Almost all recent Android phones can download and play games from the Google Play Store. However, some of the latest releases of trending Android games can push your device to its limits. These games often require better hardware than you'll find on regular Android devices. Handheld gamers prefer to get an Android that is good for gaming to play their favourite games.Â
An Android good for gaming should have impressive processing power, battery life, and cooling capabilities. Some may also offer dedicated gaming features like extra buttons. These phones have faster processors, letting game lovers keep up with the latest Android games. Moreover, they can be paired with an Android controller for a more exciting gaming experience.
Top Ten Android Phones Good for Gaming
Some Android smartphone manufacturers have released impressive product models to accommodate game lovers. Although an Android good for gaming is almost always expensive, the performance of these phones validates their price tags. If you're a gamer looking for the perfect Android for gaming, our list outlines the best options in today's market. Check them out!
1. Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra
This particular phone is frequently referred to as the ultimate all-around phone. The S23 Ultra proves that when a phone is suitable for gaming, it is even better for general phone use. Samsung has equipped this Galaxy with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor and enhanced it with its advanced One UI software, particularly its full-featured Game Booster suite. This suite offers a plethora of recording and streaming options.
The device boasts a high refresh rate screen, which is perfect for gaming, and also has good batteries for longer gaming sessions. Despite being pricey, the screen's excellent high-frame rate OLED display justifies the cost. It can efficiently run any Android game and offers arguably one of the best gaming experiences in the current market. The screen is lag-free, with a super HD display and a long battery life. What more could you ask for in a gaming phone?
Samsung provides inline sound recording alongside its video recorder on this Galaxy. This means streamers and YouTubers can easily record their games and the native sound playing.
In all, the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra is an ideal choice if you want to play the most demanding games on Android. At a price of $1200, the S23 Ultra provides 100% value for your money, no matter how you look at it.
2. Nubia Redmagic 9 Pro
The Redmagic 9 Pro by Nubia is an exceptional gaming smartphone that offers incredible gaming performance at an affordable price point. It is powered by the Snapdragon Gen 3 processor, which allows it to run all Android games seamlessly and smoothly. The phone also boasts a silent cooling system that ensures it stays cool even during extended gaming sessions. However, like most Android gaming phones, the camera quality of the phone is not up to par.
With a 120Hz high-speed screen and a massive 12 GB RAM, the Redmagic 9 Pro is one of the best gaming smartphones available in the market. According to gamers' reviews, its powerful 6,500mAh battery can last up to 12 hours on serious work. Furthermore, the phone comes with two touch triggers on the top, having a 520Hz touch-sample rate, making them faster than most Android flagship screens. These triggers are surprisingly useful and enhance the gaming experience with their exceptional vibration motor.
Despite the average camera quality, this phone provides one of the best handheld gaming experiences for just $900. It is an excellent option for gamers looking for an affordable phone that can easily handle even the most demanding games.
3. Asus Zenfone 10
The Asus Zenfone 10 is a smartphone that comes in a compact size. It is powered by a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, making it a powerful device. The phone boasts an impressive refresh rate of 144Hz. Despite being marketed as a gaming phone, it doesn't compromise on other features. The software is easily customizable and offers top-brand features similar to those found on Asus' ROG phones.
If you want an Android good for gaming without breaking the bank, then the Zenfone 10 is the perfect choice. However, the 5.9-inch screen may not be suitable for gamers who prefer larger screens. The Zenfone's screen resolution offers crystal clear video quality as a feature rather than a cost-cutting method. Gamers who enjoy picking out every detail in games like Genshin Impact may need help with this phone.
The hardware of the Zenfone 10 is fully capable of running any Android game. Furthermore, the phone offers aesthetic features such as excellent screen recording similar to those found on ROG phones. For a starting price of $700, you can never go wrong with this superb gaming Android phone.
4. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5
The foldable display of this phone is exceptionally impressive for gaming purposes. It provides screen space beyond traditional phones. The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 is currently the finest foldable phone available in the market. Its 7.6-inch screen offers ample space for an outstanding gaming experience. Furthermore, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset is efficient enough to handle any Android game you wish to play.
With the Multi-window feature, you can simultaneously perform other tasks on your phone while gaming. Although many other Android gaming phones have the same chipset at a much lower price than the Z Fold 5, the screen quality is exceptional, making games look extraordinary. If the 16.9 resolution appears strange to you, you can resize the screen to resolve it. The multi-window support feature even unlocks the ability to play videos while playing mobile games at the same time.
While you will undoubtedly want to protect your investment with a high-quality Galaxy Z Fold 5 case, if you are content with the price, you will discover that this phone offers everything you need for the best Android gaming experience. The starting price of $1800 may seem steep, but it is insignificant compared to what you will gain if you decide to invest in it.
5. Sony Xperia 1 IV
The Sony Xperia 1 IV is a versatile phone that is equally great for gaming and regular use. It comes with a snap-on cooler attachment that is specifically designed for gamers. It also comes with features that make mobile game streaming easier. The phone is powered by a powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 chipset and boasts a clear 4K display. This makes it perfect for gamers who want the best performance and display quality.
Moreover, the Sony Xperia 1 IV is an excellent option for mobile gamers who also require a phone that performs well for non-gaming activities, such as photography. The camera on this phone is exceptional.
