Top Gaming Phones for Purchase in 2025
In today's market, virtually every smartphone can handle some level of gaming, but what sets a good gaming phone apart from a great one are several crucial features. A powerful processor is essential for delivering smooth gameplay, but it's equally important for the phone to maintain high performance over extended periods without overheating or throttling. This ensures you can enjoy long gaming sessions without interruptions. Additionally, ample memory and storage are vital for a gaming phone, allowing for seamless multitasking and ample space for a large library of games. Some models, like the RedMagic 10 Pro, go further by offering gaming-specific enhancements such as additional shoulder buttons and higher touch sampling rates, which can significantly enhance your gaming experience.
The display is another critical component. A larger, brighter screen not only enhances visibility but also improves the gaming experience by providing a more immersive view. A high refresh rate, ideally 120Hz or more, ensures fluid motion, which is crucial for fast-paced games. A bigger phone also means your thumbs cover less of the screen, making touch controls more effective. With these considerations in mind, let's explore the best options for gaming on the go.
TL;DR – These Are the Best Gaming Phones:
Best overall### RedMagic 10 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 10 Pro – Photos
10 Images
1. RedMagic 10 Pro
Best Gaming Phone
Best overall### RedMagic 10 Pro
11The RedMagic 10 Pro delivers exceptional performance and sustained power in a sleek 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 supportThe RedMagic 10 Pro stands out as a top-tier gaming phone, as confirmed in my detailed review. Its heart is the actively cooled Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite chip, which I've seen excel in devices like the Asus ROG Phone 9 and OnePlus 13. However, the RedMagic 10 Pro takes it a step further with a cooling fan that enhances the chip's performance during long gaming sessions. It consistently leads in performance benchmarks and excels in maintaining sustained performance. The phone's impressive 7,050mAh battery ensures you can game for hours without needing to recharge.
The RedMagic 10 Pro is packed with gamer-friendly features, including two shoulder buttons for better control and a high touch-sampling rate for quick input detection. Features like supersampling and frame interpolation can further enhance your gaming experience by improving visuals and smoothness.
Aesthetically, the RedMagic 10 Pro is stylish without being over the top, offering various designs including clear backs that showcase the internal components. The 6.85-inch AMOLED display features tiny bezels and a 144Hz refresh rate, ensuring an uninterrupted view of your games with high brightness and sharp resolution.
Despite its high-end performance, the RedMagic 10 Pro remains competitively priced at $649, making it a cost-effective alternative to pricier options like the Asus ROG Phone 9, which retails at $999.
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra – Photos
5 Images
2. Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
Best iPhone Alternative for Gaming
### Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
2Experience the power of a massive 6.8" AMOLED screen with a processor capable of handling multiple apps, video editing, gaming, and powering 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 heavyThe Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra impresses with its robust titanium build, stunning display, and top-tier cameras, making it one of the best Android phones available. Its performance in gaming is equally remarkable.
Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC with an 8-core CPU and a GPU featuring 1,536 shading units, and paired with 12GB of RAM, the Galaxy S24 Ultra easily runs the most demanding games at high settings while smoothly switching between apps. The Game Booster mode optimizes performance for an even better gaming experience.
The 6.8" AMOLED display boasts a peak brightness of nearly 2,600 nits, ensuring excellent visibility in any lighting. With a 1440p resolution and 120Hz refresh rate, the screen delivers crisp, smooth gameplay, and its adaptive refresh rate helps conserve battery life.
While not as fast as the RedMagic 10 Pro, the Galaxy S24 Ultra's solid performance, combined with long-term support, excellent cameras, and premium design, makes it a strong iPhone alternative for gaming.
iPhone 16 Pro Max
Best iPhone for Gaming
### iPhone 16 Pro Max
2Powered by the A18 Pro chip, the iPhone 16 Pro Max is equipped to handle demanding games. 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 priceMy review of the iPhone 16 Pro Max highlights its gaming prowess, thanks to the A18 Pro chip, which includes an additional graphics core over the A18 chip in the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus. This upgrade significantly boosts graphical performance, ideal for gaming. The large 6.9-inch display also enhances the gaming experience by providing more screen real estate for controls and gameplay.
Beyond gaming, the iPhone 16 Pro Max boasts a sleek design with a titanium frame and glass construction, making it a visually appealing device. Its camera system excels, offering high-quality photos, impressive zoom capabilities, and advanced video recording features like Dolby Vision and slow-motion.
Apple's commitment to gaming is evident with the arrival of titles like Assassin’s Creed Mirage and several Resident Evil games on iOS, expanding the library of high-quality games available for iPhone users.
iPhone SE (2022) – Photos
6 Images
4. iPhone SE (2022)
Best Budget iPhone for Gaming
### iPhone SE (2022)
0Enjoy Apple's iOS experience at a budget-friendly price with the A15 Bionic chip, though the screen may not meet everyone's expectations. 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 smallThe third-generation iPhone SE is an excellent choice for budget-conscious gamers. Powered by the A15 Bionic chip, it offers robust performance at a starting price of $429. Running on iOS, it provides access to a wide range of games, including those exclusive to Apple Arcade.
