Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsSome links on this page are affiliate links: if you buy through them we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you.
Yes—you can use an iPhone or Android phone to control PC games. The right method depends on whether you want the phone to display the game or only send controls to a game still shown on your PC monitor.
For Steam games, start with Steam Link. For non-Steam games or controller-only use, try a virtual-controller app such as Monect PC Remote. If you want to stream games from several PC launchers to your phone, Moonlight is the more flexible streaming option.
Choose the right phone-controller method
| Your situation | Best starting point | What it does |
|---|---|---|
| Steam game, played on the phone | Steam Link | Streams the game to your phone and sends touch input back to the PC. |
| Non-Steam game, displayed on the PC monitor | Monect PC Remote | Uses the phone as a configurable remote or virtual gamepad. |
| Games from multiple PC stores, played on the phone | Moonlight | Streams games or desktop applications to the phone. |
| Long sessions or fast action games | Telescopic physical controller | Provides real sticks, buttons, triggers, and a D-pad. |
A phone does not automatically become a universal Xbox controller when you install an app. The app translates touchscreen presses into a particular type of input—such as Steam Input, keyboard commands, DirectInput, or another virtual-device protocol—and the game must recognize that input.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Three ways to use a phone with PC games
1. Touchscreen gamepad
On-screen sticks and buttons appear on the phone. This is convenient and free, but it lacks tactile feedback and precision. It can be acceptable for turn-based strategy, slower games, menus, and temporary multiplayer use.
#1 Best Overall
- WIDE SCREEN COMPATIBILITY — PHONE TO TABLET: X5 Lite is a versatile phone controller that stretches up to 213mm to fit iPhone 15/16, most Android phones, iPad mini 6/7, and compatible Android tablets. Secure Type-C connection keeps gameplay stable and responsive.
- MOBILE, CLOUD & REMOTE GAMING: Play supported mobile games like Zenless Zone Zero, or stream console and PC games through Xbox Game Pass, Steam Link, Moonlight, and remote play. Enjoy physical controls wherever you play.
- HALL EFFECT STICKS — PRECISE CONTROL: GameSir Hall Effect sensing sticks deliver smooth 360° control for accurate aiming, movement, and camera adjustments. Built for fast-paced mobile games and streamed console or PC titles.
- LIGHTWEIGHT & ERGONOMIC — 135.4G: At just 135.4g, X5 Lite stays lightweight during extended gaming. Ergonomic, laser-engraved textured grips provide a secure, comfortable hold at home or on the go.
- CUSHIONED MEMBRANE CONTROLS — COMFORTABLE & QUIETER: Cushioned membrane buttons and triggers provide comfortable feedback for repeated inputs while keeping operation quieter. Ideal for extended sessions or gaming in shared spaces.
2. Controller-only remote input
The game remains on the PC monitor while the phone sends controls over the local network. This is the closest match for someone who wants a temporary gamepad without streaming video to the phone. Compatibility varies because different games expect different input standards.
3. Streaming handheld
The PC renders the game, then sends video and audio to the phone while the phone returns input. This lets you play from a couch or another room, but it introduces both input delay and display delay.
Method 1: Use Steam Link for Steam games
Steam Link is the best default for most Steam users. It is official Steam software, supports Steam Input touch controls, and is designed to connect a phone to a PC running Steam. Steam lists support for iPhone, iPad, Android phones and tablets, and other Steam Link platforms. The store listing viewed for this guide showed iOS 11.0 or newer and Android 5.0 or newer; app requirements can change.
What you need
- A Windows PC with Steam installed, signed in, and running.
- An iPhone, iPad, or Android device with Steam Link installed from its official app store.
- Both devices on the same local network for the initial setup.
- A Steam game that supports the input method you plan to use.
Steam Link setup
- Install Steam Link on your phone.
- Open Steam on the PC and sign in.
- Launch Steam Link and allow it to search for computers.
- Select your PC from the list.
- Enter the pairing PIN shown by Steam Link into the PC when prompted.
- Run the network test.
- Select Start Playing or the equivalent play option.
- Choose a game from the Steam interface.
- Use the on-screen controls, or pair a physical controller with the phone.
Steam Link normally shows the game on the phone because it is a Remote Play application. Steam sends the PC’s video and audio to the device and returns your input to the PC. It is therefore not simply a controller-only utility.
Customize Steam touch controls
Steam Input recognizes the Steam Link App Mobile Touch Controller as a supported input device, as documented by Steamworks. Open the controller or layout configuration option in the Steam Link interface or Steam Input overlay, then adjust the layout where available.
