The Best Phone Controller for Mobile Gaming in 2025

Mobile gaming's evolution demands controllers balancing performance and portability. Modern smartphones and tablets now run console-quality games, making touchscreens insufficient for most titles.

Current phone controllers typically feature an expandable shell to hold your device, with half a controller on each side. Many, like the top-rated Razer Kishi Ultra, offer thumbsticks and buttons rivaling traditional console controllers, some even including customizable extra buttons.

TL;DR - 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 prioritize comfortable extended play or compact portability, numerous options cater to various devices and needs. Here's a curated selection:

1. Razer Kishi Ultra: Best Overall

Our Top Pick: ### Razer Kishi Ultra

4See it at Amazon

• Pros: Console-quality analog sticks and triggers, responsive Mecha-Tactile buttons, comfortable design, customizable via the Razer Nexus app.
• Cons: Some features Android-only, bulky.

The Razer Kishi Ultra builds on its predecessor, offering console-level mobile gaming. Its expandable design accommodates smartphones and smaller tablets via USB-C, also functioning as a wired PC controller. Zero latency ensures smooth gameplay. Features include full-size controls, highly responsive buttons, and customizable L4/R4 buttons. The Razer Nexus app integrates mobile games and services, offering settings for RGB lighting, button remapping, and more. However, some features (Sensa HD Haptics, Virtual Controller Mode) are Android-exclusive.

2. Scuf Nomad: Best Customizable

### SCUF Nomad

5See it at Amazon

• Pros: Anti-drift Hall Effect joysticks, swappable thumbsticks, robust software, customizable back buttons.
• Cons: iPhone-only (currently), unusual button layout, small D-pad, no passthrough charging.

Scuf's Nomad brings pro-level customization to mobile. Its durable build and built-in battery extend playtime. Hall Effect joysticks prevent drift, and interchangeable thumbstick caps offer personalized control. However, the button layout differs from standard designs, and it lacks Android support and passthrough charging. The Scuf app allows for trigger response and dead zone adjustments, along with profile creation.

3. Backbone One: Best App Integration

### Backbone One

3See it at Amazon

• Pros: Excellent hardware/software integration, simple design, iOS and Android compatibility.
• Cons: Slightly mushy buttons, smaller thumbsticks and triggers.

The Backbone One, a pioneer in expandable designs, offers a streamlined experience. While lacking full-size controls, it's ideal for casual gamers. It connects via Lightning (legacy iOS) or USB-C, featuring passthrough charging and a 3.5mm audio jack. The Backbone app provides a console-like interface, accessing games and streaming services easily. The second generation boasts improvements to the D-pad and magnetic phone adapters. A PlayStation-licensed edition is also available.

4. ASUS ROG Tessen: Best Portable

### ASUS ROG Tessen

2See it at Amazon

• Pros: Foldable design, mechanical buttons and D-pad, customizable back paddles, 18W passthrough charging.
• Cons: Android-only, limited app features.

The ASUS ROG Tessen stands out with its foldable design and responsive controls. Mechanical switches provide tactile feedback, and smooth analog sticks enhance gameplay. Customizable back paddles offer additional control options. While the Armoury Crate app allows for button remapping, its features are limited. Zero-latency USB-C connection and 18W passthrough charging are included.

5. GameSir X2s: Best Budget

### GameSir X2s

3See it at Amazon

• Pros: Hall Effect thumbsticks, analog triggers, passthrough charging.
• Cons: Less comfortable for larger hands, small buttons, limited button remapping (iPhone), somewhat flimsy build.

The GameSir X2s offers excellent value. Hall Effect joysticks eliminate drift, and analog triggers improve precision. Passthrough charging is a convenient feature. While compatible with iPhone 15 and newer, full app functionality is Android-exclusive. The build quality is somewhat less robust than higher-priced options.

Choosing the Right Controller:

Consider these factors:

• Compatibility: Check device compatibility (USB-C, Lightning, Android/iOS-only). Bluetooth controllers offer broader compatibility.
• Portability: Choose a compact, foldable design for on-the-go use; larger controllers are suitable for home use.
• Games: Select controllers with features (customizable buttons, back paddles, etc.) suited to your preferred game genres.