As anyone who has roamed the streets of Vice City or the hallways of Croft Manor can tell you, analogue joysticks, D-pads, buttons, and triggers deliver infinitely more precision than big, meaty fingers on greasy smartphone glass.

Luckily, there is no shortage of third-party Android gaming peripherals to choose from. Depending on your price range and preferences, you can pick up a model that will serve you well for years to come, or one that you will feel perfectly fine stuffing into a backpack or shoulder bag. Here is our list of the best controllers for Android tablets and smartphones.

Before you choose a controller to use with your Android smartphone or tablet, it is important to know about the compatibility issues you might encounter.

Android devices running Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich (or Android 3.2 Honeycomb) or newer support game controllers natively. You aren’t necessarily out of luck if you’re stuck on older software — most controllers will pair to older Android devices — but you can expect them to work unpredictably, unreliably, and sometimes not at all.

Even if your device runs a newer version of Android, it’s not always smooth sailing — some games don’t take advantage of Android’s controller API, and so don’t respond properly to gamepads. But luckily, there is a workaround in the form of Tincore Keymapper, a third-party app that lets you remap the functions of keys, buttons, and more. Note: You need a rooted device to take full advantage.

Are you in need of a new Android controller that will enhance your mobile gaming experience? Then the EasySMX Wireless Game Joystick Controller is the one for you. It’s programmed with the M1-M4 buttons, so you can play in an instant, and it will let you fully enjoy the game. With its 2.4G wireless transmission technology, you can immediately form a stable connection for up to 10 metres, and it can also be wired to a Nintendo Switch. With its 5 adjustable double vibration features, you can experience and feel the collision, shooting, vibration, and other scenes in the game. You can easily plug this in and play, it requires no additional drivers.

Why we love it:

TAOZKAM makes mobile gaming even more accessible and more fun with their wireless gaming controller. The controller’s layout is similar to a modern console controller, allowing you to enhance your inputs compared to using the native touchscreen. The controller also has dual-vibration motors to provide a more tactile experience while you’re playing. The built-in 650mAh lithium battery is rechargeable, offering up to 15-hours of playtime with a single charge. The ergonomic design and texture grip provides comfort even during extended gaming periods. The retractable bracket can hold phones up to six inches wide.

Why we like it:

— Wide device compatibility, including Switch, PC, and smartphones — Remappable keys with the touch of a button — RGB lighting adds a fun and custom touch to your gaming experience

Designed for E-Sports, the GameSir X2 Type-C Mobile Gaming Controller will allow you to take control of the game and never let your opponent get the chance to strike. With an adjustable range of 51 degrees, you can plug and unplug your phone with ease and it will also serve as its protection. Additionally, the microswitch buttons have a lifespan of 3 million times, so you can play to your heart’s content while feeling snug and comfortable because of its soft rubber grip. Its additional features include: having a screenshot button so you can capture your best moments, a small gap that will ensure heat will still be able to dissipate, and high-precision joysticks.

Why we love it:

— Supports Cloud gaming — Easy to plug and unplug — Low power consumption

Compatible with different platforms such as iOS, Android, PC, and Switch, the GameSir G4 Pro Controller will allow you to play games no matter what device you’re using. Regardless if you’re a PC or Switch gamer, you can count on this controller to control multiple platforms with just one gamepad because it has magnetic buttons that will allow you to change and customise their layouts depending on your needs. Another unique feature is its six-axis gyroscope which supports motion control. It’s also more sensitive in recognizing the player’s movements and it can be immediately noticed in the game. Through this, you’ll have a chance to explore and discover more gameplays. With its comfortable, non-slip grip, you can prevent your hands and fingers from slipping so you can focus on the game.

Why we love it:

— Sweat-, and corrosion-resistant — Has a screenshot key — Metal-plated buttons