Additionally, this Sony phone has a durable battery life of 5,000mAh, which means it can last through long gaming sessions. At $1600, the Xperia 1 IV is an excellent choice for Android users who want a well-rounded phone that is perfect for gaming.
6. OnePlus 11
OnePlus is known for incorporating top-of-the-line screens and long-lasting battery life to create some of the best gaming smartphones available in the market. Additionally, their flagship phones offer a well-rounded experience. However, the only drawback is that the camera's hole-punch location in the bottom left or top right corner may occasionally interfere with on-screen buttons, depending on the immersive mode. Nevertheless, this is only likely to happen for a few games, so most games should be unaffected.
The OnePlus 11 boasts a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, coupled with up to 16GB of RAM, making it a popular choice among Android users and an ideal choice for gaming enthusiasts. The cameras on this smartphone are not consistent, but they are of higher quality than those found in RedMagic, Black Shark, and Asus ROG smartphones. Moreover, this excellent gaming smartphone can still capture decent photos while you're out at an e-sports event or even at a five-floor pinball arcade.
You won't have to worry about your battery draining quickly when using the camera or playing your favourite games for long periods of time. The OnePlus 11 can last for 24 hours before requiring a recharge.Â
The charging speed is remarkable When you need to recharge the OnePlus 11. The version sold in the United States has a slower charging speed of 80W compared to the faster 100W available in other countries. However, even the US version can charge from zero to 100% in less than an hour. You can take a quick snack break and return to a fully charged phone for the next game stage. The fast charging speed compensates for the lack of wireless charging. At a starting price of $700, the OnePlus 11 is an underrated gem.
7. Asus ROG Phone 7
The Asus ROG Phone 7 comes with an array of features that build upon its predecessors. It has a clear screen that can support high frame rates and responsive shoulder touch buttons. This phone's specifications are perfect for efficiently running any Android game.
The ROG Phone 7 offers excellent audio and visual quality thanks to its 165Hz screen and powerful front-facing speakers. You can connect wired headphones and speakers to the device's 3.5mm headphone jack.
This phone is easily a top contender for Android gaming. However, you'll have to spend a lot of money to get the best performance. If you're willing to invest, though, you can purchase an optional fan attachment to keep things cool during long gaming sessions. Even without it, you can expect smooth gameplay in games like Genshin Impact.
If you're looking for the best gaming hardware, the ROG Phone 7 is an excellent choice. This Asus powerhouse starts at $1000 and offers an insane gaming experience.
8. Motorola Edge+ (2023)
The Moto Edge+ may not be the top choice for a gaming powerhouse, but it has a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset and outstanding battery life underneath its conventional appearance. It is perfect for long gaming sessions and is also affordable. Motorola has improved its game in recent years. They have produced flagship-performance phones that can compete with Google and Samsung's top models.
The Moto Edge+ (2023) has all the features you would expect from a gaming Android phone, but it is not immediately apparent. The Snapdragon Gen 2 chipset can handle any Android game, while the 1080p screen can run as high as 165Hz. With moderate use, the battery can last up to two days, and a 68W charging speed ensures that you won't have to wait long for a full charge.
The only significant drawbacks of the Moto Edge+ are its mediocre software support and lackluster camera. However, if you're looking for an uncomplicated Android phone that can handle any game you throw at it, this is the one for you.
You can get this amazing Motorola flagship-performance device for $800 on BestBuy.
9. Nubia RedMagic 8S Pro
This device offers an insane hardware component for its price. It is arguably the most affordable Android, good for gaming. The RedMagic 8S Pro is a specialized gaming phone with a sleek design and powerful processor capable of running all Android games. Although, like some other top gaming phones, it does suffer from relatively poor camera quality.
Thanks to its 120Hz screen, the phone can provide high frame-rate support for Android games, and the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset ensures a smooth gaming experience. Additionally, the Game Space app serves as a useful, albeit flashy, launcher for your games. With just a few taps, you can adjust frame rates, fan speeds, and performance settings in-game.
The phone's 6000mAh battery is impressive, making it the perfect gaming companion that lasts all day. With its incredible specs, the Nubia RedMagic 8S Pro is surprisingly affordable at just $659 on Nubia Mart.
10. Xiaomi Black Shark 5 Pro
The Black Shark 5 Pro is an unrivaled gaming phone that stands out from the competition with its top-notch performance and reasonable price. The device boasts a Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 processor and an impressive 12GB of RAM, making it capable of effortlessly handling high-end mobile games with the highest graphics settings without any lag or glitches.
In addition, the phone is equipped with innovative pop-up physical triggers that can be customized and assigned specific functions for your game, taking mobile gaming to a whole new level and delivering an immersive gaming experience.
However, it's worth noting that the phone may overheat during extended gaming sessions, and its battery life could be better. Nevertheless, the Black Shark 5 Pro is a highly powerful gaming phone that offers exceptional performance and portability, making it an excellent choice for gamers who want to take their gaming on the go. With all the remarkable properties packed in this ‘Black Shark', $900 is only a fair price.
Let's wrap it up…
No matter what kind of Android games you want to play, this list features all the best gaming performances in today's market. If you dream of a seamless gaming experience on a crystal clear screen, hurry and make your pick from our top choices above. You can use your new dedicated gaming Android phone with a game streaming app like Xbox Game Pass. You can also connect with an Android controller for console-quality gaming.
