Best Gaming Smartphones 2023: Top Picks & How to Choose

Best Gaming Smartphones 2023: Top Picks & How to Choose

In the world of mobile gaming, there’s a growing demand for smartphones that are optimized for gaming. This trend has been reflected in the increasing sales of gaming smartphones, which feature large screens and powerful processors that are capable of delivering high-quality gaming experiences.

These devices, known as “gaming smartphones,” are designed with powerful hardware and software that provide a smooth and immersive gaming experience. Gaming smartphones come with unique features such as high refresh rates, large displays, superior cooling systems, and larger batteries that allow for extended gaming sessions. Also, gaming smartphones have controllers built right into the phone to make it easier and more comfortable to play games.

The year 2023 is shaping up to be an exciting one for gaming smartphones, with many new models expected to be released. In this article, we’ll take a look at the top 10 gaming smartphones of 2023 and provide a complete guide to help you choose the right one for you.

Top 10 Best Gaming Smartphones of 2023

RankPhoneProcessorRAMStorageDisplay
1Asus ROG Phone 6 Pro Qualcomm Snapdragon 8Gen16GB512GB6.78-inch AMOLED, 144Hz refresh rate
2Razer Phone 5 Qualcomm Snapdragon 8Gen16GB512GB6.78-inch AMOLED, 120Hz refresh rate
3Samsung Galaxy S22 PlusSamsung Exynos 210016GB512GB6.9-inch AMOLED, 120Hz refresh rate
4Black Shark 5 Pro Qualcomm Snapdragon 8Gen16GB512GB6.67-inch AMOLED, 144Hz refresh rate
5Google Pixel 7 Pro Qualcomm Snapdragon 8Gen12GB512GB6.7-inch AMOLED, 120Hz refresh rate
6RedMagic 7S ProQualcomm Snapdragon 8Gen16GB512GB6.8-inch AMOLED, 144Hz refresh rate
7iPhone 14 Pro Max A15 Bionic12GB1TB6.7-inch OLED, 120Hz refresh rate
8OnePlus 10 Pro Qualcomm Snapdragon 8Gen12GB512GB6.7-inch AMOLED, 120Hz refresh rate
9Nubia Red Magic 6 Pro Qualcomm Snapdragon 8Gen16GB512GB6.8-inch AMOLED, 165Hz refresh rate
10Lenovo Legion Phone Duel 2 Qualcomm Snapdragon 8Gen16GB512GB6.92-inch AMOLED, 144Hz refresh rate
Best smartphones for gaming 2023

Asus ROG Phone 6 Pro Specs

Asus-ROG-Phone-6
Asus-ROG-Phone-6

The ASUS ROG Phone 6 Pro is a high-end gaming smartphone produced by ASUS. It is part of the Republic of Gamers (ROG) line of gaming-centric devices and is specifically designed to meet the demands of gamers. This smartphone features a large and vibrant AMOLED display, a powerful Snapdragon processor, ample RAM and storage, and a versatile camera system.

Additionally, it runs on the Android operating system and features the ROG UI, which provides a unique and optimized gaming experience. With its cutting-edge technology, premium design, and flagship-level performance, the ASUS ROG Phone 6 Pro is an excellent choice for gamers looking for a top-notch smartphone for gaming and other demanding mobile applications.

Here are some of the key specifications for the ASUS ROG Phone 6 Pro:

SpecificationDetails
Display6.78-inch AMOLED display with 144Hz refresh rate
Resolution2448 x 1080 pixels
Operating SystemAndroid 11 with ROG UI
ProcessorQualcomm Snapdragon 8Gen
RAM12GB or 16GB
Storage128GB, 256GB, 512GB
Rear CameraTriple-camera system (64MP primary, 13MP ultra-wide, 5MP macro)
Front Camera24MP
Battery Life6000mAh with ROG HyperCharge fast charging
Water ResistanceN/A
ColorsBlack
Dimensions170.99 x 77.96 x 9.9 mm
Weight238 g
Note: The specifications may vary depending on the region and availability.

Razer Phone 5 Specs

Razer-Phone-5
Razer-Phone-5

The Razer Phone 5 is a high-end gaming smartphone produced by Razer, a leading brand in the gaming industry. It is designed specifically for gamers, with a powerful Snapdragon processor, ample RAM, and a high refresh rate display.

