Best Portable Phone Controller

ASUS ROG Tessen

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The ASUS ROG Tessen is a highly portable, foldable controller with responsive buttons, smooth analog sticks, and customizable back paddles. Its mechanical buttons and D-pad offer excellent tactile feedback, and it includes 18W passthrough charging. However, it's Android-only, and its companion app is somewhat limited.

5. GameSir X2s

Best Budget Phone Controller

GameSir X2s

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The GameSir X2s offers excellent value, featuring Hall Effect thumbsticks, analog triggers, and passthrough charging. While budget-friendly, its build quality is somewhat flimsy, and it may be uncomfortable for larger hands. Button remapping is largely limited to Android devices.

Choosing the Right Mobile Gaming Controller

Consider these factors when selecting a controller:

• Compatibility: Ensure compatibility with your device (USB-C, Lightning, Android, iOS). Check for case compatibility.
• Portability: Choose a smaller, foldable design for on-the-go use, or a larger, more comfortable controller for home use.
• Games: Select features (customizable buttons, back paddles, etc.) based on the types of games you play.