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10 Best Game Controllers For Phones 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Bluetooth Controller for Switch/PC/iPhone/Android/Apple Arcade MFi Games/TV/Steam, Pro Wireless Game Controller with Phone Clip with Newly Launched Lock Joystick Speed Function/6-Axis Gyro/Dual Motor

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,277
Compatibility
Connectivity
Battery Life

Most important from
1701 reviews

Compatibility
The controller works seamlessly across various platforms, including Switch, PC, iPhone, Android, Apple Arcade, TV, and Steam.
Connectivity
Pairing the controller with different devices is straightforward and hassle-free, with quick and seamless switching between devices.
Battery Life
The impressive battery life allows for extended gaming without frequent recharging, perfect for long trips or gaming marathons.
Ergonomics
The ergonomic design makes long gaming sessions comfortable, and the build quality feels sturdy and durable.
Button Layout and Customization
The 'X Y A B' buttons can be flipped to match the Xbox layout by pressing and holding the settings button and clicking the right joystick down.
Build Quality
Even after extensive use, the controller maintains excellent functionality, outperforming other controllers in quality and consistency.

This Bluetooth controller is a versatile option for gamers, as it is compatible with a wide range of devices including the Nintendo Switch, PCs, iPhones, Android phones, iPads, Apple Arcade MFi games, TVs, and even Tesla. It offers both Bluetooth 4.0 and wired connectivity with a 59-inch USB cable, ensuring stable connections whether you're playing wirelessly or plugged in. The battery life is impressive, providing up to 15 hours of gameplay on a full charge, which is great for long gaming sessions.

The controller is equipped with advanced Hall Effect joysticks, which help to avoid joystick drift and enhance precision and durability. Additionally, the lock joystick speed function improves movement accuracy, which can be particularly beneficial in fast-paced games. The programmable button allows for recording and playback of up to 30 seconds of gameplay, adding a layer of customization. The dual vibration motors and 6-axis gyroscope contribute to an immersive gaming experience.

Other notable features include customizable Turbo functions, the ability to switch the ABXY key layout, a screenshot function, LED light adjustments, and a home wake-up feature. However, at 10.7 ounces, the controller might feel a bit heavy for some users during extended play. This controller is well-suited for gamers seeking a reliable, feature-rich option for multiple platforms.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,277
Compatibility
Connectivity
Battery Life

Most important from
1701 reviews

Compatibility
The controller works seamlessly across various platforms, including Switch, PC, iPhone, Android, Apple Arcade, TV, and Steam.
Connectivity
Pairing the controller with different devices is straightforward and hassle-free, with quick and seamless switching between devices.
Battery Life
The impressive battery life allows for extended gaming without frequent recharging, perfect for long trips or gaming marathons.
Ergonomics
The ergonomic design makes long gaming sessions comfortable, and the build quality feels sturdy and durable.
Button Layout and Customization
The 'X Y A B' buttons can be flipped to match the Xbox layout by pressing and holding the settings button and clicking the right joystick down.
Build Quality
Even after extensive use, the controller maintains excellent functionality, outperforming other controllers in quality and consistency.
#2

SteelSeries Nimbus+ Bluetooth Mobile Gaming Controller with iPhone Mount, 50+ Hour Battery Life, Apple Licensed, Made for iOS, iPadOS, tvOS

Rating
9.6
Compatibility
Ergonomics
Build Quality

Most important from
2720 reviews

Compatibility
Works great on iOS but does sometimes disconnect, which can be a minor inconvenience during long gaming sessions.
Ergonomics
The controller is responsive and comfortable for all ages, making it a good choice for extended use.
Build Quality
Refurbished controllers may have quality control issues, including joystick malfunctions and charging problems, making new purchases more reliable.
Additional Features
Worth the price as it makes mobile devices and smart TVs feel much closer to a console with the right game.

The SteelSeries Nimbus+ Bluetooth Mobile Gaming Controller is designed for Apple devices, making it an excellent choice for users with iPhones, iPads, and Apple TVs. Its official Apple licensing ensures seamless compatibility with iOS, iPadOS, and tvOS. The built-in rechargeable battery is a standout feature, offering over 50 hours of gameplay on a single charge, which is impressive for extended gaming sessions without frequent recharges.

Connectivity via Bluetooth is straightforward, providing a wireless gaming experience that is both convenient and reliable. However, to maximize compatibility, updating the controller via the SteelSeries Engine is recommended, which could be an extra step for some users. The controller's ergonomic design and tactile D-Pad buttons enhance comfort and responsiveness, making it suitable for long periods of use.

The inclusion of clickable L3/R3 joysticks offers additional input options, catering to various game genres and styles. Some users might find the button layout and customization options limited compared to other high-end controllers. The build quality appears solid, though the plastic construction might not feel as premium as some other materials. The SteelSeries Nimbus+ is a practical choice for Apple users seeking a reliable and long-lasting mobile gaming controller.

