Are you an avid gamer who wants to boost mobile gaming with smoothness and precision? If you are still on the fence about which smartphone to pick for an immersive gaming experience, we’ll help you make a decision and get the one that meets your needs best.
Now you may wonder how gaming phones are different from regular cell phones. Well, for one, they have a larger screen with a faster refresh rate, they typically have a longer battery life, and are designed with very specific gaming aesthetics that gamers would love.
We’ve handpicked the best gaming phones out there on the market that stand out in every aspect — style, speed, etc. In this article, we’ll examine the specifications of each of these gaming phones to help you opt for one that you need the most.
Now, without further ado, let’s start exploring the features you need to look for in a gaming phone prior to making a purchase.
Best Gaming Phones and Features to Look for
Before impulse buying, make sure to thoroughly check all the features of a gaming phone to avoid complications in the future. Look for a gaming phone with a high-refresh-rate display, powerful processor with multiple cores, GPU Performance for smooth gaming experiences, adequate RAM for multitasking, display quality and screen size for convenient gameplay, battery life, cooling system, ample storage and finally design for aesthetic pleasure. Now, let’s dive deeper into analyzing the features that the best gaming phones should ideally have.
High-Refresh Rate Display
I think the most important feature to consider when purchasing a gaming phone is a high refresh rate display. A high refresh rate, typically 90Hz or above makes your gameplay smoother and reduces motion blur and input lag.
Powerful Processor
The processor is one of the most important components for gaming performance. Look for phones with high-performance processors such as Qualcomm Snapdragon or MediaTek Helio series, with a focus on models with higher clock speeds and multiple cores.GPU Performance
A dedicated graphics processing unit (GPU) is essential for rendering graphics-intensive games smoothly. You’d want to get phones with high-performance GPUs such as Adreno (for Qualcomm processors) or Mali (for MediaTek processors).
RAM
Multitasking is inevitable sometimes. That is why having a phone with adequate RAM is a must not a need for multitasking and running heavy games smoothly. Shop for phones with at least 6GB or preferably 8GB or more of RAM for optimal performance.
Display Quality
A high-resolution display with good color accuracy is ideal for gaming. OLED or AMOLED panels offer vibrant colors and deep blacks to enhance the gaming experience.
Screen Size
A larger screen provides a more immersive gaming experience. Seek out phones with screen sizes of 6 inches or larger, with minimal bezels for maximum screen-to-body ratio as you want to immerse yourself as much as possible into your game.
Battery Life
Gaming can be power-intensive, so a large battery capacity is important to ensure long gaming sessions without needing frequent recharges. That is why getting a phone with a battery capacity of 5000mAh or higher is best.
Cooling System
Gaming phones often come with advanced cooling systems to prevent overheating during extended gaming sessions. You’d want to get a phone with features like vapor chamber cooling or liquid cooling to maintain optimal performance.
Ample Storage
Games often require significant storage space, so it's crucial to have sufficient storage capacity. It's advisable to opt for phones with a minimum storage capacity of 128GB. Lower storage capacities can not only limit the number of games and apps you can install but can also affect the overall speed and performance of the phone.
Design
A sturdy build quality is important for durability, especially during intense gaming sessions. Also, ergonomic designs with comfortable grips can enhance the gaming experience, particularly for longer shooter games. Also, the aesthetic pleasure these gaming phones offer is unparalleled.
Check out our selection of the 7 best gaming phones
- ASUS ROG Phone 8 Pro
- REDMAGIC 9 Pro Smartphone 5G
- Xiaomi Redmi K50 Gaming 5G
- OnePlus 12R
- TECNO Phantom V Fold
- Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
- iPhone 15 Pro Max
ASUS ROG Phone 8 Pro
Specifications:
- Operating System: Android 14
- Weight: 225 g (7.94 oz)
- Cellular Technology: 5G
- Storage Capacity: 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB
- RAM: 16/24 GB
- Screen Size: 3.2 inches
- Display: LTPO AMOLED
- Connector Type: USB Type-C
If you want to fully immerse yourself in a smooth gaming experience, then consider this model for your next gaming phone. ROG 8 Pro is widely considered one of the best gaming phones in 2024 and it has all the features you need for vigorous gameplay.
