Top Gaming Phones of 2025: Buyer's Guide

In today's market, nearly every smartphone can run games, but what sets a good gaming phone apart from a great one? It's all about the key features that cater specifically to gamers. First and foremost, a powerful processor is crucial. You need a phone that can maintain high performance without throttling, ensuring smooth gameplay without overheating. Ample memory and storage are also vital, allowing for seamless multitasking and plenty of space for your gaming library. Some gaming phones, like the RedMagic 10 Pro, go the extra mile with features such as additional shoulder buttons and enhanced touch sampling rates for a more immersive experience.

The display is another critical component. A larger, brighter screen with a high refresh rate not only enhances visibility but also ensures smoother motion, making your gaming sessions more enjoyable. A larger phone also means your thumbs won't obscure as much of the screen when using touch controls. With these considerations in mind, here are the top phones for mobile gaming.

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 combines exceptional performance with extreme sustain in a wonderful package. It's powered by an actively cooled Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite chip, ensuring top-notch performance during long gaming sessions. The phone's cooling fan helps the chip run more efficiently, maintaining high performance without thermal throttling. Benchmarks show it consistently at the forefront, especially in terms of sustain. Additionally, it boasts an impressive 7,050mAh battery, ensuring you can game for extended periods without interruption.

The RedMagic 10 Pro also includes gamer-centric features like two shoulder buttons for additional control options, which can be mapped to on-screen controls, enhancing gameplay across various titles. The display features a fast touch-sampling rate for quick input detection and supports technologies like supersampling and frame interpolation for sharper visuals and smoother gameplay.

Aesthetically, the phone is sleek yet stylish, with options like clear backs that showcase its internal components. The 6.85-inch AMOLED display with tiny bezels and a 144Hz refresh rate offers a stunning visual experience, further enhanced by the hidden selfie camera under the display. Despite its powerful gaming capabilities, the RedMagic 10 Pro is competitively priced at $649, making it a fantastic value compared to rivals like the Asus ROG Phone 9, which costs $999.

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 SeflieBattery7,050mAhWeight229g (0.5lb)PROSExcellent gaming performanceGreat displayCONSUnderwhelming camerasShorter software support

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 boasts a massive 6.8" AMOLED screen and a powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, making it an excellent choice for gaming. With 12GB of RAM, it effortlessly handles intensive games at high settings and switches between apps without lag. The Game Booster mode optimizes performance, ensuring a smooth gaming experience.

The display's high peak brightness of nearly 2,600 nits and 1440p resolution with a 120Hz refresh rate deliver crisp, smooth visuals. The "Adaptive" refresh rate setting helps conserve battery life by adjusting based on your activities. While it may not match the RedMagic 9S Pro in raw speed, its long-term support, superior camera system, and exceptional design make it a strong alternative to the iPhone.

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 heavy

3. iPhone 16 Pro Max

Best iPhone for Gaming

### iPhone 16 Pro Max

2The iPhone 16 Pro Max is equipped with the powerful A18 Pro chip, offering enhanced graphics performance ideal for gaming. Its large 6.9-inch display provides ample space for immersive gameplay and comfortable control use. Beyond gaming, the iPhone 16 Pro Max features a sleek titanium frame and glass construction, making it visually appealing. Its camera system delivers high-quality photos and videos, including Dolby Vision and slow-motion capabilities.

Apple's commitment to gaming is evident with titles like Assassin's Creed Mirage and Resident Evil now available on iOS, enhancing the device's appeal for gamers.

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 price

iPhone SE (2022) – Photos

6 Images4. iPhone SE (2022)

Best Budget iPhone for Gaming

### iPhone SE (2022)

0The iPhone SE (2022) offers a cost-effective way to enjoy iOS gaming with its A15 Bionic chip. While its 4.7-inch LCD screen may be smaller and less vibrant, it still provides a solid gaming experience. The compact size is perfect for those who prefer smaller devices, and the phone's thin, lightweight design adds to its portability.

Despite limited storage options starting at 64GB, the iPhone SE supports cloud gaming and 5G connectivity, making it a versatile choice for budget-conscious gamers. Pairing it with a phone controller can enhance your gaming experience by revealing more of the screen.

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 small

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 is a versatile choice for everyday use and gaming, featuring a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor and a large 6.78-inch AMOLED display. Its 4,500 nits of brightness and adaptive refresh rate up to 120Hz ensure a vibrant and smooth gaming experience. The phone's refined design, respectable cameras, and elegant software make it a well-rounded option.

The OnePlus 12 handles demanding games like Genshin Impact at nearly 60fps on max settings, though it may heat up under heavy use. Starting at $800, it's a more affordable alternative to flagship phones from Samsung and Apple.

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 features

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 excellent foldable option for gaming, thanks to its Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip and stunning 7.6-inch AMOLED display. Performance improvements of up to 22% over its predecessor ensure smoother gameplay in titles like Zenless Zone Zero and Wuthering Waves. The exterior 6.2-inch screen provides an alternative for those who prefer an ultra-wide aspect ratio.

When not gaming, the Z Fold 6 transforms into a compact tablet, ideal for multitasking. Its camera system and long-term software support from Samsung make it a valuable investment, despite its unique aspect ratio when unfolded.

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 weird

OnePlus 12R – Photos

7 Images7. OnePlus 12R

Best Budget Android for Gaming

### OnePlus 12R

1The OnePlus 12R offers a budget-friendly yet powerful gaming experience with its Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip and a vibrant 6.78-inch AMOLED display. Starting at just $499, it's an affordable option that doesn't skimp on performance, with a 5,500mAh battery to support extended gaming sessions.

While the camera system is less impressive than the OnePlus 12, it doesn't affect the phone's gaming capabilities. The OnePlus 12R is an excellent choice for gamers looking for value without compromising on essential features.

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 resistance

What to Look for in a Gaming Phone

When selecting a gaming phone, focus on the processor and display. The latest processors, like Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Android or Apple's A18 Pro for iPhones, offer the best performance. Even older chipsets like the Snapdragon 888 or 8 Gen 1/2 can provide ample power for gaming, especially on a budget.

Displays should offer more than the standard 60Hz refresh rate; 90Hz is a good starting point, but top gaming phones often feature 120Hz or higher. Variable refresh rates can save battery life when not gaming. Additionally, consider touch sampling rates and features like shoulder buttons, which enhance the gaming interface.

Gaming Handhelds vs. Gaming Phones

Choosing between a gaming phone and a gaming handheld depends on your needs. Gaming phones are highly portable, multifunctional devices with features like cooling solutions and optional controllers. They support a growing library of mobile games, including cloud gaming services like Nvidia GeForce Now and Xbox Game Pass.

Gaming handhelds, such as the Steam Deck or Nintendo Switch, are dedicated gaming devices with physical controls, offering a more traditional gaming experience. They are bulkier but still portable, and while they may have shorter battery life, they provide access to platform-exclusive games.

Ultimately, gaming phones are versatile but may offer toned-down versions of games, while gaming handhelds are focused on gaming but often more affordable. Consider your preferences for functionality, game selection, and cost when deciding.