The Best Gaming Phones to Buy in 2025

Choosing the right gaming phone requires considering key features that set it apart from a regular smartphone. High-performance processing is crucial, along with sustained performance to avoid slowdowns and overheating. Ample RAM and storage are essential for multitasking and game capacity. Some gaming phones, such as the RedMagic 10 Pro, offer additional gaming enhancements like shoulder buttons and improved touch sampling rates.

Display quality is paramount. A larger, brighter screen with a high refresh rate ensures smooth visuals and comfortable gameplay. Larger phones also minimize thumb obstruction during touch controls. Considering these factors, here's a selection of top gaming phones:

TL;DR – Top 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

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

Contributions by Georgie Peru and Danielle Abraham

RedMagic 9S Pro – Additional Images:

Detailed Reviews:

(Note: Due to length constraints, only key aspects of the reviews are summarized below. Refer to the original text for complete details.)

1. RedMagic 10 Pro: This phone excels in performance and sustained gameplay thanks to its actively cooled Snapdragon 8 Elite chip and massive 7,050mAh battery. It features shoulder buttons, a high touch-sampling rate display, and attractive design. The price point is competitive.

2. Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra: A powerful all-around phone with exceptional performance, a stunning 6.8" AMOLED display, and a top-tier camera system. Its Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor and 12GB RAM handle demanding games effortlessly.

3. iPhone 16 Pro Max: Offers powerful performance via the A18 Pro chip and a large 6.9" display. Excellent design and a strong camera system are additional benefits. Access to a growing library of high-quality iOS games is a plus.

4. iPhone SE (2022): A budget-friendly option with the powerful A15 Bionic chip and access to iOS games. The smaller screen and limited storage are drawbacks.

5. OnePlus 12: A mid-range flagship providing a balance of performance, a large AMOLED display, and refined design. It handles demanding games well without the premium price tag.

6. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6: A high-performance foldable phone with stunning displays (inner and outer) and the powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip. The unusual aspect ratio when unfolded is a consideration.

7. OnePlus 12R: A budget-friendly Android option with a vibrant display and the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip. It offers strong performance at a lower cost but compromises on some camera features.

What to Look for in a Gaming Phone:

Prioritize processors (Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Android, A18 Pro for iPhone) and displays (high refresh rates, 90Hz or higher, and fast touch sampling rates). Battery life is generally excellent in gaming phones.

Gaming Handhelds vs. Gaming Phones:

Gaming phones are highly portable and versatile, offering smartphone functionality alongside gaming capabilities. Gaming handhelds (like the Steam Deck or Nintendo Switch) are dedicated gaming devices with better controls but less versatility. The choice depends on individual preferences and gaming style.