Top Mobile Gaming Controller 2025

The evolution of mobile gaming has demanded 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 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, with some offering customizable extra buttons.

TL;DR - Best Phone Controllers

Razer Kishi Ultra

SCUF Nomad

Backbone One

ASUS ROG Tessen

GameSir X2s

Whether you prioritize extended play comfort or compact 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

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. The 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 mobile games and services, offering settings for RGB customization, button remapping, and dead zone adjustments. Note that some features (Sensa HD Haptics and Virtual Controller Mode) are Android-only.

2. Scuf Nomad

Best Customizable Phone Controller

SCUF Nomad

Scuf's Nomad controller brings pro-level customization to mobile gaming. Its sturdy build, Hall Effect joysticks (eliminating stick drift), and swappable thumbstick caps are highlights. It connects via Bluetooth to iPhones and has a built-in battery. Customizable rear paddles and the Scuf app (with adjustable trigger response curves and dead zones) further enhance its appeal. However, it currently lacks Android support and passthrough charging.

3. Backbone One

Best App-Integrated Phone Controller

Backbone One

The Backbone One excels in hardware-software integration. Its simple design works well across iOS and Android. The Backbone app provides a console-like experience, offering quick access to games and streaming services (Xbox Cloud Gaming, PlayStation Remote Play, etc.). The second generation boasts an improved D-pad and magnetic adapters for broader phone compatibility.

4. ASUS ROG Tessen

Best Portable Phone Controller

ASUS ROG Tessen

The ASUS ROG Tessen rivals console controllers in responsiveness and features a foldable design. Its mechanical buttons and D-pad, smooth analog sticks, and customizable back paddles contribute to its appeal. It offers zero-latency gaming via USB-C and 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

The GameSir X2s offers excellent value. It features Hall Effect thumbsticks (preventing drift), analog triggers, and passthrough charging. While compatible with iPhone 15 and newer, most app features are Android-only. Its build quality is somewhat flimsy, and it's less comfortable for larger hands.

Choosing the Right Mobile Gaming Controller

Consider these factors when selecting a controller:

• Compatibility: Ensure compatibility with your phone (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.