Top 5 Best Mobile Gamepad of 2024

Utilize these phone controllers to elevate your mobile gaming experience.

The greatest smartphones for gaming have improved greatly in recent years, and using a top phone controller, such as our top pick, the Backbone One, will only make the experience even better. If the Backbone One isn’t what you’re looking for, we’ve selected several excellent alternatives, whether you want an ergonomic controller that works well with your phone or a dock that puts controls on the edges of the device.

Without tactile or actual controls, tapping frantically on the screen of the finest gaming phones might be annoying; however, phone controllers solve this problem. Fortunately, a plethora of solutions are available for iOS and Android smartphones, including wired or USB-C or Lightning port connecting for extremely quick reaction times, as well as straightforward Bluetooth connectivity. These are our recommendations if you’re prepared to step up your game. For a larger selection, you can also take a look at our selection of the top PC controllers.

QUICK LIST

Last update on 2024-03-31 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon.

Best Mobile Gamepad

1.Backbone One

Last update on 2024-03-31 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon.

It’s fun to use the Backbone One (8/10, WIRED Recommends). Stretch the controller over your iPhone and plug it in. If you have an Android phone or one of the newer iPhone 15 series, acquire the USB-C version. There is extensive compatibility for PS Remote Play, Xbox Remote Play, and Steam Link, in addition to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and GeForce Now. The bumpers and buttons have a satisfying click-y sensation and extremely quick response times. This little controller can transform your phone into a console or PC even if you’re not a big fan of mobile gaming.You might even have a different perspective on mobile gaming after playing Stardew Valley for so long that I forgot I was using a phone. The integrated headphone jack is a convenient feature.

You can use your phone as a convenient portable gaming console by using the Backbone One mobile gaming controller. By locking controls on each side and allowing the screen to see clearly for a more pleasurable gaming experience, this controller acts as an expanding, flexible dock for your device. It is also comfortable to grasp. The iPhone 15 series should suit several of the greatest Android phones with ease. Additionally, Backbone Labs has produced a unique adapter for the iPhone 13/14 Pro Max, which you can 3D print at home or receive as a free bonus. There is also an iPhone version that supports a Lightning port.

To provide reduced latency than Bluetooth connections, the Backbone One connects to your phone via USB-C while holding onto it. Your primary game controls, which include two fairly stiff analog sticks, a sturdy D-pad, and an abundance of responsive, somewhat mushy buttons, are available when the Backbone One is attached. The 3.5mm connector on the left side of the controller allows you to utilize one of the greatest gaming headsets and even charges the controller while you’re playing.

The optional app on Backbone One is what really makes it stand out. For the first year, all of the features are free. I adore the automatically recorded and edited in-game highlights, as well as the searchable catalog of controller-compatible titles. In addition, there’s an interface that supports iOS Gaming Mode, one-tap Twitch streaming, and smooth voice and multiplayer lobbies.

2.SteelSeries Stratus

Last update on 2024-03-31 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon.

The SteelSeries Stratus, which took the place of its predecessor, the Duo, on this list, is ideal for switching between games on your PC or laptop and an Android device. Its button arrangement and feel are very similar to that of the Xbox Wireless Controller, despite having symmetrical thumbsticks and a very mushy D-Pad that is positioned toward the upper left. For PC gaming, you can use the USB-C port to attach a cable, or you can utilize Bluetooth LE 4.1 to connect wirelessly to an Android phone or Chromebook. The Stratus Duo is still a better option if you’re a wireless PC gamer because the Stratus doesn’t support Wi-Fi. However, it does come with a smartphone attachment that folds flat for convenient storage, which is a brilliant new design.

An improved SteelSeries Stratus is a straight shooter for affordable Android gaming, much like its predecessor, the SteelSeries Stratus Duo. This is available for less than, and it has all the features you would anticipate from a controller designed with mobile gaming in mind. It has a recognizable design that combines the aesthetics of Sony’s DualShock with Xbox controllers by using symmetrical thumbsticks. Precision and consistency are ensured by the excellent feel that Hall effect magnetic sensors provide on the triggers. This weapon will give you an advantage over other shooters. Even better, a thin phone mount is included, making gaming convenient wherever you are.

It’s crucial to remember that Bluetooth LE is the only wireless connection method available for the SteelSeries Stratus. The original 2.4GHz wifi dongle is lost with the purchase. However, as it’s made for Chromebooks and Android smartphones, you ought to have trouble-free support with them. The gamepad can now boast an incredible 90 hours of battery life, making it the ideal travel companion that will last the whole duration of your trip and more. Furthermore, it can run on battery power for 12 hours in just 15 minutes if you forget to charge it before you go. Of course, you may utilize the Stratus+ with your game PC via wired USB.

