The Best Phone Controller for Mobile Gaming in 2025

Mobile gaming has advanced significantly, demanding controllers that balance performance and portability. Modern smartphones and tablets now handle console-quality games, making touchscreen controls insufficient for most titles.

Current phone controllers generally feature an expandable design, cradling your device within a shell and providing half a controller on each side. Many, like the top-rated Razer Kishi Ultra, offer thumbsticks and buttons comparable to traditional console controllers, with some including customizable extra buttons.

TL;DR - Best Phone Controllers

Our Top Pick: Razer Kishi Ultra See it at Amazon

SCUF Nomad See it at Amazon

Backbone One See it at Amazon

ASUS ROG Tessen See it at Amazon

GameSir X2s See it at Amazon

Whether you prioritize extended play comfort or compact portability, numerous options cater to various mobile devices. Below are our top picks for diverse needs.

1. Razer Kishi Ultra: Best Overall

Our Top Pick: Razer Kishi Ultra See it at Amazon

• Specifications: Supports iOS, Android, PC; Battery Life: N/A; Connectivity: USB-C; Phone Mount: Yes; Weight: 0.59 pounds
• Pros: Full-size analog sticks and triggers; Mecha-Tactile buttons; Comfortable; Customizable via Razer Nexus app
• Cons: Some features Android-only; Bulky

The Razer Kishi Ultra builds on its predecessor, offering console-quality mobile gaming. Its expandable design accommodates smartphones and smaller tablets via USB-C. It also functions as a wired PC controller. Zero latency ensures smooth gameplay. Features include full-size controls, responsive Mecha-Tactile buttons, and customizable L4/R4 buttons. The Razer Nexus app integrates mobile games and services, offering settings for RGB, button remapping, and more. However, some features (Sensa HD Haptics, Virtual Controller Mode) are Android-exclusive.

2. Scuf Nomad: Best Customizable Controller

SCUF Nomad See it at Amazon

• Specifications: Supports iOS; Battery Life: 16 hours; Connectivity: USB-C; Phone Mount: Yes; Weight: 0.5 pounds
• Pros: Anti-drift thumbsticks; Comfortable grip; Customizable rear paddles; Works with phone cases
• Cons: No Android support; Awkward button layout; Small D-pad; No passthrough charging

Scuf's Nomad controller brings pro-level features to mobile gaming. Its robust build and Hall Effect joysticks (eliminating stick drift) are notable. Interchangeable thumbstick caps and customizable rear paddles enhance personalization. The Scuf app allows for trigger response curve and dead zone adjustments, and profile creation. However, it currently only supports iOS, lacks passthrough charging, and has an unconventional button layout.

3. Backbone One: Best App Integration

Backbone One See it at Amazon

• Specifications: Supports iOS, Android; Battery Life: N/A; Connectivity: USB-C, Lightning; Phone Mount: Yes; Weight: 0.3 pounds
• Pros: Lightweight; Console-like app experience; Supports iOS and Android; Works with phone cases
• Cons: Slightly mushy buttons; Small thumbsticks and triggers

The Backbone One, a pioneer in the expandable controller design, offers strong hardware-software integration. Its simple design and compatibility with iOS and Android (choose the correct connector) make it accessible. It includes passthrough charging and a 3.5mm audio jack. The Backbone app provides a console-like interface, easily launching games and streaming services. The second generation features an improved D-pad and magnetic phone adapters. A PlayStation-licensed edition is also available.

4. ASUS ROG Tessen: Best Portable Controller

ASUS ROG Tessen See it at Amazon

• Specifications: Supports Android; Battery Life: N/A; Connectivity: USB-C; Phone Mount: Yes; Weight: 0.3 pounds
• Pros: Foldable design; Works with phone cases; Mechanical buttons and D-pad; 18W passthrough charging
• Cons: Android-only; Companion app lacks features

The ASUS ROG Tessen stands out with its foldable design and responsive mechanical buttons and D-pad. Its smooth analog sticks and customizable rear paddles provide a console-like experience. The Armoury Crate app allows for button remapping, but its functionality is limited. Zero-latency USB-C connection and 18W passthrough charging are additional benefits.

5. GameSir X2s: Best Budget Controller

GameSir X2s See it at Amazon

• Specifications: Supports iPhone 15 and newer, Android; Battery Life: N/A; Connectivity: USB-C; Phone Mount: Yes; Weight: 0.38 pounds
• Pros: Hall Effect thumbsticks; Analog triggers; Passthrough charging
• Cons: Uncomfortable for larger hands; Small buttons; Limited button remapping on iOS; Flimsy build

The GameSir X2s offers excellent value, improving upon its predecessor with Hall Effect joysticks and analog triggers. Passthrough charging is a plus. While compatible with newer iPhones, most app features are limited to Android. Its build quality and ergonomics could be improved.

Choosing the Right Controller:

Consider these factors:

• Compatibility: Ensure compatibility with your device (USB-C, Lightning, case compatibility). Bluetooth controllers offer broader compatibility.
• Portability: Choose a smaller, foldable design for on-the-go use. Larger controllers are suitable for home use.
• Games: Select features (customizable buttons, back paddles, etc.) based on your gaming preferences.