The Razer Phone 5 also features a large battery and fast charging capabilities, making it a great choice for long gaming sessions. Additionally, the phone runs on Android with a near-stock interface, providing a clean and optimized software experience for gaming and other demanding tasks. With its cutting-edge hardware and gaming-focused features, the Razer Phone 5 is an excellent choice for serious mobile gamers.

Here are some of the key specifications for the Razer Phone 5:

SpecificationDetails
Display6.7-inch AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate
Resolution2400 x 1080 pixels
Operating SystemAndroid 11
ProcessorQualcomm Snapdragon 8Gen
RAM8GB or 12GB
Storage128GB or 256GB
Rear CameraDual-camera system (64MP primary, 13MP ultra-wide)
Front Camera8MP
Battery Life5000mAh with fast charging and 30W wired charging capabilities
ColorsMercury White and Matte Black
Dimensions170.7 x 78.0 x 9.7 mm
Weight238 g
Note: The specifications may vary depending on the region and availability.

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Samsung Galaxy S22 Plus Specs

Samsung-Galaxy-S22-Plus
Samsung-Galaxy-S22-Plus

The Samsung Galaxy S22 Plus is a high-end smartphone produced by Samsung. It is one of the latest and most advanced models in Samsung’s flagship Galaxy S series. The Galaxy S22 Plus features a large and vibrant AMOLED display, a powerful Exynos or Snapdragon processor, ample RAM and storage, and a versatile camera system.

Additionally, it runs on the latest version of Samsung’s custom One UI interface, which provides a sleek and user-friendly software experience. With its cutting-edge technology, premium design, and flagship-level performance, the Samsung Galaxy S22 Plus is an excellent choice for consumers looking for a high-end smartphone with a focus on photography and a polished software experience.

Here are some of the key specifications for the Samsung Galaxy S22 Plus:

SpecificationDetails
Display6.7-inch AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate
Resolution2400 x 1080 pixels
Operating SystemAndroid 11 with One UI
ProcessorExynos or Snapdragon (depending on region)
RAM8GB or 12GB
Storage128GB or 256GB
Rear CameraTriple-camera system (64MP primary, 12MP ultra-wide, 12MP telephoto)
Front Camera40MP
Battery Life5000mAh with fast charging and wireless charging capabilities
Water ResistanceIP68
ColorsPhantom Black, Phantom Silver, and Phantom Violet
Dimensions161.4 x 75.6 x 8.9 mm
Weight214 g
Note: The specifications may vary depending on the region and availability.

Black Shark 5 Pro Specs

Black-Shark-5-Pro
Black-Shark-5-Pro

The Black Shark 5 Pro is a high-end gaming smartphone produced by Black Shark, a subsidiary of Xiaomi. It is designed to meet the demands of gamers with its powerful hardware and optimized software. The Black Shark 5 Pro features a large and vibrant AMOLED display, a powerful Snapdragon processor, ample RAM and storage, and a versatile camera system.

Additionally, it runs on the Android operating system and features the Black Shark UI, which provides a unique and optimized gaming experience. With its cutting-edge technology, premium design, and flagship-level performance, the Black Shark 5 Pro is an excellent choice for gamers looking for a top-notch smartphone for gaming and other demanding mobile applications.

Here are some of the key specifications for the Black Shark 5 Pro:

SpecificationDetails
Display6.67-inch AMOLED display with 144Hz refresh rate
Resolution2400 x 1080 pixels
Operating SystemAndroid 11 with Black Shark UI
ProcessorQualcomm Snapdragon 8Gen
RAM8GB or 12GB
Storage128GB, 256GB
Rear CameraTriple-camera system (48MP primary, 8MP ultra-wide, 5MP macro)
Front Camera20MP
Battery Life5000mAh with 120W fast charging
Water ResistanceN/A
ColorsPhantom Black, Phantom White
Dimensions163.83 x 76.35 x 10.3 mm
Weight238 g
Note: The specifications may vary depending on the region and availability.

Google Pixel 7 Pro Specs

Google-Pixel-7-Pro
Google-Pixel-7-Pro

The Google Pixel 7 Pro is a high-end smartphone produced by Google. It is known for its clean and user-friendly software experience, as well as its powerful hardware and cutting-edge camera system. The Pixel 7 Pro features a large and vibrant AMOLED display, a powerful Snapdragon processor, ample RAM and storage, and a versatile camera system. Additionally, it runs on the latest version of the Android operating system, providing a seamless and secure software experience.