Rank #2
- Bluetooth Controller for iPhone & Android: Mocagen mobile gaming controller Compatible with all iPhone models (including 18/17 series) and Android devices. Pairing steps: 1. Turn on Bluetooth on your phone and go to the pairing screen. 2. Press and hold the Home button for 3 sec until LED4 flashes. 3. Find "XBOX Wireless Controller" on your phone and tap to pair. Quick reconnect: After first pairing, simply press the Home button once (with Bluetooth on) to reconnect
- Play Most Controller-Compatible Games: This iPhone game controller supports cloud gaming (e.g., Xb*x Game Pass, GeForce NOW), Xbox Remote Play, emulator games, and native mobile games (e.g., Apple Arcade). Enjoy effortless control and play Fortnite, Call of Duty, Roblox, Genshin Impact, and many more anytime, anywhere. Note: Controller only works with games that support controller input, and does not support PS Remote Play
- 5M-Cycle Lifespan & Zero Drift: MC1 mobile gaming controller features a Hall-effect joystick with a 5M cycle lifespan, 2.5x longer than standard carbon-film sticks. Its innovative electromagnetic induction technology ensures drift-free operation, enabling precise character control in intense games and significantly extending this phone game controller durability
- Ergonomic Grip Design: The handle is ergonomically shaped with a l*ser-engraved texture for anti-slip and enhanced grip, effectively reducing fatigue during long gaming sessions. The scientifically designed joystick and button layout ensures smooth operation. Whether for personal use or as a gift, it delivers a more comfortable and healthier gaming experience
- 7-Color RGB Light Ring & 600mAh Battery: The mobile game controller features a 7-color adjustable light ring on the joystick(ABXY button lights can be turned off, but their colors are not adjustable). The lighting is vibrant yet eye-friendly. The built-in 600mAh battery provides up to 6 hours of battery life in brightness mode — enough for a full day of gaming
- Use twin virtual sticks for action games.
- Use mouse-like touch input for strategy and management games.
- Make steering controls larger for racing games.
- Add or rearrange buttons for games with many hotkeys.
Layouts may be game-specific. If a game does not respond, verify that the expected Steam Input layout is active before assuming the phone or network is faulty.
Method 2: Use Monect when the PC monitor should remain the display
Monect PC Remote provides a Windows receiver and an Android or iOS app with customizable control layouts. It is a better fit for non-Steam games, temporary second-player use, or anyone who wants the game to stay visible on the PC monitor.
Monect setup
- Download and install the Windows receiver from Monect’s official site.
- Install the Monect app from the official mobile app store.
- Connect the phone and PC to the same network.
- Open the app and pair it with the PC.
- Select a gamepad or gaming-oriented layout.
- Launch the PC game.
- Test the controls in the game’s input menu or a low-stakes practice area.
- Move, resize, and remap buttons as needed.
Monect’s page listed Windows receiver version 7.8.1, 64-bit, and Android app version 8.3.5 when viewed in August 2026. Treat those as dated observations, not permanent requirements.
Monect compatibility warnings
Do not assume Monect works with every game or automatically exposes an Xbox/XInput controller. Some games require XInput, while others accept DirectInput or keyboard and mouse input. Anti-cheat software, launchers, and unusual input handling can block or ignore virtual devices. Check the app’s current mode, the game’s supported input standards, and whether a particular feature requires payment.
If a non-Steam game accepts Steam Input, adding it to Steam and testing Steam’s controller configuration may help, but this is not guaranteed for every launcher or anti-cheat system.
Rank #3
- Expanded Screen Compatibility: Stretchable up to 213mm, fitting iPad Mini 6/7 and Android tablets; Compatible with iPhone 15/16 and Android devices; Ultra-stable Type-C connection ensures lag-free gaming across all supported screen
- Mobile Gaming Compatibility: Lets you play most of the games you want. Supports Xbox Game Pass, Zenless Zone Zero, cloud gaming, Steam/Moonlight streaming games, and remote play
- Hall Effect Sticks: GameSir Hall Effect sensing sticks deliver 360° seamless pinpoint control, provide the precision and durability that mobile gamers demand
- Ergonomic and Lightweight Design: Stay comfortable during long gaming sessions with the X5 Lite. Weighing just 135.4g, its lightweight design and ergonomically laser-engraved textured grips ensure a secure, comfortable hold for hours of gameplay
- Cushioned and Durable Membrane: The X5 Lite is equipped with cushioned and durable membrane triggers and buttons. The cushioned feedback provides a comfortable experience while ensuring quieter operation
Method 3: Use Moonlight for broader game streaming
Moonlight is an open-source streaming client for Android and iOS. It can stream games and desktop applications from a PC, making it useful for games installed through multiple launchers rather than Steam alone.
PC Slower Than It Used to Be?
A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11Crashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?
Random freezes, missing sound and display glitches usually trace back to one bad driver. Find and replace yours safely.Free scan · under a minute- Install a compatible host component on the gaming PC as recommended in Moonlight’s current documentation.
- Install Moonlight on the phone.
- Connect both devices to the same local network.
- Add or select the PC in Moonlight.
- Enter the pairing PIN on the PC.
- Launch a game or desktop session.
- Use touch controls for basic interaction, or connect a physical controller.
Moonlight’s documentation recommends pairing locally before attempting internet access and identifies firewall configuration as a common cause of discovery or connection failures. Its mobile documentation also recommends a physical gamepad for faster-paced games. Touch controls are more suitable for basic mouse control and slower games than competitive shooters or fighting games.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Touch controls or a physical phone controller?
