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10 Best Gaming Phones 2026 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro AI2501 512GB 16GB RAM Factory Unlocked (GSM Only | No CDMA – not Compatible with Verizon/Sprint) Global Version - Phantom Black

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,361
Processor (CPU)
Connectivity
Battery Life

Most important from
15 reviews

Processor (CPU)
This phone delivers excellent performance for gaming, handling demanding titles like PUBG Mobile with ease.
Connectivity
The device’s compatibility is limited, working only with T-Mobile in the US, which restricts carrier options.
Battery Life
The large battery capacity supports extended gaming sessions without frequent recharging.

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.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,361
Processor (CPU)
Connectivity
Battery Life

Most important from
15 reviews

Processor (CPU)
This phone delivers excellent performance for gaming, handling demanding titles like PUBG Mobile with ease.
Connectivity
The device’s compatibility is limited, working only with T-Mobile in the US, which restricts carrier options.
Battery Life
The large battery capacity supports extended gaming sessions without frequent recharging.
#2

OnePlus 13,12GB RAM + 256GB Storage, Dual-SIM, Unlocked Android Smartphone, Snapdragon 8 Elite, 80W SUPERVOOC Fast Charging and 50W AIRVOOC Charging, Advanced Hasselblad Camera, 2025, Black Eclipse

Rating
10.0
Processor (CPU)
Battery Life
Display

Most important from
392 reviews

Processor (CPU)
The phone delivers robust performance with a fast processor that handles gaming and multitasking without any lag.
Battery Life
Battery life is exceptional, lasting for days, and the super-fast charging can replenish the battery fully in under 30 minutes.
Display
The display is phenomenal, offering vibrant, high-resolution visuals that make gaming and media consumption truly immersive.
Build Quality and Design
The overall feel and build quality convey a premium, solid design that users appreciate.
Audio
Audio quality is good, and the inclusion of a headphone jack is a welcome feature for gamers preferring wired headsets.

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.

Rating
10.0
Processor (CPU)
Battery Life
Display

Most important from
392 reviews

Processor (CPU)
The phone delivers robust performance with a fast processor that handles gaming and multitasking without any lag.
Battery Life
Battery life is exceptional, lasting for days, and the super-fast charging can replenish the battery fully in under 30 minutes.
Display
The display is phenomenal, offering vibrant, high-resolution visuals that make gaming and media consumption truly immersive.
Build Quality and Design
The overall feel and build quality convey a premium, solid design that users appreciate.
Audio
Audio quality is good, and the inclusion of a headphone jack is a welcome feature for gamers preferring wired headsets.
#3

REDMAGIC 10S Pro Smartphone 5G, 144Hz Gaming Phone, 6.85" 1.5K AMOLED Screen, Under Display Camera, All-Day Performance Android Phone, 12+256GB, Dual-Sim, US Unlocked Cell Phone Black

Rating
9.7
Processor (CPU)
Display
Battery Life

Most important from
437 reviews

Processor (CPU)
The phone delivers outstanding performance with smooth, lag-free gameplay even on demanding titles, making it a true powerhouse for gamers.
Display
The 144Hz AMOLED display provides vibrant colors and fluid visuals that elevate the gaming experience to another level.
Battery Life
Battery life is excellent, easily lasting a full day of mixed use, and the fast charging means minimal downtime between gaming sessions.
Cooling System
The advanced cooling system keeps the device cool during extended sessions, preventing overheating and maintaining consistent performance.
Audio
Speakers are noticeably weak, with low volume for ringtones and notifications, though this is less of an issue for those using headphones.
Connectivity
Signal strength may be inconsistent on certain carriers like Verizon, requiring some tweaks to maintain stable mobile data.
Build Quality and Design
The device feels solid and well-built, with a design that gamers appreciate and enjoy holding.

The REDMAGIC 10S Pro is built primarily for gamers who want top-tier performance on a smartphone. It packs a very powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset with up to 12GB RAM and fast UFS 4.1 storage, which means games run smoothly and multitasking is easy. The 6.85-inch AMOLED screen delivers sharp 1.5K visuals with a very smooth 144Hz refresh rate, making fast-paced games look crisp and fluid. It also gets bright enough to see the screen clearly in different lighting conditions.

One of its standout features is the advanced ICE-X Cooling 2.0 system. This uses a combination of liquid metal, a large vapor chamber, and a fast internal fan to keep the phone cool even during long gaming sessions, which helps prevent slowdowns or overheating. The large 7050 mAh battery supports all-day gaming and is paired with very fast 80W charging, so downtime is minimal.

The phone also offers a gaming-focused software experience with AI enhancements, customizable shoulder triggers for better controls, and dynamic RGB lighting for an immersive feel. It runs the latest Android 15.0, providing access to current apps and features. Though the device excels in performance and cooling, it weighs about 1.39 pounds, which might feel a bit heavy for some users during extended handheld play. The storage option in the reviewed model is 256GB, which is ample for most but not the largest available. As a niche gaming phone, its camera and general phone features are less emphasized compared to flagship phones designed for broader use.

