Play with precision anywhere with the best mobile game controllers.

With smartphones, players can enjoy their favorite titles on the go, and it’s the perfect way to pass the time while riding a train or waiting for a bus. The only catch is that touchscreens aren’t designed for gaming and can’t match regular controllers' tactile feedback or response.

Mobile game controllers solve this issue by bringing a console-like experience to smartphone games. Many mobile controllers resemble their console counterparts and have special mounting clips to attach smartphones like tiny monitors. They often share compatibility with PCs and consoles like the PS5 and Xbox One X and are worth getting if you play on multiple platforms.

Some of the best mobile gaming controllers are designed for smartphones and don't work on PCs or other devices. These controllers typically feature two separate parts that fit on either side of the smartphone and connect using the charging port, effectively turning it into a handheld gaming console like the Nintendo Switch or Valve Steam Deck.

We've compiled a list of the best mobile controllers for every budget that can transform your smartphone phone into a handheld gaming beast.

The 8Bitdo Pro 2 is a retro-styled controller compatible with most platforms, including Windows, iOS, Android, and the Nintendo Switch. Its versatility enables it to work with nearly any smartphone, but there’s no way to attach them without buying a separate mounting clip. The tough aluminum mounting clip fits on top of the controller with a bracket and has dual hinges to find the optimal viewing angle while playing games.

This controller’s love-it or hate-it styling is based on the old Super Nintendo controller known for its simplicity and attention to detail. 8Bitdo went to great lengths to give the overall shape and D-Pad an authentic feel while adding modern updates like programmable macro buttons and a removable battery. The 1000 mAh battery offers around 20 hours of playtime, and you can swap out for a pair of AA alternatives if you run out of juice and need a quick fix.

For a basic-looking controller, the Pro 2 has advanced software allowing you to remap all the buttons and create macros. You can also adjust the vibration intensity and trigger activation for a personalized gaming experience.

The Pro 2 costs around half the price of the premium options listed here and is worth considering if you want a remappable controller that works with most devices. While the need for a separate mounting clip adapter is certainly a drawback, it probably won’t put off many players because of its low price.

The Backbone One has a similar extendable to the Kishi V2, and it also has separate models for iPhone and Android users. Both models have identical pricing with the same quality and appearance, and only the software compatibility differentiates them from each other.

On the controller's left are the D-Pad and an analog stick, while the right side has the second analog stick and the A, B, X, and Y buttons. The triggers take up the top corners, but there aren’t any additional macro buttons. Where the Backbone One goes a step beyond other similar controllers is the built-in 3.5 millimeter audio port to connect gaming headsets and the USB-C passthrough port to connect external power instead of using the phone’s battery to run.

One of the best features of the Backbone One is its intuitive app. The Backbone app is easy to use with a dedicated button and enables players to create chat groups and lobbies or even share their screens with other players. There’s also built-in video and imaging software to edit your footage before posting online.

The Backbone One is another pricey controller, but it will fit most phone models and delivers a console-like playing experience. However, if you have a larger Pro or Pro Max iPhone, you’ll need a special adapter that Backbone supplies free of charge for one time only.

Gamers with a limited budget may be interested in the GameSir T3s. It’s the most affordable controller on this list and still includes Android, iOS, Windows, and Nintendo Switch compatibility. With dual wireless 2.4 GHz and Bluetooth connectivity, its unmatched versatility is perfect for those looking for a single controller for all their devices.

The T3s looks like a Dualshock 4 controller with the touchpad swapped out for the menu button. It doesn’t break new ground, but it does the job and gives players that cozy feeling of having the grips and buttons exactly where they expect them. For an entry-level controller, the T3s still offers programmable buttons and a vibration function to give some of its more expensive competitors a run for their money.

When things seem too good to be true, there’s always a catch, and the T3s is no different. Since there’s no mounting clip available, the only way to play is to hold the controller in your hands and prop the phone against something or use a third-party holder. It may be a deal breaker to some, but others won’t mind considering its low price tag.

Despite its lack of a smartphone mounting clip, the T3s is still a great choice when choosing a mobile gaming controller. It’s one of the market's least expensive options and still connects to most devices. The comfortable shape is also familiar to PS4 gamers and has programmable buttons to customize the experience.

Razer’s Kishi V2 ditches the two-piece design of its predecessor for a one-piece design with an extendable bridge in the middle. The redesign makes sense because the bridge acts as a support to hold the phone securely, and it increases the controller’s compatibility. There’s a Kishi V2 for Android and another for iOS, although they both cost the same price and have the same design.