This model has massive storage (256GB-1TB) and RAM (16/24GB) for smooth gaming and multitasking. With its AMOLED display, you’ll get to enjoy the prime quality of your visuals which will make the gaming experience all more enjoyable. After all, gaming is all about visuals, right?
Besides being a great gaming device, it can also serve you as a professional photo camera (with Sony IMX890 50MP main sensor with Gimbal OIS and Quad Bayer technology) for sharp and stable shots. It also supports dual Nano SIM cards for dual standby functionality. However, 5G services are location-dependent. Before making a purchase, it’s best to contact your service provider to verify compatibility with this device. Overall, this phone offers high-end specifications designed specifically for gamers looking for top-notch performance and versatility.
But with all its pros, this model has a drawback that may discourage many US citizens from buying it. It is not compatible with CDMA carriers like Verizon or Sprint.
Reasons to BUY
- Massive storage
- Robust RAM performance
- LTPO AMOLED display
Reasons to AVOID
- CDMA Compatability Problems
- Costly
REDMAGIC 9 Pro Smartphone 5G
Specifications:
- Operating System: Android 14, Redmagic OS 9
- Weight: 229 g (8.08 oz)
- Cellular Technology: GSM / CDMA / HSPA / CDMA2000 / LTE / 5G
- Storage Capacity: 256GB, 512GB
- RAM: 8GB, 12GB, 16GB
- Screen Size: 6.8 inches
- Display: AMOLED
- Connector Type: USB Type-C
REDMAGIC 9 Pro is one of the best gaming phones on the market. You can fully immerse yourself in your games with this phone’s wide screen and stunning AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate and 2480 x 1116 pixel resolution. The rendering of the visuals with 120 frames per second, 16 GB of RAM, and massive 512GB storage will make your gaming as smooth as possible.
Also, whether you like playing shooter games or racing games, this gaming phone has your back. The 960Hz touch sampling rate will provide you with lightning-quick response times. This, in turn, will increase your chances of winning in any game.
Also, you won’t have to worry too much about being close to the socket as this phone’s robust 6500 mAh battery will serve you for rounds of games. This model is also one of the best gaming phones for pubg, so if you like the game, you should definitely opt for this one.
Reasons to BUY
- Massive storage
- Large battery capacity
- AMOLED display
- High-quality camera
- Advanced cooling system
Reasons to AVOID
- Costly
Xiaomi Redmi K50 Gaming 5G
Specifications:
- Operating System: Android 12, MIUI 13
- Weight: 210 g (7.41 oz)
- Cellular Technology: GSM / CDMA / HSPA / CDMA2000 / LTE / 5G
- Storage Capacity: 128GB, 256GB
- RAM: 8GB, 12GB
- Screen Size: 6.67 inches
- Display: OLED
- Connector Type: USB Type-C
Do you want to get the best gaming phone for mobile legends? Xiaomi Redmi K50 Gaming 5G is here to save the day! If your previous smartphone does not fulfill your expectations, then this one certainly will. This powerhouse of a phone is designed for gamers and has all the features you need to fill your mobile gaming experience with advanced performance.
This cutting-edge smartphone also offers connectivity. With a powerful Qualcomm's SM8450 Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 processor, this model delivers blazing-fast speeds and smooth multitasking.
Besides having a very powerful processor, this smartphone also has a superior OLED display with HDR10+ support and a 120Hz refresh rate. Also, if you’re really into taking high-quality photos, then you’re in luck as this model comes with a 64 MP main sensor, 8 MP ultra-wide lens, and 2 MP macro lens, which will give you photos nearly indistinguishable from those captured by a professional DSLR camera.
Reasons to BUY
- Premium build
- Powerful processor
- OLED display
- High-quality camera
Reasons to AVOID
- Limited Carrier Compatability (Verizon, etc.)
- Lack of Expandable Storage
OnePlus 12R
Specifications:
- Operating System: Android 14, OxygenOS 14
- Weight: 207 g (7.30 oz)
- Cellular Technology: GSM / CDMA / HSPA / LTE / 5G
- Storage Capacity: 128GB, 256GB
- RAM: 8GB, 12GB, 16GB
- Screen Size: 6.78 inches
- Display: LTPO4 AMOLED
- Connector Type: USB Type-C
OnePlus 12R stands as one of the best budget gaming phones in 2024. With a stunning 1.5k Super Fluid AMOLED display, this smartphone offers visuals that are not only immersive but also dynamically adjustable — all thanks to its cutting-edge 4th Gen LTPO technology. So, depending on the task, you can change the display’s refresh rate at any time. Also, with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset and RAM of 16 GB, this smartphone guarantees smooth performance, which is ideal for intense gaming sessions.
