Best Gaming Phones:
Check out our guide to the best phone controllers for accessory options.Contributions by Georgie Peru and Danielle Abraham
RedMagic 9S Pro
Best Gaming Phone
RedMagic 9S Pro
Screen6.8-inch OLED, 1116×2480, 400 ppi, 120Hz refresh rate
ProcessorSnapdragon 8 Gen 3 Leading Version
Camera50-Megapixel Wide, 50-Megapixel Ultrawide, 16-Megapixel Seflie
Battery6,500mAh
Weight229g (0.5lb)
Excellent sustained gaming performance
Stylish design
Shorter software support
Underwhelming camera system
When it comes to gaming, the RedMagic 9S Pro is a standout performer. With a massive display, active cooling, and impressive performance, this phone is a top choice for gamers. The display is sharp, colorful, and runs at 120Hz, providing a smooth gaming experience. The active cooling system allows the phone to sustain high performance levels, outpacing even top competitors in graphics performance. Despite some drawbacks like shorter software support, the RedMagic 9S Pro’s powerful gaming capabilities make it a top choice for gaming enthusiasts.
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
Best iPhone Alternative for Gaming
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
Screen size6.8 inches
Rear cameras4
Front cameras1
ProcessorQualcomm Snapdragon 8 (third generation)
Battery life5,000mAh
Storage256GB, 512GB, 1TB
Starting price,299.99
Exceptional camera system
Titanium makes the device big and heavy
The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra is a powerhouse for gaming, offering exceptional performance and a stunning display. With a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor and a 6.8″ AMOLED screen, this phone delivers smooth gaming experiences and vibrant visuals. The camera system is top-notch, and the overall design is impressive. While it may be heavier than some competitors, the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra is a solid choice for mobile gamers looking for a high-performance device.
iPhone 16 Pro Max
Best iPhone for Gaming
iPhone 16 Pro Max
Screen6.9-inch OLED, 1320×2868, 460 ppi, 120Hz refresh rate
ProcessorA18 Pro
Camera48-Megapixel Wide, 48-Megapixel Ultrawide, 12-Megapixel Telephoto, 12-Megapixel Selfie
Battery4,685mAh
Weight227g (0.5lb)
Long-term support
Great design
High comparative price
The iPhone 16 Pro Max offers excellent gaming performance, a sleek design, and long-term support. With the A18 Pro chip and a large OLED display, this phone delivers impressive graphics and smooth gameplay. The camera system is top-notch, and the overall design is elegant. While it may come at a higher price point, the iPhone 16 Pro Max is a solid choice for gamers looking for a premium gaming experience on an iPhone.
iPhone SE (2022)
Best Budget iPhone for Gaming
iPhone SE (2022)
Screen4.7-inch LCD, 750×1334, 326ppi, 60Hz refresh rate
ProcessorA15 Bionic
Camera12-Megapixel Wide | 7-Megapixel Selfie
Battery2,018mAh
Weight144g (0.32lb)
Thin and lightweight
Screen is a little too small
The iPhone SE (2022) offers a strong gaming experience at an affordable price. With the A15 Bionic chip and iOS support, this phone delivers smooth performance and access to a wide range of games. While the screen may be smaller than other gaming phones, the iPhone SE (2022) is a great budget-friendly option for gamers looking for a solid gaming experience on an iPhone.
OnePlus 12
Best Everyday Phone for Mobile Gaming
OnePlus 12
Screen6.78-inch AMOLED, 1440×3168, 510 ppi, 120Hz refresh rate
ProcessorSnapdragon 8 Gen 3
Camera50-Megapixel Wide | 48-Megapixel Ultra-wide | 64-Megapixel Telephoto | 32-Megapixel Selfie
Battery5,400mAh
Weight220g (0.49lb)
Great performance
Limited features
The OnePlus 12 is a versatile phone that excels in everyday use and gaming. With a powerful processor and a large AMOLED display, this phone delivers smooth performance and crisp visuals. The OnePlus 12 is a great choice for gamers looking for a reliable device that can handle demanding games and everyday tasks.
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6
Best Foldable Gaming Phone
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6
Screen7.6-inch 2160 x 1856 AMOLED (Main); 6.2-inch 968 x 2376 AMOLED (Cover)
ProcessorQualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3
Camera50MP Wide, 12MP Ultra Wide, 10MP front
Battery4400mAh
Weight239g (0.52 lb)
Extremely powerful
Aspect ratios can be weird
The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 is a powerful and versatile gaming phone with a foldable design. With a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip and stunning displays, this phone delivers exceptional performance and visuals. The foldable design allows for a unique gaming experience, while the powerful internals ensure smooth gameplay. The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 is a top choice for gamers looking for a cutting-edge gaming phone.
OnePlus 12R
Best Budget Android for Gaming
OnePlus 12R
Screen6.78-inch AMOLED, 1264×2780, 450 ppi, 120Hz refresh rate
ProcessorSnapdragon 8 Gen 2
Camera50-Megapixel Wide, 8-Megapixel Ultrawide, 2-Megapixel Macro, 16-Megapixel Selfie
Battery5,500mAh
Weight207g (0.46lb)
Strong battery life
Good main camera
No wireless charging
Only IP64 water and dust resistance
The OnePlus 12R is a budget-friendly Android phone that offers solid gaming performance and features. With a large AMOLED display and a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip, this phone delivers smooth gameplay and vibrant visuals. The OnePlus 12R is a great choice for gamers looking for a value-focused device that can handle demanding games.
What to Look for in a Gaming Phone
Choosing the right gaming phone involves considering factors like processors and displays. The latest processors, such as the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Android phones and A18 Pro for iPhones, offer top-tier performance for gaming. Displays with high refresh rates and touch sampling rates enhance the gaming experience. Additionally, gaming phones typically have larger batteries and unique features like shoulder buttons for improved gameplay.
Gaming Handhelds vs. Gaming Phones
Deciding between a gaming handheld and a gaming phone depends on personal preferences and gaming needs. Gaming phones offer portability and versatility, with the ability to do more than just gaming. Gaming handhelds, like the Steam Deck or Nintendo Switch, are dedicated gaming devices with responsive controls and exclusive games. Consider factors like game selection, battery life, and cost when choosing between a gaming handheld and a gaming phone.
Mark Knapp is a contributing freelancer for IGN covering everything electronics and gaming hardware. He has over 10 years of experience in the tech industry with bylines at PCMag, Reviewed, CNET, and more. Find Mark on Twitter @Techn0Mark or BlueSky at @Techn0Mark.
