Best game controllers for Android Android Central 2021
Mobile gamers have always had the ability to use the best gaming controllers, even before the launch of Xbox Game Pass. There are many great Android games that can be improved with a controller. And, honestly, who enjoys using the onscreen controls? We have the top Android controllers to help you enhance your mobile gaming experience.
Source: Russell Holly/Android Central
The Play Store was taken over by many game developers who offer phones with better specs than most computers. Fortnite and Call of Duty are two great examples. If you want your phone to behave like a controller, then you don't need to use a third-party clip. The Razer Kishi turns any smartphone into a Nintendo Switch. Bluetooth connectivity doesn't slow you down. We found that the Razer Kishi meets all the requirements for a good Android game controller. Cloud gaming is becoming more popular. The Razer Kishi is recommended to be used with NVIDIA’s GeForce Now streaming service. The best thing about the Kishi is the fact that it plugs directly into your smartphone so you don't have to charge it. If you run out of juice, there is a USB-C pass-through port. There are not many issues with the Kishi but Razer missed the mark in a few places. You won't even be able use the Kishi for playing games on your computer. The USB-C pass through port cannot be used to charge your phone. If your phone has a 3,5mm headphone jack, you won't be able to use the Kishi to plug in headphones. The pros: It fits almost every phone
Lightweight and compact
Recommended controller for NVIDIA GeForce NOW
It doesn't require charging
Only for pass-through charging, external USB-C port
Razer Kishi Mobile Game controller is the best Android controller overall. Perfect for both pros and amateurs, The Razer Kishi is slim, has a familiar layout, and fits almost every phone. Amazon: Starting at $55
Microsoft: $80
$55 on Best Buy
Best Android controller for tournament gaming: Raiju Mobile
You should consider all the features that Razer Raiju Mobile offers: dual Bluetooth and wired connections; four multifunction buttons you can map to your needs; a hair-trigger mode that allows you to use both left and right triggers; a phone mount that tilts 60 degrees for optimal viewing angles. The only thing that may give you cause for concern is the price. Razer Raiju Mobile pro controller feels great in your hand even when you have your phone attached. This controller is great for long gaming sessions. It also has a 20-plus-hour battery life. You can also use the extra-long braided USB A to USB C cable to charge your controller while you play. It has one problem: sometimes, the grip can block volume controls and, in extreme cases, press down on the power button. The Raiju Mobile was released as a premium accessory to the Razer Phone 2. It also works with two Android smartphones at once. This is one of my favorite things about the controller. You can pair and connect to up to two phones using the physical switch. This is ideal if you plan to share the controller with other gamers. Pros: Comfortable grip
Pairing over Bluetooth is easy
Two phones can be used at the same time
Includes cables for charging and wired connection
It works flawlessly with any app that supports Bluetooth controls. Cons: No custom map buttons
A phone grip could prevent you from accessing volume controls
Razer Raiju Mobile Gaming Control is the best Android controller for tournament gaming. This controller is perfect for serious mobile gamers. The Raiju Mobile Bluetooth gaming controller is the best. Amazon: $50
Best Buy - $120
Walmart: $49
Best value: SteelSeries Stratus Duo
Source: Android Central
SteelSeries is known for making the best Bluetooth gaming controllers available for Android. The Stratus Duo is the latest in a long line of SteelSeries products. The company has again created a controller that is comfortable to hold. This time, it comes with a rechargeable lithium battery and a WiFi dongle. You can also connect it to your PC to play your Steam games. As my favorite SteelSeries controller, the Duo has taken over the Stratus XL. The controller has been redesigned to make it more ergonomic, particularly around the top. The buttons on the shoulder are very comfortable. A phone mount is available separately. The best part is that I don't have to search for AA batteries as often with the XL. Pros: Rechargeable battery
Comfortable design
Pairs are always fast
Switch easily between Android and PC
Connects via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi or USB adapter. Cons: No haptic feedback
Extra charges for phone holder
SteelSeries Stratus Duo mobile gaming controller at a great price. It's the best value for those who bounce between Android and Windows gaming. The Stratus Duo is a sophisticated and comfortable controller that connects to your PCs using the USB dongle. Dell - $60
Amazon: $46
Best Buy: $60
Best retro Android controller: 8Bitdo SN30 Pro
Source: Andrew Myrick / Android Central
The 8bitDo SN30 will bring back memories of your childhood spent playing SNES. Bluetooth connectivity has been added to the iconic Nintendo controller design, allowing the 8BitDo SN30 Pro to work with Android, Windows and macOS as well as the Raspberry Pi and Nintendo Switch. This versatility is especially important if you have a collection or retro games that you want to play again. The lack of a dedicated power button or button for pairing is a problem. Instead, you can use the Start and Select buttons to pair, which can lead to unpairing accidentally. The SN30 Pro delivers all of the modern features that we have come to expect from a wireless controller. The SN30 Pro offers all the comfort and familiarity of the SNES controller. It's also available with all the classic GameBoy Color colors. Everything is powered by a rechargeable 480mAh battery. Pairing and reset can be done using the Select button. Wireless SNES controller
Well-built, tactile D-pad and buttons
Available in nostalgic colors
Compatible with Android, and more Cons: There are no dedicated buttons or switches for power or pairing
Bluetooth 4.0 is obsolete
Retro controller 8BitDo Pro Mobile Gaming Controller - The best choice for retro gamers. This wireless SNES controller is what you envisioned as a child. This Bluetooth controller is perfect for classic games. Amazon: $45
Walmart: $52
Best Android controller for next-gen gamers: Xbox Series X Controller
Source: Microsoft
Microsoft and Sony have finally released their next-generation consoles. Microsoft has also introduced a slightly revised controller. The Xbox Series X controller works with all devices, except iOS. This makes it easy to get into Xbox Game Pass and start playing some games. You can also use it as a regular controller for your Android games. The bumpers and trigger have a soft, textured grip that ensures you click the bumper exactly when you need it and doesn't slip on the bumper accidentally. Although the hybrid d-pad looks similar to the Xbox Elite Controller's, it is not interchangeable. Microsoft has made it possible to customize and map some buttons depending on the game you're playing. The new Series X controller has a shorter battery life, so you'll need to use AA batteries. If you don't have an older Play and Charge Kit, you can still get one. Microsoft has not included a microphone on the board, even though there is a 3.5mm headset jack. If you want to jump online with your friends, you will need a good headset. Pros: The trigger and bumpers have a soft and tactile grip.
