Top Gaming Phones for Purchase in 2025

In today's market, nearly every smartphone can handle some level of gaming. However, to distinguish a good gaming phone from a great one, several key features stand out. A powerful processor is essential, ensuring smooth gameplay without lag. Sustained performance is crucial as well; you don't want a phone that overheats and slows down after just a few minutes of play. Ample memory and storage are also vital, allowing for seamless multitasking and sufficient space for a variety of games. Some gaming phones, like the RedMagic 10 Pro, go a step further with additional features such as shoulder buttons and enhanced touch sampling rates, enhancing the gaming experience even more.

The display is another critical factor. A larger, brighter screen with a high refresh rate not only improves visibility but also ensures smoother motion during gameplay. A bigger phone also means your thumbs won't obscure as much of the screen when using touch controls. With these considerations in mind, let's explore the top picks for gaming phones that excel in delivering an optimal on-the-go gaming experience.

TL;DR – These Are the Best Gaming Phones:

Best overall### RedMagic10 Pro

11See it at AmazonSee it at RedMagic### Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra

2See it at Amazon### iPhone 16 Pro Max

2See it at Best Buy### iPhone SE (2022)

0See it at Apple### OnePlus 12

2See it at Amazon### Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6

4See it at Amazon### OnePlus 12R

1See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuySee it at OnePlusCheck out our guide to the best phone controllers for accessory options.

Contributions by Georgie Peru and Danielle Abraham

RedMagic 9S Pro – Photos

10 Images1. RedMagic 10 Pro

Best Gaming Phone

Best overall### RedMagic10 Pro

11The RedMagic 10 Pro stands out as the ultimate gaming phone, combining exceptional performance with sustained power in an attractive package. See it at AmazonSee it at RedMagicProduct SpecificationsScreen6.85-inch OLED, 1216x2688, 431 ppi, 144Hz refresh rateProcessorSnapdragon 8 EliteCamera50-Megapixel Wide, 50-Megapixel Ultrawide, 2-Megapixel Macro, 16-Megapixel SelfieBattery7,050mAhWeight229g (0.5lb)PROSExcellent gaming performanceGreat displayCONSUnderwhelming camerasShorter software supportGaming demands a lot from a phone, and the RedMagic 10 Pro delivers in spades. It's powered by an actively cooled Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite chip, which I've seen perform exceptionally well in phones like the Asus ROG Phone 9 and OnePlus 13. However, the RedMagic 10 Pro's built-in cooling fan ensures the chip operates at peak efficiency during extended gaming sessions. While it may not always lead in benchmarks, it excels in maintaining performance over time. The phone's impressive 7,050mAh battery further supports its gaming prowess.

The RedMagic 10 Pro also offers gaming-specific features such as two shoulder buttons, allowing for more intuitive control mapping in games. Its display boasts a fast touch-sampling rate for quick input detection, and features like supersampling and frame interpolation enhance visual clarity and smoothness. Aesthetically, the phone is sleek and stylish, with options like clear backs that showcase its internal components. The 6.85-inch AMOLED display with minimal bezels and a 144Hz refresh rate provides a stunning gaming experience, and the hidden selfie camera ensures uninterrupted gameplay. Priced at a competitive $649, the RedMagic 10 Pro offers incredible value compared to its pricier competitors like the Asus ROG Phone 9.

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra – Photos

5 Images2. Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra

Best iPhone Alternative for Gaming

### Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra

2The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra offers a powerful gaming experience with its large AMOLED screen and robust processor. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsScreen size6.8 inchesRear cameras4Front cameras1ProcessorQualcomm Snapdragon 8 (third generation)Battery life5,000mAhStorage256GB, 512GB, 1TBStarting price$1,299.99PROSIncredible performanceExceptional camera systemCONSTitanium makes the device big and heavyThe Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra is a powerhouse, boasting a sturdy Titanium chassis and a stunning display. Its performance is top-notch, powered by a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC with an 8-core CPU and a GPU with 1,536 shading units, alongside 12GB of RAM. This ensures seamless gameplay even with the most demanding titles. The Game Booster mode further optimizes performance, making it a top choice for mobile gaming enthusiasts.

The phone's 6.8-inch AMOLED display is a highlight, with a peak brightness of nearly 2,600 nits, 1440p resolution, and a 120Hz refresh rate, delivering crisp and smooth visuals. The adaptive refresh rate helps conserve battery life. While it may not match the raw speed of the RedMagic 9S Pro, the Galaxy S24 Ultra excels in long-term support, camera quality, and overall design, making it an excellent alternative to the iPhone for gaming.

