Mobile Gaming Revolution: Controller Dominance in 2025

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

Current phone controllers generally feature an expandable design, cradling your device within a shell, with half the controller on each side. Top contenders, like the Razer Kishi Ultra, offer thumbsticks and buttons comparable to 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

From controllers with larger grips for extended play to compact options fitting easily into bags, numerous choices cater to diverse needs. Below are our top picks:

1. Razer Kishi Ultra: Best Overall Phone Controller

Our Top Pick: ### Razer Kishi Ultra

4See it at Amazon

• Features: Console-quality controls, comfortable grip, feature-rich app unifying mobile games and services.
• Specifications: Supports 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 via Razer Nexus app.
• Cons: Some features Android-only; Bulky size.

The Razer Kishi Ultra builds upon its predecessor, offering console-level mobile gaming. Its expandable design accommodates smartphones and smaller tablets via USB-C. Wired USB-C connection enables PC controller functionality. Zero latency ensures optimal performance.

Key features include full-size analog sticks and triggers, highly responsive Mecha-Tactile buttons, and customizable L4/R4 buttons. The Razer Nexus app integrates mobile games and services, allowing easy access to Xbox Cloud Gaming, PlayStation Remote Play, and more. Customization options include RGB lighting, button remapping, and dead zone adjustments. However, some features (Sensa HD Haptics, Virtual Controller Mode) are Android-exclusive.

2. Scuf Nomad: Best Customizable Phone Controller

### SCUF Nomad

5See it at Amazon

• Features: Pro-level Bluetooth controller (iPhone only), Hall Effect joysticks, swappable thumb caps, robust software, customizable back buttons.
• Specifications: Supports iOS; Battery Life: 16 hours; Connectivity: Bluetooth, USB-C; Phone Mount: Yes; Weight: 0.5 pounds.
• Pros: Anti-drift thumbsticks; Comfortable grip; Customizable rear paddles; Works with a phone case.
• Cons: No Android support; Awkward button layout; Small D-pad; No passthrough charging.

Scuf's Nomad introduces pro-level customization to mobile gaming. Its robust build and Hall Effect joysticks (eliminating stick drift) enhance the experience. Bluetooth connectivity and a built-in battery preserve phone battery life. Interchangeable thumbstick caps allow personalization. Customizable back buttons offer further control. The Scuf app provides extensive customization options, including trigger response curves and dead zones. However, it currently lacks Android support and passthrough charging.

3. Backbone One: Best App-Integrated Phone Controller

### Backbone One

3See it at Amazon

• Features: Excellent hardware/software integration, simple design, iOS and Android compatibility.
• Specifications: Supports 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 slightly mushy; Small thumbsticks and triggers.

The Backbone One, a pioneer in expandable controller design, remains a strong contender. Its straightforward design, while lacking full-size controls, suits casual gamers. It offers Lightning or USB-C connectivity (choose the correct version) and includes passthrough charging and a 3.5mm audio jack. The Backbone app provides a console-like experience, integrating games and services like Xbox Cloud Gaming and PlayStation Remote Play. The second generation features improvements to the D-pad and magnetic phone adapters. A PlayStation-licensed edition is also available.

4. ASUS ROG Tessen: Best Portable Phone Controller

### ASUS ROG Tessen

2See it at Amazon

• Features: Responsive buttons, smooth analog sticks, customizable back paddles, portable foldable design.
• Specifications: Supports 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 lacks 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 aluminum back paddles add versatility. The Armoury Crate app allows button remapping, but its functionality is limited. Direct USB-C connection ensures zero latency, and 18W passthrough charging is included. However, it only supports Android devices.

5. GameSir X2s: Best Budget Phone Controller

### GameSir X2s

3See it at Amazon

• Features: Quality controls, numerous features at a budget-friendly price.
• Specifications: Supports iPhone 15 and 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: Uncomfortable for larger hands; Small buttons; Button remapping limited to Android; Somewhat flimsy build quality.

The GameSir X2s improves upon its predecessor, offering Hall Effect joysticks (eliminating stick drift) and analog triggers. It supports iPhone 15 and newer, and Android devices. Passthrough charging is included. However, app features are primarily limited to Android, and the build quality is somewhat flimsy. It may be less comfortable for users with larger hands.

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 on-the-go use. Larger controllers are better suited for home use.
• Games: Select a controller with features (customizable buttons, back paddles, etc.) matching your gaming style.