With iPhones getting more and more powerful with every generation, gaming has become more appealing and immersive. The iPhone 15 Pro models are capable of running console-level games in the palm of your hands and one such upcoming AAA title is Resident Evil 7. The game will arrive on the App Store on July 2nd, which makes this the perfect time to invest in accessories that will take the gaming experience to the next level. This is where iPhone game controllers come in.
With a mobile game controller, you can not only take your hands off the screen for more visual immersion, but you can get a much better input experience that is a lot more tactile and gives the right feedback. iPhone game controllers come in different shapes and sizes, some fit around the phone while others have an attachment to connect to the phone. That being said, there are quite a few options to choose from for iPhone gamers and this guide will make the decision a bit easier.
While iPhones have a huge library of games that will work with these game controllers, only the iPhone models with the A17 Pro chip (iPhone 15 Pro/Pro Max) are capable of running the heavier titles like Resident Evil Village, Resident Evil 7, Assassin's Creed Mirage, and others.
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GameSir G8 Galileo Mobile Gaming Controller
The GameSir G8 Galileo is the pro-grade mobile controller the most competitive gamers have been waiting for. Using a flexible USB-C port to connect to Android phones and iPhone 15s, the G8 Galileo slides open to accommodate a wide range of devices. The highlight of this mobile controller is its durable Hall Effect analog sticks and triggers, which use magnets and electrical currents to measure inputs more accurately. With two additional back buttons, gamers can remap vital controls for quicker access during intense gaming. The G8 Galileo supports mobile gaming on many platforms, including Xbox Game Pass, Steam Link, PS Remote Play, and NVIDIA GeForce Now.
- Brand
- GameSir
- Platform
- Android, iPhone
- Connectivity
- USB-C
- Headset Support
- Yes
- Programmable
- Yes
- Extra Buttons
- 2
- Weight
- 252 grams
- Hall effect joysticks and triggers
- Swappable faceplates
- Three types of thumbsticks
- No internal battery
- GameSir app not available on iOS
One major complaint that mobile gamers have is ergonomics and the GameSir G8 Galileo solves that problem with its controller-like grips. Besides the grips, there’s a lot happening with the G8 Galileo, which makes it the best iPhone game controller overall.
Starting with the design, it is a game controller that extends to fit your iPhone, giving you the screen in the center and the controllers on the side like a true handheld console. While the grips provide a comfortable gaming experience over long hours, the controller is fairly compact and does not extend as far as a typical Xbox or PlayStation controller. It comes in a single silver color, so those looking for a black version will need to get creative with their DIY skills.
It is a USB Type-C controller, so it will work with all iPhone 15 models right out of the box. And of course, it will work with all Android devices as well. It can also accommodate most iPhone 15 cases, so you will not have to go through the hassle of taking the case off every time you want to game. With the GameSir G8 Galileo, you get an Xbox style button layout but with hall effect joysticks and triggers. There is pass through charging with a USB Type-C port at the bottom as well as a 3.5mm headphone jack.
Furthermore, the Type-C port is movable, making it easier to attach and detach your iPhone. It also supports interchangeable magnetic faceplates and comes with three styles of joysticks. If you also have a PlayStation at home, the GameSir G8 Galileo supports PS Remote Play as well.
Backbone One Mobile Controller (2nd Gen)
The 2nd generation Backbone One improves on the original mobile controller with USB-C connectivity for the iPhone 15 Series and Android phones. Gamers will still enjoy the easy-to-grip shape of the Backbone One and the Backbone App, a portal to the most popular cloud gaming services and mobile games. Responsive buttons and triggers with tactile feedback give mobile gamers a much-needed competitive advantage. The Backbone One comes in several varieties specifically for iPhone and Android devices with Xbox and PlayStation button layouts.
- Number of Colors
- 2
- Wireless?
- Yes
- Compatible Systems
- iPhone, Android
- Brand
- Backbone One
- Connectivity
- USB-C
- Headset Support
- Yes
- Extra Buttons
- No
- Weight
- 138 grams
- Good grip
- Wide compatibility
- No Hall effect sticks
The highly popular Backbone One mobile game controller has been updated to its 2nd generation, and it brings a USB Type-C interface for iPhone 15 models. In terms of design, it has the same form factor as the GameSir G8 Galileo controller, but it is more compact and arguably less ergonomic. You can choose between a standard and a PS version with the difference being the color and the PS buttons. There are no replaceable joysticks or faceplates here.
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The Backbone One 2nd Gen also comes with a USB Type-C port for passthrough charging and a 3.5mm headphone jack, but because of its size, the two inputs are located at the bottom of the two grips, rather than in one central location like the GameSir controller. The Backbone One 2nd Gen does offer a low latency connection and swappable pads to fit different iPhone cases and models. It should be noted that the Backbone One does not have hall effect triggers or joysticks.
