Mobile gaming has advanced significantly, demanding controllers that balance performance and portability. Modern smartphones and tablets now handle console-quality games, making touchscreen controls insufficient for most titles.

Many modern phone controllers use a common design: your device slots into an expandable 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

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SCUF Nomad

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Backbone One

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ASUS ROG Tessen

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GameSir X2s

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Whether you prioritize extended play comfort or compact portability, many options cater to various mobile devices. Below are our top picks for diverse needs:

1. Razer Kishi Ultra: Best Overall

Razer Kishi Ultra

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• Pros: Full-size analog sticks and triggers, responsive Mecha-Tactile buttons, comfortable grip, customizable via Razer Nexus app.
• Cons: Some features Android-only, bulky.

The Razer Kishi Ultra delivers console-quality mobile gaming. Its expandable design accommodates smartphones and smaller tablets via USB-C. It also functions as a wired PC controller. Zero-latency gameplay makes it ideal for competitive and casual gaming. The Razer Nexus app integrates mobile games and services, offering customizable RGB lighting, button remapping, and more. However, features like Sensa HD Haptics and Virtual Controller Mode are Android-exclusive.

2. Scuf Nomad: Best Customizable Controller

SCUF Nomad

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• Pros: Anti-drift Hall Effect joysticks, swappable thumbsticks, robust software, customizable back buttons.
• Cons: iPhone-only (currently), unconventional button layout, small D-pad, no passthrough charging.

Scuf's Nomad controller brings pro-level customization to mobile gaming. Its robust build and Hall Effect joysticks prevent stick drift. Interchangeable thumbstick caps and customizable back buttons offer personalized control. The Scuf app provides extensive customization options, including trigger response curves and profiles. However, it's currently limited to iPhones, lacks passthrough charging, and has an unusual button layout.

3. Backbone One: Best App Integration

Backbone One

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• Pros: Excellent hardware/software integration, simple design, supports iOS and Android, works with cases.
• Cons: Slightly mushy buttons, small thumbsticks and triggers.

The Backbone One offers seamless hardware-software integration. Its simple design works well across iOS and Android devices. The Backbone app provides a console-like experience, easily launching games and streaming services. 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 Controller

ASUS ROG Tessen

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• Pros: Foldable design, works with cases, mechanical buttons and D-pad, 18W passthrough charging.
• Cons: Android-only, basic companion app.

The ASUS ROG Tessen is highly portable thanks to its foldable design. It features responsive mechanical buttons, smooth analog sticks, and customizable back paddles. The Armoury Crate app allows button remapping, but its functionality is limited. It offers zero-latency gaming and 18W passthrough charging.

5. GameSir X2s: Best Budget Controller

GameSir X2s

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• Pros: Hall Effect thumbsticks, analog triggers, passthrough charging.
• Cons: Uncomfortable for large hands, small buttons, limited button remapping on iOS, somewhat flimsy.

The GameSir X2s offers excellent value. Hall Effect joysticks eliminate stick drift, and analog triggers enhance precision. It features passthrough charging and Bluetooth connectivity (though app features are limited on iOS). However, its build quality is somewhat flimsy, and it may be uncomfortable for users with larger hands.

Choosing the Right Controller:

Consider these factors:

• Compatibility: Ensure compatibility with your device (USB-C, Lightning, Android, iOS). Check for case compatibility.
• Portability: Choose a smaller, foldable design for on-the-go use, or a larger, more comfortable controller for home use.
• Games: Select features (customizable buttons, back paddles, etc.) based on the games you play.

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