3. iPhone 16 Pro Max

Best iPhone for Gaming

### iPhone 16 Pro Max

2The iPhone 16 Pro Max is a formidable gaming device, powered by the A18 Pro chip. See it at Best BuyProduct SpecificationsScreen6.9-inch OLED, 1320x2868, 460 ppi, 120Hz refresh rateProcessorA18 ProCamera48-Megapixel Wide, 48-Megapixel Ultrawide, 12-Megapixel Telephoto, 12-Megapixel SelfieBattery4,685mAhWeight227g (0.5lb)PROSPower performanceLong-term supportGreat design CONSHigh comparative priceThe iPhone 16 Pro Max is a gaming powerhouse, thanks to its A18 Pro chip, which includes an extra graphics core compared to the A18 in the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus. This boost significantly enhances graphics performance, making it ideal for gaming. Its large 6.9-inch display offers ample space for controls and immersive gameplay.

Beyond gaming, the iPhone 16 Pro Max boasts a sleek design with a titanium frame and glass construction, making it a stylish choice. The camera system is equally impressive, with high-resolution photos, zoom capabilities, and advanced video recording features like Dolby Vision and slow-motion capture. Apple's push into mobile gaming is evident with titles like Assassin's Creed Mirage and Resident Evil available on iOS, making the iPhone 16 Pro Max a compelling choice for gamers.

iPhone SE (2022) – Photos

6 Images4. iPhone SE (2022)

Best Budget iPhone for Gaming

### iPhone SE (2022)

0The iPhone SE (2022) offers a budget-friendly option for iOS gaming with its A15 Bionic chip. See it at AppleProduct SpecificationsScreen4.7-inch LCD, 750x1334, 326ppi,60Hz refresh rateProcessorA15 BionicCamera12-Megapixel Wide | 7-Megapixel SelfieBattery2,018mAhWeight144g (0.32lb)PROSGreat value for moneyThin and lightweightCONSScreen is a little too smallThe iPhone SE (2022) is a fantastic budget option for gaming on iOS, powered by the A15 Bionic chip, which delivers smooth performance at a modest $429 price point. While it runs on iOS, providing access to a wide range of games, including those exclusive to Apple Arcade, the smaller 4.7-inch LCD screen and thicker bezels might be a drawback. However, pairing it with a phone controller can enhance the gaming experience by freeing up more screen space. With limited internal storage of 64GB, expandable to 256GB, and support for 5G connectivity, cloud gaming becomes a viable option for expanding your gaming library.

See our guide to the best cheap smartphones.

OnePlus 12 – Photos

8 Images5. OnePlus 12

Best Everyday Phone for Mobile Gaming

### OnePlus 12

2The OnePlus 12 offers a great balance of gaming performance and everyday functionality. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsScreen6.78-inch AMOLED, 1440x3168, 510 ppi, 120Hz refresh rateProcessorSnapdragon 8 Gen 3Camera50-Megapixel Wide | 48-Megapixel Ultra-wide | 64-Megapixel Telephoto | 32-Megapixel SelfieBattery5,400mAhWeight220g (0.49lb)PROSSolid battery lifeGreat performanceCONSLimited featuresThe OnePlus 12 is an excellent choice for those seeking a versatile phone that also excels in gaming. Priced at $800, it offers competitive performance without breaking the bank. Its refined design and elegant software make it a great everyday phone, while its Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor delivers robust performance for gaming, running titles like Genshin Impact at nearly 60fps on max settings. The 6.78-inch AMOLED display is bright, with a peak of 4,500 nits, and an adaptive refresh rate that conserves battery when not in use. Just be mindful of the phone's tendency to heat up during intense gaming sessions.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 – Photos

6 Images6. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6

Best Foldable Gaming Phone

### Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6

4The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 is an innovative foldable phone that excels in gaming performance. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsScreen7.6-inch 2160 x 1856 AMOLED (Main); 6.2-inch 968 x 2376 AMOLED (Cover)ProcessorQualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3Camera50MP Wide, 12MP Ultra Wide, 10MP frontBattery4400mAhWeight239g (0.52 lb)PROSStunning displays, inside and outExtremely powerfulCONSAspect ratios can be weirdThe Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 is a significant upgrade from its predecessor, powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip, which enhances performance by up to 22%. This boost is perfect for gaming, ensuring you can enjoy games like Zenless Zone Zero and Wuthering Waves with ease. The 7.6-inch internal AMOLED screen offers a vivid and immersive experience, while the 6.2-inch external screen provides an ultra-wide aspect ratio for gaming on the go.

