5 Best Gaming Phones in India (2024)

Our Top Picks

Best Overall: The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra 5G stands out as our top pick for the best overall gaming phone, offering a perfect blend of cutting-edge technology, a stunning display, and exceptional gaming performance.

Best Budget: iQOO 11 5G earns our recommendation for the best budget gaming phone, providing a cost-effective option without compromising essential gaming features and performance.

If you're a passionate gamer, you know that having the right smartphone can make all the difference in the world.

The landscape of smartphone technology has begun to blur the lines between traditional gaming consoles and mobile devices. In the present day, phones are more than just communication tools, they are compact and potent gaming powerhouses that can slip into your pocket with ease. 

Featuring speedier processors, advanced GPUs, and smoother refresh rates, these devices are meticulously crafted to provide you with gaming experiences that are not only immersive but also free of annoying lags.

Within the smartphone market, there exists a wide array of powerful gaming devices specially tailored to cater to the gaming community. These phones boast a blend of cutting-edge technology, captivating displays, and lightning-fast processors. They are engineered to ensure that your favourite games are played with unparalleled smoothness and precision.

Now, here's the interesting twist – you don't necessarily need to invest in a top-of-the-line, wallet-emptying smartphone to enjoy your digital gaming experiences to the fullest. Instead, selecting a phone with a well-balanced set of specifications can more than suffice.

However, the challenge lies in making a choice that aligns perfectly with your unique needs and interests. That's where we come in. Through exhaustive research and thorough analysis, we've curated a list of some of the best gaming phones available, making the often daunting task of scouring the internet for options a lot simpler.

No matter if your gaming preference leans towards action-packed shooters, immersive RPGs, or competitive mobile esports, rest assured, we have identified a gaming phone that's tailor made just for you.

So without any delay, let's level up your gaming experience with these outstanding smartphone picks!

Key factors you should consider before buying a phone for gaming

• Performance: Phones for gaming are known for their powerful hardware, so look for a phone with a high-performance processor (e.g., Qualcomm Snapdragon 8xx series or equivalent) and plenty of RAM (8GB or more) for smooth gameplay.

• GPU: A capable graphics processing unit (GPU) is essential for gaming. Phones with dedicated gaming GPUs, like the Adreno GPUs from Qualcomm or Mali GPUs from ARM, tend to offer better gaming performance.

• Display: A high-refresh-rate display (e.g., 90Hz, 120Hz, or higher) can make a significant difference in gaming. Look for a phone with a fast refresh rate and low touch latency for smoother and more responsive gameplay.

• Resolution: While a higher resolution display can provide sharper visuals, it can also put more strain on the GPU and reduce gaming performance. Consider your preference for resolution versus gaming performance.

• Battery Life: Gaming can be demanding on a phone's battery. Look for a gaming phone with a large battery capacity and efficient power management to ensure longer gaming sessions.

How we picked them for you when curating the list 

• Cooling System Inspection: Overheating can hinder gaming performance. We evaluated the cooling systems, looking for advanced cooling technologies such as liquid cooling, vapour chambers, or dedicated cooling fans to prevent thermal throttling during extended gameplay.

• Audio Quality Assessment: Good audio can make a difference in gaming immersion. We considered phones with stereo speakers, 3D sound effects, or support for high-quality audio codecs.

• Storage Capacity Evaluation: We took into account the storage capacity of each phone, especially focusing on models that offered expandable storage options for users who install large games.

• Design and Ergonomics Review: Comfort and usability are essential in gaming phones. We assessed the design, build quality, and ergonomics, looking for phones with comfortable grip.

• Software and Updates: We investigated the manufacturer's commitment to software updates and support for gaming-related features to ensure that your gaming phone remains up to date.

• Price Point Evaluation: Recognizing that budget considerations are essential, we compared the gaming features and performance of each phone to their price points to determine their value for money.

• Reviews and User Feedback: To provide you with a well-rounded perspective, we considered user feedback to validate our findings and gather real-world experiences with each gaming phone.

Here's a list of best gaming smartphones in India

1. Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra 5G

Samsung has truly outdone themselves with this Galaxy S23 Ultra 5G model boasting 12GB of RAM and a generous 256GB of storage, offering an impressive array of features that extend far beyond just gaming.

