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Best Gaming Controllers for Android

Updated November 2023
Bottom line
Pros
Cons
Best of the Best
Razer Kishi Mobile Game Controller
Razer
Kishi Mobile Game Controller
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Feature-packed
Bottom Line

A universal gaming controller that is designed to bring the feeling of console gaming to your mobile phone.

Pros

Comes in various sets that can include earphones and grip tape. Works with iPhones and Androids. Compatible with cloud gaming services such as Xbox Game Pass, Amazon Luna, Steam Link, etc. Reduces lag by connecting directly to the device's charging port.

Cons

You must use the Razer Kishi app to see which games are compatible.

Best Bang for the Buck
EasySMX Wired Game Controller
EasySMX
Wired Game Controller
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Simple Yet Solid
Bottom Line

A great budget-friendly option that is reliable and durable for all android gaming experiences.

Pros

Offers advanced tactile feedback from built-in motors similar to other models. Wired connection eliminates the need for constantly recharging any batteries. USB cable is 6.5 feet long. Durable button design will last for years of play.

Cons

Made of cheap plastic that can flex and bend during heavy gameplay.

Razer Junglecat
Razer
Junglecat
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Trusted Brand
Bottom Line

Reminiscent of the Nintendo Switch with precise controls, ergonomic grip, and premium design.

Pros

Includes 3 cases to fit your smartphone perfectly. Companion app for customizing button layouts. Supports a wide range of games. Over 100 hours of battery life. Bluetooth connection. The D-pad feels tactile and responsive.

Cons

Some users found this option to be on the pricier side.

EasySMX 2.4g Wireless Game Controller
EasySMX
2.4g Wireless Game Controller
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Comfort & Reliability
Bottom Line

Wireless design similar to beloved Xbox models for a fraction of the price.

Pros

Buyers laud the comfortable grip, the bargain price, and the controller's reliability. Comes from a trusted brand. The product also works with PCs. The offset thumbstick feels comfortable even after long play sessions.

Cons

AA battery power could be a nuisance for those who prefer charge-and-play models.

Backbone One Mobile Gaming Controller
Backbone
One Mobile Gaming Controller
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Most Versatile
Bottom Line

The unique Backbone controller offers a variety of streaming options and adjustable gaming controls.

Pros

Stands out because of its compatibility to pair with Xbox, PlayStation, and PC. Clickable thumbsticks are responsive and allow for more accurate control. Effortless to hold thanks to the rounded edges. Includes partnership with the Backbone app to record and share gameplay.

Cons

Requires consistent internet connection for full operation.

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BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and all opinions about the products are our own. About BestReviews  
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We buy all products with our own funds, and we never accept free products from manufacturers.About BestReviews 
HOW WE TESTED

We recommend these products based on an intensive research process that's designed to cut through the noise and find the top products in this space. Guided by experts, we spend hours looking into the factors that matter, to bring you these selections.

32
Models
Considered
95
Consumers
Consulted
8
Hours
Researched
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Buying guide for best gaming controllers for android

Whether you’re a high-level gamer or someone who enjoys playing smartphone app games, having a separate controller can make or break your gameplay experience. Playing games on an Android phone without a gaming controller can make your hands cramp, become frustrating when the touchscreen buttons are too touchy, or just not feel like you’re really gaming.

An Android-compatible gaming controller offers an at-home gaming experience wherever you may be, whether that’s taking a long road trip, waiting at the doctor’s office, or even lounging outside on a beautiful day. A gaming controller has easy-to-use buttons, is more ergonomic for your hands, and gives you better overall control of the game.

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Android-compatible gaming controllers don’t have licensing restrictions like Apple iOS controllers do. Because of that, there are more Android controllers available at affordable prices.

Key considerations

Connection

Some Android gaming controllers have wireless connectivity, usually in the form of Bluetooth. Controllers that use Bluetooth must remain in a certain range of the Android device you’re using, and this range should be large enough to game at a comfortable distance from your Android phone.

Gaming controllers for Android with a cord will connect either to the charging port of the smartphone or the headphone jack. If you’d like to connect the controller and it doesn’t have a cord, there are various adapters available.

