2025 Mobile Gaming: Game-Changing Phone Controller Revealed

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

Current phone controllers typically feature an expandable design, cradling your device within a shell with half a controller on each side. Top models, like the Razer Kishi Ultra, boast thumbsticks and buttons rivaling traditional console controllers, and some offer customizable extra buttons.

TL;DR - Best Phone Controllers:

Razer Kishi Ultra (Our Top Pick)

SCUF Nomad

Backbone One

ASUS ROG Tessen

GameSir X2s

Whether you need a controller for extended play sessions or a compact travel companion, numerous options cater to various devices and preferences. Below are our top picks:

1. Razer Kishi Ultra: Best Overall

The Razer Kishi Ultra delivers console-quality mobile gaming. Its expandable design accommodates smartphones and smaller tablets via USB-C, also functioning as a wired PC controller. Zero-latency gameplay is ideal for competitive and casual gaming. Features include full-size analog sticks and triggers, responsive Mecha-Tactile buttons, and customizable L4/R4 buttons. The Razer Nexus app integrates mobile games and services, offering RGB customization, button remapping, and more (some features are Android-only).

2. SCUF Nomad: Best Customizable

The SCUF Nomad offers pro-level Bluetooth control (iPhone only). Its robust build, Hall Effect joysticks (eliminating stick drift), swappable thumb caps, and customizable back buttons enhance gameplay. The Scuf app provides extensive customization, including trigger response curves and profiles. However, it lacks Android support and passthrough charging.

3. Backbone One: Best App Integration

The Backbone One excels in hardware-software integration. Its simple design works across iOS and Android. The Backbone app provides a console-like experience, launching games and streaming services (Xbox Cloud Gaming, PlayStation Remote Play, etc.) easily. The second generation features an improved D-pad and magnetic phone adapters. A PlayStation-licensed edition is also available.

4. ASUS ROG Tessen: Best Portable

The ASUS ROG Tessen's foldable design prioritizes portability without compromising quality. It features responsive mechanical buttons, smooth analog sticks, and customizable back paddles (Android only). The Armoury Crate app offers button remapping, but is less feature-rich than others. It includes 18W passthrough charging.

5. GameSir X2s: Best Budget

The GameSir X2s provides excellent value. It features Hall Effect thumbsticks, analog triggers, and passthrough charging. While comfortable for smaller hands, button remapping is primarily limited to Android. It's somewhat flimsy and has limited button remapping for iOS.

Choosing the Right Controller:

Consider these factors:

• Compatibility: Check device compatibility (USB-C, Lightning, Android/iOS). Bluetooth controllers offer broader compatibility.

• Portability: Choose a smaller, foldable design for travel, or a larger, more comfortable controller for home use.

• Games: Select features (customizable buttons, back paddles, etc.) based on your gaming preferences.