Like most Razer products, the Kishi V2 has a sleek, all-black look. The left side includes the D-Pad and an analog stick, while the left has another analog stick with the A, B, X, and Y buttons above it. There are triggers on both sides, with smaller programmable macro buttons beside them.

At just 4.33 ounces, the Kishi V2 is pretty lightweight, making it comfortable for longer gaming sessions. While its 3.62 by 7.11 by 1.33 inch dimensions are larger than the first-gen model, it makes up for it by being tougher thanks to the support bridge between the two sides. There’s no built-in battery, so the Kishi V2 draws power from either the USB-C or Lightning port, depending on which model you get.

The Kishi V2 doesn’t come cheap but offers Razer’s famous durability and includes a one-year warranty. Its only drawback is that it’s only compatible with either Android or Apple devices, and buyers with both will need two separate controllers.

The SteelSeries Nimbus+ is officially licensed by Apple and is compatible with most of its products, like iPhones, iPads, and Macbooks. Thanks to the partnership, it also includes a four-month subscription to Apple's Arcade gaming service, with thousands of titles for players to choose from.

Instead of copying other popular controllers, the Nimbus+ has its own design to set it apart. It’s still an all-black affair with parallel analog sticks on either side accompanying the usual D-Pad and A, B, X, and Y buttons. Connecting an iPhone is as simple as plugging in the provided mounting clip and slotting in the phone, although the fit can be a bit loose for some people's liking.

The only non-standard function on the Nimbus+ is the LED indicator that allows you to check the battery level at a glance to know when to charge it. SteelSeries doesn’t state the battery’s exact power capacity but claims it should last for an industry-leading 50 hours on a single charge, which should be more than enough for anyone.

There’s no doubt that the Nimbus+ is one of the best mobile controllers for Apple users because it works seamlessly with all devices in the ecosystem. Its long battery life and four-month Apple Arcade subscription also work in its favor to deliver one of the best playing experiences on an iPhone.

The processing power required for serious mobile can increase the phone’s temperature and lead to premature parts damage or failure. GameSir’s X3 combats overheating by shipping with a built-in cooling system that sits directly behind the smartphone. The cooler has a seven-blade fan spinning at around 7,500 RPM, and GameSir claims it can reduce the case temperature by up to 75 degrees Fahrenheit during play.

Another area where the X3 stands out is its customization options allowing users to swap out the buttons. It comes with two sets of thumb sticks, including high and low-rise options, two D-Pads, and convex and concave thumb stick caps. Even the Y, A, B, and X buttons are removable, so users can put them in whatever layout they prefer.

They say it’s the little things that matter, and the X3 has tiny details to elevate it above the competition. The USB-C port to connect smartphones has a foldable design to prevent it from breaking, and there’s a second port for external power if you don’t want to drain the phone’s battery while you play. GameSir also throws in a protective case to keep the X3 safe from scuffs and scratches when it’s not in use.

It’s hard to argue against the X3’s value despite its premium pricing. No other mobile controller can match its cooling features, and it goes above and beyond by including extra parts and a carry bag. Unfortunately, it’s only available for Android phones, so iPhone owners have to look at an alternative controller from this list.

HyperX’s Clutch is a more conventional-looking controller that works on most platforms, excluding Apple. Mobile users can connect via Bluetooth 4.2, and it comes with an included USB dongle for PC players to connect wirelessly through the 2.4 GHz frequency. The controller also has a USB-C and a USB-A cable for wired connections to consoles.

Its overall look and shape resemble Xbox controllers, with all buttons and sticks in a similar layout. Where it differs is the notch at the top to attach the foldable phone mount clip. The clip’s foldable design makes it easy to adjust the viewing angle and extends between 1.61 and 3.38 inches to accommodate most Android smartphones. Once the smartphone’s locked in place, it has a tight fit with no annoying shaking if you move the controller.

Like most standard controllers, the Clutch has a built-in battery, so it doesn’t draw power from the phone. The 600 mAH battery is easy to charge via the provided USB cable and should last for around 19 hours when it’s full.

Considering its reasonable pricing, the Clutch has a lot going for it. It’s a one-stop controller that works on most platforms, and its tried and trusted Xboxish shape is comfortable for most players. While the Clutch works on most platforms, it doesn’t have iOS compatibility, so Apple users must look elsewhere.