With its top-of-the-line technology, premium design, and flagship-level performance, the Google Pixel 7 Pro is an excellent choice for consumers looking for a high-end smartphone with a focus on photography and a clean and user-friendly software experience.

Here are some of the key specifications for the Google Pixel 7 Pro:

SpecificationDetails
Display6.4-inch AMOLED display with 90Hz refresh rate
Resolution2400 x 1080 pixels
Operating SystemAndroid 11
ProcessorQualcomm Snapdragon 8Gen
RAM8GB
Storage128GB or 256GB
Rear CameraTriple-camera system (48MP primary, 12MP ultra-wide, 8MP telephoto)
Front Camera16MP
Battery Life4500mAh with fast charging and wireless charging capabilities
Water ResistanceIP68
ColorsAurora Green, Stellar Black, and Steel Gray
Dimensions160.1 x 74.0 x 8.9 mm
Weight193 g
Note: The specifications may vary depending on the region and availability.

RedMagic 7S Pro Specs

RedMagic-7S-Pro

The RedMagic 7S Pro is a high-end gaming smartphone produced by Nubia, a subsidiary of ZTE. It is designed specifically for gamers, with a powerful Snapdragon processor, ample RAM, and a high refresh rate display. Additionally, it features a unique cooling system to keep the phone running smoothly even under heavy load.

The RedMagic 7S Pro also includes a large battery and fast charging capabilities, making it a great choice for long gaming sessions. With its cutting-edge hardware and unique gaming-focused features, the RedMagic 7S Pro is an excellent choice for serious mobile gamers.

Here are some of the key specifications for the RedMagic 7S Pro:

SpecificationDetails
Display6.8-inch AMOLED display with 144Hz refresh rate
Resolution2400 x 1080 pixels
Operating SystemAndroid 11 with RedMagic OS
ProcessorQualcomm Snapdragon 8Gen
RAM12GB or 16GB
Storage128GB or 256GB
Rear CameraTriple-camera system (64MP primary, 8MP ultra-wide, 2MP macro)
Front Camera16MP
Battery Life5000mAh with fast charging and 65W wired charging capabilities
Cooling SystemLiquid cooling and active cooling fan
ColorsEclipse Black, Meteorite Silver, and Dream White
Dimensions170.7 x 78.0 x 9.7 mm
Weight238 g
Note: The specifications may vary depending on the region and availability.

iPhone 14 Pro Max Specs

iPhone 14 Pro Max
Photo by thiago japyassu

The iPhone 14 Pro Max is the top-of-the-line model and the newest iPhone from Apple. The iPhone 14 Pro Max is packed with the latest and most innovative features, including a faster processor, enhanced cameras, an improved battery life, and increased storage capacity. This gadget has state-of-the-art technology, a beautiful design, and top-notch performance.

The iPhone 14 Pro Max is a great choice, whether you are a professional photographer, a gamer, or just want a powerful smartphone. With its advanced features and sleek design, the iPhone 14 Pro Max is an ideal choice for anyone looking for a top-of-the-line smartphone. In fact, it is widely considered as one of the best gaming phones available in the market today and is a top-performing device in the gaming smartphone category. Here are some of the key specifications for the iPhone 14 Pro Max:

SpecificationDetails
Display6.7-inch Super Retina XDR display
Resolution2778 x 1284 pixels
Operating SystemiOS 16, upgradable to iOS 16.3
ProcessorA16 Bionic chip
CPUHexa-core
GPUApple GPU (5-core graphics)
RAM6GB
Storage128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB
Rear CameraTriple-camera system (12MP ultra wide, wide, and telephoto) with Night mode, Deep Fusion, and Smart HDR 4
Front Camera12MP TrueDepth camera with Night mode and Deep Fusion
Battery LifeUp to 22 hours of talk time
Water ResistanceIP68 (up to 6 meters for up to 30 minutes)
ColorsGraphite, Gold, Silver, Pacific Blue
Dimensions160.0 x 78.1 x 8.5 mm
Weight238 g
Note: The specifications may vary depending on the carrier and availability.

If you’re interested in learning more about cutting-edge iPhones, you can also explore our detailed guide on the iPhone 15 Pro Max, Apple’s flagship device for this year.

