Mobile gaming continues to grow in popularity, and 2025 brings a new wave of smartphones designed to handle demanding titles such as Genshin Impact, PUBG Mobile, and Honkai Star Rail. Choosing the right phone for gaming depends on more than just raw performance. Buyers must also consider their budget, battery life, display quality, and whether they want additional features such as strong cameras or long-term software support.
While many flagship smartphones are capable of running games smoothly, certain devices are built with gaming as a central focus. This article reviews the best gaming phones available in 2025, from premium flagships to affordable options.
Best Gaming Phones in 2025
Best Gaming Phones in 2025
Asus ROG Phone 9 Pro
RedMagic 9S Pro
Asus ROG Phone 9 Pro
Best Overall
The Asus ROG Phone 9 Pro stands out as the best gaming phone of 2025. It features the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, which delivers outstanding performance across even the most demanding titles. The 185Hz refresh rate ensures smooth visuals, while configurations offering up to 24GB of RAM and 1TB of storage make it possible to run and store a large library of games.
Its 5,800 mAh battery is slightly smaller than its predecessor’s, though the fast-charging capability ensures a full charge in under an hour. While the ROG Phone 9 Pro excels in performance, the camera system is less impressive when compared to the iPhone 16 Pro Max and Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra. It is also one of the most expensive devices on the market, but for those prioritizing gaming above all else, it remains the strongest choice.
Pros: Outstanding performance, smooth display, large storage options
Cons: Mediocre cameras, expensive
Check out the Asus ROG Phone 9 Pro now on Amazon.
Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max
Best iPhone for Gaming
The iPhone 16 Pro Max is Apple’s most powerful device yet, equipped with the new A18 Pro chip. This processor improves efficiency and gaming performance by up to 30 percent compared to the iPhone 15 Pro Max. Combined with a 120Hz OLED display, the iPhone 16 Pro Max offers a smooth and visually impressive experience. The iPhone 17 just came out, make sure to read more about how the phone is built fro gamers here.
The device supports console-quality titles such as Resident Evil Village and has full access to the Apple Arcade library. With up to 1TB of storage and 8GB of RAM, it is well-suited for both gaming and everyday use. The battery capacity is slightly improved over its predecessor, though still lags behind some competitors, and charging speeds remain slower than other flagship devices. For users with the iPhone 15 Pro Max, the upgrade may not be essential, but for those with older iPhones, the improvements are significant.
Pros: Excellent display, powerful performance, AI integration
Cons: Expensive, limited upgrade value for iPhone 15 Pro Max owners
Check out the Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max now on Amazon.
Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra
Best Samsung Gaming Phone
Samsung’s Galaxy S25 Ultra continues the company’s tradition of delivering powerful flagship devices. Like the ROG Phone 9 Pro, it is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset and features a 6.9-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate. One of the key improvements over last year’s model is the reduced overheating during extended gaming sessions, making it more comfortable for long play.
The Galaxy S25 Ultra does not match Apple’s iPhone in terms of camera performance, but it offers a reliable balance of gaming power, software features, and long-term update support. Although it comes at a high price, Samsung’s strong commitment to software security and Android updates makes it a long-lasting choice.
Pros: Stunning display, reliable performance, strong software support
Cons: High price, average cameras
Check out the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra now on Amazon.
Google Pixel 9 Pro XL
Best Pixel Gaming Phone
The Pixel 9 Pro XL is powered by Google’s Tensor G4 chipset, which improves performance compared to its predecessor, though it does not reach the same levels as Snapdragon-based devices. Its bright 120Hz display brings games to life, and the device runs popular titles such as Honkai Star Rail without issue.
One of the biggest advantages of the Pixel 9 Pro XL is its software support, with Google guaranteeing seven years of updates. The device also stands out for its camera system, offering strong results across a variety of settings. The main drawback is slower charging compared to competitors, but for users seeking a balance between gaming capability and premium photography, it is a strong option.
Pros: Long update support, strong cameras, bright display
Cons: Slightly weaker chipset, slower charging
Check out the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL now on Amazon.
Poco X7 Pro
Best Budget Gaming Phone
The Poco X7 Pro provides impressive gaming performance at a much lower price than flagship devices. With a 120Hz display and fast charging, it handles demanding games like PUBG Mobile and Honkai Star Rail with ease. At around $300, it offers strong value for money.
The phone does come with pre-installed apps that some users may find unnecessary, and it does not support wireless charging. However, these drawbacks are minor compared to the performance it offers at this price point. For gamers looking for an affordable entry into high-quality mobile gaming, the Poco X7 Pro is one of the best options available in 2025.
Pros: Affordable, strong performance, vivid display
Cons: Preloaded bloatware, no wireless charging
Check out the Poco X7 Pro now on Amazon.
RedMagic 9S Pro
Best Mid-Range Gaming Phone
The RedMagic 9S Pro is specifically designed for gaming, featuring the Snapdragon Gen 3 chipset and specialized software such as Game Space mode to optimize performance. Its 6.8-inch display with a 120Hz refresh rate ensures smooth visuals, and the 6,500 mAh battery supports more than a day of gaming use, with 80W fast charging restoring full power in just over 30 minutes.
While the phone occasionally becomes warm during extended play, its cooling system prevents serious overheating. Non-gaming features such as cameras are less advanced compared to other flagships, but for those prioritizing gaming, the RedMagic 9S Pro provides excellent mid-range value.