It runs on the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy chipset. This Samsung-specific chip isn't just powerful, it's a cut above the regular 8 Gen 2 silicon and even outperforms the Apple A16 Bionic chip. In other words, if you're a mobile gaming enthusiast, you'll be hard-pressed to find a more capable device. Its superior processing power ensures smooth and immersive gameplay.

While it may lack some of the gaming-specific enhancements found in dedicated gaming phones, the Galaxy S23 Ultra compensates by offering a host of advantages that only few competitors can match. The promise of five years of software updates ensures that your device remains cutting-edge for an extended period which is rare coming from an android phone.

Samsung has always been a leader in smartphone camera technology, and the S23 Ultra 5G is no exception. Boasting a massive 200MP main sensor and impressive zooming capabilities, it leaves other smartphones trailing in the dust. Whether you're capturing stunning landscapes or zooming in for intricate details, its camera system shines.

The phone's design is both elegant and ergonomic making it comfortable to hold and use. The build quality is superior, with attention to detail that reflects Samsung's dedication to craftsmanship.

Although it impresses in numerous aspects, it does have some notable drawbacks to consider. Gamers, for instance, may find the extended charging times to be a hindrance, potentially interrupting their gaming sessions. Lastly, it's important to be aware that this premium smartphone comes with a correspondingly high price tag.

If budget constraints are not a concern, and you seek a phone that excels in gaming while offering a multitude of additional features, this phone is a clear and robust recommendation.

Specifications

• Price: ₹1,24,999

• Screen size: 6.8 inches

• Battery power: 5000 mAH

• Ram: 12 GB

• Inbuilt storage: 256 GB

• Included accessory: S pen

User review: This is one of the best phones ever. Totally worth its cost. I hope to use it for more than 5 years.

Why it's worth buying: Despite the premium price, worth buying for gaming excellence, exceptional camera, and long-term software support.

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2. Apple iPhone 14 Pro Max

The iPhone 14 Pro Max, while not specifically tailored for gamers, stands out as an excellent choice for those looking to elevate their gaming experiences. Powered by the formidable A16 Bionic chipset, it delivers exceptional processing power that ensures seamless gameplay, effortlessly handling the most demanding iOS games.

The 120Hz Super Retina XDR display adds to the appeal with its vibrant colours and responsiveness, enhancing gaming immersion.

However, it's worth noting that the iPhone's App Store restrictions mean no gaming emulators are allowed, which may disappoint those looking to relive classic gaming moments. Nevertheless, the App Store hosts numerous popular titles from the SNES and PS2 eras, ensuring a diverse gaming library.

Beyond gaming, it excels in photography with its 48MP main camera and cinematic mode in 4K Dolby Vision, enabling you to capture high-quality videos and photos. The newly added always-on display and Dynamic Island notch offer more screen real estate, enhancing your overall smartphone experience.

On the downside, this premium device comes with a hefty price tag. Additionally, it lacks a physical SIM slot relying solely on eSIM technology, which might not suit everyone. Moreover, charging speed remains relatively slow compared to some competitors and the thermal management hardware falls short, causing excessive heat buildup during demanding games, particularly concentrated beneath the camera hump.

The iPhone 14 Pro Max may not be gaming-centric, but it's an enticing choice for gamers seeking a powerful, versatile device. 

Its stellar performance, stunning display, and robust gaming library, combined with its exceptional camera capabilities and innovative design features, make it a well-rounded and enticing option for those who prioritise gaming alongside other smartphone functionalities.

Specifications:

• Price: ₹1,43,990

• Processor: A16 Bionic chip

• Display:120Hz Super Retina XDR 

• Main camera: 48MP 

• Dynamic island notch

• Ceramic shield 

• Water resistance

User review: I upgraded from a 12 to 14 pro max. I Love it. Suddenly it seems too big to hold in one hand. But I will get used to it. Did a lot of research on 15 before buying this. Din’t seem to have too much difference. So I went for it. So far I love it.

Why it's worth buying: Offers exceptional gaming performance and impressive camera capabilities, making it a worthwhile investment despite some thermal management issues.

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3. OnePlus 11 5G 

The OnePlus 11 5G is a stellar choice for gamers seeking a powerful and budget-friendly gaming smartphone. At the core of this device is the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 system-on-chip, ensuring that even the most demanding games run effortlessly, delivering a dreamlike experience.

