Last updated on May 26, 2025
In 2025, almost any smartphone can run mobile games, but only the best gaming phones manage to combine raw power with the refinement needed for intense and sustained sessions. The true gaming phones of 2025 not only feature ultra-high-performance processors, but also efficient cooling systems, generous memory, and high refresh rate displays. Whether it’s dedicated gaming buttons, fast touch sampling, or batteries that last for hours, these devices are specifically designed for those who want top-tier gaming performance wherever they are.
1. RedMagic 10 Pr
- Price: ~ $880
- Display: 6.85″ OLED, 144Hz
- Processor: Snapdragon 8 Elite
- Battery: 7,050 mAh
- Weight: 229g
RedMagic 10 Pro is a true beast when it comes to gaming. With an active cooling system and a top-tier chipset, this phone handles intense gaming sessions with ease. Its sustained performance puts it at the top of the rankings, and the massive 7,050 mAh battery allows for hours of stress-free play.
It doesn’t lack gamer-focused features: programmable side buttons, a high touch response rate, and advanced options like supersampling or frame interpolation. The 6.85” display is not only large but also stunning, with a straight-edged design, no cut-out corners, and a front camera hidden under the display.
Who it’s ideal for: Hardcore gamers who want maximum performance at a reasonable price.
2. OnePlus 13
- Price: ~ $990
- Display: 6.82″ OLED, 120Hz
- Processor: Snapdragon 8 Elite
- Battery: 6.000 mAh
- Weight: 210g
OnePlus 13 offers a rare combination of excellent performance, elegant design, and very good cameras. It’s the kind of phone that doesn’t look like a gaming device, but can keep up with the most demanding games without any problems.
In performance tests, OnePlus 13 came close to flagships like the iPhone 16 Pro Max and even surpassed them in some graphics benchmarks. The bright display and versatile camera make this model suitable not just for gaming, but also for users who want a well-rounded phone.
Who it’s ideal for: Those who want a powerful and versatile phone, not just a gaming machine.
3. iPhone 16 Pro Max
- Price: ~ $1,299
- Display: 6.9″ OLED, 120Hz
- Processor: Apple A18 Pro
- Battery: 4.685 mAh
- Weight: 227g
With the new A18 Pro chip, the iPhone 16 Pro Max takes graphic performance to a new level, thanks to an additional graphics core. The large and clear 6.9″ display turns any game into an immersive experience, and Apple’s extended software support guarantees years of updates.
A major advantage is also Apple’s openness to high-quality gaming—titles like Assassin’s Creed Mirage and Resident Evil are now available on iOS, further strengthening the iPhone’s position in the mobile gaming ecosystem.
Who it’s ideal for: Apple users who want uncompromising performance.
4. iPhone 16e
- Price: ~ $899
- Display: 6.1″ OLED
- Processor: Apple A18
- Battery: 4.005 mAh
- Weight: 167g
Although it is the most affordable model launched by Apple in 2025, the iPhone 16e comes with the same A18 processor as the top models, even though the GPU is slightly reduced. Nevertheless, gaming performance is excellent for most modern titles.
The 6.1” OLED display and the bezel-less design are a big improvement over the old iPhone SE. However, a few features are missing, such as MagSafe or mmWave 5G connectivity.
Who it’s ideal for: Apple fans who want a more affordable, yet capable gaming phone.
5. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6
- Price: ~ $1.899
- Main display: 7.6″ AMOLED, 2160×1856
- Processor: Snapdragon 8 Gen 3
- Battery: 4,400 mAh
- Weight: 239g
Galaxy Z Fold 6 delivers incredible performance in an innovative form factor. The large 7.6” display offers a tablet-like experience, making it ideal for complex games. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor is extremely fast, and the AMOLED display stands out with vivid colors and excellent contrast.
The only notable drawback is the unusual aspect ratio, which can affect how some games are displayed. Still, the versatility and power offered by the Fold 6 are hard to match.
Who it’s ideal for: Gamers who want a futuristic, high-performance phone-tablet hybrid.
In 2025, gaming phones are not just about raw power, but also about balancing performance, battery life, display quality, and smart features. Whether you want a gaming powerhouse like the RedMagic 10 Pro, a balanced option like the OnePlus 13, or a futuristic foldable like the Galaxy Z Fold 6, there are excellent choices available no matter your preferences or budget.