Beyond gaming, the Z Fold 6 transforms into a small tablet when unfolded, allowing for multitasking and more. Its camera system is robust, and Samsung's long-term software support adds to its value. Despite its high cost, the Galaxy Z Fold 6 is a versatile and powerful device for gamers and tech enthusiasts alike.

OnePlus 12R – Photos

7 Images7. OnePlus 12R

Best Budget Android for Gaming

### OnePlus 12R

1The OnePlus 12R offers impressive gaming performance at a budget-friendly price. See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuySee it at OnePlusProduct SpecificationsScreen6.78-inch AMOLED, 1264x2780, 450 ppi, 120Hz refresh rateProcessorSnapdragon 8 Gen 2Camera50-Megapixel Wide, 8-Megapixel Ultrawide, 2-Megapixel Macro, 16-Megapixel SelfieBattery5,500mAhWeight207g (0.46lb)PROSLarge, vibrant displayStrong battery lifeGood main cameraCONSNo wireless chargingOnly IP64 water and dust resistanceThe OnePlus 12R is a budget-friendly powerhouse, offering top-tier features at just $499. Its 6.78-inch LTPO AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate is ideal for gaming, delivering vibrant visuals and smooth gameplay. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip ensures ample performance for most games, and the 5,500mAh battery supports extended gaming sessions. While the camera system may not match that of the OnePlus 12, it doesn't impact the phone's gaming capabilities, making the OnePlus 12R an excellent choice for budget-conscious gamers.

What to Look for in a Gaming Phone

Selecting the perfect gaming phone involves focusing on different priorities compared to choosing a general smartphone. While battery life, camera quality, and other features are important for regular phones, gaming phones prioritize the screen and processor. Most gaming phones come equipped with large batteries, so battery life is less of a concern.

When choosing a gaming phone, the processor is key. The latest processors offer the best gaming experiences, with Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 being the current top choice for Android phones, boasting powerful cores and strong graphics. Budget-conscious buyers can still find great performance with earlier chipsets like the Snapdragon 888 or 8 Gen 1/2.

For iPhones, Apple's custom chipsets, like the A18 Pro in the iPhone 16 Pro models, are extremely powerful. Even older chipsets like the A15 Bionic in the iPhone SE (2022) offer impressive performance at a lower price point.

The display is another crucial factor. Gaming phones often feature higher refresh rates, with 90Hz being a good starting point, but top models go up to 120Hz or higher. Variable refresh rates can save power when not gaming, and faster touch sampling rates enhance responsiveness. Additionally, some gaming phones include shoulder buttons, which can improve the gaming interface.

This guide will be updated regularly to reflect the latest in gaming phone technology, as more brands continue to innovate in this space.

Gaming Handhelds vs. Gaming Phones

Choosing between a gaming phone and a gaming handheld depends on your lifestyle, preferred games, and how you want to play them.

A gaming phone is highly portable and multifunctional, offering all the features of a regular smartphone, including high-quality cameras, navigation, and communication. Many gaming phones come with cooling solutions to prevent overheating and include shoulder triggers. For those who prefer physical controls, a phone controller can enhance the experience.

Gaming handhelds, such as the Steam Deck or Nintendo Switch, are larger but still portable. These devices are dedicated to gaming, offering responsive joysticks, triggers, and buttons. They provide access to a variety of games, though mobile versions may be less powerful than their PC counterparts. Cloud gaming services like Nvidia GeForce Now and Xbox Game Pass are improving, making gaming on phones more accessible.

The Steam Deck is particularly powerful, functioning as a handheld PC that allows you to play your Steam library on the go. The Asus ROG Ally offers a similar experience, while the Nintendo Switch provides exclusive titles.

Battery life is a consideration, with the Steam Deck known for its shorter battery life, while smartphones generally last longer, though gaming can significantly reduce this. A portable charger can be a useful accessory for gaming on the go.

In terms of cost, gaming phones can be expensive, with top models ranging from $700 to over $1,000. Gaming handhelds are more affordable, with the Steam Deck starting at $400 and the Nintendo Switch even less.

Ultimately, the choice depends on your preferences. If you want a versatile device that also games well, a gaming phone might be right for you. If you're looking for a device dedicated to gaming with access to platform-exclusive titles, a gaming handheld could be the better choice.