Top Gaming Phones for 2025: What to Buy
When it comes to gaming on your mobile device, not all phones are created equal. A top-notch gaming phone goes beyond the basics, offering features tailored specifically for an optimal gaming experience. One of the key elements is a powerful processor that ensures smooth gameplay. It's essential for a gaming phone to maintain high performance over extended periods without overheating, which can ruin your gaming session. Ample memory and storage are also crucial, allowing you to multitask and store numerous games without breaking a sweat. Some gaming phones, like the RedMagic 10 Pro, take it a step further with additional gaming-specific features such as shoulder buttons and enhanced touch sampling rates.
The display is another critical factor. A larger, brighter screen with a high refresh rate can make all the difference in how you experience your games. A bigger display not only enhances visibility but also improves gameplay by reducing the area covered by your thumbs during touch controls. With these considerations in mind, let's explore the top phones that are perfect for gaming on the go.
TL;DR – These Are the Best Gaming Phones:
Best Overall: RedMagic 10 Pro
11 See it at Amazon See it at RedMagic
Check out our guide to the best phone controllers for accessory options.
Contributions by Georgie Peru and Danielle Abraham
RedMagic 10 Pro – Photos
10 Images
1. RedMagic 10 Pro
Best Gaming Phone
Best Overall: RedMagic 10 Pro
11 The RedMagic 10 Pro delivers exceptional performance and sustained power in a sleek package. See it at Amazon See it at RedMagic
Product Specifications
- Screen: 6.85-inch OLED, 1216x2688, 431 ppi, 144Hz refresh rate
- Processor: Snapdragon 8 Elite
- Camera: 50-Megapixel Wide, 50-Megapixel Ultrawide, 2-Megapixel Macro, 16-Megapixel Selfie
- Battery: 7,050mAh
- Weight: 229g (0.5lb)
PROS
- Excellent gaming performance
- Great display
CONS
- Underwhelming cameras
- Shorter software support
Gaming demands a lot from a phone, and the RedMagic 10 Pro rises to the challenge. Its actively cooled Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite chip ensures top-notch performance, comparable to powerhouses like the Asus ROG Phone 9 and OnePlus 13. The integrated cooling fan allows for prolonged gaming sessions without thermal throttling. In benchmarks, the RedMagic 10 Pro consistently leads the pack in sustained performance, supported by a massive 7,050mAh battery.
For gamers, the RedMagic 10 Pro includes two shoulder buttons that can be mapped to on-screen controls, enhancing gameplay across various titles. The display boasts a fast touch-sampling rate for quick input detection, and features like supersampling and frame interpolation enhance visual clarity and smoothness. The phone's design is both stylish and functional, with options for clear backs that showcase the internal components. The 6.85-inch AMOLED display features minimal bezels and a hidden selfie camera, offering a full view for gaming with a 144Hz refresh rate and high brightness.
Remarkably, the RedMagic 10 Pro offers all this at a starting price of $649, making it a cost-effective alternative to pricier competitors like the Asus ROG Phone 9 at $999.
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra – Photos
5 Images
2. Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
Best iPhone Alternative for Gaming
2 Enjoy a massive 6.8" AMOLED screen on a phone packed with enough processing power to handle multiple apps, edit videos, game, and power stunning cameras. See it at Amazon
Product Specifications
- Screen size: 6.8 inches
- Rear cameras: 4
- Front cameras: 1
- Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 (third generation)
- Battery life: 5,000mAh
- Storage: 256GB, 512GB, 1TB
- Starting price: $1,299.99
PROS
- Incredible performance
- Exceptional camera system
CONS
- Titanium makes the device big and heavy
The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra stands out with its sturdy Titanium chassis, stunning display, powerful processors, and professional-grade cameras. It's a top-tier gaming champion thanks to its Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC, featuring an 8-core CPU and a GPU with 1,536 shading units, paired with 12GB of RAM. This combination ensures seamless performance in even the most demanding games, and the Game Booster mode helps manage and monitor gameplay.
The 6.8" AMOLED display is a visual treat, offering a peak brightness of nearly 2,600 nits and a 1440p resolution with a 120Hz refresh rate for crisp, smooth action. The "Adaptive" refresh rate setting conserves battery life by adjusting based on your activities. While it may not match the raw speed of the RedMagic 10 Pro, its overall performance, long-term support, and exceptional design make it a compelling alternative to the iPhone.
