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 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 comparable to 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 need a controller with substantial grips for extended play or a compact option for travel, numerous choices cater to various needs and devices. Below are our top picks:

1. Razer Kishi Ultra: Best Overall

Our Top Pick: Razer Kishi Ultra

The Razer Kishi Ultra delivers console-quality mobile gaming. Its expandable design accommodates smartphones and smaller tablets via USB-C, and it functions as a wired PC controller. Zero latency ensures smooth gameplay. 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 are Android-exclusive.

2. Scuf Nomad: Best Customizable

SCUF Nomad

The Scuf Nomad provides pro-level Bluetooth control (iPhone only). It boasts a robust build, Hall Effect joysticks (eliminating drift), swappable thumbstick caps, and customizable rear paddles. The Scuf app allows for extensive customization, including trigger response curves and profiles. However, it currently lacks Android support and passthrough charging.

3. Backbone One: Best App Integration

Backbone One

The Backbone One excels in hardware-software integration. Its simple design works well across iOS and Android (choose the correct connector). It includes passthrough charging and a 3.5mm audio jack. The Backbone app provides a console-like experience, easily accessing games and streaming services. The second generation offers improvements to the D-pad and phone compatibility.

4. ASUS ROG Tessen: Best Portable

ASUS ROG Tessen

The ASUS ROG Tessen (Android only) is a highly portable, foldable controller. It features responsive mechanical buttons and D-pad, smooth analog sticks, and customizable back paddles. The Armoury Crate app allows for button remapping, but its functionality is limited. It offers zero-latency gaming and 18W passthrough charging.

5. GameSir X2s: Best Budget

GameSir X2s

The GameSir X2s offers excellent value. It features Hall Effect thumbsticks, analog triggers, and passthrough charging. While comfortable for smaller hands, it has limited button remapping (mostly Android). It supports iPhone 15 and newer via USB-C, and Bluetooth connectivity for broader compatibility.

Choosing the Right Controller:

Consider these factors:

• Compatibility: Check device compatibility (USB-C, Lightning, Android/iOS). Bluetooth controllers offer wider compatibility.
• Portability: Choose a smaller, foldable design for travel, or a larger, more comfortable controller for home use.
• Games: Select features (customizable buttons, back paddles, etc.) based on your gaming preferences.