Another standout feature is its impressive battery life (5500mAh). You can have extended gaming sessions without worrying about running out of power. Also, if you’re really concerned about overheating, this model’s Dual Cryo-velocity VC Cooling System will come to the rescue.
Last but certainly not the very least, you can enjoy exclusive perks including 6 months of Google One and 3 months of YouTube Premium (new accounts only). With its blend of cutting-edge technology and gamer-centric features, the OnePlus 12R is widely recognized as the best gaming phone by many users.
Reasons to BUY
- High-quality display
- Efficient cooling system
- Exclusive perks
- High-quality camera
Reasons to AVOID
- Non-expandable storage
- Limited Availability
TECNO Phantom V Fold
Specifications:
- Operating System: Android 13, HiOS 13 Fold
- Weight: 299 g (10.55 oz)
- Cellular Technology: GSM / HSPA / LTE / 5G
- Storage Capacity: 256GB, 512GB
- RAM: 12GB
- Screen Size: 7.85 inches
- Display: Foldable LTPO AMOLED
- Connector Type: USB Type-C
This foldable model by Tecno is also one of the best gaming phones on the market. It introduces groundbreaking features, such as an expansive 7.85-inch LTPO display and a powerful MTK Dimensity 9000+ chipset which will provide you with blazing-fast performance for any game.
The device also excels in photography with a remarkable setup including a 50MP telephoto, 50MP main, and 13MP ultra-wide rear camera (alongside 32MP and 16MP selfie cameras). Its colossal 5000mAh battery will provide you with prolonged usage with fast charging. So, whenever you run out of charge, you’ll know you can return for another round in just a few minutes.
Another great feature of this phone is its 21GB RAM and 256GB UFS 3.1 internal storage. If you’re into multitasking, then you’ll certainly appreciate these features. However, note that even though this model is one of the best gaming phones, it has limited availability and is restricted to India. So, if you’re based in India and want to unlock this phone for international use, you need to contact Tecno customer service.
Reasons to BUY
- High-quality display
- Foldable design
- Long-lasting battery
- High-quality camera
Reasons to AVOID
- Restricted International Usage
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
Specifications:
- Operating System: Android 14, One UI 6.1
- Weight: 232 g or 233 g (8.18 oz)
- Cellular Technology: GSM / CDMA / HSPA / EVDO / LTE / 5G
- Storage Capacity: 256GB, 512GB, 1TB
- RAM: 12GB
- Screen Size: 6.8 inches
- Display: Dynamic LTPO AMOLED
- Connector Type: USB Type-C
The Samsung S24 Series offers a suite of innovative features to enhance your gaming experience and is simply one of the best gaming phones to date. With its large screen and powerful processor, you can have a smooth and immersive gaming experience. Although this phone does not have a specific ‘gaming’ design like the other phones listed in this article, it is definitely one of the best gaming phones you can find on the market.
If you’re a part-time gamer and part-time businessperson or student, then you’ll also benefit from these amazing features that S24 Ultra offers. For example, with the Circle & Search feature, you can search items you encounter online and access information by just circling around it with a stylus — yes, it’s that easy.
Also, if you like taking notes wherever you go, then you should opt for this one as this smartphone has a Note Assist feature that streamlines note-taking by summarizing, formatting, and even translating notes for increased efficiency.
Besides being a great gaming device and a study facilitator, the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra can capture high-quality photos. Here are a few features you will surely find worthy of your attention.
Nightography on the S24 Ultra brightens low-light photography, capturing detailed images even in dark environments. Generative Edit allows you to effortlessly enhance photos by moving or removing objects and filling empty space. The S24 Ultra's 200MP camera delivers crystal-clear content, with advanced adjustments to accurately represent the world's hues and shades.
