Top 2025 Gaming Phones: Best Buys Revealed

Today's smartphones are capable of playing games, but a truly great gaming phone boasts several key advantages. Powerful processing is essential, as is sustained high performance—you don't want lag or overheating after just a few minutes. Ample memory and storage are crucial for multitasking and accommodating large game files. Some gaming phones, like the RedMagic 10 Pro, even include extras such as shoulder buttons and enhanced touch sampling rates.

The display is equally vital. A larger, brighter screen with a high refresh rate ensures smooth, enjoyable gameplay. A bigger phone also minimizes thumb occlusion during touch controls. With these factors in mind, let's explore the top contenders for mobile gaming.

TL;DR – The Best Gaming Phones:

Best Overall: RedMagic 10 Pro

Best iPhone Alternative: Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra

Best iPhone: iPhone 16 Pro Max

Best Budget iPhone: iPhone SE (2022)

Best Everyday Phone: OnePlus 12

Best Foldable: Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6

Best Budget Android: OnePlus 12R

*Check out our guide to the best phone controllers for accessory options.*

*Contributions by* *Georgie Peru* *and Danielle Abraham*

RedMagic 9S Pro – Photos

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1. RedMagic 10 Pro – Best Gaming Phone

The RedMagic 10 Pro delivers exceptional performance and sustained high frame rates. Its actively cooled Snapdragon 8 Elite chip, combined with a powerful cooling fan, ensures smooth, long gaming sessions. Benchmark scores consistently place it at the top, particularly in sustained performance tests. The massive 7,050mAh battery further enhances its endurance. Gamer-centric features include shoulder buttons, a fast touch-sampling rate, and options for supersampling and frame interpolation.

The phone's design is stylish without being ostentatious, with options including clear backs showcasing internal components. The 6.85-inch AMOLED display boasts minimal bezels, a 144Hz refresh rate, high peak brightness, and sharp visuals. The under-display selfie camera maintains an uninterrupted gaming view. At a starting price of $649, it offers exceptional value compared to competitors.

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra – Photos

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2. Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra – Best iPhone Alternative for Gaming

The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra is a powerhouse, excelling in gaming thanks to its Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC, 12GB of RAM, and Game Booster mode. This combination ensures smooth performance even with the most demanding games. Its large, 6.8-inch AMOLED display with 1440p resolution and 120Hz refresh rate delivers stunning visuals. The adaptive refresh rate optimizes battery life.

While not as fast as the RedMagic 10 Pro, its speed is excellent, and its long-term software support, exceptional camera system, and premium design make it a strong alternative to iPhones.

iPhone 16 Pro Max – Photos

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3. iPhone 16 Pro Max – Best iPhone for Gaming

Powered by the A18 Pro chip, the iPhone 16 Pro Max delivers exceptional gaming performance. The extra graphics core compared to the standard A18 chip provides a significant boost for graphics-intensive games. Its large 6.9-inch display offers ample screen real estate for gaming and controls. Beyond gaming, it boasts a premium titanium frame, glass construction, and a powerful camera system with high-resolution video recording in Dolby Vision.

Apple's growing selection of high-quality games on iOS, including titles like Assassin's Creed Mirage and several Resident Evil games, further enhances its appeal as a gaming device.

iPhone SE (2022) – Photos

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4. iPhone SE (2022) – Best Budget iPhone for Gaming

The iPhone SE (2022) offers surprisingly strong gaming performance for its price, thanks to the A15 Bionic chip. Access to iOS's extensive game library and Apple Arcade is a significant advantage. While the 4.7-inch display is smaller and has thicker bezels than other phones, pairing it with a controller can mitigate this. Limited storage (64GB base) can be addressed using cloud gaming services, especially with its 5G connectivity.

OnePlus 12 – Photos

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5. OnePlus 12 – Best Everyday Phone for Mobile Gaming

The OnePlus 12 provides a compelling balance of everyday usability and gaming prowess. Its Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor handles demanding games with ease, while the large 6.78-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate ensures smooth, visually appealing gameplay. The refined design, respectable cameras, and elegant software make it a versatile device.

The phone can run games like Genshin Impact at near 60fps with maximum settings, although it may get warm under heavy load.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 – Photos

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6. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 – Best Foldable Gaming Phone

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 offers incredible speed and a stunning display, making it a compelling foldable gaming option. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip provides a significant performance boost. The large 7.6-inch internal screen with 2160x1856 resolution and AMOLED technology delivers vibrant visuals. The 6.2-inch external screen offers an alternative, albeit with a different aspect ratio.

Beyond gaming, it functions as a powerful tablet and smartphone, featuring a capable camera system and long-term software support.

OnePlus 12R – Photos

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7. OnePlus 12R – Best Budget Android for Gaming

The OnePlus 12R offers excellent value, combining a large, vibrant 6.78-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate and the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor. Its 5,500mAh battery provides long playtime. While the camera system is a step down from the OnePlus 12, it doesn't compromise gaming performance.

For budget-conscious gamers, the OnePlus 12R is a compelling option, offering flagship-level gaming experience at a significantly lower price.

What to Look for in a Gaming Phone

Choosing a gaming phone differs from selecting a general-purpose smartphone. Prioritize the processor and display. The latest Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 (Android) or A18 Pro (iPhone) chipsets offer peak performance. However, even older high-end chipsets provide ample power. Look for displays with refresh rates exceeding 60Hz (90Hz or 120Hz are ideal), and consider variable refresh rates for battery optimization. Faster touch sampling rates are also beneficial.

Gaming Handhelds vs. Gaming Phones

The choice between a gaming phone and a handheld depends on your preferences and gaming style. Gaming phones are ultra-portable and offer full smartphone functionality. Handhelds like the Steam Deck or Nintendo Switch are bulkier but offer dedicated controls and access to platform-exclusive games. Consider battery life, game libraries, and cost when making your decision.