Pros: Excellent gaming features, fast charging, large battery
Cons: Gets warm, limited non-gaming features
Check out the RedMagic 9S Pro now on Amazon.
Xiaomi 14T Pro
Best Display
The Xiaomi 14T Pro combines strong performance with one of the best displays available in 2025. The 6.67-inch AMOLED screen offers a 144Hz refresh rate, providing exceptionally smooth visuals. Powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 9300+ chipset, it handles demanding games effectively.
Battery life is solid, lasting a full day with regular use, and its charging speeds are among the fastest available, with the ability to fully charge in as little as 20 minutes using wired charging. However, the phone does not include a charger in the box, and availability may be limited in some regions. For those who value display quality above all else, the Xiaomi 14T Pro is a standout option.
Pros: Best-in-class display, rapid charging, solid performance
Cons: No charger included, limited global availability
Check out the Xiaomi 14T Pro now on Amazon.
Nothing Phone (3a)
Best Nothing Gaming Phone
The Nothing Phone (3a) offers a unique alternative for gamers who want a minimalist design combined with strong performance. Equipped with the Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 chipset and a 120Hz full-HD display, it handles popular titles smoothly. The 5,000 mAh battery provides reliable gaming sessions with 50W fast charging support.
While it lacks a charging adapter and case in the box, and its larger size may not appeal to all users, the clean Nothing OS software and balanced performance make it an attractive choice for those looking for something different from mainstream options.
Pros: Clean software, good gaming performance, affordable premium features
Cons: Large size, lacks included accessories
Check out the Nothing Phone (3a) now on Amazon.
How the Best Gaming Phones Are Selected
When determining the best gaming phones for 2025, several criteria are considered. Performance is evaluated through chipset power, RAM capacity, and storage options. Displays are tested for refresh rates and visual clarity, as smooth visuals are essential for modern mobile gaming. Battery life and charging speeds are measured to ensure devices can support extended play sessions. Additional factors such as camera quality, software support, and overall value for money are also taken into account to provide recommendations across different price ranges.
- Performance: Processor power, RAM, and storage
- Display: Refresh rates and visual clarity
- Battery life and charging speed
- Additional features: Camera quality, software support, and ecosystem compatibility
- Value for money: Options available for various budgets
Final Thoughts
The best gaming phone in 2025 varies depending on user needs. The Asus ROG Phone 9 Pro remains the most powerful choice for dedicated gamers, while the iPhone 16 Pro Max and Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra offer premium experiences for those already invested in their respective ecosystems. For more affordable options, the Poco X7 Pro and Nothing Phone (3a) deliver strong performance without the high price tag. Whether prioritizing raw power, display quality, or budget, there is a gaming phone available in 2025 to suit every type of mobile gamer. Here’s a list of all the games mentioned:
- Genshin Impact
- PUBG Mobile
- Resident Evil Village
- Resident Evil 4 remake
- Honkai Star Rail
- Zenless Zone Zero
- Diablo Immortal
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Make sure to check out our articles on best gaming gadgets in 2025:
Best Apple Products for Gaming
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best gaming phone in 2025?
The Asus ROG Phone 9 Pro is considered the best overall gaming phone in 2025 due to its Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, high refresh rate display, and gaming-focused design. It offers unmatched performance, although it is among the most expensive options available.
Which phone has the best display for gaming?
The Xiaomi 14T Pro offers one of the best displays for gaming, with a 144Hz AMOLED panel that delivers smooth and vibrant visuals. It provides a better refresh rate than many other smartphones, making it ideal for immersive gaming.
What is the most powerful processor for mobile gaming?
As of 2025, the Snapdragon 8 Elite is the most powerful processor for mobile gaming. It powers top devices such as the Asus ROG Phone 9 Pro and Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra, ensuring high performance across demanding titles.
Is iPhone or Samsung better for gaming?
Both iPhone and Samsung deliver excellent gaming experiences. The iPhone 16 Pro Max provides access to Apple Arcade and console-quality titles, while the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra offers a large AMOLED display and long-term Android support. The choice often depends on whether users prefer iOS or Android ecosystems.
What is the best budget gaming phone in 2025?
The Poco X7 Pro is the best budget gaming phone in 2025. It provides strong performance, a 120Hz display, and fast charging at an affordable price point, making it ideal for gamers who do not want to spend on a flagship device.
How much RAM is good for gaming on a phone?
Most gaming smartphones in 2025 come with at least 8GB of RAM, which is sufficient for most games. High-end devices, such as the Asus ROG Phone 9 Pro, offer up to 24GB of RAM, allowing for smoother multitasking and better performance in demanding games.
Which brand makes the best gaming phones?
Asus and RedMagic specialize in gaming phones and include gaming-focused software and hardware features such as shoulder triggers and cooling systems. However, brands like Apple, Samsung, and Google also provide strong flagship models that combine gaming performance with other premium features.
Do gaming phones have better battery life?
Gaming phones often include larger batteries to support extended play sessions. For example, the RedMagic 9S Pro includes a 6,500 mAh battery, while the Asus ROG Phone 9 Pro has a 5,800 mAh capacity. However, intensive gaming still drains batteries quickly, so fast charging is a key feature.