Gaming enthusiasts will particularly appreciate the 120Hz refresh rate on the phone's 6.7-inch display. This high refresh rate guarantees silky-smooth visuals and responsiveness, enhancing your gaming immersion. 

Lasting over 13 hours it boasts an exceptional display even with the adaptive refresh rate enabled. This means extended gaming sessions without the constant worry of running out of power.

While other flagship phones often come with premium price tags exceeding ₹1,00,000, the OnePlus 11 impresses with its feature-packed offering at a relatively more affordable price point, making it a compelling choice for gamers on a budget.

Its specifications are equally noteworthy. The 50MP main camera ensures you capture high-quality photos and videos when you're not gaming. The 16G RAM and 256GB UFS4.0 storage contribute to smooth multitasking and quick loading times for games.

Battery life is a strong suit of this device, thanks to the 5000 mAh battery and the blazing-fast 100W SUPER VOOC charging, ensuring minimal downtime between gaming sessions.

Lastly, the in-display fingerprint sensor adds an extra layer of convenience for quick and secure access to your device.

Overall, a fantastic choice for gamers who want top-notch performance without breaking the bank. Its powerful hardware, impressive display, and competitive pricing make it a compelling option in the smartphone market.

Specifications:

• Price: ₹ 61,999

• Processor: Snapdragon 8 Gen 2

• Display: 120Hz AMOLED QHD 

• Ram: 16GB  

• Storage: 256GB 

• Main Camera: 50MP 

• Charging: 100W SUPER VOOC 

User Review: I had oneplus 9r but it got lines after the update but still had faith on oneplus and bought 11 again and believe me it is a beast in this segment

Why it's worth buying: Delivers an exceptional gaming experience all at a budget-friendly price, making it a compelling choice for gamers seeking both performance and affordability.

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4. Google Pixel 7 Pro 5G

The Google Pixel 7 Pro 5G, while not primarily marketed as a gaming phone, offers a compelling gaming experience with its Tensor G2 chip. This chipset not only delivers excellent GPU benchmark results but also enables unique Pixel features, including live translation and advanced camera capabilities that enhance your gaming and overall smartphone experience.

The phone's cameras are a standout feature, undergoing extensive post-processing to make scenes appear more attractive. This is beneficial not only for photography enthusiasts but also for gamers who appreciate high-quality visuals during gameplay.

At a price point compared to other flagship phones, Pixel 7 Pro is notably more affordable. It offers a substantial screen size and impressive camera quality, making it a cost-effective choice for those who prioritise both gaming and photography.

In terms of gaming performance, the Tensor G2 chip ensures a faster, more efficient, and secure gaming experience. With 5G support, you can enjoy low-latency online gaming and fast downloads, further enhancing your gaming sessions.

The 6.7-inch smooth display intelligently adjusts its refresh rate up to 120Hz, providing smoother and more responsive performance, crucial for gaming.

Additionally, the phone's security features, including the Titan M2 security chip and Face Unlock, offer peace of mind for secure data protection.

Two significant drawbacks of this phone are its poor battery life, often requiring frequent recharging despite its flagship status, and concerning overheating issues, especially during extended use or running basic applications, which raises concerns about its long-term durability.

But overall, It is an appealing choice for those who want a versatile device that excels in gaming and photography.

Specifications:

• Price:₹ 70,999

• Processor: Tensor G2 chip

• 30x Super Res Zoom

• Display: 120Hz 

• Adaptive Battery

• Processor: Titan M2 security chip

• Face Unlock

• 5G support

User review: It looks great. Its Android 13 software is bliss to use and its multi camera array on the back takes stunning photos that comfortably rival shots from Apple's best phone. It doesn't have the most potent processor around, but it's got more than enough power to handle anything you're likely to throw at it.

Why it's worth buying: A compelling choice for gamers, offering powerful GPU performance, a stunning 120Hz display, and unique Pixel features, all at an attractive price point. Its photography capabilities and security features further enhance its overall value.

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5. iQOO 11 5G

The iQOO 11 5G, equipped with a potent Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 mobile platform, is a gaming powerhouse that caters to avid mobile gamers. This smartphone adopts the cutting-edge TSMC 4NM process, delivering a substantial 20% boost in GPU peak performance compared to its predecessor, the Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1.