The REDMAGIC 10S Pro is an excellent choice for serious mobile gamers who want powerful hardware, a vibrant high-refresh display, and reliable cooling for long sessions. Its design and extras cater well to gaming, though it might be heavier and less versatile than typical everyday smartphones.

Rating
9.7
Processor (CPU)
Display
Battery Life

Most important from
437 reviews

Processor (CPU)
The phone delivers outstanding performance with smooth, lag-free gameplay even on demanding titles, making it a true powerhouse for gamers.
Display
The 144Hz AMOLED display provides vibrant colors and fluid visuals that elevate the gaming experience to another level.
Battery Life
Battery life is excellent, easily lasting a full day of mixed use, and the fast charging means minimal downtime between gaming sessions.
Cooling System
The advanced cooling system keeps the device cool during extended sessions, preventing overheating and maintaining consistent performance.
Audio
Speakers are noticeably weak, with low volume for ringtones and notifications, though this is less of an issue for those using headphones.
Connectivity
Signal strength may be inconsistent on certain carriers like Verizon, requiring some tweaks to maintain stable mobile data.
Build Quality and Design
The device feels solid and well-built, with a design that gamers appreciate and enjoy holding.

Buying Guide for the Best Gaming Phones

Choosing the right gaming phone can significantly enhance your mobile gaming experience. When selecting a gaming phone, it's important to consider several key specifications that will impact performance, display quality, battery life, and overall user experience. Understanding these specs will help you make an informed decision and find the best fit for your gaming needs.
Processor (CPU)The processor, or CPU, is the brain of your phone and is crucial for gaming performance. A powerful CPU ensures smooth gameplay and quick loading times. High-end processors like the latest Snapdragon or Apple A-series chips are ideal for demanding games. Mid-range processors can handle most games but may struggle with the most graphically intensive ones. If you're a serious gamer, opt for a high-end processor to ensure the best performance.
Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)The GPU handles the rendering of images, animations, and video. A strong GPU is essential for high-quality graphics and smooth frame rates. Look for phones with GPUs like the Adreno series or Apple's custom GPUs. High-end GPUs are necessary for the best visual experience and performance in graphically intensive games. Casual gamers might be satisfied with mid-range GPUs, but for the best experience, a high-end GPU is recommended.
RAMRAM (Random Access Memory) affects how many tasks your phone can handle simultaneously and how smoothly it can run games. More RAM allows for better multitasking and smoother gameplay. Gaming phones typically come with 6GB to 12GB of RAM. For heavy gaming and multitasking, aim for at least 8GB of RAM. Casual gamers might find 6GB sufficient, but more RAM ensures better performance and future-proofing.
DisplayThe display is where you see and interact with your games, so it's important for it to be high quality. Key factors include resolution, refresh rate, and screen size. Higher resolution (like Full HD or Quad HD) provides clearer images. A higher refresh rate (90Hz, 120Hz, or even 144Hz) makes animations smoother. Larger screens offer a more immersive experience. Choose a display with at least Full HD resolution and a refresh rate of 90Hz or higher for the best gaming experience.
Battery LifeGaming can drain your phone's battery quickly, so a large battery is important. Look for phones with at least 4000mAh battery capacity. Some gaming phones offer 5000mAh or more, which is ideal for extended gaming sessions. Additionally, fast charging capabilities can be a great feature to minimize downtime. If you play games for long periods, prioritize a phone with a large battery and fast charging.
Cooling SystemIntensive gaming can cause your phone to heat up, which can affect performance and comfort. Many gaming phones come with advanced cooling systems, such as liquid cooling or vapor chambers, to manage heat. These systems help maintain optimal performance during long gaming sessions. If you plan to play high-end games for extended periods, look for a phone with a good cooling system to prevent overheating.
StorageGames can take up a lot of storage space, so having ample storage is important. Look for phones with at least 128GB of internal storage. Some gaming phones offer 256GB or more, which is ideal if you plan to download many games and other media. Additionally, check if the phone supports expandable storage via microSD cards. Choose a storage capacity that fits your gaming library and other storage needs.
AudioGood audio quality can enhance your gaming experience by providing immersive sound effects and clear communication in multiplayer games. Look for phones with stereo speakers and high-quality audio output. Some gaming phones also offer features like 3D audio or support for high-resolution audio formats. If audio quality is important to you, prioritize phones with advanced audio features.
ConnectivityStable and fast internet connectivity is crucial for online gaming. Look for phones that support the latest Wi-Fi standards (Wi-Fi 6) and 5G connectivity for the best online gaming experience. Additionally, consider phones with low-latency Bluetooth for connecting wireless gaming accessories. If you play a lot of online games, ensure your phone has strong connectivity features.
Build Quality and DesignThe build quality and design of a gaming phone can affect comfort and durability. Look for phones with ergonomic designs that are comfortable to hold during long gaming sessions. Some gaming phones have additional features like customizable buttons or RGB lighting. Choose a phone that feels good in your hand and has a design that suits your gaming style.

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