Top Gaming Phones for 2025 Revealed

While just about every phone you can get your hands on nowadays will be able to play some games, several key features distinguish a fine gaming phone from a great one. Powerful processing is a crucial component. Sustaining high performance levels is essential – you don’t want a phone that can only run smoothly for a few minutes before it slows down and overheats. Extra memory and storage are vital for gaming phones, enabling multitasking even while a game is running and providing ample space for games. Some gaming phones, like the RedMagic 10 Pro, even offer additional gaming upgrades, such as shoulder buttons and enhanced touch sampling rates.

The display is another critical aspect. A larger, brighter screen with a high refresh rate ensures smooth motion and better visibility. A bigger phone also means your thumbs won't cover as much of the display when using touch controls. With these factors in mind, here’s a look at the phones that excel in mobile gaming.

TL;DR – These Are the Best Gaming Phones:

Best overall### RedMagic10 Pro

11See it at AmazonSee it at RedMagic### Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra

2See it at Amazon### iPhone 16 Pro Max

2See it at Best Buy### iPhone SE (2022)

0See it at Apple### OnePlus 12

2See it at Amazon### Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6

4See it at Amazon### OnePlus 12R

1See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuySee it at OnePlusCheck out our guide to the best phone controllers for accessory options.

Contributions by Georgie Peru and Danielle Abraham

RedMagic 9S Pro – Photos

10 Images1. RedMagic 10 Pro

Best Gaming Phone

Best overall### RedMagic10 Pro

11The RedMagic 10 Pro combines exceptional performance with sustained power in an impressive package. See it at AmazonSee it at RedMagicProduct SpecificationsScreen6.85-inch OLED, 1216x2688, 431 ppi, 144Hz refresh rateProcessorSnapdragon 8 EliteCamera50-Megapixel Wide, 50-Megapixel Ultrawide, 2-Megapixel Macro, 16-Megapixel SelfieBattery7,050mAhWeight229g (0.5lb)PROSExcellent gaming performanceGreat displayCONSUnderwhelming camerasShorter software supportGaming demands a lot from a phone, and the RedMagic 10 Pro delivers, as I found when I reviewed it. The heart of the RedMagic 10 Pro is an actively cooled Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite chip. I’d already seen this chip perform wonders in phones like the Asus ROG Phone 9 and OnePlus 13, but the RedMagic 10 Pro enhances it with a cooling fan that allows the chip to run effectively during long gaming sessions. The RedMagic 10 Pro consistently led in benchmarks and excelled in sustained performance. It's backed by a massive 7,050mAh battery.

The RedMagic 10 Pro also includes gaming-specific features like two shoulder buttons, which you can map to on-screen controls for enhanced gameplay. The display boasts a fast touch-sampling rate for quick input detection. Depending on the game, you can also use supersampling and frame interpolation to enhance visuals and smooth out the action.

RedMagic packs all this capability into a stylish phone with various aesthetic options, including clear backs that showcase the internal components. The display features tiny bezels and stretches 6.85 inches across, with the selfie camera hidden beneath the screen for an uninterrupted view. The brilliant AMOLED panel offers a 144Hz refresh rate, high peak brightness, and sharp visuals.

This phone is exceptionally geared for gaming, and despite its commanding performance, it's priced competitively at $649, significantly less than competitors like the Asus ROG Phone 9 at $999.

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra – Photos

5 Images2. Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra

Best iPhone Alternative for Gaming

### Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra

2Enjoy a massive 6.8" AMOLED screen on a phone with a processor powerful enough to run multiple apps, edit videos, game, and power the stunning cameras. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsScreen size6.8 inchesRear cameras4Front cameras1ProcessorQualcomm Snapdragon 8 (third generation)Battery life5,000mAhStorage256GB, 512GB, 1TBStarting price$1,299.99PROSIncredible performanceExceptional camera systemCONSTitanium makes the device big and heavyFrom its sturdy Titanium chassis and stunning display to its professional-grade cameras, powerful processors, and AI tools, the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra stands out as one of the best Android phones. This greatness translates into a top-tier gaming experience.

Under the hood, a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC features an 8-core CPU and a GPU with 1,536 shading units. Paired with 12GB of RAM, the Galaxy S24 Ultra can handle the most intensive games at top settings and switch between apps without lag. A Game Booster mode helps manage and monitor performance, making this phone a mobile gaming powerhouse.

The 6.8" AMOLED display achieves a peak brightness of nearly 2,600 nits for clear viewing anywhere. With a 1440p resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate, the screen ensures crisp, ultra-smooth action. An "Adaptive" setting automatically adjusts the refresh rate to conserve battery life.