What sets this phone apart is its stunning 2K E6 AMOLED display, delivering 77.8% more pixels than a standard 1080P display. Notably, it manages this with 25% less power consumption and achieves a remarkable 1800 nits of local peak brightness. Gamers will appreciate the immersive visuals and vibrant colours.

For those who can't wait to get back into the game, the 120W FlashCharge is a game-changer. It can charge the battery up to 50% in a mere 8 minutes and reach a full 100% charge in just 25 minutes, ensuring minimal downtime between gaming sessions.

The V2 Intelligent Display Chip takes gaming to the next level by increasing the frame rate from 45fps/60fps to an impressive 90fps and 120fps, respectively. This ensures smoother gameplay and more immersive experiences. Additionally, it enhances night photography and videography, allowing users to capture better low-light shots.

The GN5 sensor with dual pixel pro technology improves the phone's autofocus function, making it ideal for capturing fast-paced gaming moments. The 50 MP resolution ensures crisp and detailed photos.

It's a top choice for gamers seeking a device that can keep up with their gaming demands while delivering exceptional performance in other areas as well.

Specifications 

• Price: ₹ 59,999

• Processor: Snapdragon 8 Gen 2

• Display: 2K E6 AMOLED 

• Charge: 120W FlashCharge

• Display Chip: V2 Intelligent 

• GN5 sensor: 50MP

User Review: What's required better than performance - It's actually performance oriented mobile who are looking to buy in android. Phone is awesome, Camera is fantastic, Finally SnapDragon Chipset is at a different level all together. Awesome chipset and mobile functioning.

Why it's worth buying: This device is a gaming beast with top-tier hardware, a stunning 2K display, and lightning-fast charging, making it a must-buy for gamers seeking an immersive and powerful gaming experience.

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Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Are gaming phones suitable for everyday use, or are they primarily for gaming?

• Gaming phones are versatile and can be used for everyday tasks like calls, texting, social media, and productivity apps. They offer a well-rounded smartphone experience in addition to gaming capabilities.

Do gaming phones have longer battery life?

• Gaming phones often have larger batteries and optimised power management, but battery life during gaming sessions can vary. High-performance gaming can drain the battery faster, so it's important to consider battery capacity and gaming-specific features.

Are gaming phones more expensive than regular smartphones?

• Gaming phones often come with a premium price tag due to their specialised hardware and features. However, prices vary, and there are options available at different price points.

Are gaming phones future-proof?

• Gaming phones typically have powerful hardware that can remain relevant for a few years. However, like all smartphones, they will eventually be surpassed by newer models with more advanced technology.

Are gaming phones compatible with all mobile games?

• Gaming phones are compatible with the vast majority of mobile games available on the Google Play Store or Apple App Store. However, not all games may take full advantage of the gaming phone's hardware features.

Are gaming phones worth the investment for casual gamers?

• If you primarily play casual games, a gaming phone might be overkill. Regular smartphones can handle casual gaming well. Gaming phones are best suited for avid gamers who demand high-performance and immersive experiences.

In conclusion 

The choice of a smartphone can be the decisive factor between a mundane experience and a truly immersive gaming adventure. As we've explored the list of gaming phones and delved into their unique features, it's evident that these devices are not just a mere extension of regular smartphones but they are also dedicated gaming powerhouses designed to elevate your gaming experiences to new heights.

At this juncture, you might be wondering why choosing from our curated list of gaming phones would be the best decision for you. Allow us to sum it up for you in a compelling manner.

Our list covers a diverse range of options to cater to gamers with varying tastes and budgets. Whether you're a competitive esports enthusiast seeking the absolute best in performance or simply someone who wants to enjoy casual mobile gaming, our list has you covered. We believe that choice is paramount, and our selection ensures that you can find the perfect gaming phone that aligns seamlessly with your unique gaming interests.

Many of the gaming phones on our list offer outstanding camera systems and powerful multitasking capabilities. They are not just gaming-centric but also versatile tools for productivity, creativity, and everyday smartphone use.

In addition, our commitment to staying up-to-date ensures that the list is reflective of the latest trends and innovations in the smartphone market. We strive to present you with options that leverage the latest technology to provide the best possible gaming experience.

Your perfect gaming phone awaits; all you have to do is choose.

Disclaimer: The above content is non-editorial and produced by a third party partner. Outlook India does not guarantee, vouch for or endorse any of the content*.

*The product prices mentioned in the article are subject to change