However, the iPhone SE's screen may be a drawback for some, with its 4.7-inch size and thick bezels reminiscent of older models. For those concerned about screen space, using a phone controller can help. The limited storage, starting at 64GB and going up to 256GB, can be mitigated by using cloud gaming services, especially with the phone's 5G support.
See our guide to the best cheap smartphones.
OnePlus 12 – Photos
8 Images
5. 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 featuresThe OnePlus 12 is an excellent choice for those seeking a versatile phone that also excels at gaming. Priced at $800, it offers a cost-effective alternative to flagships from Samsung and Apple, with a refined design, good cameras, and smooth software. Under the hood, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor ensures smooth gameplay, even with demanding titles like Genshin Impact at nearly 60fps on max settings. The phone's 6.82-inch AMOLED display is bright and vivid, with an adaptive refresh rate that conserves battery when not gaming. However, be prepared for the phone to heat up during intense gaming sessions.
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 – Photos
6 Images
6. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6
Best Foldable Gaming Phone
### Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6
4The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 is a powerhouse with stunning displays, though its unfolded aspect ratio might take some getting used to. 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 weirdThe Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 builds on the gaming capabilities of its predecessor, the Z Fold 5, with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip, offering a 22% performance boost. This enhancement makes it easier to handle demanding games like Zenless Zone Zero and Wuthering Waves, allowing you to enjoy detailed graphics and smooth gameplay.
The 7.6-inch internal AMOLED screen provides a vivid and immersive gaming experience, while the 6.2-inch exterior screen offers an ultra-wide aspect ratio for different gaming preferences. Both screens deliver a responsive and smooth gaming experience.
When not gaming, the Z Fold 6 functions as a versatile device, doubling as a small tablet for multitasking and a regular smartphone when closed. Its powerful camera system and long-term software support from Samsung add to its appeal, despite its high price.
OnePlus 12R – Photos
7 Images
7. OnePlus 12R
Best Budget Android for Gaming
### OnePlus 12R
1With a large, vibrant display and the powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip, the OnePlus 12R offers great value for budget-conscious gamers. 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 12R delivers flagship-like qualities at a budget-friendly price of $499. Its standout feature is the 6.78-inch LTPO AMOLED display with a 1264x2780 resolution and 120Hz refresh rate, perfect for gaming. Compared to the iPhone SE, the OnePlus 12R's display is far superior.
While it uses the 2023 Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip, it still provides ample performance for most games. The 5,500mAh battery ensures long gaming sessions without frequent recharges.
The OnePlus 12R does make some compromises, particularly in its camera system, which isn't as advanced as that of the OnePlus 12. However, for gamers, the camera isn't a primary concern, making the OnePlus 12R an excellent value-focused option for gaming.
What to Look for in a Gaming Phone
Choosing the right gaming phone differs from selecting a typical smartphone. While regular phones focus on battery life, cameras, and other features, gaming phones prioritize processors and displays. Most gaming phones come equipped with large batteries, so you don't need to worry about power.
Processors are key to a superior gaming experience. For Android phones, the latest Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 offers top performance. Even budget models with earlier chipsets like the Snapdragon 888 or 8 Gen 1/2 can provide robust gaming performance.
For iPhones, Apple's A18 Pro in the iPhone 16 Pro models is the current best, though previous generations like the A15 Bionic in the iPhone SE (2022) still offer strong gaming capabilities at a lower price.
Displays should exceed the standard smartphone screen. A refresh rate above 60Hz, ideally 120Hz or more, ensures smooth gameplay. Variable refresh rates can help save power when not gaming. Faster touch sampling rates and additional shoulder buttons also enhance the gaming interface.
This guide will be updated regularly to reflect new developments in the gaming phone market, as more brands continue to introduce models tailored for gamers.
Gaming Handhelds vs. Gaming Phones
The choice between a gaming phone and a gaming handheld depends on your lifestyle, preferred games, and playing style.
Gaming phones are highly portable, fitting easily into a pocket, and offer more than just gaming with features like cameras and communication. Many include 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. They are dedicated gaming devices with responsive controls, ideal for gaming on the go.
While more games are becoming available on Android and iOS, they may be less powerful than PC versions. Cloud gaming services like Nvidia GeForce Now and Xbox Game Pass are improving, making gaming on your phone more accessible.
The Steam Deck, acting as a portable PC, offers access to your Steam library, while devices like the Asus ROG Ally provide similar experiences. The Nintendo Switch has its own exclusive titles.
Battery life is a consideration; the Steam Deck has limited battery life, while smartphones typically last longer, though gaming reduces this significantly. A portable charger can be useful for extended gaming sessions.
Cost is another factor; gaming phones can range from $700 to over $1,000, while gaming handhelds like the Steam Deck and Nintendo Switch are more affordable.
Ultimately, if you want a versatile device that also games well, choose a gaming phone. If you're looking for a dedicated gaming device with platform-exclusive titles, opt for a gaming handheld.
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