The Best Phone Controller for Mobile Gaming in 2025
Mobile gaming's evolution demands controllers balancing performance and portability. Modern smartphones and tablets now handle console-quality games, rendering touchscreens insufficient for most titles.
Current phone controllers commonly feature an expandable design, cradling your device within a shell with half a controller on each side. Top models, like the Razer Kishi Ultra, boast thumbsticks and buttons rivaling traditional console controllers, some even offering customizable extra buttons.
TL;DR - Best Phone Controllers
Our Top Pick: Razer Kishi Ultra
SCUF Nomad
Backbone One
ASUS ROG Tessen
GameSir X2s
Whether you prioritize larger grips for extended play or compact portability, numerous options cater to various needs and devices. Below are our top picks:
- Razer Kishi Ultra: Best Overall
The Razer Kishi Ultra delivers console-quality mobile gaming. Its expandable design accommodates smartphones and smaller tablets via USB-C, also functioning as a wired PC controller. Zero-latency gameplay makes it ideal for competitive and casual gaming. 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 RGB customization, button remapping, and more. Note: Some features are Android-exclusive.
- Scuf Nomad: Best Customizable
Scuf's Nomad controller brings pro-level customization to mobile gaming (currently iPhone only). Its robust build, Hall Effect joysticks (eliminating stick drift), swappable thumbstick caps, and customizable back buttons enhance the experience. The Scuf app allows for trigger response curve and dead zone adjustments, and profile creation. However, it lacks passthrough charging and Android support.
- Backbone One: Best App Integration
The Backbone One excels in hardware-software integration. Its simple design works seamlessly across iOS and Android. The Backbone app provides a console-like experience, launching games and services directly. Passthrough charging and a 3.5mm jack are included. The second generation features an improved D-pad and magnetic phone adapters. A PlayStation-licensed edition is also available.
- ASUS ROG Tessen: Best Portable
The ASUS ROG Tessen's foldable design prioritizes portability without compromising quality. It features responsive mechanical buttons and D-pad, smooth analog sticks, and customizable back paddles (Android only). 18W passthrough charging is a plus. The Armoury Crate app offers customization, though it lacks features compared to competitors.
- GameSir X2s: Best Budget
The GameSir X2s offers excellent value, featuring Hall Effect thumbsticks, analog triggers, and passthrough charging. While comfortable for smaller hands, its build quality is somewhat flimsy. Most app features are Android-exclusive. It's compatible with iPhone 15 and newer via USB-C, and offers Bluetooth connectivity for broader compatibility.
Choosing the Right Controller:
Consider these factors:
- 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 option for home use.
- Games: Select features (customizable buttons, back paddles, etc.) based on your gaming preferences.
