As mobile gaming has continued to evolve, the demand for a controller that balances performance with portability has become increasingly evident. With smartphones and tablets now capable of delivering console-quality gaming experiences on the go, traditional touchscreen controls no longer suffice for the majority of gamers. Modern phone controllers have embraced a standardized design, featuring an expandable shell into which you can insert your mobile device, flanked by half-controllers on each side. Top models, like our recommended choice, the Razer Kishi Ultra, boast thumbsticks and buttons that rival those found on traditional console controllers, with some even offering customizable additional buttons for a personalized gaming experience.
TL;DR - Here are the Best Phone Controllers:
Our Top Pick### Razer Kishi Ultra
4See it at Amazon
### SCUF Nomad
5See it at Amazon
### Backbone One
3See it at Amazon
### ASUS ROG Tessen
2See it at Amazon
### GameSir X2s
3See it at Amazon
Whether you're seeking a controller with larger grips for extended play sessions or a compact option that easily fits into a bag, there are numerous choices that cater to various mobile devices. We've carefully selected the top phone controllers to meet a variety of gaming needs.
1. Razer Kishi Ultra
Best Overall Phone Controller
Our Top Pick### Razer Kishi Ultra
4The Razer Kishi Ultra stands out with its console-quality controls, ergonomic grip, and a comprehensive app that integrates all your mobile games and services seamlessly. 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
- Highly comfortable
- Customizable through Razer Nexus app
CONS:
- Some features Android-only
- Bulky size
Building on the success of the Razer Kishi V2, the Razer Kishi Ultra offers a robust design akin to the Razer Wolverine V2, ensuring top-notch gaming on the go. Its expandable middle section accommodates smartphones and smaller tablets, connecting via a USB-C port. Additionally, it can serve as a wired PC controller, providing zero-latency gameplay ideal for both competitive and casual gaming.
The Kishi Ultra is packed with features designed to enhance your mobile gaming experience. It boasts full-size analog sticks and triggers, alongside responsive Mecha-Tactile buttons that deliver a satisfying click. The controller also includes L4 and R4 buttons, customizable for various functions or macros, adding to the versatility.
The Razer Nexus app unifies your gaming ecosystem, allowing quick access to Xbox Cloud Gaming, PlayStation Remote Play, and your mobile games. Customization options include RGB lighting, button remapping, and dead zone adjustments. However, some advanced features, like Razer’s Sensa HD Haptics and Virtual Controller Mode, are limited to Android devices.
2. Scuf Nomad
Best Customizable Phone Controller
### SCUF Nomad
5The Scuf Nomad offers pro-level Bluetooth control for iPhone users, featuring Hall Effect joysticks, swappable thumb caps, robust software, and customizable back buttons. See it at Amazon
Product Specifications:
- Phone Support: 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 a phone case
CONS:
- Does not support Android
- Awkward button layout
- Small D-Pad
- No passthrough charging
Scuf introduces its pro-caliber customization to mobile gaming with the Nomad. Its sturdy build and Bluetooth connectivity ensure a premium experience for iPhone users, conserving phone battery life with its own built-in power source.
The Nomad's Hall Effect joysticks prevent stick drift, while swappable thumbstick caps cater to individual preferences. The unconventional button layout, inspired by the Steam Deck, places thumbsticks symmetrically at the top, with D-pad and face buttons below. Customizable back buttons offer additional control options, and the Scuf app provides extensive customization, including trigger response adjustments and profile creation.
However, the Nomad is exclusively for iPhone users, with no current plans for Android support. The lack of passthrough charging means you must monitor your phone's battery life during play.
3. Backbone One
Best App-Integrated Phone Controller
### Backbone One
3The Backbone One offers seamless integration of hardware and software, delivering a console-like experience across iOS and Android devices. 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
- Supports iOS and Android
- Works with a phone case
CONS:
- Buttons are slightly mushy
- Small thumbsticks and triggers
The Backbone One pioneered the expandable design common in modern phone controllers and remains a top choice for casual gamers. Available in Lightning or USB-C versions for compatibility with various devices, it also features passthrough charging and a 3.5mm audio jack.
The Backbone app is central to the experience, launching with the press of the orange Backbone button to provide a console-like interface. It supports multiple gaming and streaming services, allowing easy transitions between games and platforms. The second-generation update improved the D-pad and added magnetic adapters for broader phone compatibility, including those with cases. An officially licensed PlayStation edition adds a touch of style with its PS5-inspired design.
4. ASUS ROG Tessen
Best Portable Phone Controller
### ASUS ROG Tessen
2The ASUS ROG Tessen combines responsive buttons, smooth analog sticks, and customizable back paddles in a highly portable, foldable design. 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
- Companion app lacks features
The ASUS ROG Tessen excels as a mobile controller, despite its limitation to Android devices. Its foldable design makes it perfect for travel without compromising on durability. Mechanical switches on the face buttons and D-pad provide a tactile feel, while the analog sticks offer smooth, console-grade performance. Customizable aluminum back paddles can be remapped through the Armoury Crate app, although the app itself is somewhat basic.
The direct USB-C connection ensures zero-latency gaming, and the included 18W passthrough charger allows for simultaneous play and charging.
5. GameSir X2s
Best Budget Phone Controller
### GameSir X2s
3The GameSir X2s offers quality controls and numerous features at a budget-friendly price, making it an excellent all-around choice. 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:
- Not very comfortable for larger hands
- Small buttons
- Button remapping limited to Android phones
- Somewhat flimsy build quality
The GameSir X2s builds on the strengths of its predecessor, the X2 Pro, enhancing core features while maintaining an affordable price point. Despite its basic design and less comfortable grip for larger hands, it includes Hall Effect sensors in the joysticks to prevent stick drift, ideal for on-the-go gaming. Analog triggers offer precision, and a hair trigger mode is available for faster shooting in games.
Originally designed for Android, the X2s now supports the iPhone 15 series and newer, though most app features remain Android-exclusive. Passthrough charging is available via USB-C, with a Bluetooth option for those concerned about battery life.
How to Pick the Best Mobile Gaming Controller
When selecting a phone controller, several factors should guide your decision:
Compatibility
First, ensure the controller is compatible with your mobile device. Most modern phones use USB-C connectors, making them compatible with many controllers, including the iPhone 15 and newer models. However, some controllers are specific to iOS or Android, so always check the specifications. Bluetooth controllers offer broader compatibility across devices.
Controllers with Lightning connectors are designed for older iPhone models (iPhone 6 to iPhone 14) and some iPads. Verify the model you're purchasing matches your device's connector type.
Consider whether the controller accommodates phones with cases, as some models may not fit thicker devices or those with pronounced camera bumps. Always check the list of compatible devices before buying.
Portability
Portability is crucial if you plan to take your controller on the go. Look for compact or foldable designs that fit easily into a bag. For home use, larger controllers with more comfortable grips may be preferable, or consider a full-size controller with a mobile phone clip for Bluetooth connectivity.
Games
Lastly, consider the types of games you play. Casual gamers may find basic controllers sufficient, while those who enjoy competitive or console-quality games might prefer controllers with advanced features like customizable buttons, back paddles, larger grips, Hall Effect thumbsticks, and analog triggers.