Compared to the Duo, which frequently disconnected from my Pixel 6, my week with the Stratus+ has gone smoothly. According to SteelSeries, the battery can last up to 90 hours, and 12 hours of gameplay can be obtained with just 15 minutes of charging. There is still battery life when playing short bursts of Jydge throughout the week; it feels precise and smooth. The Stratus+ is a suggested controller for Nvidia’s GeForce Now, and it also functioned nicely with titles in my Steam library without the need for configuration.

3.Razer Kishi V2

Last update on 2024-03-31 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon.

You could have problems identifying the Razer Kishi V2 if you are familiar with the original Kishi. The ultra-compact storage mode of the V2 has been replaced with a spring-loaded clamping mechanism that holds the phone and controller together. With the included inserts, the updated version is also compatible with thin phone cases.

Highlights of the Kishi V2 are its redesigned tactile button switches, which provide satisfying, clicky response with every push. The D-pad, the face buttons, the four secondary buttons, the two mappable buttons, and the shoulder buttons are all affected by this. The spring triggers of the Kishi V1, which we previously loved, are retained in the V2.

Although Razer first only offered the Kishi V2 with a USB-C connector, they have recently introduced a Lightning version for iPhone users. Of course, the USB-C model will work perfectly for you if you own an iPhone 15.

The Razer Kishi V2 controller for iPhone literally transforms your phone into a handheld Nintendo Switch-style device by clamping controllers onto both sides of the display using an extensible bridge that has rubber inserts that can be adjusted, just like the Backbone One. That implies that as long as it is less than 11.5 mm thick or 170 mm long, has a lightning port, and is running iOS 15.4 or later, it can support almost any iPhone 14 or earlier, including the iPhone 14 Pro Max. Don’t worry, Android users—the Razer Kishi V2 is available in a nearly identical version for you. Razer has not confirmed that you can use the Android variant if you own an iPhone 15 series, although it might be possible.

With two clickable analog sticks, AXBY buttons, triggers, shoulder buttons, a D-pad, and a few navigation buttons in addition to triggers and shoulder buttons, this controller for the best iPhones has all the mashable buttons and responsive controls you need. This update includes two more programmable shoulder buttons, and a new button that opens the Razer Nexus software for remapping and other functions. Still in its early stages, the app may use some improvement. Additionally, the Razer Kishi V2 features a power passthrough in case you need to charge your phone while playing. For a wider range, you can check at additional iPhone accessories.

Admittedly, the Kishi V2’s design may be a little too compact for those with larger hands, and it’s a little disappointing to see that it lacks support for wired headphones, but pretty much everything else about this ‘plug and play’ controller is top notch.

4.GameSir X2 Pro

Last update on 2024-03-31 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon.

To fit larger Android phones, the X2 Pro is broader than the X2 model. This controller is perfect for gaming while on the road because it is small and low power consumption. With its flexible shape, it can hold almost any Android phone or the iPhone 15 series, with its soft grip supporting phones up to 7 inches in length. In addition to having sturdy twin joysticks, a D-pad, and an abundance of buttons, including two rear buttons that can be customized, the textured areas offer excellent grip. The shoulder buttons are now analog triggers for the Hall Effect.With a USB-C connector, it allows for seamless gaming experiences with significantly less latency than Bluetooth controllers. Because to GameSir’s partnership with Xbox, you can choose between an Xbox button layout (which is magnetic) and a complimentary month of the top-notch Game Pass Ultimate.

Choose the GameSir X2 Pro controller if you’re determined to play games on your Android phone or one of the greatest iPhone substitutes. Like the Razer Kishi V2 and Backbone One, it has a bridge that allows you to slide your phone between two controls. The controller’s rectangular form may seem a little strange to some, but textured grips make it more comfortable. With pass-through charging and articulating USB-C, your phone will never run out of juice in the middle of a fight.

It felt like it was designed just for twin-stick shooters like Jydge when I tested it with the Pixel 6 Pro. Despite the Xbox logo, you can use it with other cloud gaming providers. It also functioned nicely with Xbox Cloud Gaming. You still have to utilize the glitchy and confusing Gamesir app if you need to map keys. The swiveling USB-C connector on my phone worries me in the long run, however GameSir has included a USB-C port at the bottom right for pass-through charging.

You’ll love gaming on the Xbox-designed GameSir X2 Pro controller after it connects via USB-C thanks to its offset analog sticks, sensitive D-pad, and Xbox-style A, B, X, and Y button arrangement. There are even two thumbstick caps with replaceable face buttons for a variation in feel. Two mechanical shoulder buttons with Kailh micro-switches provide tactile feedback and accuracy, while two rear buttons that may be customized give you even more control.

