The Best Gaming Phones to Buy in 2025

Choosing the right gaming phone requires considering key features beyond those of a standard smartphone. High-performance processing, sustained performance over extended periods, ample memory and storage for multitasking and game capacity, and enhanced gaming features like shoulder buttons and improved touch sampling rates are crucial. A large, bright display with a high refresh rate for smooth visuals is also essential. Here's a look at some top contenders:

TL;DR – Top Gaming Phones:

RedMagic 10 Pro: Best Overall

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra: Best iPhone Alternative

iPhone 16 Pro Max: Best iPhone for Gaming

iPhone SE (2022): Best Budget iPhone

OnePlus 12: Best Everyday Phone for Gaming

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6: Best Foldable Gaming Phone

OnePlus 12R: Best Budget Android

(See our guide to the best phone controllers for accessory options.)

(Contributions by Georgie Peru and Danielle Abraham)

RedMagic 10 Pro – Detailed Review:

The RedMagic 10 Pro excels with its powerful, actively cooled Snapdragon 8 Elite chip, delivering sustained high performance ideal for long gaming sessions. Its 7,050mAh battery further enhances this capability. Additional gamer-centric features include shoulder buttons and a high touch-sampling rate display. The 6.85-inch AMOLED display boasts a 144Hz refresh rate, high brightness, and sharp visuals. Priced competitively at $649, it offers exceptional value.

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra – Detailed Review:

The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra is a top-tier gaming phone boasting a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC, 12GB RAM, and a Game Booster mode. Its large 6.8-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate and high peak brightness ensures a smooth, visually stunning gaming experience. While not as fast as the RedMagic 10 Pro, it offers long-term software support, excellent cameras, and premium build quality.

iPhone 16 Pro Max – Detailed Review:

Powered by the A18 Pro chip, the iPhone 16 Pro Max delivers strong gaming performance. Its large 6.9-inch display provides ample screen real estate. It also features a premium design, a powerful camera system, and access to a growing library of high-quality iOS games.

iPhone SE (2022) – Detailed Review:

The iPhone SE (2022) offers surprisingly good gaming performance at a budget-friendly price, thanks to its A15 Bionic chip and access to Apple Arcade and other iOS games. However, its smaller 4.7-inch display might be limiting for some.

OnePlus 12 – Detailed Review:

The OnePlus 12 provides a balance of powerful performance and everyday usability. Its Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor and large 6.78-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate deliver a smooth gaming experience. Its refined design and competitive pricing make it a compelling option.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 – Detailed Review:

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 leverages the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for impressive performance. Its large 7.6-inch internal display offers immersive gaming, while the 6.2-inch cover display provides an alternative. Its foldable form factor offers unique multitasking capabilities beyond gaming.

OnePlus 12R – Detailed Review:

The OnePlus 12R offers a budget-friendly alternative, featuring a large, vibrant 6.78-inch AMOLED display and a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor. While some compromises are made in the camera department, it remains a strong gaming phone at a significantly lower price point.

What to Look for in a Gaming Phone:

Prioritize powerful processors (Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Android, A18 Pro for iPhone) and displays with refresh rates exceeding 60Hz (ideally 120Hz or higher), and consider touch sampling rates. Battery life is generally excellent in gaming phones, so it's less of a primary concern.

Gaming Phones vs. Handheld Consoles:

Gaming phones offer superior portability and multitasking capabilities, but gaming performance might be slightly less powerful than dedicated handhelds like the Steam Deck or Nintendo Switch. The choice depends on personal preferences and priorities.