If you’ve ever been curious about playing video games on your mobile phone, you may have wondered if it’s possible to use a console controller. While there are some great mobile games out there that work just fine with touch controls, the experience is often better when you have physical buttons and joysticks to interact with.
The good news for gamers who want to play console-like games on their smartphones is that there are plenty of options for controllers, including ones made specifically for Android and iOS devices. In this guide we’ll cover some of the best controllers you can use with your smartphone or tablet so we can get started playing today!
Table of Contents
8Bitdo Zero 2 controller
The 8Bitdo Zero 2 controller is a great option for mobile gamers. It’s compatible with Android and iOS devices, and it has a built-in battery that lasts up to eight hours per charge. The controller is also compatible with Switch, PS3, PS4, Wii U, PC and Mac.
This device works well in most games available on the Google Play Store or Apple App Store. To use this for gaming on your smartphone or tablet you’ll need iOS 8 or later or Android 4.1 Jelly Bean or newer versions like 5 Lollipop which means it will work on all recent phones but not older ones such as 2013 models that were released before these software updates were available.
Logitech PowerShell Controller + Battery
The Logitech PowerShell Controller + Battery is a great option for those who want to take their gaming on the go. It has a battery that lasts up to 40 hours, so you won’t have to worry about running out of power halfway through an epic quest or boss fight. The PowerShell’s lightweight design makes it easy to hold while still being durable enough to withstand daily use. This controller also comes with two high-precision analog sticks and 11 buttons that allow you full control over your game play experience.
The Logitech PowerShell Controller + Battery is a highly rated item on Amazon with many positive reviews from customers saying they love how comfortable it feels while playing games, especially on mobile devices where space can sometimes be limited since smartphones aren’t designed with gaming in mind (especially when compared against traditional consoles). The price point might seem high at first glance.
Mad Catz CTRLi Mobile Gamepad
You can use this controller with any Android device. It also works with PC and Mac, so you can play your favorite games on your computer too. This is a great option if you’re looking for something to use on your phone as well as a tablet or computer. The Mad Catz CTRLi Mobile Gamepad has over 40 supported games, including Asphalt 8: Airborne, Modern Combat 5: Blackout, Grand Theft Auto III and IV, Real Racing 3 (Racing), Geometry Wars 3 Dimensions Evolved (Action) and many more!
The controller comes with a built-in battery that lasts up to 12 hours of gameplay time per charge. It also has an auto sleep feature that helps conserve energy while not in use – just turn it off when not in use!
Another benefit of this controller is its compatibility across devices since it uses Bluetooth technology rather than being designed specifically for one platform like some other options on the market today (such as MOGA controllers).
MOGA Rebel Gaming Controller
The MOGA Rebel is one of the most popular controllers on the market, and it’s easy to see why. The Bluetooth connectivity means that you can play with this controller on almost any modern smartphone or tablet. It also uses iOS or Android compatible games and apps, which makes it a great choice for people who have a variety of devices in their household.
The design is comfortable, compact, lightweight and doesn’t require charging—it has an internal battery that lasts up to 50 hours when fully charged! The only downside here is that you won’t be able to connect more than one device at once because there are only two ports (one for charging).
You can customize your buttons however you want by downloading free software from MOGA’s website so that they match whatever game/app you’re playing at the moment—and no matter how many buttons are already on there: there’s still room for six more!
Nintendo Switch Joy-Con Pair
The Nintendo Switch Joy-Con Pair is a pair of wireless controllers that can be used separately or together. They have a gyroscope, accelerometer, and HD rumble. A single Joy-Con controller has a battery life of up to 20 hours while connected via Bluetooth to the Nintendo Switch console but it lasts even longer when playing wirelessly or in portable mode by itself.
The Nintendo Switch Joy-Con Pair is quite expensive but you do get two controllers for your money so if you want your kids to play games on their own without having to share one controller then this might be the best option for you!
PowerA MOGA XP5-X Plus Controller
If you want to play your favorite games like Fortnite, PUBG Mobile, or Asphalt 9: Legends on your phone, the PowerA MOGA XP5-X Plus Controller is a great option. It works with iOS and Android devices, so if you have both types of device, this controller will be compatible with them. The battery life can last up to 40 hours when fully charged. The ergonomic design makes it easy to use and prevents fatigue during gameplay sessions lasting several hours—no more hand cramps!
The PowerA MOGA XP5-X Plus Controller comes with a charging cable so that you’re ready to play right away when opening up your package!
Razer Kishi Controller
Razer, a company known for its PC gaming hardware and accessories, has brought the Kishi Controller to market. It’s a Bluetooth controller that works with your smartphone or tablet. The Kishi features a custom-designed ergonomic form factor, a built-in rechargeable battery, and an integrated touchpad that lets you play mobile games without having to use your screen as an input device.
With this controller you can play all of your favorite mobile games on your iPad or Android phone like Fortnite (iOS only), PUBG Mobile (Android only), Asphalt 9: Legends (both), Mortal Kombat 11 (both) and more!
Satechi Bluetooth Wireless Gamepad
The Satechi Bluetooth Wireless Gamepad gives you the freedom to play games on your smartphone using a controller. It connects via Bluetooth and is compatible with Android, iOS and Windows devices. The gamepad has an ergonomic design that makes it comfortable to hold, along with four control buttons on each side for quick access. It comes packaged with a Micro USB charging cable for convenient recharging of the built-in battery which lasts up to 2 hours of continuous use before needing a recharge.
Sony DualShock 4 Wireless Controller
The Sony DualShock 4 Wireless Controller is a wireless controller for the PlayStation 4. It has a built in battery that can be charged via USB, and features a touchpad and share button on its top surface. The controller’s headphone jack and stereo headset jack are located at the bottom of the device.
The DualShock 4 also has a light bar, which helps your game console understand what you’re doing with your hands based on how much light is reflected from it (for instance, if you’re crouching).
Steel Series Stratus Duo Controller
The Steel Series Stratus Duo controller is a Bluetooth-enabled dual joystick controller that’s compatible with both Android and iOS devices. It comes with two joysticks, two triggers, and a D-pad. The controller also has four front buttons (A, B, X, Y) and four shoulder buttons (L1/L2/R1/R2). The battery life is up to 40 hours on a full charge which should be plenty of time for even the longest sessions. You can even use it while you’re charging it at home too! It comes with its own travel pouch so you can take it anywhere like work or school where you need something to keep your hands busy during those long meetings!
SteelSeries Stratus XL
The SteelSeries Stratus XL is a gaming controller that works with Android, iOS and Nintendo Switch. It can also be used on a PC. The controller has up to 20 hours of battery life, which is more than enough for most trips.
The controller will work with any game that supports MFi controllers and can be used in handheld mode or as a console controller for your TV screen.
Conclusion
Ultimately, what you should look for in a gaming controller for your smartphone is value. Not every phone needs or warrants a crazy pricey controller with all the bells and whistles. Smartphone gaming controllers are available at a wide range of prices, so it’s smart to weigh your options before pulling the trigger.