5.Sony DualSense

Last update on 2024-03-31 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon.

While the PS5 compatibility is the DualSense’s primary selling point, it can also be used with iOS and Android smartphones. Thanks to its textured grips, its updated design is comfortable to play with in addition to looking fantastic. It also has a haptic feedback system and adaptable triggers, which are noteworthy characteristics. While the latter provides greater haptic feedback to enhance immersion in games by simulating the sense of footsteps or rains on metal flooring, the former can adjust resistance based on what the user is doing.

The Sony DualSense significantly improves controller performance. It has a fresh look that accomplishes more than just look good. If you look closely enough, the DualSense’s textured grips and ergonomic design resemble PlayStation buttons.

The haptics of the DualSense are what drive the entire experience. The amazing haptic feedback from Sony, which can provide an additional layer of immersion to games, is the source of the name DualSense. Additionally, Sony has added adjustable triggers, which allow you to engage with the in-game action even more by adjusting their resistance. However, it might take some time before mobile games make use of those controller features. For more choices similar to this, check out our selection of the top PS5 controllers.

What You Need to Know About Mobile gaming controllers?

Compatibility:

First things first, confirm that the controller is compatible with your mobile device. While there are several Android-only mobile controllers available, there are also many iPhone-compatible choices. Additionally, be mindful of the version compatibility—particularly if you’re using an outdated version of iOS or Android—since certain controllers require updates in order to function.

The games:

You should consider the kinds of games you usually play because certain games are more appropriate for particular control schemes. More like a puzzle game on a touchscreen? A movable controller can end up gathering dust in a draw sooner rather than later. However, if you enjoy playing first-person shooters or find yourself missing more accuracy in platformers, it’s likely that having something more tactile will make a big difference in your gaming experience.

Mounting:

You’ll need a support to hold your phone or tablet if you’re using a mobile controller. While some controllers lack a mount, others do. Another option is to get a phone stand, which is fantastic if you have a surface to play it on but less useful otherwise.

Handheld Gaming PC Vs. Phone for Gaming

The games you want to play, how you want to play them, and your lifestyle all play a role in choosing a portable gaming device.

A gaming phone is incredibly portable, fits neatly in your pocket, and has all the standard functions of a smartphone, such as excellent cameras, communication, and navigation. Numerous gaming phones are equipped with triggers for convenience of usage and cooling systems to avoid thermal throttling. Naturally, some people find the largely touch controls unpleasant, in which case a phone controller from this guide can be quite helpful.

The finest portable gaming PCs are bigger but yet portable, such as the Asus ROG Ally Z1 Extreme or Steam Deck OLED, and are great for on-the-go use. In contrast to gaming phones, they are essentially only utilized for gaming.

In terms of games themselves, an increasing number of possibilities are making their way onto Android and iOS, though the majority are more subdued than their PC equivalents. With the continued development of cloud gaming enabled by Nvidia GeForce Now and Xbox Game Pass, playing games on your phone has never been simpler. But because most portable PCs are so powerful, you can play your collection of the greatest PC games with you wherever you go. Something that a smartphone simply cannot accomplish.

Another factor to consider is price, as some of the top gaming phones may run you anywhere from $700 to well over $1,000. More cheap gaming handhelds are available; the Steam Deck OLED is available for less than $600.

It all comes down to personal preference in the end. Would you like something that it all but games in a slightly toned-down manner? Grab a gaming phone. Do you want a device dedicated to gaming that offers platform-exclusive titles? Get a handheld PC.

Conclusion

First things first, confirm that the controller is compatible with your mobile device. While there are several Android-only mobile controllers available, there are also many iPhone-compatible choices. Additionally, be mindful of the version compatibility—particularly if you’re using an outdated version of iOS or Android—since certain controllers require updates in order to function.

The games: You should consider the kinds of games you usually play because certain games are more appropriate for particular control schemes. More like a puzzle game on a touchscreen? A movable controller can end up gathering dust in a draw sooner rather than later. However, if you enjoy playing first-person shooters or find yourself missing more accuracy in platformers, it’s likely that having something more tactile will make a big difference in your gaming experience.

Mounting: You’ll need a support to hold your phone or tablet if you’re using a mobile controller. While some controllers lack a mount, others do. Another option is to get a phone stand, which is fantastic if you have a surface to use it on but less useful when you’re attempting to squeeze in a quick Fortnite game while on the bus. It is advised to use a mount, which can be attached or integrated.