An Android controller is a great alternative to buying a dedicated Android handheld console. Great controllers are available for less than $100, a fraction of the price of consoles, and offer similar gaming experiences when paired with one of the top Android gaming phones.
Whether you're a casual gamer who whiles away the evening with Stardew Valley, or someone who stays on top of the greatest Android games, there's a controller for you. We've rounded up the best controllers of all styles, so you don't need to waste your time struggling to make the wrong controller work.
-
GameSir T4 Cyclone Pro
Best overallThe 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 pickThe 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.
-
HyperX Clutch Wireless
Best value$30 $50 Save $20The HyperX Clutch Wireless is an Android and Windows controller that offers many similarities to the SteelSeries Stratus+, but it's often on sale, making it a perfect choice for our Best Value. Beyond pricing, this solid controller offers Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and USB-C connections. So whether you're interested in playing native Android games over Bluetooth or looking to cut down on latency for game streaming on GeForce Now and Stadia, the HyperX Clutch Wireless has you covered.
-
SteelSeries Stratus+
Massive battery lifeThe 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
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
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
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
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.
The best Android gaming controllers are easier to find than ever
Our top pick is currently the Gamesir Cyclone Pro, which has everything we want from an Android controller without breaking the bank. It can fit a phone clip and can be used wirelessly or wired, depending on your preference. It might not be much to look at, but we're grateful that Gamesir focused on quality rather than flashy effects.
As long as you're willing to deal with the PlayStation branding, the Backbone One - PlayStation Edition is our favorite snap-on controller. It's expensive, but it has the best build quality out of any controller here. You can even use it as a standalone controller if you're gaming on your PC or PlayStation.
All these controllers are compatible with Android phones, but we recommend also using them for our favorite Android tablets, desktop PCs, and gaming consoles. Of course, not every Android game supports controllers, so we recommend exploring Android's best games that offer controller support.