TL;DR – These are the Best Phone Controllers
Whether you prefer a controller with larger grips for longer sessions or a portable option that fits nicely into a bag, there are plenty of options available that work across a variety of mobile devices and we’ve handpicked the best phone controllers for an assortment of needs below.
1. Kishi Ultra
Best Overall Phone Controller
Our Top Pick
Razer Kishi Ultra
The Razer Kishi Ultra features console-quality controls, a comfortable grip, and a feature-rich app that unifies all of your mobile games and services.
- Product Specifications
- Phone Support: iOS, Android, PC
- Battery Life: N/A
- Connectivity: USB-C
- Phone Mount: Yes
- Weight: 0.59 pounds
Full-size analog sticks and triggers, Mecha-Tactile buttons, very comfortable, customizable through Razer Nexus app, some features Android-only, bulky size.
The Razer Kishi Ultra offers console-quality gaming on the go with features like full-size analog sticks and triggers, Mecha-Tactile buttons, and customizable back buttons. The Razer Nexus app ties all your mobile games and services together in a unified hub.
2. Scuf Nomad
Best Customizable Phone Controller
SCUF Nomad
The Scuf Nomad is a great pro-level Bluetooth controller for iPhone users. It features Hall Effect joysticks, swappable thumb caps, robust software, and customizable back buttons.
- Product Specifications
- Phone Support: iOS
- Battery Life: 16 hours
- Connectivity: USB-C
- Phone Mount: Yes
- Weight: 0.5 pounds
Anti-drift thumbsticks, comfortable grip, customizable rear paddles, works with a phone case, does not support Android, awkward button layout, small D-Pad, no passthrough charging.
The Scuf Nomad brings pro-caliber controls and customization to mobile gaming with features like Hall Effect sensors in the joysticks and customizable back buttons. The Scuf app allows for in-depth customization of trigger response curves and dead zones.
3. Backbone One
Best App-Integrated Phone Controller
Backbone One
The Backbone One features some of the best integration of hardware and software across all mobile controllers as well as a simple design that works great across iOS and Android devices.
- Product Specifications
- Phone Support: iOS, Android
- Battery Life: N/A
- Connectivity: USB-C, Lightning
- Phone Mount: Yes
- Weight: 0.3 pounds
Lightweight, console-like app experience, supports iOS and Android, works with a phone case, buttons are slightly mushy, small thumbsticks and triggers.
The Backbone One offers a simple design with great app integration, making it a top choice for casual mobile gamers. The Backbone app provides a console-like experience and quick access to all your mobile games and services.
4. ASUS ROG Tessen
Best Portable Phone Controller
ASUS ROG Tessen
The ASUS ROG Tessen rivals console controllers with responsive buttons, smooth analog sticks, and customizable back paddles all packaged up in an extremely portable, foldable design.
- Product Specifications
- Phone Support: Android
- Battery Life: N/A
- Connectivity: USB-C
- Phone Mount: Yes
- Weight: 0.3 pounds
Foldable design, works with phone cases, mechanical buttons and D-pad, 18W passthrough charging, Android only, companion app is lacking features.
The ASUS ROG Tessen offers a unique foldable design for on-the-go gaming with features like mechanical buttons and customizable back paddles. The direct USB-C connection provides zero latency gaming.
5. GameSir X2s
Best Budget Phone Controller
GameSir X2s
GameSir’s X2s mobile controller is an excellent all-around option that features quality controls and plenty of features at a budget-friendly price.
- Product Specifications
- Phone Support: iPhone 15 or newer, Android
- Battery Life: N/A
- Connectivity: USB-C
- Phone Mount: Yes
- Weight: 0.38 pounds
Hall Effect thumbsticks, analog triggers, passthrough charging, not very comfortable for larger hands, small buttons, button remapping limited to Android phones, somewhat flimsy build quality.
The GameSir X2s offers quality controls and features at a budget-friendly price, with upgrades like Hall Effect sensors in the joysticks and analog triggers. The GameSir app allows for button remapping and customization.
How to Pick the Best Mobile Gaming Controller
Compatibility
Before choosing a phone controller, consider compatibility with your device’s connector type and whether it can accommodate phones with cases.
Portability
For on-the-go gaming, opt for a portable phone controller with a smaller footprint or collapsible design.
Games
Choose a phone controller based on the type of games you play, whether casual or competitive, to ensure it meets your gaming needs.
Matthew Adler is a Commerce, Features, Guides, News, Previews, and Reviews writer for IGN. You can follow him on the site formerly known as Twitter @MatthewAdler and watch him stream on Twitch.
