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Yes—some mobile action games support controllers, but connecting a controller to your phone does not make every game compatible. Check support for the specific game, confirm that the controller works with your phone, then look for any in-game setup steps. Compatibility and available controller features can vary by game, device, and controller.

Check whether the game supports a controller

Controller support is determined by the game, not just by whether your phone can pair with the controller. Check the game’s current support information or its control settings. For example, Epic says Fortnite supports external controllers on mobile, while warning that some devices may not be compatible.

Even in a compatible game, you may need to finish a tutorial or change a setting before controller input works. Backbone’s game compatibility guidance notes that some games require players to complete a tutorial or switch from touch controls in the game settings.

Pair the controller with your phone

On iPhone

  1. Use the controller maker’s instructions to put a Bluetooth controller into discovery mode.
  2. On your iPhone, open Settings > Bluetooth and select the controller when it appears. Apple documents this process in its iPhone User Guide.
  3. For a wired controller, follow the controller maker’s connection instructions. Depending on the iPhone and controller, you may need a separately sold adapter.

Apple notes that controller buttons and features vary by controller and app. Its wireless controller support and troubleshooting guidance recommends updating the iPhone and controller software, forgetting and pairing the controller again, and reducing the number of connected Bluetooth devices if a connection fails.

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#1 Best Overall
Yojaro 4Pack Silicone Suction Phone Case Mount, Silicon Adhesive Smartphones Stand Sticky, Hands-Free Phone Accessories Holder for Selfies and Videos (Black & White & Translucent & Light Pink)
  • 【Strong Adsorption】The inspiration of the silicone phone suction case comes from the adhesive force of the octopus. Each suction cup phone mount is 3.15 inches long and 2.17 inches wide, with 24 independent suction cups providing a stronger and more stable suction force, so you don't have to worry about your phone falling during use.
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On Android

Android setup depends on the particular phone, controller, connector, and game. Check the phone and controller makers’ compatibility and connection instructions rather than assuming one pairing method applies to every combination. Then verify controller support in the game itself.

Finish setup inside the game

  1. Open the game after pairing the controller.
  2. Complete any tutorial step required before controller input becomes available.
  3. Open the game’s control settings and switch from touchscreen controls if that option is required.
  4. Test the controls in-game. If the game does not respond, confirm its controller support and check the phone, game, and controller for software updates.

What to check before choosing a controller

A controller can be a useful optional accessory for mobile action games, but compatibility is a combination of phone, hardware, and game. Before buying a mobile game controller for iPhone or Android, check:

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  • SUPERIOR COMFORT — Unlike traditional circular ear buds, the design of EarPods is defined by the geometry of the ear. Which makes them more comfortable for more people than any other ear bud–style headphones.
  • HIGH-QUALITY AUDIO — The speakers inside EarPods have been engineered to maximize sound output and minimize sound loss, which means you get high-quality audio.
  • BUILT-IN REMOTE — EarPods with USB-C plug also include a built-in remote that lets you adjust the volume, control the playback of music and video, and answer or end calls with a pinch of the cord.
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  • Whether the controller supports your phone’s operating system and connector.
  • Whether it mounts onto the phone or connects over Bluetooth, and whether the phone fits with its case on.
  • Whether the phone-controller combination needs an adapter.
  • Whether the specific game accepts controller input.
  • Which buttons and features the game supports; these can vary by controller and app.

Do not treat a phone recognizing a controller as proof that a particular game will use it. Epic cautions that external-device compatibility is not universal, and Apple says supported controller features vary by app and controller.

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Touch mapping and streamed games are different cases

Touch mapping

Some controller software offers a workaround that maps controller inputs to touchscreen points. Backbone says its TouchSync feature is limited to Android, current Backbone software, and an active Backbone+ subscription. This vendor-specific mapping is not the same as native game controller support and should not be assumed to work with every game. See Backbone’s TouchSync details.

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Rank #3
PopSockets Adhesive Phone Grip, Holder- Black
  • Secure Hold: Our PopSockets adhesive phone grip gives your cell phone a secure, comfortable hold in hand to help prevent drops while texting, taking photos, or scrolling on the go. Designed to stick firmly to most phone cases and devices.
  • Hands-Free Made Easy: Easily turn your PopSocket into a phone stand to prop up your phone anywhere, perfect for watching videos, video calls, or following recipes. A must-have phone holder that keeps your device secure and ready for anything.
  • Compatibility: Works with all phones, tablets, and Kindles. Sticks best to smooth, hard plastic cases and may not adhere to silicone or textured cases. Easily swap your PopTop to change up your style.
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Remote play and cloud gaming

Remote play and cloud gaming stream a game to your phone; they are separate from running a mobile game natively and can require their own service, account, internet connection, or console. For example, PlayStation’s May 23, 2023 announcement said PS Remote Play on mobile required a PS4 or PS5, the PS Remote Play app, a PlayStation Network account, and broadband internet. It listed 5 Mbps as the minimum and recommended at least 15 Mbps. Those are figures from the 2023 announcement, not confirmation of current service requirements.

Best Value
Anteel 2 Pack Silicone Suction Cup Phone Case Mount Double Sided, Hands-Free Silicon Phone Grip with Higher Suction Power for Selfies and Videos, Non Slip Phone Accessories (LightPink&White)
  • 【PKYAA Double Sided Silicone Suction Phone Case Mount】PKYAA With Double Sided 40 Strong and Reliable individual suction cups, PKYAA provides a thicken and upgraded universal silicon suction mount for your phone.
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  • 【Press Down Firmly Every 30 Minutes】Use your palm or fingers to press the phone down firmly and check it's secure before letting go. Apply even pressure for a few seconds to allow the suction cup to adhere properly. To maintain the grip and prevent accidental falls, it's a good practice to periodically reapply pressure to the suction cup.
Rank #4
360° Rotating Stainless Steel Phone Tether Tab (Silvery 3-Pack) - Universal for iPhone & Other Phones (Fits Wristbands/Necklaces/Crossbody Straps)
  • [360 ° Flexible Rotation Design] Comes with a rotatable lanyard ring that supports 360 ° free rotation, effectively solving the problem of twisted and tangled lanyards
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Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.