Touch controls are the cheapest option and require no extra hardware. They are useful for occasional play, simple games, and a temporary second controller. Their weaknesses are equally important: there is no tactile feedback, virtual sticks are less precise, fingers can obscure the screen, and long sessions can become uncomfortable.
A telescopic controller improves the physical experience but does not fix network or streaming latency. Examples include the Backbone One, GameSir G8 Galileo, and Razer’s Kishi range. Confirm the phone’s connector, dimensions, and case compatibility before buying.
- Wired USB-C or Lightning: usually avoids a separate controller battery, but connector and case fit matter.
- Bluetooth: works across more devices, but requires pairing and charging.
- Built-in touch: free and convenient, but least comfortable and precise.
Backbone’s controller can be used without a Backbone+ subscription, according to its support page. Prices and product ranges change by region and date; the vendor pages viewed in August 2026 listed the Backbone One at $99.99 and Backbone Pro at $169.99 in the United States. Razer’s listing showed Kishi V3 models from approximately $99.99 to $199.99. Use current product pages for live prices.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Rank #4
- Vertical Retro Arcade Controller for Mobile: Transform your phone into a classic vertical handheld gaming device. The GameSir Pocket Taco’s clamp-style design delivers an authentic golden-age arcade feel, perfect for retro titles and vertical shoot ‘em ups.
- Ultra-Portable & Lightweight with Travel Case: Weighing only 62.2 g and including a durable PP storage box, this compact Bluetooth controller slips easily into a pocket or bag. Ideal for on‑the‑go gaming, commuting, or travel.
- Smart Power & Seamless Bluetooth Connectivity: Unfold to auto power on, close to power off. Enjoy low‑latency wireless gaming on Android and other compatible devices without draining your phone’s battery.
- Long-Lasting 600 mAh Battery & Charge-Through Design: Game for hours on a single charge. The hollow‑bottom design aligns perfectly with your phone’s charging port, so you can keep playing while charging your phone.
- Customizable Controls via GameSir App: Remap buttons, enable D‑pad diagonal lock, switch to keyboard mode, and access G‑Touch/V‑Touch support. Responsive membrane ABXY, D‑pad, and tactile triggers ensure precise inputs.
Reduce lag and connection problems
Streaming involves two separate delays: the time for your input to reach the PC, and the time for the rendered frame to reach the phone. A controller-only app avoids the second delay when the game remains on the PC monitor, but it still depends on responsive networking.
- Use the same local network during setup.
- Prefer 5 GHz or newer Wi-Fi where available.
- Connect the gaming PC to the router by Ethernet if possible.
- Keep the phone near the access point.
- Avoid congested public or guest Wi-Fi.
- Lower stream resolution, frame rate, or bitrate if the image stutters.
- Stop large downloads and other bandwidth-heavy activity.
Moonlight specifically recommends 5 GHz Wi-Fi for mobile streaming. No app can guarantee zero latency, and a physical controller cannot remove delay caused by a poor network.
Troubleshooting
The PC does not appear
- Confirm both devices are on the same network and not an isolated guest network.
- Temporarily disable a VPN on the phone.
- Check that Steam is running and signed in, or that the PC receiver is running.
- Restart the mobile app, receiver, Steam, or the PC.
- Check Windows Firewall permissions.
- For Moonlight, pair locally first and review its host and firewall guidance.
The pairing PIN fails
- Enter the PIN into the correct PC application.
- Cancel the old pairing and begin again.
- Restart both apps.
- Avoid guest Wi-Fi or networks that prevent device-to-device communication.
The game receives no input
- Make sure the game window has focus.
- Open the app’s controller or input settings.
- Test the game’s own controller screen.
- For Steam, confirm the Steam Input layout is active.
- Check whether the game expects keyboard and mouse, DirectInput, or XInput.
- Test a second game to determine whether the issue is game-specific.
Controls work in menus but stop in gameplay
Some games switch input modes after detecting keyboard or mouse activity. Activate the virtual controller before launching the game, avoid touching the PC keyboard or mouse afterward, and check whether the game has separate controller and keyboard schemes.
The stream is blurry or stutters
Reduce resolution, frame rate, or bitrate; move closer to the router; use Ethernet for the PC; stop other downloads; and test on the local network before attempting internet streaming.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →The phone overheats or loses battery quickly
Lower stream quality, reduce brightness, remove a thick case temporarily, and avoid charging under bedding or in direct sunlight. If the PC monitor is already your display, a controller-only method can avoid the battery cost of video streaming.
Bottom line
Use Steam Link for the easiest Steam setup and phone-based play. Use Monect PC Remote when you need a controller-only solution for a non-Steam game, but verify its input mode and game compatibility. Use Moonlight for broader PC game streaming. For serious action, racing, fighting, or competitive FPS gaming, a physical phone controller is strongly preferable to touchscreen buttons—but it improves comfort, not network latency or universal compatibility.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