Wraparound

Wraparound gaming controllers for Android connect to both sides of the smartphone, similar to how the Nintendo Switch controllers work. That way you’re still holding your phone as normal, but you have additional controller and button options for each hand.

System compatibility

Almost every Android gaming controller is compatible with the Android operating system version 4.0, which is also referred to as “Ice Cream Sandwich.” The well-integrated technology allows you to use a compatible controller to operate your smartphone, whether it’s while playing a game or just doing daily tasks.

Some Android-compatible gaming controllers are also compatible with other systems. However, these systems do not include Apple iOS because of licensing issues. The most common compatible alternative systems are different versions of PlayStation, Wii, and PC operating systems.

Version compatibility

It’s important to know which software version your Android smartphone is currently running. If the version is older than 4.0, it doesn’t mean that the gaming controller won’t work. However, a controller may be unpredictable and glitchy with an older system. On the other hand, the most recent version of Android can sometimes cause problems with an Android gaming controller because it is too advanced. There are apps that can be downloaded to remap the buttons in order to have the best compatibility possible with your Android gaming controller.

Bracket

Some Android gaming controllers come with a bracket to hold your smartphone while you play. This bracket will fit standard Android smartphones, but make sure to compare the bracket’s dimensions with your smartphone first.

Features

Ergonomic

Gaming controllers for Android are outfitted with rubber and padding to increase their ergonomic handling. Handheld gaming becomes a problem when your hands start to cramp and your fingers start to ache from being bent at the same angle for so long. Eliminate this problem by ensuring your gaming controller for Android has ergonomic features.

Lighting

There may be LED lights placed behind the buttons or behind the button layout on the Android gaming controller. The buttons may always be lit up, or they may only light up when pressed. Another common feature is a back panel light that lights up when the gaming controller is in use.

Button layout

The button layout differs among gaming controllers for Android, but there’s often an available feature to map the buttons to your preferences. All controllers should feature the standard buttons, such as joysticks, a D-pad, right and left triggers, and home or menu options. Changing the button layout will give the buttons different functions, which may be useful depending on what game you’re playing.

Gaming controllers for Android prices

Inexpensive: For $15 to $25, you can get a simple gaming controller for Android. It most likely won’t include any astounding features, and it probably won’t boast an ergonomic design. The controller will work for your gaming needs, but it may wear out after vigorous use.

Mid-range: If you spend between $30 and $50, you can find a reliable Android gaming controller. The button layout will be similar to what you’re used to, and the controller may have a wireless or wired connection.

Expensive: For $60 or more, you’ll find gaming controllers for Android with all the bells and whistles. These high-end controllers are ergonomic, offer Bluetooth connectivity, and have other special features, like a carrying case, a smartphone stand, or a separate charging cord.

Tips

  • Some games available on Android offer a better gaming experience when played with a separate controller. The game may have been designed specifically for use with a gaming controller for Android.
  • Use the charging cord of the Android gaming controller to connect it to USB-friendly devices. You can then use the controller with a different gaming system or a tablet.
  • Some gaming controllers for Android come with brackets or stands to prop your phone up while you game. If your controller doesn’t have this feature, simply prop your phone against a book or wall to better see your gameplay.
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Search through your smartphone’s application store for apps that increase the function of your gaming controller for Android. There are apps available that can change the button layout and apps that can increase the compatibility of the controller with other devices.

FAQ

Q. How do I charge my Android gaming controller?
A.
Most gaming controllers for Android come with a charging cord. The cord will most likely be USB-compatible or micro USB-compatible.
 

Q. How does a gaming controller for Android stay charged if it doesn’t have an internal battery?
A.
Controllers without internal batteries pull charge from the battery life of your smartphone. Once the controller is connected to the phone (usually via a wired connection), it begins to draw on the battery life of the phone to maintain its power.
 

Q. If I get a new Android phone, can I still use my old Android gaming controller?
A.
Absolutely. The controller should be able to pair up with any Android phone as long as the system version is compatible.