Best game controllers on Android in 2024

Whether you’re a casual or hardcore gamer, you know that playing on a physical controller with buttons and other input methods can greatly enhance your experience. Whether you have a top-of-the-line gaming smartphone or the latest Android phone, a game controller can help you be more precise and elevate your performance.

Many of the best Android games support controller input, and some developers even permit remapping buttons, similar to how it’s done on Android handheld consoles. To help you become a more savvy gamer, we’ve assembled a list of the best controllers available that are widely supported in most games and smartphones.

GameSir T4 Cyclone Pro

Best overall

The GameSir T4 Cyclone Pro does everything right. It’s reasonably priced with premium features like Hall-effect joysticks and customizable triggers. It’s compatible with phone clips and wired headphones. It’s capable of wired or wireless play. If you’re looking for a versatile controller, this is the one to get.
Backbone One – PlayStation Edition

Premium pick

The Backbone One is a premium controller with a price to match. While those already in Sony’s ecosystem will find its unique features useful, even those who aren’t won’t find a fault with this excellent controller. The Backbone One controller is a solid piece, but you’ll struggle to find a phone that won’t fit. It also functions as a standalone controller; just plug it into a USB port on any device and play.
Razer Raiju Mobile

Best value

The Razer Raiju Mobile game controller features the Xbox button layout with multiple functions. It has an ergonomic feel and an adjustable phone mount that can be set at any angle for a more comfortable gaming experience. The controller also has an app for button set-up, and the hair-trigger mode provides a competitive advantage in shooter games.
SteelSeries Stratus+

The SteelSeries Stratus+ is easily one of our favorite Android gaming controllers. This is a new model, similar to the last, though the bump to USB-C support is appreciated. Whether you prefer to play cordless or with the least amount of delay possible, it is an extremely capable product for an everyday device since you can connect it to Android over Bluetooth as well as USB-C. However, it feels weighty in hand, clocking in at 244g.
GameSir X3 Type-C

The GameSir X3 Type-C saw a successful campaign on Indiegogo and is in production, with orders already available. Since the controller is a new release, we’ve been lucky enough to go hands-on with the unit, and even though the external RGB fan may seem a little silly, it helps keep things cool when playing demanding games. This fan adds some bulk to the controller, but you get better performance in return.
Razer Kishi V2

$80 $100 Save $20

The Razer Kishi V2 brings a slew of new features that will appeal to mobile gaming fans. The most significant addition is that Razer has switched from membranes to micro switches, offering better direct tactility while being more responsive. This responsiveness is key since the controller connects over USB-C (no wireless), which is ideal for low latency, making the controller an excellent choice for those who play competitive games or enjoy game streaming services like Stadia and GeForce Now.
Turtle Beach Atom

$60 $80 Save $20

The Turtle Beach Atom mobile gaming controller is a Bluetooth controller that can connect to any mobile device, including phones and tablets. While there is no way to connect the device over USB for better latency, the lack of a back holding the two sides together helps with portability (you can fold both together to fit it in a bag quickly). While the MSRP is high for a Bluetooth controller, this unit is often on sale, sweetening the deal.
Xbox Core Controller

$55 $60 Save $5

Android supports Xbox controllers out of the box as long as you connect over Bluetooth. This means many mobile games support Xbox controllers, so you’ll see better support with this controller than, say, a Razer Kishi. Also, several mobile games only support Bluetooth controllers despite Android’s HID (human interface device) support. If you’re looking for the best compatibility and don’t mind gaming over Bluetooth, the Xbox Core Wireless Controller is an excellent choice across a handful of retail stores.
Moga XP-Ultra

$100 $106 Save $6

The Moga XP-Ultra might cost more than every other controller on this list, but you get a lot for your money. Every aspect of this controller feels premium, from the analog triggers to the detachable mini-controller. Even the included USB-C charging cable is braided, a rarity among devices. It supports Bluetooth and wired connections and feels just at home gaming with a tablet as with your Android phone.
Cooler Master Storm Controller

Cooler Master’s Storm Controller cuts a lot of corners to hit its price point, but it’s still a great choice if you value simplicity over all else. It’s a versatile controller thanks to the included mobile clip; use it with your PC or Android device. It’s a perfect choice if you game infrequently and don’t want to break the bank.
GameSir T4-Kaleid

The Gamesir T4 Kaleid boasts face buttons with micro-switches, triggers that can toggle between analog and hair-trigger, programmable macro buttons, customizable rumble and turbo, and a staggering array of LED options. Remarkably, this is all packed into a controller that costs less than $50. The lack of Bluetooth support holds back this otherwise perfect controller.
Sony PS5 DualSense Wireless Controller

The Sony PlayStation 5 DualSense controller is fully compatible with Android devices and can connect over Bluetooth. It supports all games, and even the linked phone can be controlled, allowing you to play standard games and even the ones in emulators. If you’re looking for one of the best controllers with a comfortable feel and design, the PS5 controller is your best bet.

Level up your gaming experience

Gaming controllers enable you to play games more immersively, without blocking your view from your relatively small phone display. If you’re looking for the best overall gaming controller, you might want to look at the GameSir T4 Cyclone Pro. It has an ergonomic feel and design, hall-effect joysticks, and customizable triggers. It can be used wirelessly or wired and easily attaches to phone clips and other compatible accessories, making it a versatile and affordable controller.

Suppose you have a larger budget and don’t mind spending up to $100; the Backbone One is hands down the best premium controller you can buy today. The PlayStation edition has all the usual controls you’re already familiar with and has a premium feel and design. Users can easily place their phones into the controller, turning the devices into handheld gaming consoles.

If you’re looking for the best budget controller, the Razer Raiju Mobile controller is an excellent option. It offers seamless compatibility with nearly all Android devices, and the app lets you customize each button to your favorite configuration. It also works across other platforms, so you can use it on your Windows computers, Android smartphones, and other compatible devices.