There is also a Backbone App that brings all your games in one place. The controller is compatible with PS Remote Play, Xbox Remote Play, and Steam Link, as well as Nvidia GeForce Now, Amazon Luna, and Apple Arcade. The controller allows for 60 FPS game recording of the last 15 seconds through the app.
Razer Kishi V2 Controller
The Razer Kishi V2 allows for seamless mobile gaming with both Android and iPhone. The ergonomic design of the controller makes gaming on the go way more comfortable, and it can be collapsed into a compact, portable shape that’s easy to take anywhere.
- Brand
- Razer
- Platform
- iOS, Android (different products)
- Battery
- N/A
- Connectivity
- Pass-Through Lightning/Type-C Charging
- Headset Support
- Yes
- Programmable
- Yes
- Extra Buttons
- Yes
- Solid build quality
- Compact form factor
- 3.5mm headphone jack and pass through charging
- On the pricey side
- No RGB
The Razer Kishi mobile game controller is known for its compact size and premium build quality, although it is missing the staple of all Razer products, RGB lighting. The Kishi V2 builds on the solid foundation and adds support for iPhone 15 models via the USB Type-C port. While there are no hall effect joysticks or triggers, though Razer has added microswitch buttons and analog triggers that are at par with console controllers. You also get programmable macros with the Razer Kishi V2.
While there is a USB Type-C port at the bottom of the right grip, there is no 3.5mm jack for a wired headset or headphone connection. You can always use Bluetooth if you wish to use headphones or use USB Type-C headphones instead. The USB Type-C port also allows you to connect the Kishi V2 to a PC and use it as a wired controller. This means you can also game on your iPad with the Razer mobile controller.
The Razer Nexus app is the hub for all your games and controller settings, but one drawback for iPhone users is that the controller is not compatible with the Razer Nexus app on iOS. The Razer Kishi V2 comes with an Xbox style layout with asymmetrical joysticks and ABXY buttons. It is only available in a single black color.
GameSir Nova Lite
The GameSir Nova Lite game controller is a standalone controller that offers multiple modes of connectivity. It can be connected to iPhone and Android devices via Bluetooth, the 2.4G dongle, or USB Type-C cable. it has a 600mAh battery that can charge within 2 hours and can deliver up to 10 hours of playtime.
- Brand
- GameSir
- Platform
- iOS, Android
- Battery
- 600mAh
- Connectivity
- 2.4G dongle, Bluetooth, Wired USB C
- Colors
- Midnight Blue, Domino White
- Very affordable
- Multiple connectivity options
- Rumble vibration
- No clip for mobile phones
Casual gamers who don’t want to invest too much in an iPhone game controller and are okay with not having the controller physically attached to the phone should consider the GameSir Nova Lite. It is a standard controller with an Xbox style layout, but it comes with a few extra buttons and a 2.4G wireless dongle. Not just that, it can also be connected via Bluetooth or a USB Type-C cable. On top of that, it features dual rumble motors for accurate feedback in games.
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The GameSir Nova Lite comes with hall effect joysticks and precision tuned analog triggers. You can adjust the vibration intensity on the fly or switch between different modes (XInput, NS Pro, Android). It also allows you to adjust the stick dead zone and remap the controls without software. Being a wireless controller, there is a built-in 600mAh battery that is said to deliver 10 hours of gaming, but that will depend on the type of connection being used.
There are two color options for the GameSir Nova Lite, Midnight Blue and Domino White. There are no RGB lights here, but with the multiple connectivity options, it can be used with most platforms, including PC, iOS, Android, Nintendo Switch, and the Steam Deck. For iPhone 14 or older models, you can use Bluetooth mode, while for iPhone 15 models, you should be able to use either a USB Type-C cable for a wired connection, Bluetooth for a wireless connection, or a USB-C to USB-A dongle for using the 2.4G dongle.
PowerA MOGA XP5-i Plus Bluetooth Controller
The PowerA MOGA XP5-i Plus Bluetooth Controller provides a premium gaming experience for mobile gamers. With its integrated 3000 mAh battery and MOGA Boost feature, you can charge your devices while gaming. The controller also includes a Lightning port for charging the controller itself and a USB-C port (with USB-C to USB-A adapter) for charging an iPhone.
The device provides the precision of controller inputs, enhancing the gaming experience compared to touchscreen controls. Mappable Advanced Gaming Buttons give a competitive edge in any game. With the Detachable MOGA Gaming Clip and dual-articulating mechanism, the controller fits any current iPhone model.
- Brand
- PowerA
- Platform
- iOS, Android
- Battery
- 3000mAh
- Connectivity
- Lightening, Bluetooth
- Colors
- Black
- 3000mAh battery
- MFI certified
- Two extra remappable buttons
- Sticks don't feel grippy
The MOGA XP5-i Plus game controller has a standard controller form factor with a clip for holding your iPhone for a true on-the-go gaming experience, something that the budget-friendly GameSir Nova Lite lacks. The MOGA controller has been MFI-certified for Apple devices, which means it works seamlessly with all iPhone models, iPad, or Apple TV via a Bluetooth connection.
