The 10 Best Android Controllers
This wiki has been updated 22 times since it was first published in March of 2018. Just because you're playing on your smartphone or tablet doesn't mean your score should depend on awkwardly holding a tiny device while trying to hit the right spot on a highly sensitive touchscreen. A quality Android game controller offers the precision of a home gaming system wherever you are, making it easier to level up without the frustration of repeatedly pushing the wrong buttons. When users buy our independently chosen editorial recommendations, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.
1. Xbox Wireless
2. SteelSeries Stratus Duo
3. 8Bitdo Sn30 Pro Plus
Editor's Notes
May 27, 2020:
First of all, because they primarily use Bluetooth and often USB connections, most of these are also perfectly suited for use with a variety of platforms including PC and some consoles, notably the Nintendo Switch. In fact, some of the best, such as the Xbox Wireless and SteelSeries Stratus Duo, were originally designed with a focus on Xbox and PC usage, and just so happen to work swimmingly with Android devices. The Nyko Core Wireless and Nyko Core Mini were also built with the Switch in mind, and many users find them superior to the original JoyCons, which should tell you something about their build quality and precision.
We also want to take a moment to highlight one of the most well-known and reliable manufacturers of third-party controllers. The 8Bitdo Sn30 Pro Plus takes all the functionality of the 8Bitdo SN30 Pro Original and adds ergonomic grips that significantly minimize discomfort over long periods of time, while the 8Bitdo Lite packs plenty of versatility into a small form factor. Even smaller is the 8Bitdo Zero 2, which weighs next to nothing and is suitable for casual use when you're on the go, although its limited buttons and control axes make it unsuitable for more complex games.
If you'd rather not deal with a separate controller, the Coobile W10 offers a pair of grips and mechanical triggers that turn any phone into a handheld console without requiring a Bluetooth connection, and the Flydigi Wasp 2 connects to one side of a smartphone for an especially compact solution. Flydigi does also offer a right-side trigger as well as a mated fan for keeping high-performance devices cool while running processor-heavy titles.
Special Honors
GPD Portable Consoles Those looking to take their mobile gaming to the next level should consider one of GPD's highly capable handheld devices. They're slightly more expensive than most portable consoles but offer significantly increased versatility due to being full-featured PCs with surprisingly powerful hardware inside. gpd.hk
4. Nyko Core Wireless
5. 8Bitdo Lite
6. Nyko Core Mini
7. Flydigi Wasp 2
8. 8Bitdo SN30 Pro Original
9. Coobile W10
10. 8Bitdo Zero 2
Building PCs, remodeling, and cooking since he was young, quasi-renowned trumpeter Christopher Thomas traveled the USA performing at and organizing shows from an early age. His work experiences led him to open a catering company, eventually becoming a sous chef in several fine LA restaurants. He enjoys all sorts of barely necessary gadgets, specialty computing, cutting-edge video games, and modern social policy. He has given talks on debunking pseudoscience, the Dunning-Kruger effect, culinary technique, and traveling. After two decades of product and market research, Chris has a keen sense of what people want to know and how to explain it clearly. He delights in parsing complex subjects for anyone who will listen -- because teaching is the best way to ensure that you understand things yourself.