3. iPhone 16 Pro Max
Best iPhone for Gaming
2 Powered by the A18 Pro chip, the iPhone 16 Pro Max is ready to tackle any gaming challenge you throw its way. See it at Best Buy
Product Specifications
- Screen: 6.9-inch OLED, 1320x2868, 460 ppi, 120Hz refresh rate
- Processor: A18 Pro
- Camera: 48-Megapixel Wide, 48-Megapixel Ultrawide, 12-Megapixel Telephoto, 12-Megapixel Selfie
- Battery: 4,685mAh
- Weight: 227g (0.5lb)
PROS
- Power performance
- Long-term support
- Great design
CONS
- High comparative price
The iPhone 16 Pro Max excels in gaming thanks to its A18 Pro chip, which includes an extra graphics core for enhanced performance. Its 6.9-inch display offers a spacious canvas for immersive gameplay and precise control. Beyond gaming, the iPhone 16 Pro Max impresses with its elegant design, featuring a titanium frame and glass construction. The camera system is top-notch, offering stunning photos and high-resolution video capabilities, including Dolby Vision and slow-motion recording.
Apple's commitment to gaming is evident with titles like Assassin’s Creed Mirage and various Resident Evil games now available on iOS, making the iPhone 16 Pro Max a formidable gaming platform.
iPhone SE (2022) – Photos
6 Images
4. iPhone SE (2022)
Best Budget iPhone for Gaming
0 Experience Apple iOS gaming at a budget-friendly price with the A15 Bionic chip, but be mindful of the smaller screen. See it at Apple
Product Specifications
- Screen: 4.7-inch LCD, 750x1334, 326ppi, 60Hz refresh rate
- Processor: A15 Bionic
- Camera: 12-Megapixel Wide | 7-Megapixel Selfie
- Battery: 2,018mAh
- Weight: 144g (0.32lb)
PROS
- Great value for money
- Thin and lightweight
CONS
- Screen is a little too small
The iPhone SE (2022) offers a compelling gaming experience at a budget price, powered by the A15 Bionic chip. With a starting price of $429, it's an affordable way to access iOS games, including those exclusive to Apple Arcade. However, its 4.7-inch screen with thick bezels may be limiting for some gamers. Using a phone controller can help maximize the screen space, and the limited storage can be mitigated with cloud gaming, especially with 5G support.
See our guide to the best cheap smartphones.
OnePlus 12 – Photos
8 Images
5. OnePlus 12
Best Everyday Phone for Mobile Gaming
2 With a powerful processor, a large AMOLED display, and a refined design, this mid-range flagship is a true gem. See it at Amazon
Product Specifications
- Screen: 6.78-inch AMOLED, 1440x3168, 510 ppi, 120Hz refresh rate
- Processor: Snapdragon 8 Gen 3
- Camera: 50-Megapixel Wide | 48-Megapixel Ultra-wide | 64-Megapixel Telephoto | 32-Megapixel Selfie
- Battery: 5,400mAh
- Weight: 220g (0.49lb)
PROS
- Solid battery life
- Great performance
CONS
- Limited features
The OnePlus 12 is an excellent choice for gamers seeking a versatile daily driver. At $800, it offers a refined design, respectable cameras, and elegant software. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor delivers robust performance for both everyday use and gaming, handling demanding titles like Genshin Impact at nearly 60fps on max settings. The 6.82-inch AMOLED display is bright and crisp, with an adaptive refresh rate from 1Hz to 120Hz for smooth gameplay and battery conservation.
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 – Photos
6 Images
6. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6
Best Foldable Gaming Phone
4 The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 is an incredibly fast and gorgeous smartphone, slightly hindered by its unique aspect ratio when unfolded. See it at Amazon
Product Specifications
- Screen: 7.6-inch 2160 x 1856 AMOLED (Main); 6.2-inch 968 x 2376 AMOLED (Cover)
- Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3
- Camera: 50MP Wide, 12MP Ultra Wide, 10MP front
- Battery: 4400mAh
- Weight: 239g (0.52 lb)
PROS
- Stunning displays, inside and out
- Extremely powerful
CONS
- Aspect ratios can be weird
The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 enhances the gaming experience with its Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip, boosting performance by up to 22%. Its 7.6-inch internal AMOLED screen offers vivid colors and high contrast, perfect for gaming. The exterior 6.2-inch screen provides an ultra-wide option for different gameplay preferences. Beyond gaming, the Z Fold 6 transforms into a small tablet for multitasking, backed by Samsung's long-term software support and powerful camera system.
