Top Mobile Gaming Phone Controller of 2025

As mobile gaming continues to evolve, the demand for a controller that balances performance with portability has become increasingly important. With smartphones and tablets now capable of running high-quality games on the go, the limitations of touchscreen controls are more apparent than ever. Modern phone controllers have adopted a standardized design, featuring an expandable shell into which you can insert your mobile device, flanked by controller halves on either side. Many of these, including our top pick, the Razer Kishi Ultra, boast thumbsticks and buttons that rival those of traditional console controllers, with some even offering customizable additional buttons.

TL;DR - These 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 AmazonWhether you're looking for a controller with larger grips for extended gaming sessions or a compact option that easily fits into a bag, there are numerous choices available that cater to a variety of mobile devices. We've carefully selected the best phone controllers to meet a range of 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 seamlessly integrates all your mobile gaming needs. It supports iOS, Android, and PC, connecting directly via USB-C for zero-latency gameplay, ideal for both competitive and casual gamers. The controller features full-size analog sticks, responsive Mecha-Tactile buttons, and customizable L4 and R4 buttons. The Razer Nexus app enhances the experience by unifying your games and services, though some advanced features are Android-exclusive. 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
• Very comfortable
• Customizable through Razer Nexus app

CONS

• Some features Android-only
• Bulky size

The Razer Kishi Ultra builds on the success of the Razer Kishi V2, offering a design reminiscent of the Razer Wolverine V2 controller. It's perfect for on-the-go gaming with smartphones or smaller tablets and iPads, and can also serve as a wired PC controller.

2. Scuf Nomad

Best Customizable Phone Controller

### SCUF Nomad

5The Scuf Nomad is a premium Bluetooth controller tailored for iPhone users, featuring Hall Effect joysticks, swappable thumb caps, and customizable back buttons. Its robust build and software offer extensive customization options, though it lacks Android support and passthrough charging. 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's Nomad brings pro-level customization to mobile gaming, featuring Hall Effect sensors to prevent stick drift and interchangeable thumbstick caps. Its unique button layout and customizable back buttons cater to competitive gamers, though it's currently limited to iPhone users.

3. Backbone One

Best App-Integrated Phone Controller

### Backbone One

3The Backbone One excels in integrating hardware with software, offering a seamless experience across iOS and Android devices. Its lightweight design and console-like app make it ideal for casual gamers, though the buttons and thumbsticks are smaller than some might prefer. 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 now common in phone controllers. Its app is central to the experience, providing a console-like interface for all your games and streaming services. The second-generation model includes improvements like a better D-pad and magnetic adapters for wider phone compatibility.

4. ASUS ROG Tessen

Best Portable Phone Controller

### ASUS ROG Tessen

2The ASUS ROG Tessen offers console-quality controls in a highly portable, foldable design, making it perfect for on-the-go gaming. Its mechanical buttons and smooth analog sticks are complemented by customizable back paddles, though it's limited to Android devices. 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 is lacking features

The ASUS ROG Tessen's unique foldable design and mechanical switches provide a tactile gaming experience. Its direct USB-C connection ensures zero-latency gameplay, and the Armoury Crate app allows for extensive button remapping.

5. GameSir X2s

Best Budget Phone Controller

### GameSir X2s

3The GameSir X2s offers quality controls and features at a budget-friendly price, including Hall Effect thumbsticks and analog triggers. While it's comfortable for smaller hands, it may feel flimsy to some users, and button remapping is limited to Android devices. 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 improves on its predecessor with Hall Effect sensors to prevent stick drift and analog triggers for enhanced precision. It's designed for Android devices but also works with newer iPhones, though some features are Android-exclusive.

How to Pick the Best Mobile Gaming Controller

When selecting a phone controller, consider the following factors:

Compatibility

Ensure the controller is compatible with your device. Most modern phones use USB-C, but some controllers are iOS or Android-specific. Bluetooth controllers offer broader compatibility. Check if the controller accommodates phones with cases and camera bumps.

Portability

If you plan to game on the go, choose a compact or foldable controller. For home use, larger, more ergonomic options might be preferable.

Games

Consider the types of games you play. Casual gamers might opt for simpler controllers, while competitive or console-quality gamers may need more advanced features like customizable buttons and Hall Effect thumbsticks.