While it may not be as fast as the RedMagic 9S Pro, its solid speed, long-term support, great cameras, and exceptional design quality make it a strong alternative to the iPhone.

3. iPhone 16 Pro Max

Best iPhone for Gaming

### iPhone 16 Pro Max

2Running on an A18 Pro chip, the iPhone 16 Pro Max is ready to tackle any gaming challenge. See it at Best BuyProduct SpecificationsScreen6.9-inch OLED, 1320x2868, 460 ppi, 120Hz refresh rateProcessorA18 ProCamera48-Megapixel Wide, 48-Megapixel Ultrawide, 12-Megapixel Telephoto, 12-Megapixel SelfieBattery4,685mAhWeight227g (0.5lb)PROSPower performanceLong-term supportGreat design CONSHigh comparative priceI reviewed the iPhone 16 Pro Max and can confidently say it excels in gaming. The A18 Pro chip, with an extra graphics core compared to the A18 chip in the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus, significantly boosts performance for graphics-intensive games. The large 6.9" display provides a spacious canvas for enjoying games and using controls.

Beyond gaming, the iPhone 16 Pro Max boasts an excellent design with a titanium frame and glass construction. The camera system is powerful, delivering stunning photos and zoom capabilities. For video, it supports high-resolution recording in Dolby Vision and captures impressive slow-motion footage.

Apple has also made strides in mobile gaming, with titles like Assassin’s Creed Mirage and Resident Evil available on iOS. Access to more and better games enhances the device's appeal for gaming.

iPhone SE (2022) – Photos

6 Images4. iPhone SE (2022)

Best Budget iPhone for Gaming

### iPhone SE (2022)

0Get Apple iOS on a budget with this phone running on an A15 Bionic chip, but be prepared for a smaller screen. See it at AppleProduct SpecificationsScreen4.7-inch LCD, 750x1334, 326ppi, 60Hz refresh rateProcessorA15 BionicCamera12-Megapixel Wide | 7-Megapixel SelfieBattery2,018mAhWeight144g (0.32lb)PROSGreat value for moneyThin and lightweightCONSScreen is a little too smallYou can enjoy a strong gaming experience without spending a fortune on the latest iPhone. The third-gen iPhone SE offers impressive performance thanks to the A15 Bionic chip, yet it's priced at just $429. Running on iOS, you have access to a wide range of games, including those in Apple Arcade.

The screen on the iPhone SE is smaller at 4.7" with thick bezels, reminiscent of the iPhone 7 and iPhone 8. If screen size is a concern, consider pairing it with a phone controller to maximize the display area. The base model comes with 64GB of storage, but you can upgrade to 256GB. Cloud gaming is a viable option, especially with the phone's 5G support.

See our guide to the best cheap smartphones.

OnePlus 12 – Photos

8 Images5. OnePlus 12

Best Everyday Phone for Mobile Gaming

### OnePlus 12

2With a powerful processor, a large AMOLED display, and a refined design, this mid-range flagship is a true gem. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsScreen6.78-inch AMOLED, 1440x3168, 510 ppi, 120Hz refresh rateProcessorSnapdragon 8 Gen 3Camera50-Megapixel Wide | 48-Megapixel Ultra-wide | 64-Megapixel Telephoto | 32-Megapixel SelfieBattery5,400mAhWeight220g (0.49lb)PROSSolid battery lifeGreat performanceCONSLimited featuresFor a great phone that doubles as a gaming powerhouse, consider the OnePlus 12. Priced at $800, it offers a compelling alternative to flagships from Samsung and Apple. It features a refined design, respectable cameras, and elegant software that doesn't scream "gaming phone." Yet, it's powered by potent internals that handle demanding games with ease.

The OnePlus 12 boasts a 6.82" AMOLED display with crisp visuals and a peak brightness of 4,500 nits for clear viewing. The adaptive refresh rate ranges from 1Hz to 120Hz, ensuring smooth gaming and battery savings.

A Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor powers the phone, capable of running everyday tasks and games like Genshin Impact at nearly 60fps on max settings. Be aware, though, that the phone can get hot during intense gaming sessions.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 – Photos

6 Images6. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6

Best Foldable Gaming Phone

### Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6

4The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 is an incredibly fast and visually stunning smartphone, though its unfolded aspect ratio can be unusual. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsScreen7.6-inch 2160 x 1856 AMOLED (Main); 6.2-inch 968 x 2376 AMOLED (Cover)ProcessorQualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3Camera50MP Wide, 12MP Ultra Wide, 10MP frontBattery4400mAhWeight239g (0.52 lb)PROSStunning displays, inside and outExtremely powerfulCONSAspect ratios can be weirdWe already appreciated the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 for gaming, but the Galaxy Z Fold 6 enhances it further. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip inside boosts performance by up to 22%. This extra power is crucial for games like Zenless Zone Zero and Wuthering Waves, allowing you to keep up with the action and appreciate the game's details.

