Mobile gaming fans can’t seem to get enough of Genshin Impact. Since its 2020 launch, MiHoYo’s open-world game has grown in scope to become a full-scale adventure that’s just as enthralling on the go as it is at home. Travelers craving the best experience for their adventures across Teyvat will want a phone that’s capable of running Genshin without flaw, and these devices are each up to the task. Here is our list, from most to least favorite.
Apple iPhone 13 and 13 Pro
The best place to play Genshin Impact is on the latest iPhone. iPhones are the mainstay of mobile gaming thanks to healthy long-term software support, lots of compatible accessories, and enough power under the hood to run almost anything. The iPhone 13 and 13 Pro are the first set of Apple phones to come with 120hz displays, and MiHoYo has optimized Genshin to take advantage of the hardware with a 120fps mode on iOS.
The iPhone 13 Pro Max is the best of the best, but with a base price of $1099, the top performer doesn’t come cheap. The standard iPhone 13 can run Genshin comfortably for less cash, but the game’s nearly 15 GB storage requirement will be something fans will have to keep track of on phones with less space for apps.
ASUS ROG Phone 5
The ROG Phone is the next best option for players serious about playing demanding titles on the go. The phone’s 144hz screen, 16GB of RAM, and the unique 6000mAh battery system are all serious offerings for games that can still be appreciated in everyday use. Modern titles like Genshin will run smoothly on the ROG Phone 5, which comes equipped with the Snapdragon 888 processor. Games run great, but some other priorities users may care about get sidelined on the ROG Phone, with a middling camera system and no wireless charging. The phone’s design is also an acquired taste, with a gaming-inspired look that might not be for everyone.
Xiaomi Black Shark 4
The latest version of Xiaomi’s Black Shark phone packs some impressive power into a reasonable price tag. The Snapdragon 870 chip has less power than the 888 included in some of the other phones here, but the Black Shark makes up for it with consistent performance in Genshin and other mobile titles. At only $518, Xiaomi has packed the Black Shark with 128 GB of storage, 12GB of RAM, and a 4500 mAh battery, making it punch above its weight in the areas players will appreciate most. It even comes with a cooling fan.
Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G
Samsung’s Galaxy series of phones are among the top sellers in the industry worldwide. The world of Teyvat is gorgeous on the S21 Ultra’s edge-to-edge, 120hz display. Samsung sells two versions of the phone: one with a Snapdragon 888 processor in the US and China, and one with the Exynos 2100 chip everywhere else. The Snapdragon version has slightly better performance, but the phones are otherwise identical. With 12GB of RAM, 128 GB of storage space, and a 5000mAh battery that can offer up to 11.5 hours of screen-on time with both versions, players can expect nothing short of excellence from the Galaxy S21. It’ll even let you aim your characters’ attacks with the S Pen, if that’s something you’d want to try.
Google Pixel 6 and 6 Pro
Google’s latest Pixel phones are its most ambitious ones yet, featuring the company’s first original Tensor processor. The regular Pixel 6 has a 90hz screen, while the Pixel 6 Pro’s display goes even further at 120hz. Those looking to play for extended periods will likely want to find a cooling fan for their Pixel, as Genshin Impact can push both phones pretty heavily. With 128 GB of storage, managing Genshin’s heavy storage requirement shouldn’t be an issue on the Pixel 6. The regular version has 8GB of RAM and a 4614mAh battery, and the Pro bumps those numbers up to 12GB of RAM and a 5003mAh battery. Performance between the two is comparable, but the Pro’s upgrades make it the stronger choice.
OnePlus Nord N10 5G
Finally, for those looking to get their Genshin on without having to worry about breaking the bank, the OnePlus Nord N10 5G is a solution that gives you the smartphone without the sticker shock. The phone’s 128 GB of storage space and 90hz display are both perfect for the game’s sizable install requirement and quick performance, and at only $299, it’s inexpensive enough that you could buy 2 or 3 of them for the same price as some of the other phones on our list. The Snapdragon 690 chip and 4500mAh battery are where the phone may prove underwhelming, but the Nord N10 charges fast, has a comfortable 6.49-inch screen, and lets players expand their storage space by up to 512 GB with a microSD card.
