10 Best Gaming Phones 2026 in the United States

The ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro is designed with gaming in mind, featuring a powerful Qualcomm Snapdragon processor running at 4.3 GHz and 16GB of RAM, enabling smooth performance for demanding games. Its 6.78-inch display has a resolution of 2400 x 1080 pixels, offering clear visuals. The phone has a large 5800mAh battery that supports long gaming sessions without frequent charging. Storage is generous with 512GB, providing plenty of space for games and apps.

It includes a 3.5mm audio jack, which is helpful for gamers who prefer wired headphones. On connectivity, it supports 2G to 5G networks; however, it does not work with Verizon or Sprint, which limits carrier choices. Build quality and design are likely sturdy, reflecting ASUS’s reputation for durable gaming phones. This phone is a strong choice for gamers seeking high performance and large storage, though the limited carrier compatibility might be a drawback to consider.

The Samsung Galaxy S24 is a promising choice for gaming enthusiasts, thanks to its Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, which ensures quick app transitions and high-quality graphics. With 8GB of RAM, it handles multitasking smoothly, allowing you to switch between games and other apps without lag. The 6.2-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 2340 x 1080 and a 120 Hz refresh rate provides vibrant visuals and fluid movements, enhancing your gaming experience.

Battery life is another highlight, offering up to 35 hours of talk time and features like Super Fast Charging, so you can quickly recharge during intense gaming sessions. The phone's cooling system is designed to manage heat effectively, which is crucial when playing resource-intensive games for extended periods.

The Galaxy S24 has a solid storage capacity of 256GB, but gamers who download multiple large games could find this limiting, especially since it has no microSD card slot for expansion. Additionally, the battery capacity of 4000mAh might not be enough for the most hardcore gamers who spend hours playing demanding titles. The audio experience, relying on USB-C connectivity, may not be as rich as traditional headphone jacks, which could be a downside for audiophiles. The phone's design is sleek and lightweight, making it easy to hold during long gaming sessions.

The OnePlus 13 is a strong contender in the gaming phone category thanks to its powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite processor paired with 12GB of RAM, which ensures smooth gameplay and fast multitasking. Its 6.82-inch QHD+ ProXDR display with a 120Hz refresh rate delivers vibrant colors and fluid visuals, enhancing the gaming and media experience. A standout feature for gamers is the massive 6000mAh battery, which supports 80W SuperVOOC fast charging, allowing for extended playtime and quick recharges. The phone also offers dual SIM support and wireless charging, adding convenience.

Storage is ample at 256GB, enough for games and apps. Audio-wise, the presence of a 3.5mm headphone jack is a plus since many gaming phones skip this, allowing for easy use of wired headsets. Connectivity options like Bluetooth and dual-band GPS support stable connections during online gaming. The build feels solid and weighs 213 grams, which is a bit on the heavier side but typical for a phone with a large battery and display. The advanced Hasselblad camera system is excellent for photography but less crucial for gaming.

The OnePlus 13 combines strong processing power, an excellent display, and impressive battery life, making it suitable for gamers who also want a versatile, everyday smartphone.