The Best Model Railway Control Phone Apps in 2025
Looking for a model railway control phone app? We compare Engine Driver, WiThrottle, and ThrottleCard so you can pick the best app for your DCC layout.
If you’ve been searching for a model railway control phone app, you’re not alone. More and more hobbyists are swapping out dedicated handheld throttles for apps that run right on their phone. They’re easier to carry, always charged, and full of features that older hardware throttles can’t match.
Why Use a Phone App for Model Railway Control?
Running trains with a phone app brings a lot of advantages:
- Convenience – Most of us already have a phone in our pocket.
- Wireless Freedom – No more cords tethering you to the layout.
- Smart Features – Roster management, turnout control, and customizable layouts.
- Future-Proof – Apps get updates, meaning your throttle improves over time.
With the right app, your phone becomes the ultimate train controller.
The Three Leading Apps: Side-by-Side
WiThrottle (iOS)
WiThrottle was one of the first phone-based throttles, and it remains a popular choice for iPhone and iPad users.
Key Features:
- Available in Lite (free) and Full (paid) versions
- Locomotive selection by address, speed, and direction
- Function key control (F0–F68) with roster labels
- Auto-discovers servers via Bonjour/mDNS
- Basic turnout control with JMRI or EX-CommandStation
Best For: iOS users searching for a basic throttle.
Engine Driver (Android)
Engine Driver is the Android standard for model railway control — a free, open-source app packed with features.
Key Features:
- Control up to 6 locomotives/consists simultaneously
- 29–32 configurable DCC functions with labels
- Strong turnout and route control via JMRI or DCC-EX
- Advanced features: themes, kids’ timer, CV programming, loco sounds
- Multiple connection protocols: WiThrottle, EX-CommandStation, Digitrax LnWi, WifiTrax
Best For: Android power users who want extensive customization and advanced features.
ThrottleCard (iOS, iPad, Mac, visionOS)
ThrottleCard is the modern, cross-platform throttle designed for today’s hobbyists, with Android support coming soon.
Key Features:
- Runs on iPhone, iPad, Mac, and visionOS
- Apple Watch support for wrist-based control
- Bluetooth game controller with haptic feedback support for tactile operation
- Tablet-optimized layouts for multi-train management
- Automatic command station discovery with zero setup
- Premium features for $10/year (consisting, routes, etc.)
Best For: Apple ecosystem users wanting modern design and an easy to use, premium experience.
Detailed Feature Comparison
| Feature | WiThrottle (iOS) | Engine Driver (Android) | ThrottleCard (Apple Platforms) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Platform Support | iPhone, iPad, iPod touch. | Android phones & tablets. | iPhone, iPad, Mac, visionOS (Android support in progress). |
| Locomotive Control | Select locos by address, speed, direction, and functions. Lite vs. Full versions differ. | Control up to 6 locos/consists simultaneously. | Multi-train management, consisting, advanced roster support. |
| Function Keys | Supports F0–F68 in full version. Labels pulled from roster. | Up to 29–32 configurable functions with labels. | Customizable function controls, modern UI, optimized layouts. |
| Turnout & Routes | Limited turnout control unless JMRI or EX server is configured. | Turnout/route support via JMRI or EX. | Turnout and Route(premium) control in a touch-friendly UI . |
| Ease of Setup | Auto-discovers servers via Bonjour/mDNS. | "Discover Server" function with support for multiple protocols. | Automatic Command Station Discovery and Conenction; Supports WiThrottle and Native DCC-EX Protocols |
| Unique Features | Basic throttle controls, roster integration. | Advanced preferences, themes, kids' timer, CV programming, loco sounds. | Apple Watch, Game Controllers with Haptic Feedback, Basic and Advanced CV Programming, Multiple Themes, and many more. |
| Cost & Updates | Lite = free, Full = paid. Updates vary. | Free, open source, actively updated. | Free download and basic features, premium features for $10/year, frequent updates. |
WiThrottle (iOS)
Engine Driver (Android)
ThrottleCard (Apple Platforms)
ThrottleCard in Action
See DIY & Digital Railroad’s Review of ThrottleCard:
Final Thoughts
- WiThrottle – Great if you’re an iOS user and want a reliable, straightforward throttle.
- Engine Driver – The go-to for Android users who want lots of options and advanced features.
- ThrottleCard – The modern choice, offering cross-device support, smartwatch and game controller integration, advanced roster features, and a polished design.
🚂
Download ThrottleCard on the App Store
ThrottleCard is built by hobbyists, for hobbyists. Whether you’re starting small or building a full DCC-EX layout, your phone is now the perfect throttle.