Upcoming Gaming Smartphones: Predictions for 2025

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

The display is paramount. A larger, brighter screen with a high refresh rate ensures smooth visuals and comfortable gameplay. A larger phone also minimizes thumb occlusion during touch control.

Here's a breakdown of top gaming phones:

TL;DR – Top Gaming Phones:

RedMagic 10 Pro: Best Overall

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra: Best iPhone Alternative

iPhone 16 Pro Max: Best iPhone for Gaming

iPhone SE (2022): Best Budget iPhone

OnePlus 12: Best Everyday Phone

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6: Best Foldable

OnePlus 12R: Best Budget Android

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

(Contributions by Georgie Peru and Danielle Abraham)

RedMagic 9S Pro – Photos

Detailed Reviews: (Note: The following sections are condensed for brevity while maintaining core information.)

(RedMagic 10 Pro): Exceptional performance and sustained high frame rates thanks to active cooling and the Snapdragon 8 Elite chip. Features a large 7,050mAh battery, shoulder buttons, and a high touch-sampling rate display. Excellent value at its price point.

(Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra): Powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, 12GB RAM, and a vibrant 6.8" AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate. Offers incredible performance and an exceptional camera system. Premium price.

(iPhone 16 Pro Max): Boasts the powerful A18 Pro chip and a large 6.9" display. Excellent design, powerful camera system, and access to a growing library of high-quality iOS games. Premium price.

(iPhone SE (2022)): Offers surprisingly strong performance for its price, powered by the A15 Bionic chip. Smaller screen and limited storage are drawbacks. Excellent value.

(OnePlus 12): Powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, large AMOLED display with adaptive refresh rate, and refined design. Solid battery life. Excellent mid-range option.

(Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6): Incredibly fast Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor and stunning dual displays. Unique foldable form factor may not suit all users.

(OnePlus 12R): Large, vibrant display and a potent Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip at a budget-friendly price. Some compromises on camera system. Excellent value.

What to Look For:

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

Gaming Handhelds vs. Gaming Phones:

Gaming phones are ultra-portable and versatile, offering smartphone functionality alongside gaming capabilities. Gaming handhelds (like Steam Deck or Nintendo Switch) are bulkier but offer dedicated controls and potentially a wider game library. The choice depends on personal preference and gaming style.