The Best Phone Controller for Mobile Gaming in 2025

Mobile gaming's evolution demands controllers balancing performance and portability. Today's smartphones and tablets run console-quality games, rendering touchscreen controls inadequate for most titles.

Modern phone controllers typically feature an expandable design, cradling your device within a shell incorporating half a controller on each side. Many, like the top-rated Razer Kishi Ultra, boast thumbsticks and buttons rivaling traditional console controllers, some even offering customizable extra buttons.

Top Phone Controllers Summary

Razer Kishi Ultra: Our Top Pick See it at AmazonSCUF Nomad: Best Customizable See it at AmazonBackbone One: Best App Integration See it at AmazonASUS ROG Tessen: Best Portable See it at AmazonGameSir X2s: Best Budget See it at Amazon

Whether you prioritize extended play comfort or compact portability, numerous options cater to diverse needs and devices. Below are detailed reviews of our top picks.

1. Razer Kishi Ultra: Best Overall

Razer Kishi Ultra

See it at Amazon

• Product Specifications:

  • Phone Support: 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 grip, customizable via Razer Nexus app.

• Cons: Some features Android-only, bulky size.

The Razer Kishi Ultra delivers 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 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. However, some features (Sensa HD Haptics, Virtual Controller Mode) are Android-exclusive.

2. Scuf Nomad: Best Customizable

SCUF Nomad

See it at Amazon

• Product Specifications:

  • Phone Support: iOS
  • Battery Life: 16 hours
  • Connectivity: Bluetooth
  • Phone Mount: Yes
  • Weight: 0.5 pounds

• Pros: Anti-drift thumbsticks, comfortable grip, customizable rear paddles, robust software.

• Cons: No Android support, awkward button layout, small D-pad, no passthrough charging.

The Scuf Nomad introduces pro-level controls and customization to mobile gaming. Its robust build and Hall Effect joysticks (eliminating stick drift) are notable features. Interchangeable thumbstick caps offer personalized comfort. The unique button layout (similar to the Steam Deck) and customizable rear paddles provide extensive control options. 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 a less conventional button arrangement.

3. Backbone One: Best App Integration

Backbone One

See it at Amazon

• Product Specifications:

  • Phone Support: iOS, Android
  • Battery Life: N/A
  • Connectivity: USB-C, Lightning
  • Phone Mount: Yes
  • Weight: 0.3 pounds

• Pros: Lightweight, console-like app experience, iOS and Android support, works with phone cases.

• Cons: Slightly mushy buttons, small thumbsticks and triggers.

The Backbone One, a pioneer in expandable controller design, offers seamless hardware-software integration. Its simple design and cross-platform compatibility (USB-C or Lightning) are attractive features. Passthrough charging and a 3.5mm headphone jack are included. The Backbone app provides a console-like interface for launching games and streaming services (Xbox Cloud Gaming, PlayStation Remote Play, etc.). The second generation boasts an improved D-pad and magnetic phone adapters. A PlayStation-licensed edition is also available.

4. ASUS ROG Tessen: Best Portable

ASUS ROG Tessen

See it at Amazon

• Product Specifications:

  • Phone Support: 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, limited companion app features.

The ASUS ROG Tessen stands out with its foldable design, ideal for portability without compromising durability. Mechanical switches provide responsive buttons and D-pad. Smooth analog sticks and customizable rear paddles enhance gameplay. Button remapping is possible via the Armoury Crate app, though the app itself is relatively basic. Zero-latency gameplay and 18W passthrough charging are additional benefits. However, its Android-only compatibility is a significant limitation.

5. GameSir X2s: Best Budget

GameSir X2s

See it at Amazon

• Product Specifications:

  • Phone Support: iPhone 15 or 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, somewhat flimsy build.

The GameSir X2s improves upon its predecessor, offering Hall Effect joysticks (preventing stick drift), analog triggers, and passthrough charging at a budget-friendly price. It's compatible with iPhone 15 and newer, and Android devices. However, the build quality feels somewhat flimsy, and the smaller buttons and limited iOS customization may be drawbacks. Bluetooth connectivity is also available for broader device compatibility.

Choosing the Right Controller

Consider these factors when selecting a mobile gaming controller:

• Compatibility: Ensure compatibility with your phone (USB-C, Lightning, or Bluetooth). Check for case compatibility and supported devices.
• 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, analog triggers, etc.) based on your gaming preferences (casual vs. competitive).