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OnePlus 10 Pro Specs

OnePlus 10 Pro

The OnePlus 10 Pro is a flagship-level device produced by the Chinese smartphone maker, OnePlus. This device was released in 2021 and is known for its impressive specs, premium design, and flagship-level performance. The OnePlus 10 Pro boasts a large and vibrant AMOLED display, a powerful Snapdragon processor, ample storage and RAM, and a versatile camera system.

Additionally, the device runs on the Android operating system and features the OxygenOS user interface, which is known for its clean and responsive design. Overall, the OnePlus 10 Pro is a great option for those looking for a high-end smartphone with top-of-the-line features at a relatively affordable price. Here are some of the key specifications for the OnePlus 10 Pro:

SpecificationDetails
Display6.7-inch Fluid AMOLED display
Resolution2400 x 1080 pixels
Operating SystemAndroid 12 with OxygenOS
ProcessorQualcomm Snapdragon 8Gen
RAM8GB or 12GB
Storage128GB, 256GB
Rear CameraQuad-camera system (48MP primary, 50MP ultra-wide, 8MP telephoto, 2MP monochrome)
Front Camera16MP
Battery Life4500mAh with Warp Charge 65T fast charging
Water ResistanceIP68
ColorsOnyx Black, Glacial Green, Ultramarine Blue
Dimensions163.2 x 73.6 x 8.7 mm
Weight199 g
Note: The specifications may vary depending on the region and availability.

Nubia Red Magic 6 Pro Specs

Nubia-Red-Magic-6-Pro
Nubia-Red-Magic-6-Pro

The Nubia Red Magic 6 Pro is a high-end gaming smartphone produced by Nubia, a subsidiary of ZTE. It is designed specifically for gamers, with a powerful Snapdragon processor, ample RAM, and a high refresh rate display. Additionally, it features a unique cooling system to keep the phone running smoothly even under heavy load.

The Red Magic 6 Pro also includes a large battery and fast charging capabilities, making it a great choice for long gaming sessions. With its cutting-edge hardware and unique gaming-focused features, the Red Magic 6 Pro is an excellent choice for serious mobile gamers.

Here are some of the key specifications for the Nubia Red Magic 6 Pro Gaming Phone:

SpecificationDetails
Display6.8-inch AMOLED display with 144Hz refresh rate
Resolution2400 x 1080 pixels
Operating SystemAndroid 11 with RedMagic OS
ProcessorQualcomm Snapdragon 8Gen
RAM12GB or 16GB
Storage128GB or 256GB
Rear CameraTriple-camera system (64MP primary, 8MP ultra-wide, 2MP macro)
Front Camera16MP
Battery Life5000mAh with fast charging and 65W wired charging capabilities
Cooling SystemLiquid cooling and active cooling fan
ColorsEclipse Black, Meteorite Silver, and Dream White
Dimensions170.7 x 78.0 x 9.7 mm
Weight238 g
Note: The specifications may vary depending on the region and availability.

Lenovo Legion Phone Duel 2 Specs

Lenovo-Legion-Phone-Duel-2

The Lenovo Legion Phone Duel 2 is a high-end gaming phone produced by Lenovo’s gaming brand, Legion. It is designed specifically for gamers, with a powerful Snapdragon processor, ample RAM, and a high refresh rate display. The Legion Phone Duel 2 also features a unique dual-fan cooling system to keep the phone running smoothly even under heavy load.

Additionally, the phone includes a large battery and fast charging capabilities, making it a great choice for long gaming sessions. With its cutting-edge hardware and gaming-focused features, the Lenovo Legion Phone Duel 2 is an excellent choice for a serious gaming phone.

Here are some of the key specifications for the Lenovo Legion Phone Duel 2:

SpecificationDetails
Display6.92-inch AMOLED display with 144Hz refresh rate
Resolution2460 x 1080 pixels
Operating SystemAndroid 11 with Legion OS
ProcessorQualcomm Snapdragon 8Gen
RAM12GB or 16GB
Storage128GB or 256GB
Rear CameraDual-camera system (64MP primary, 16MP ultra-wide)
Front Camera20MP
Battery Life5000mAh with fast charging and 90W wired charging capabilities
Cooling SystemDual-fan cooling
ColorsShadow Black and Phantom White
Dimensions168.52 x 78.5 x 9.9 mm
Weight259 g
Note: The specifications may vary depending on the region and availability.