Hybrid D pad provides greater control
Compatible with all Xbox models, Android phones, and PCs
Pros: Not compatible with rechargeable batteries
There is no microphone built in
Xbox Series X Controller is the best Android controller for next generation gamers. The Xbox Elite Controller 2 controller is the ultimate controller, featuring all of the customization options. Amazon: $60
Best Buy: $60
Microsoft: $60
GameSir F2 grip is the best gaming grip for Android
Source: Gamesir
Although it may seem that any controller with physical buttons should be superior to touchscreen controls, this is not always true. There have been many frustrating Bluetooth connectivity issues and laggy inputs that I have had to deal with. I just want something more comfortable than my smartphone. The GameSir F2 Game Grip has helped me to appreciate this. It can be used on any size phone to give your hands something to rest on. It takes some time to learn where your thumbs naturally rest holding the phone. It is a great tool if you suffer from hand fatigue after long hours of playing video games. The joystick also features a conductive joystick, which rests on the screen. This allows you to control your character's movements with a more tactile response. It is easy to move the grip around or take it out completely. The grip can be used to support your phone while you are watching videos or playing games with a Bluetooth controller. The pros: Compatible with almost any phone
There are no compatibility or pairing issues
Comfortable, much-needed addition
Convenient and inexpensive: The conductive joystick can be awkwardly paired with other games
The best gaming grip for Android GameSirF2 Grip The GameSir GameSir F2 grip gives you more to hold on to while playing your favourite mobile games. Amazon: $13
Walmart - $16
Best Android controller for Stadia: Google Stadia Controller
Source: Android Central
Google's Stadia Controller was a slow start. It required that you wire it at launch unless you were using the Chromecast Ultra bundle. These issues are now fixed and you can leave behind the wires. This is the only way you can play Stadia on Chromecast. It's also a great controller for the entire service. You would have expected that Assistant-focused features would be available, coming from Google. You can access Assistant from the dedicated button, and another button allows you to quickly share your YouTube clip. You don't need to be concerned about dealing with a complicated design. The Stadia Controller is familiar and easy to use. The price is a little high for many, despite the Google Assistant integration. To complete the set, you will need a clip for your smartphone. You may have trouble finding the controller as it is only available through Google and cannot be purchased at your local big-box retailer. Con: The built-in share button
Design that is familiar and comfortable
Google Assistant: Quick Access
Chromecast is the only way to play Stadia. Cons: It's a bit expensive for a basic controller
Separately sold: Smartphone clip
Only available through Google
Best Android controller for Stadia Google Stadia Controller Google cloud gaming. The Stadia Controller has a familiar design that works well even if you're not playing Stadia. Best Buy: $100
Google: $69
Best Android controller for Xbox Game Pass: PowerA Moga XP5-X Plus
Source: PowerA
Microsoft and Samsung announced that Project xCloud was now in beta status when the Galaxy Note 20 lineup was revealed. Xbox Game Pass has arrived in all its glory and PowerA was among the partners that brought a new controller to the masses. With Microsoft's support, the PowerA Moga XP5X-X was created with Xbox Game Pass in view. You can customize and assign two buttons, as well as a dedicated power bank that will keep your smartphone running for longer gaming sessions. You don't have to worry about not being able to use your smartphone with XP5X. PowerA comes with the best game controller mount. It features up to 220-degrees articulation and provides the best angles for mobile gaming. Although the XP5X-X can be used with your smartphone only, they will also work with your computer. Make sure to get a long cable. The XP5X-X must be used with a wired connection. As microUSB has been the standard for charging many accessories and smartphones, we would prefer USB-C. You will need to connect wired headphones to your phone if you want to use them. There is no 3.5mm headphone socket on the controller. The pros: You can reassign buttons
Power bank with built-in features
Included is a detachable clip for gaming.
