The Best Mobile Gaming Controllers for iPhone and Android (2026)

best mobile Gaming controllers are excellent devices that allow you to play compatible games for hours. Whether you’re looking for an iPhone or Android controller, we’ve tested all the top picks (meaning we played a lot of games on our phones) and have our opinions on them all. Backbone makes the best mobile gaming controller we’ve tried that will work for most people, but we also have solid recommendations for specific uses, like pairing with smart glasses or a tablet.

Be sure to check out our related buying guides including the best cheap phones, best Android phones, best gaming controllers, and best MagSafe accessories.

Best Mobile Gaming Controller

Backbone One is as easy to recommend as it is to use it. Slot the connector, either USB-C or Lightning, into your phone and pull the controller back out. The buttons and triggers are clicky and responsive, and the controller feels comfortable for hours-long gaming sessions without being too bulky. It also has pass-through charging, a screenshot or screen recording button, a mute button, and a headphone jack.

What makes all Backbone controllers so great is the manufacturer’s software and additional features. The controller supports many gaming apps and services, and the companion app is fantastic (though not essential). My favorite thing is the list of recommended games with controller support. You can also use the app to message and party chat with your friends, stream directly to Twitch, record and edit videos in 1080p at 60 frames per second, and more. Some of these features are locked behind a Backbone+ subscription, which costs $40 per year. Membership is nice, but you don’t need it for a great experience. The controller is also available in some limited-edition styles or platform-dedicated versions such as the PlayStation Edition, but the differences are cosmetic.

Officially works with iPhone, Android, Nvidia GeForce Now, Xbox and PlayStation Remote Play, Amazon Luna, and Steam Link

Best Upgrade Mobile Gaming Controller

Backbone Pro extends all the features I loved about Backbone One. The Pro is a bit thicker, grippier, and more comfortable, and although I have small hands, I can imagine it being easier for people with larger hands to hold. It has a quieter, more premium feel, and still has the One’s headphone port and pass-through charging capabilities. The Pro feels just as ergonomic to me as a console controller, with no drawbacks or compromises. I liked the full-size joystick, programmable back button, and Hall-effect rear triggers.

The Backbone Pro also has Bluetooth connectivity, which means you can use it with your phone, tablet, laptop, VR headsets, and compatible smart TVs. You can connect to multiple devices simultaneously and switch between them with just one tap. If you’re serious about mobile gaming, or you want a comfortable controller that can seamlessly swap between your devices, I recommend the Backbone Pro. However, I think it’s worth getting a carry case like this to store it.

Officially works with iPhone, Android, Nvidia GeForce Now, Xbox and PlayStation Remote Play, Amazon Luna, and Steam Link

Best Magnetic Mobile Gaming Controller

OhSnap’s AmCon controller has a few quirks, but the general concept is neat. The MagSafe controller attaches to the back of your iPhone or Android phone (a magnetic ring is included for Android users, though Ohsnap recommends using a MagSafe case). Press the eject button to eject your phone, much like you would with an old-school T-Mobile Sidekick, and reveal the D-pad, joystick, and buttons at the bottom. You can also remove the entire magnetic component and use the built-in kickstand to prop up your phone while controlling it with the device’s separate controller half. If you want a more traditional design instead of playing with a rectangular controller you can pull the hand grips down and out for added stability. The Amkon pairs with your phone via Bluetooth and has minimal latency, with recessed thumbsticks and buttons that feel satisfying when pressed.

There are countless Amkon accessories that are neat, like the Key Cast or Dock, which can charge your controller (via USB-C) and cast your phone’s screen to a monitor or TV. I can see this device being particularly useful for travel, given its compact size that you can keep it in your pocket – which isn’t true for many of the controllers in this guide. This is also a great option if you prefer to play on your phone, but when you’re playing holding your phone.