The Z Fold 6 maintains a 7.6" internal screen with a 2160x1856 resolution, delivering vivid colors and striking contrast on its AMOLED panel. For an ultra-wide aspect ratio, you can use the 6.2" exterior screen, ensuring a smooth and responsive gaming experience.

When not gaming, the Z Fold 6 functions as a versatile device. Open, it's a small tablet perfect for multitasking; closed, it's a regular smartphone. It also features a powerful camera system and is backed by long-term software support from Samsung.

OnePlus 12R – Photos

7 Images7. OnePlus 12R

Best Budget Android for Gaming

### OnePlus 12R

1A large, vibrant display and a potent Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip are the core of this value-focused Android phone. See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuySee it at OnePlusProduct SpecificationsScreen6.78-inch AMOLED, 1264x2780, 450 ppi, 120Hz refresh rateProcessorSnapdragon 8 Gen 2Camera50-Megapixel Wide, 8-Megapixel Ultrawide, 2-Megapixel Macro, 16-Megapixel SelfieBattery5,500mAhWeight207g (0.46lb)PROSLarge, vibrant displayStrong battery lifeGood main cameraCONSNo wireless chargingOnly IP64 water and dust resistanceThe OnePlus 12 offers top-tier qualities at a base-tier flagship price, but the OnePlus 12R takes it a step further with a budget-friendly $499 price tag. The star feature is the 6.78" LTPO AMOLED display with a 1264x2780 resolution and 120Hz refresh rate, making it a stunning platform for gaming.

The OnePlus 12R uses the 2023 Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip, which still provides ample power for most gaming needs. With a 5,500mAh battery, it's well-equipped for extended gaming sessions.

While the camera system is less advanced than the OnePlus 12, it doesn't impact the phone's gaming capabilities. If you're looking for a budget-friendly gaming phone, the OnePlus 12R is an excellent choice.

What to Look for in a Gaming Phone

Choosing the right gaming phone differs from selecting the best smartphone. With regular phones, you might prioritize battery life, cameras, and other specs, but the best gaming phones focus on their screens and processors, with other features being secondary. Most gaming phones also come with large batteries, so battery life is less of a concern.

When it comes to processors, the latest and greatest chipsets offer the best gaming experience. Currently, Android phones benefit from Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, which features powerful processing cores and strong graphics. If you're on a budget, earlier chipsets like the Snapdragon 888 or 8 Gen 1/2 still provide ample power.

For iPhones, Apple's custom chipsets are extremely powerful. The latest iteration, the A18 Pro in the iPhone 16 Pro models, offers top performance. Even previous-generation chipsets, like the A15 Bionic in the iPhone SE (2022), provide compelling performance at a lower price point.

In terms of displays, look for screens that go beyond the standard. Gaming phones often feature refresh rates above 60Hz; 90Hz is a good starting point for fluidity, but top gaming phones can reach 120Hz or higher. Variable refresh rates can save power when not gaming, and faster touch sampling rates are becoming more common. With many gaming phones adding shoulder buttons, consider the overall gaming interface when choosing.

That's everything you need to know about gaming phones for now. We'll update this list periodically as more brands enter the market with phones tailored for gaming.

Gaming Handhelds vs. Gaming Phones

Choosing between a gaming phone and a gaming handheld depends on your lifestyle, preferred games, and play style.

A gaming phone is highly portable and pocket-friendly, yet it's a versatile device that offers more than just gaming, including quality cameras, navigation, and communication. Many gaming phones feature cooling solutions to prevent thermal throttling and include handy triggers. If you prefer not to use touch controls, consider a phone controller.

Gaming handhelds, like the Steam Deck or Nintendo Switch, are larger but still portable. They are primarily used for gaming, offering responsive joysticks, triggers, and buttons.

More games are becoming available on Android and iOS, 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 easier.

The Steam Deck is incredibly powerful, functioning as a handheld PC that lets you access your Steam library on the go. Asus's ROG Ally offers a similar experience. The Nintendo Switch has its own exclusive games.

Battery life is another factor; the Steam Deck has a shorter battery life, while many smartphones can last all day, though gaming significantly reduces this. A portable charger is a good investment for mobile gaming.

Cost is also a consideration; gaming phones can be expensive, with top models ranging from $700 to over $1,000. Gaming handhelds are more affordable, with the Steam Deck starting at $400 and the Nintendo Switch even less.

Ultimately, it's about personal preference. If you want a versatile device that games well, choose a gaming phone. If you prefer a device dedicated to gaming with platform-exclusive titles, opt for a gaming handheld.