Uses microUSB to charge
No 3.5mm headphone jack
Best Android controller for Xbox Game Pass PowerA Moga XP5X Plus The best for Xbox Game Pass. This Android controller is specially designed for Xbox Game Pass and includes a clip for your phone and a power bank to keep you going for hours. Amazon: $40
Best Buy: $49
Microsoft: $70
Retro controller for modern gaming: 8BitDo SN30 Pro Xbox Cloud Gaming
Source: 8Bitdo
The next controller might look familiar. It's a redesigned 8BitDo SN30 Pro. This controller is unique because 8Bitdo collaborated closely with Microsoft to design a new controller for Xbox Game Pass (formerly Project xCloud). The familiar Xbox button is located in the middle, indicating the partnership with Microsoft. This new version, however, is a little more customizable than the standard SN30 Pro. The new version will allow you to assign buttons and customize the thumbtacks. This will improve precision as well as the ability to adjust the triggers to respond to how far you push them. Although 16 hours isn't bad, we don't think it's enough. 8Bitdo's controller might not be suitable for you if you're used to using a larger controller such as the Xbox One. The pros: You can reassign buttons
For better precision, thumbsticks can be made more precise
Triggers can be adjusted to respond faster
Improved gaming clip
Some people may find the controller too small
8BitDo SN30 Pro Xbox Cloud Gaming Controllers - Old meets New! 8BitDo already makes some great controllers and the new SN30 Pro will be a great companion for Project xCloud. Amazon: $45
Microsoft: $45
Best Android controller for versatility: 8Bitdo Pro 2
Source: 8Bitdo
This list contains a few 8Bitdo controllers which make excellent Android controllers. The two options that you see look more like the classic SNES controllers, and they aren't the most ergonomic. 8Bitdo has changed its lineup and now offers the 8Bitdo Pro 2. This replaces the 8Bitdo SN30 Pro+, which was only available up until this year. The Pro 2 comes with a 1,000mAh rechargeable battery that can be replaced at any time. It is capable of providing up to 20 hours of continuous battery life. It is designed to be compatible with the Xbox Core Controller and the Sony's PS5 dualSense, which are similar in design. The four-way toggle makes switching between profiles and devices much easier than ever. It can also be used on almost any device, except an iPhone or iPad. The 8Bitdo app allows you to map any button on your controller to another device, giving you more control over how you play your games. The two new back paddle buttons can be remapped. This is a great feature, but it could get in the way of your plans to use them. You'll need to purchase 8Bitdo’s phone holder, just as with the rest of the controllers. Pros: Rechargeable battery
Comfortable design
It's easy to switch between devices with the four-way toggle switch
It can be used with Android and Switch, Windows, macOS and Raspberry Pi
With the accompanying app, you can customize button mapping.
Extra charges for phone holder
Best Android controller with versatility 8Bitdo Pro 2 Retro look combined with more functionality. The 8Bitdo Pro 2 can be used on every platform. It features an ergonomic design with custom button mapping. Amazon: $50
Best Android controller for foldables: GameSir X2 Bluetooth
Source: Android Central
Some of the best Android game controllers don't fit everyone. They can be used with the Galaxy S21 Ultra and OnePlus 9 Pro candy bar smartphones. But what about foldable phones? The Razer Kishi can be used with the Galaxy Z Flip 5G. This leaves you with options such as the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 2 or Microsoft Surface Duo. The GameSir X2 Bluetooth is your answer. There are many GameSir X2 models, but this latest version offers Bluetooth connectivity. The buttons have been improved to provide traditional AXYB placement, and up to 20 hours of battery lifetime. The triggers are more sensitive than ever and will give you an extra edge over your opponent in Call of Duty: Mobile. The GameSir X2 Bluetooth's new button layout and high-sensitivity triggers make it a great companion for cloud gaming services such as Google Stadia or Xbox Game Streaming. There are some potential problems, however. You won't have the option to use wired headphones. Instead, you will need to use Bluetooth headsets that support Xbox Game Pass. Some GameSir X2 Bluetooth owners have experienced some issues with updating the software. However, this is not a common problem and your mileage may vary. Pros: It supports cloud gaming platforms such as Stadia and Xbox Game Streaming
Battery life up to 20 hours
Traditional button layout
Expands to support devices up 173mm in width
Trigger buttons provide high sensitivity.
It can be difficult to update controller software.
Amazon: $60 Amazon: $60
Best for Switch Pro Controller users
Source: Android Central
Although the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller may not be the first controller people think of when they think about playing games on Android, it works. Bluetooth connectivity allows you to use the premium Nintendo Switch Pro Controller in the same way as any other controllers. You can use this controller to enhance your Android mobile games, whether you are a gamer with the Nintendo Switch or Nintendo Switch OLED. The battery lasts up to 40 hours on a single charge and is extremely durable. This controller is asymmetrical like the Xbox controller, so it will be familiar to those who are used to Microsoft's controls. The pros: It's easy to use
Battery life of 40+ hours
Compatible with Nintendo Switch Cons: There are no customization options