Rating
9.6
Compatibility
Ergonomics
Build Quality

Most important from
2720 reviews

Compatibility
Works great on iOS but does sometimes disconnect, which can be a minor inconvenience during long gaming sessions.
Ergonomics
The controller is responsive and comfortable for all ages, making it a good choice for extended use.
Build Quality
Refurbished controllers may have quality control issues, including joystick malfunctions and charging problems, making new purchases more reliable.
Additional Features
Worth the price as it makes mobile devices and smart TVs feel much closer to a console with the right game.
#3

8Bitdo Ultimate 2.4G Wireless Controller, Hall Effect Joystick Update, Gaming Controller with Charging Dock for PC, Android, Steam Deck & Apple (Black)

Rating
9.3
Compatibility
Connectivity
Battery Life

Most important from
1838 reviews

Compatibility
Setup is easy, and the controller works perfectly from the start.
Connectivity
The included dongle and Bluetooth connectivity ensure robust and reliable connections.
Battery Life
Battery life is impressive, and the controller has never died during use.
Ergonomics
The sticks feel much better compared to other controllers, offering precise control.
Button Layout and Customization
The back buttons are useful for mimicking other button functions, although they could benefit from a software update to enhance their utility.
Build Quality
Hall Effect Joysticks provide a smooth and precise gaming experience.
Additional Features
The charging dock is convenient for storage and keeping the controller charged.

The 8Bitdo Ultimate 2.4G Wireless Controller is a versatile option for gaming on multiple devices such as PC, Android, Steam Deck, and Apple. Its compatibility with Apple devices is officially supported, which broadens its usability. The controller's Hall Effect Joystick update ensures precise and durable control, a significant advantage for serious gamers. Connectivity is facilitated through a 2.4G adapter and USB-C, which should provide reliable and fast connections.

The battery life of up to 15 hours per charge is quite robust, allowing for extended gaming sessions without frequent recharges. Ergonomically, it has a comfortable design that includes a multifunctional charging dock, adding convenience for storage and charging. The button layout includes pro back paddle buttons and a custom profile switch button, enabling players to tailor their gaming experience. Users can switch between three profiles on the fly, which is particularly useful for those who play different types of games.

Build quality appears solid, with a durable construction and rumble vibration feature enhancing the tactile experience. However, the controller's weight of 1.32 pounds might be slightly heavy for some users during extended play. It ranks #10 in PC Gamepads & Standard Controllers, indicating a strong initial reception. For those looking for a multi-device, customizable controller with a good battery life and solid build, this product is a compelling choice.

Rating
9.3
Compatibility
Connectivity
Battery Life

Most important from
1838 reviews

Compatibility
Setup is easy, and the controller works perfectly from the start.
Connectivity
The included dongle and Bluetooth connectivity ensure robust and reliable connections.
Battery Life
Battery life is impressive, and the controller has never died during use.
Ergonomics
The sticks feel much better compared to other controllers, offering precise control.
Button Layout and Customization
The back buttons are useful for mimicking other button functions, although they could benefit from a software update to enhance their utility.
Build Quality
Hall Effect Joysticks provide a smooth and precise gaming experience.
Additional Features
The charging dock is convenient for storage and keeping the controller charged.

Buying Guide for the Best Game Controllers For Phones

Choosing the right game controller for your phone can significantly enhance your mobile gaming experience. With a variety of options available, it's important to understand the key specifications and features that will best suit your gaming needs. Here are some essential factors to consider when selecting a game controller for your phone.
CompatibilityCompatibility refers to whether the game controller can work with your specific phone model and operating system. This is crucial because not all controllers are universally compatible. Some are designed specifically for iOS devices, while others are for Android. To ensure a seamless gaming experience, check if the controller supports your phone's OS version and has the necessary connectivity options, such as Bluetooth or USB-C. If you frequently switch between devices, look for a controller that offers multi-platform support.
ConnectivityConnectivity determines how the controller connects to your phone. The most common options are Bluetooth and wired connections. Bluetooth controllers offer the convenience of wireless play, which is great for portability and ease of use. However, they may have slight latency issues. Wired controllers, on the other hand, provide a more stable connection with minimal latency, but they can be less convenient due to the need for cables. Choose a Bluetooth controller if you value mobility and ease of setup, or a wired one if you prioritize performance and responsiveness.
Battery LifeBattery life indicates how long the controller can be used before needing a recharge. This is important for uninterrupted gaming sessions. Controllers with longer battery life are ideal for extended play, while those with shorter battery life may require frequent recharging. Look for controllers that offer at least 10-15 hours of battery life for a good balance between usage time and convenience. If you are a heavy gamer, consider controllers with replaceable batteries or fast-charging capabilities.
ErgonomicsErgonomics refers to how comfortable the controller is to hold and use over long periods. This is important to prevent hand fatigue and ensure a pleasant gaming experience. Controllers with a well-designed grip, responsive buttons, and a comfortable layout are ideal. Consider the size and shape of the controller, as well as the placement of buttons and joysticks. If you have larger hands, look for a controller with a more substantial grip. For smaller hands, a more compact design may be preferable.
Button Layout and CustomizationButton layout and customization options determine how well the controller can be tailored to your gaming preferences. A good button layout ensures that all controls are easily accessible and intuitive. Some controllers offer customizable buttons, allowing you to remap functions to suit your play style. This can be particularly useful for complex games that require quick access to multiple controls. If you play a variety of games, look for a controller with programmable buttons and profiles that can be easily switched.
Build QualityBuild quality refers to the durability and overall construction of the controller. A well-built controller will withstand the rigors of intense gaming sessions and last longer. Look for controllers made from high-quality materials with solid construction. Pay attention to user reviews and ratings to gauge the reliability and longevity of the controller. If you are a frequent gamer, investing in a controller with robust build quality can save you from frequent replacements.
Additional FeaturesAdditional features can enhance your gaming experience and provide extra value. These may include features like vibration feedback, built-in phone stands, or extra triggers and paddles. Vibration feedback can make games more immersive, while built-in stands can provide a convenient way to prop up your phone during play. Extra triggers and paddles can offer more control options for advanced gaming. Consider which additional features are important to you and how they can improve your overall gaming experience.

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