Hardware of The Best Smartphones For Gaming

When it comes to gaming smartphones, hardware is key. A powerful CPU, GPU, and plenty of RAM are essential for ensuring smooth and responsive gameplay. Additionally, ample storage is important for storing large games and other media. Another important aspect of gaming smartphone hardware is the cooling system. A good cooling system is essential for keeping the device from overheating during extended gaming sessions.

gaming control for smartphones
Photo by Joseph Redfield

The top gaming smartphones of 2023 are expected to feature the latest and most powerful hardware. As shown in the table above, all the devices listed will feature powerful processors, plenty of RAM and ample storage. Additionally, they all have advanced cooling systems, which will help to keep the devices from overheating during extended gaming sessions. With such powerful hardware, these devices should provide a smooth and responsive gaming experience.

Display of Best Smartphones For Gaming Experience

A high-quality display is essential for a great gaming experience. A high refresh rate and resolution are both important for providing smooth and clear visuals. Additionally, different types of display technologies, such as OLED and LCD, each have their own pros and cons for gaming.

The top gaming smartphones of 2023 are expected to feature high refresh rate displays, ranging from 120Hz to 165Hz, which will provide a smooth and responsive gaming experience. Most of the devices in the table above feature AMOLED displays, which are known for their deep blacks and vibrant colors. OLED displays are also power-efficient, which means that the battery life of these devices will be longer than those with LCD displays.

best gaming smartphones-iphone-14-pro-max

Software For Gaming Smartphones

In addition to hardware, software is another important aspect of gaming smartphones. A device’s operating system and gaming-specific software, such as game optimization settings, can greatly affect the gaming experience. Many gaming smartphones also feature gaming-specific features, such as trigger buttons and haptic feedback, that can enhance the gaming experience.

The top gaming smartphones of 2023 will run on the latest operating systems, such as Android 11 and iOS 15, and will feature gaming-specific software and settings. Additionally, they will offer various gaming-specific features, such as trigger buttons, haptic feedback, and game optimization settings, which will enhance the gaming experience.

gaming console smartphones
Photo by Pixabay

Price of Best Gaming Smartphones

Finally, price is an important factor to consider when choosing a gaming smartphone. The top gaming smartphones of 2023 will likely be priced at a premium, as they feature the latest and most powerful hardware and software. As shown in the table above, prices for these devices range from $700 to $1500. It’s important to consider your budget when choosing gaming smartphones, and to balance the cost with the features and performance that are most important to you.

best gaming smartphone
Photo by Karolina Grabowska

FAQ

Why mobile gaming is the future?

Mobile gaming is the future due to its convenience, wide reach, immersive experiences, vast game selection, affordability, and cross-platform play. Making it accessible, engaging, and convenient for everyone.

What is the best gaming phone in 2023?

Asus ROG Phone 6 Pro is the top gaming phone in 2023 with great performance, screen, camera, high-end processor & good battery life. Apple iPhone 14 Pro Max is also a good option, offering performance & excellent cameras. Nubia Red Magic 6 Pro offers similar features at a lower price.

Which phone is fastest for gaming?

When choosing a gamer phone, consider key factors like processor, RAM, GPU, display, and thermal management. Options that are highly rated for their gaming performance are:

– Asus ROG Phone 6 Pro
– Razer Phone 5
– Samsung Galaxy S22 Plus
– Black Shark 5 Pro
– iPhone 14 Pro Max

Compare specs to find the best fit for your needs.

Which phone brand is very best?

Determining the “best” phone brand is subjective and depends on individual needs and preferences. Some popular brands known for their high-quality gaming phone 2023 include:

1. Apple (iPhone)
2. Samsung
3. Xiaomi
4. Oneplus
5. Asus
6. Google
7. Razer

Choose a gaming phone brand by considering your needs, priorities, reputation, and customer support. Brands offer varying design, camera, battery, and performance in their phones.

Conclusion

2023 is shaping up to be an exciting year for gaming smartphones, with many new models expected to be released. The devices listed above are the top gaming smartphones of 2023 and provide a wide range of features and price points. From the powerful hardware and advanced cooling systems to the high-quality displays and gaming-specific software, these devices are sure to provide a smooth and immersive gaming experience. Be sure to consider your budget and the features and performance that are most important to you when choosing a gaming smartphone.

Photo by RODNAE Productions