Reasons to BUY
- Powerful Gaming Performance
- Premium Design
- Note-assist
- High-Quality Camera
Reasons to AVOID
- High Price
- Complex Features
iPhone 15 Pro Max
Specification:
- Operating System: iOS 17, upgradable to iOS 17.4
- Weight: 221 g (7.80 oz)
- Cellular Technology: GSM / CDMA / HSPA / EVDO / LTE / 5G
- Storage Capacity: 256GB, 512GB, 1TB
- RAM: 8GB
- Screen Size: 6.7 inches
- Display: LTPO Super Retina XDR OLED
- Connector Type: USB Type-C 3.2 Gen 2, DisplayPort
Our list of the best gaming phones would not have been complete without an iPhone. The latest iPhone 15 Pro Max is ideal for everything — handling bill payments, holding teleconferences, taking high-quality photos, and gaming.
The iPhone 15 Pro Max transforms gaming on mobile devices with its cutting-edge features designed to take you to the gaming world. Its expansive 6.7” Super Retina XDR display and smooth refresh rate up to 120Hz can blast your gaming experience.
The dynamic island feature will leave you more room for gaming by integrating alerts and Live Activities that keep you informed without disrupting gameplay. And the Always-On display guarantees critical information remains readily accessible.
This phone stands out for gamers due to its advanced display, connectivity options, and safety features. It offers unrivaled performance and convenience, so you can make the most of your games with this phone, which is now considered the best gaming phone by many Reddit users.
Reasons to BUY
- Powerful Gaming Performance
- Premium Design
- Advanced Features
- High-Quality Camera
Reasons to AVOID
- High Price
FAQ:
Are gaming phones exclusively for gaming, or can they be daily drivers for other tasks?
Gaming phones are mainly optimized for gaming with features like high refresh rate displays and advanced cooling systems, but they can certainly serve you as daily drivers for other tasks. They typically offer powerful processors, ample RAM, and large displays — all you need for handling productivity and communication needs effectively.
How important is the refresh rate of the display for gaming, and what are the recommended rates for gaming phones?
The refresh rate of a display is crucial for gaming as it determines how smoothly motion is rendered on the screen. Higher refresh rates, such as 90 Hz, 120 Hz, or even 144 Hz, offer smoother gameplay with reduced motion blur and input lag. This makes the gaming experience all more immersive. The best gaming phones have refresh rates of 90 Hz or higher and are recommended for optimal performance and responsiveness during gameplay.
Is there a difference between liquid cooling and other cooling technologies in gaming phones, and how does it impact performance?
Yes, there is a significant difference between these two. Liquid cooling in gaming phones is carried out by circulating a coolant through a system to dissipate heat generated by the device's processor. This technology offers more efficient heat dissipation compared to traditional cooling methods like heat pipes or graphite sheets. By keeping temperatures lower, liquid cooling helps maintain consistent performance during extended gaming sessions, reducing the risk of thermal throttling which makes for smoother gameplay.
Reddit Summary
Across Reddit forums, Redditors are actively discussing the best gaming phones on the market. Our findings show that many users consider Samsung A34 the best budget gaming phone for its performance at a fraction of the price when compared to other high-end gaming phones. Another phone that many Reddit users love is the Nubia Z50; however, there are concerns with international compatibility.
The Motorola Edge+ impresses with performance but draws criticism for its high price. Also, the OnePlus 11's premium pricing raises eyebrows despite its impressive specs. In the budget segment, the Poco F5 offers excellent value, while the Razer Phone receives mixed reviews due to charging and battery issues.
Redditors claim that the Samsung S24 Ultra is easily one of the best gaming phones today as it offers the smoothest performance, but is very highly-priced. Redmagic phones also excel in gaming but are questioned for durability. Opinions on Asus Rog phones vary among Redditors, with some praising their gaming performance and unique features like customizable RGB lighting and gaming-centric design.
However, others express concerns about their comparatively high price and occasional software glitches. Despite these mixed opinions, Asus Rog phones remain popular choices for gamers who are looking for powerful performance and specialized gaming features.
Conclusion
You need to carefully consider various factors like display quality, battery life, and cooling mechanisms prior to making a purchase. In this article, we've explored the top contenders in the market. Each of our handpicked models has unique features designed specifically to immerse you in the gaming experience. Ultimately, the key takeaway is to prioritize the aspects that matter most to you as a gamer. Sometimes it is improbable to find a single device with all the desired features. That is why you need to focus on 3-4 key elements — the features that are most important for you in gaming. Identifying your priorities will guide you to your best gaming phone.