The Best Phone Controller for Mobile Gaming in 2025

Mobile gaming's evolution demands controllers balancing performance and portability. Modern smartphones and tablets run console-quality games, making touchscreens inadequate for most titles.

Current phone controllers typically 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 rivaling traditional console controllers, some even including customizable extra buttons.

TL;DR - Best Phone Controllers

Our Top Pick: Razer Kishi Ultra

SCUF Nomad

Backbone One

ASUS ROG Tessen

GameSir X2s

Whether you prioritize larger grips for extended play or compact portability, numerous options cater to diverse needs and devices. Below are our top picks:

1. Razer Kishi Ultra: Best Overall

The Razer Kishi Ultra delivers console-quality mobile gaming. Its expandable design accommodates smartphones and smaller tablets via USB-C, functioning as a wired PC controller as well. Zero latency ensures optimal performance.

Key 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. Note that some features (Sensa HD Haptics, Virtual Controller Mode) are Android-exclusive.

2. Scuf Nomad: Best Customizable

Scuf's Nomad controller brings pro-level features to mobile gaming. Its robust build, Bluetooth connectivity (with a built-in battery), and Hall Effect joysticks (eliminating drift) are highlights. Customizable back buttons and the Scuf app (allowing trigger adjustments and profile creation) add further customization. Currently, it's iPhone-only, and lacks passthrough charging.

3. Backbone One: Best App Integration

The Backbone One excels in hardware-software integration. Its simple design works across iOS and Android (choose the correct connector). The Backbone app provides a console-like experience, launching games and streaming services (Xbox Cloud Gaming, PlayStation Remote Play, etc.) with ease. 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

The ASUS ROG Tessen's foldable design prioritizes portability without compromising quality. Mechanical buttons and a D-pad, smooth analog sticks, and customizable back paddles are key features. It offers zero-latency USB-C connectivity and 18W passthrough charging. Android-only.

5. GameSir X2s: Best Budget

The GameSir X2s offers excellent value. Hall Effect thumbsticks, analog triggers, and passthrough charging are notable improvements over its predecessor. It's compatible with iPhone 15 and newer, and Android devices, though app features are mainly Android-focused. The build quality is somewhat flimsy.

Choosing the Right Controller:

Consider these factors:

• Compatibility: Check device compatibility (USB-C, Lightning, Android/iOS-only).
• Portability: Choose a smaller, foldable design for on-the-go use.
• Games: Select features (customizable buttons, back paddles, etc.) based on your gaming preferences.