OnePlus 12R – Photos
7 Images
7. OnePlus 12R
Best Budget Android for Gaming
1 A vibrant display and the potent Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip make this value-focused Android phone a gaming powerhouse. See it at Amazon See it at Best Buy See it at OnePlus
Product Specifications
- Screen: 6.78-inch AMOLED, 1264x2780, 450 ppi, 120Hz refresh rate
- Processor: Snapdragon 8 Gen 2
- Camera: 50-Megapixel Wide, 8-Megapixel Ultrawide, 2-Megapixel Macro, 16-Megapixel Selfie
- Battery: 5,500mAh
- Weight: 207g (0.46lb)
PROS
- Large, vibrant display
- Strong battery life
- Good main camera
CONS
- No wireless charging
- Only IP64 water and dust resistance
The OnePlus 12R is a budget-friendly option that doesn't skimp on gaming performance. Priced at $499, it offers a stunning 6.78-inch LTPO AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip provides ample power for most games, and the 5,500mAh battery ensures long gaming sessions. While the camera system is less robust than that of the OnePlus 12, it doesn't detract from the phone's gaming capabilities, making the OnePlus 12R an excellent value-focused choice for gamers.
What to Look for in a Gaming Phone
Choosing the right gaming phone involves focusing on key features that enhance the gaming experience. While regular smartphones emphasize battery life and cameras, gaming phones prioritize powerful processors and high-quality displays.
Processors are crucial for smooth gameplay. The latest Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 is ideal for Android phones, offering strong processing and graphics capabilities. Budget-conscious gamers can still enjoy excellent performance with earlier chipsets like the Snapdragon 888 or 8 Gen 1/2. For iPhones, the latest A18 Pro chip in the iPhone 16 Pro models delivers top performance, but even the A15 Bionic in the iPhone SE (2022) offers a compelling gaming experience at a lower price.
Displays are equally important. A refresh rate higher than 60Hz is essential for fluid gameplay, with 90Hz being a good starting point and 120Hz or higher preferred for the best experience. Variable refresh rates can help save battery life, and faster touch sampling rates enhance responsiveness. Some gaming phones also feature shoulder buttons for better control.
This list will be updated periodically as new gaming phones enter the market, ensuring you stay informed about the latest options.
Gaming Handhelds vs. Gaming Phones
When choosing between a gaming phone and a gaming handheld, consider your lifestyle, gaming preferences, and how you want to play.
Gaming phones offer ultimate portability and versatility, fitting easily into a pocket while providing all the features of a modern smartphone, including cameras and communication. Many come with cooling solutions and shoulder triggers, and you can enhance the experience with a phone controller.
Gaming handhelds like the Steam Deck or Nintendo Switch are larger but still portable, designed primarily for gaming with responsive controls. They offer a different gaming experience, with more titles available on platforms like Steam or exclusive games on the Switch.
Both Android and iOS are seeing more gaming options, though they may be less powerful than their PC counterparts. Cloud gaming services like Nvidia GeForce Now and Xbox Game Pass are improving, making gaming on your phone more accessible.
The Steam Deck provides powerful performance for a handheld, acting as a portable PC with access to your Steam library. The Asus ROG Ally offers a similar experience. However, battery life can be a concern, with gaming phones typically lasting longer, though gaming can drain them quickly. A portable charger is a smart investment for gamers on the go.
Cost is another factor, with gaming phones often priced between $700 and over $1,000, while gaming handhelds like the Steam Deck start at $400 and the Nintendo Switch is even more affordable.
Ultimately, your choice depends on your needs. If you want a versatile device that can handle gaming alongside other smartphone functions, a gaming phone is the way to go. If you're looking for a dedicated gaming device with platform-exclusive games, a gaming handheld might be the better choice.
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