If you’re looking for a controller compatible with both Apple and Android phones the GameSir X2 Bluetooth is one of the best bets. This controller has the familiar extendable design for a snug fit around most smartphones and includes Bluetooth 5.0 as its sole connectivity option. Lightning and USB-C variants are also available, but they limit the controller’s connectivity to Android or Apple smartphones and aren’t the best for multiplatform gamers.

The X2 has a unique gray and black color combination with red and blue accents around the analog sticks that give off a Nintendo Switch vibe. Its full-size back plate is also thicker and more supportive than its rivals with thinner bridges and has a tighter fit. The rounded edges make it a pleasure to hold for long gaming sessions, and there’s also rubber texturing on the back for a better grip.

While most extendable controllers use the smartphone’s charging port for power, the X2 Bluetooth runs off a built-in battery with a separate USB-C port for charging. The 500 mAH battery offers a respectable 20 hours of playtime and should be ample for gamers on the go.

The X2 Bluetooth punches well above its price point for a mid-range controller thanks to its connectivity. It’s one of the few mobile options that works equally well on Apple and Android smartphones and is a must if you want one controller for both platforms.

As its name suggests, Razer’s Raiju Mobile is specifically designed for gaming on the go and comes with an integrated smartphone mount. The phone mount offers a secure fit and up to 60 degrees of tilt for a better viewing angle, but it’s not detachable like on some other controllers on this list.

Apart from the mounting clip, the Raiju Mobile has the familiar look and shape of an Xbox controller with asymmetrical analog sticks and color-coded ABYX buttons. Remapping the buttons is a cinch through the Razer Raiju mobile app, which also has options to create new profiles and adjust the sensitivity.

This controller offers Bluetooth and USB-C for connecting Android smartphones or PCs. Most users will probably use the Bluetooth option until the battery dies after 23 hours, then switch to the USB cable to charge it up again.

When the Raiju Mobile first came out in 2018, it was expensive and out of reach for many gamers. Its price has decreased drastically since then, making it one of the best mid-range options with programmable buttons and multiple connection options.

The Xbox controller is famous for its comfort and ergonomics, and it makes sense to adapt it for a mobile audience. Nacon’s MG-X Pro looks like an Xbox that’s been chopped in half to fit on either side of an Android smartphone and even includes the color-coded ABYX buttons and circular logo because it’s an officially licensed products.

A thick extendable support connecting the two sides is the main difference between a regular Xbox controller, and it accommodates most Android smartphones up to 6.7 inches. There’s no worrying about running down the phone’s battery because the controller works with Bluetooth 4.2 and has a built-in battery offering 20 hours of runtime.

For a premium controller, the MG-X Pro has limitations and excludes a vibration function and 3.5 millimeter port in favor of a sturdy yet lightweight design and well-placed buttons. There’s also no way to reprogram the buttons, which may or may not be a deal breaker for buyers.

The MG-X Pro has fewer features than many of its rivals and offers questionable value considering its hefty price tag. On the other hand, its simple and effective design is a breath of fresh air for players who need basic functionality and a comfortable design above all else.

The most important thing to consider when choosing a mobile game controller is compatibility. Some controllers only work with iPhones, some only work with Android, while others work on both. It’s worth getting the controller compatible with whatever smartphone you use, and you might save money if it's versatile enough to work with your other devices like PCs or consoles.

Mobile gaming is known for draining battery life and can run down even faster if the controller requires power. Most extendable mobile game controllers use the smartphone’s charging port to run, and some include a USB passthrough to connect direct power. If you’re on the go, a mobile controller with a built-in battery might be a better choice because they offer between 20 and 50 hours of playtime without needing a charge.

Comfort often gets overlooked in favor of all the fancy features of the controller. It doesn’t matter how many programmable buttons or how long the battery lasts if it doesn’t feel good for hours of play. The controller should fit your hand and have all the buttons and sticks within reach. There’s no one-fits-all strategy, and trying out a few alternatives is advisable before making a purchase.

Latency is the response delay between pressing a button and seeing the action occur onscreen. It may be as short as a few milliseconds, but it can make or break the gaming experience. Controllers that use a direct connection to the smartphone through the charging port tend to have a more stable connection than Bluetooth options and may be better for serious gamers who need the fastest responses possible.

Saeed Wazir is a South Africa-based freelance writer who covers gaming and tech products. After suffering in IT hell for over a decade, he finally got his big break writing warnings for certain “health care products” and never looked back. Nowadays, he gets paid for finding the best products in the world and telling people about them. It’s a decent living, and he gets to work from home. When he’s not writing, he’s either reading whatever book he can find, exploring open-world games, or swimming in the Indian Ocean.