Top Mobile Gaming Phone Controller of 2025

As mobile gaming has evolved over the years, the demand for a controller that perfectly balances performance and portability has become crucial. With mobile phones and tablets now capable of running console-quality games on the go, the limitations of touchscreen controls are more evident than ever, making a dedicated controller essential for most gaming experiences.

Modern phone controllers have adopted a common design, featuring an expandable shell into which you insert your mobile device, with a controller half on either side. Many, like our top pick the Razer Kishi Ultra, boast thumbsticks and buttons that rival traditional console controllers, while others offer additional customizable buttons for a personalized gaming experience.

TL;DR - These are the Best Phone Controllers

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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 looking for a controller with larger grips for extended gaming sessions or a compact option that easily fits into a bag, there's a variety of options available that cater to different mobile devices. We've carefully selected the best phone controllers to meet a wide range of needs.

1. Razer Kishi Ultra

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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 feature-rich app that seamlessly integrates all your mobile gaming experiences. 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

The Razer Kishi Ultra builds on the legacy of the Razer Kishi V2, offering a design reminiscent of the Razer Wolverine V2 controller. Its expandable middle section accommodates smartphones or smaller tablets and iPads via a USB-C port. It also doubles as a PC controller with a wired USB-C connection, ensuring zero latency for both competitive and casual gaming.

Razer has equipped the Kishi Ultra with impressive features to enhance your mobile gaming experience. It includes full-size analog sticks and triggers, along with responsive Mecha-Tactile buttons that provide a satisfying click. The controller also features two small L4 and R4 buttons between the shoulder buttons and triggers, which can be customized for various functions or macros.

The Razer Nexus app unifies your gaming ecosystem, allowing you to launch Xbox Cloud Gaming, PlayStation Remote Play, or dive into your favorite mobile games without leaving the app. You can customize RGB lighting, remap buttons, adjust dead zones, and more. However, some advanced features like Sensa HD Haptics and Virtual Controller Mode are limited to Android devices.

2. Scuf Nomad

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Best Customizable Phone Controller

### SCUF Nomad

5The Scuf Nomad offers pro-level customization and robust software for iPhone users, featuring Hall Effect joysticks and swappable thumb caps. 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 controller. Its sturdy build and Bluetooth connectivity, coupled with a built-in battery, help preserve your iPhone's battery life during extended play sessions. The Nomad's Hall Effect sensors in the joysticks ensure no stick drift, and the interchangeable thumbstick caps allow for personal preference adjustments.

The button layout, inspired by the Steam Deck, may feel unconventional but offers symmetrical thumbsticks and customizable back buttons. The Scuf app provides extensive customization options, including trigger response curves, dead zones, and profile switching. However, the Nomad is currently exclusive to iPhone users, and the lack of passthrough charging requires careful monitoring of your phone's battery life.

3. Backbone One

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Best App-Integrated Phone Controller

### Backbone One

3The Backbone One excels in hardware and software integration, offering a seamless 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 seen in modern phone controllers and remains a top choice for casual gamers. It connects via Lightning or USB-C, depending on your device, and includes passthrough charging and a 3.5mm auxiliary port. The Backbone app, launched by pressing the orange Backbone button, offers a console-like interface, allowing quick access to games and streaming services like Xbox Cloud Gaming and PlayStation Remote Play.

The second-generation update improved the D-pad and added magnetic adapters for broader phone compatibility, even with cases. An officially-licensed PlayStation edition adds a touch of style with PS5-inspired colors and symbols.

4. ASUS ROG Tessen

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Best Portable Phone Controller

### ASUS ROG Tessen

2The ASUS ROG Tessen combines responsive buttons and smooth analog sticks in a foldable, portable design, ideal for Android users. 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 is a top-tier mobile controller for Android users, distinguished by its foldable design that doesn't compromise on durability. Its mechanical switches on face buttons and D-pad provide a tactile feel, while the analog sticks offer console-grade responsiveness. Customizable aluminum back paddles can be remapped via the Armoury Crate app, which, however, is somewhat limited in features.

With a direct USB-C connection, the Tessen ensures zero-latency gaming and includes an 18W passthrough charger for convenient play and charging.

5. GameSir X2s

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Best Budget Phone Controller

### GameSir X2s

3The GameSir X2s offers quality controls and essential features at a budget-friendly price, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious gamers. 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 success of the X2 Pro, adding Hall Effect sensors to the joysticks to prevent stick drift and analog triggers for precision gameplay. While its design remains simple and slightly uncomfortable for larger hands, it's an affordable option for on-the-go gaming.

Originally designed for Android, the X2s now supports iPhone 15 and newer models, though most customization features remain Android-exclusive. The controller also offers passthrough charging and a Bluetooth option for broader device compatibility.

How to Pick the Best Mobile Gaming Controller

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When selecting a phone controller, consider the following factors:

Compatibility

Ensure the controller is compatible with your mobile device. Most modern phones use USB-C, but some controllers are exclusive to iOS or Android. Bluetooth controllers offer wider compatibility. Check if the controller accommodates phones with cases and whether it fits your device's dimensions and camera bump.

Portability

If you plan to use your controller on the go, opt for a compact or foldable design. For home use, larger grips and full-size controllers with mobile clips may be more suitable.

Games

Consider the types of games you play. Casual gamers may prefer simpler controllers, while competitive or console-quality gamers will benefit from advanced features like customizable buttons, back paddles, and analog triggers.