If you are searching for the best Android game controller for 2022, then you have arrived at the right site. This article will show you the top 5 best Android game controllers for 2022. Even before the Xbox Game Pass launch, it was important for phone gamers to have the best phone gaming controller. There are so many great Android game controllers out there that can be improved with the help of a controller; who enjoys using the on-screen display controls? Still, if you are looking for a new game controller to improve your phone gaming experience and take it to the next level, here we have covered the best Android game controllers you should check out in 2022.
1. Razer Kishi – A Solid All-Rounder
Many game developers have graced the Play Store with mobiles with better features than PCs. You don’t have to deal with a third-party plastic clip if you want to drive your mobile like an actual controller. The Razer Kishi can turn almost any smartphone into a Nintendo Switch and don’t worry about slowing down Bluetooth connectivity.
Razer Kishi can hit almost every mark in the game controller for Android. With cloud gaming becoming popular, the Kishi is one of the recommended controllers for use with the NVIDIA GeForce NOW streaming service. You will never have to charge the Kishi as it plugs directly into your smartphone. There is also a pass-through USB-C port available.
While there are few gripes with the Kishi, the Razer left a mark in many areas. Notably, you won’t be able to use Kishi to play games on a PC. In addition, a USB-C pass-through port can be used for charging only, so there is no way to plug some headphones in unless your smartphone includes a 3.5mm headphone jack.
2. 8Bitdo Pro 2 – Best Multi-Platform Smartphone Controller
Look at this list, and you will see a few different 8Bitdo controllers that create awesome Android game controllers. But the two options you see are classic SNES controllers and not exactly ergonomic controllers. However, 8Bitdo updated its range with a new 8Bitdo Pro 2 game controller, which replaced the 8Bitdo SN30 Pro+, which was available until earlier this year.
With the 8Bitdo Pro 2, you get a rechargeable and replaceable 1,000mAh battery life, rated for up to 20 hours. Also, the controller is created to be something you’d expect to see in 2021, in line with Sony’s PS5 DualSense or Xbox Core Controller for better comfort. The ability to use it on any device save for iPhone or iPad is a four-way toggle to make switching between profiles and devices easier than before.
With the 8Bitdo app, you can map any button on the game controller to anything else, giving you more control over how you play games. It has two back paddle buttons (you can remap them), which is convenient for some but can be out of place if you don’t plan on using them. And like most of the other game controllers on this post, if you need to play games on the go without using the stand, you will need to pick up 8Bitdo’s smartphone holder.
3. Gamesir X3 – Best Phone Controller With Built-in Cooling
One major complaint many people have with Android gaming is that mobiles can get hot. If you ignore the heat when using the controller, it may not be a big problem, but that doesn’t fix the issue. Enter the Gamesir X3, which has a built-in cooling feature on the back that makes a prominent difference with minimal sound.
Apart from its cooling feature, it is similar in design to the previous X2 model from Gamesir. What is different this time is that instead of offering a USB-C and Bluetooth model, the Gamesir X3 includes a USB-C connector only. This makes it a more reliable connection with less input lag. While this also limits the number of mobile cases with which it is compatible, the USB-C connector on the X3 can be adjusted up or down a centimeter, making it easy to mount a mobile and attach the mobile cases.
Its most significant drawback is it needs to be plugged in for the cooling fan to work, it limits the amount of time it can be used effectively, and for most people, its thumbsticks are also very small. Thankfully, the Gamesir X3 has some thumbstick covers in the box.
4. Razer Raiju Mobile – A Pro Controller For Serious Mobile Gamers
As one of the more established names on this list, it is no surprise to see Razer among the more “elite” phone game controllers on our list. It can connect over Bluetooth or be wired via USB-C cables.
The controller also includes a built-in port for mobile, which slides up and shouldn’t be a problem handling Android handsets. The Bit Companion app lets you map buttons and adjust the sensitivity of analog sticks. Downsides: It is an expensive Android game controller, which we only recommend for the most enthusiastic Android mobile gamers.
5. GameSir X2 – Best Android Controller For Foldables
If you are committed to playing games on an Android smartphone, choose the GameSir X2. This device is built to comfortably hold the largest Android smartphones, even the Galaxy S21 Ultra or Google Pixel 6 Pro. This controller slides open and lets you slot mobile in for a setup similar to the Nintendo Switch, except you get access to the extra-sharp screen display on mobile and access directly to Android and via cloud gaming.
GameSir utilizes micro switch buttons with a 3 million press lifetime, and an included case helps protect the entire unit while you are on the go. With this device, you can connect a USB-C, so you don’t have to worry about another device needing to be charged. You can get faster response times from the controls than from the Bluetooth controller.