What is interesting about the PowerA MOGA XP5-i Plus is that it has a massive 3000mAh battery inside that not only powers the controller but can charge your iPhone at the same time. Speaking of charging, there are two ports on the top of this controller, a USB Type-C and a Lightening port. The Lightening port allows you to charge the controller itself with your iPhone 14 or older model’s cable. The USB Type-C port is used to charge your iPhone using the included USB-C to USB-A adapter. As for iPhone 15 models, you should be able to charge them using a USB-C to C cable.
On the back of the controller, you will find two remappable buttons, which PowerA calls Advanced Gaming Buttons. Despite all these features, the MOGA XP5-i Plus loses some points in build quality and the design choices for having a large logo at the front and an unnecessarily huge home button. It is not a premium controller by any means, which is why the feel of the joystick and sounds of the buttons are not the best.
GameSir X2s Type-C Controller
Gamesir X2s Type-C is designed to work seamlessly with iPhone 15 series, Android, HarmonyOS, Folding Screen and other Type C mobile phones. Supporting Apple MFi, Android games, Cloud gaming, game emulators, XboxGame PASS, Stem/Moonliaght streaming, and PS Remote Play, players can enjoy almost any game they want! Featuring Hall Effect Triggers and sensing joysticks, the X2S is perfect for smooth and responsiven gameplay, even in FPS and action games.
- Brand
- GameSir
- Platform
- Android, iPhone 15 Series
- Connectivity
- USB-C
- Headset Support
- No
- Programmable
- Yes
- Weight
- 8.1 ounces
- Hall effect triggers and joysticks
- Hair trigger mode and analog mode
- One click screenshot
- Not the most ergonomic
- No GameSir app on iOS
Did the older generation of Nintendo consoles and controllers leave an everlasting impression on you? If you answered yes, then the GameSir X2s should be your new iPhone game controller. Inspired by classic Nintendo consoles, the GameSir X2s brings the iconic retro design to the modern era with the latest technologies built in. It is a compact controller, but it comes with hall effect joysticks and triggers. The triggers also support a hair trigger and an analog trigger mode.
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The USB Type-C connector is movable to make removing and connecting your iPhone a lot easier. It has an Xbox style layout, but with a retro, gray and lavender theme. You can also use a combination of buttons to adjust various settings, like enabling/disabling hair trigger mode, adjusting the volume, swapping the A-B and X-Y buttons, and switching between the different modes.
Like other GameSir controllers, the app that acts as a hub for all games and settings is only available on Android, but the GameSir X2s supports cloud gaming and remote play with Amazon Luna, GeForce Now, PS Remote Play, Steam Link, Rainway, and Moonlight. It should also be noted that there is no 3.5mm headphone jack, so you will be stuck with Bluetooth audio. There is, however, a USB Type-C port for passthrough charging.
What to Look for in an iPhone Game Controller
Here are some key features to consider when choosing a controller for iPhone:
Controller Style: There are two main styles for an iPhone game controller. You can either slot in your phone and have controllers on either side of the screen or have a regular controller with a clip for mounting your phone. Depending on your play-style and ergonomics, either option can work for you, but note that the standard controller setup can also come without a clip like the GameSir Nova Lite. You can always get a third-party clip to solve that issue.
Connectivity: iPhone 15 models come with a USB Type-C port and most mobile game controllers have a USB Type-C connector. However, not all controllers come with a Type-C connection and still carry a Lighting connector for older iPhone models. There are two more connection options: wired and Bluetooth. With Bluetooth connectivity, you can use any supported controller with any iPhone model, but with a wired connection, you may need a dongle or an adapter.
Passthrough Charging: Some mobile game controllers come with built-in batteries while some others use the phone’s USB connection for power. However, it is essential to have pass through charging, which means the controller should have some type of USB port. Gaming eats up battery the quickest, so you may run out of juice in the middle of a game, which is where pass through charging comes in handy.
Phone Support: The mobile game controllers that extend to fit the phone in between and the ones that come with clips to attach your phone can typically fit phones up to a certain size and may not always be compatible with big phones, so make sure you find that out before you make the purchase decision.
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FAQ
Q: What is the best gaming controller for iPhone?
The GameSir G8 Galileo is the best gaming controller for iPhone as it comes with ergonomic grips, hall effect joysticks and triggers, USB Type-C port, and a 3.5mm headphone jack.
Q: Can you use a controller to play games on iPhone?
Yes, a variety of controllers work with iPhone models be it via Bluetooth, a wired Lightening connection, or a USB Type-C connection for newer iPhone 15 models.
