If you’re looking for the best mahjong apps to play on the go, there’s good news: the App Store and Google Play are flooded with options. The bad news? Most of them are either solitaire clones, overrun with ads, or have interfaces that feel like they were built during the flip phone era.
That’s where this guide comes in. We’ve sorted through the noise and picked out the best mahjong apps for iOS and Android — including American Mahjong, Riichi, Chinese Classical, and even a couple of elegant solitaire versions (yes, there are a few worth playing).
I’m Connor, and I’ve played more digital mahjong than I care to admit – usually between subway rides, coffee shop waits, and yes, even on the toilet. These are my top picks for quality, user experience, and actual gameplay.
🥇 1. I Love Mahj (Best for American Mahjong Players)
Platform: Web-based (works on desktop, tablet, and mobile)
Rating: 4.9★ (User-rated)
If you play American Mahjong or want to learn the official NMJL rules, I Love Mahj is hands down the best option. It’s beautifully designed, beginner-friendly, and built around the real experience of playing with friends — not just a solo app.
You can play against live opponents or practice with bots, all while following the latest NMJL card. There’s also a full tutorial system, strategy articles, and even a “Practice Mode” for mastering hands before your next club game.
Connor’s Take: “This is where I send anyone serious about learning American Mahjong. The tutorials are clear, the gameplay feels authentic, and the community is incredibly friendly.”
✅ Pros:
- Official American Mahjong rules (NMJL card)
- Real multiplayer games and bot practice
- Beautiful, intuitive interface
- Great learning tools for beginners
❌ Cons:
- Browser-based (no App Store version yet)
- Subscription required after free trial
🎁 Try it free for two weeks → Join I Love Mahj Here
2. Mahjong Soul
Platform: iOS & Android
Rating: 4.8★ (App Store), 4.7★ (Google Play)
This anime-styled Riichi mahjong app delivers slick design, fast-paced gameplay, and an easy learning curve for newcomers. Don’t let the art style fool you – this is real, competitive mahjong with proper scoring and ranked matches.
Connor’s Take: “This is the first mahjong app that made me feel like I was learning while playing. Even when I lost, I understood why. And yes, I’ve spent too much money on character outfits. No regrets.”
✅ Pros:
- Clean, intuitive interface
- In-game tutorials and guides
- Global matchmaking
❌ Cons:
- Anime visuals may not appeal to all
- Requires account to unlock features
3. PlayMahjong.io (Browser App)
Platform: iOS & Android
Rating: 4.6★ (App Store), 4.3★ (Google Play)
Another great American Mahjong app that follows NMJL rules. Real Mah Jongg includes official hands, automatic validation, and both solo and multiplayer modes.
Connor’s Take: “I didn’t grow up on American Mahjong, but this app helped me crack the code. It’s surprisingly addictive once you wrap your head around the card.”
✅ Pros:
- Official NMJL card hands
- Great for solo practice
- Auto-validation and hints
❌ Cons:
- Subscription required
- Only one style of mahjong
4. Real Mah Jongg
Platform: iOS & Android
Rating: 4.6★ (App Store), 4.3★ (Google Play)
The official app for American Mahjong players using NMJL rules. If you play with the card, this is the app you want. Clean design, valid hands checker, and solo or multiplayer options.
Connor’s Take: “I didn’t grow up on American Mahjong, but this app helped me crack the code. It’s surprisingly addictive once you wrap your head around the card.”
✅ Pros:
- Official NMJL card hands
- Great for solo practice
- Auto-validation and hints
❌ Cons:
- Subscription required
- Only one style of mahjong
5. Mahjong Time
Platform: iOS & Android
Rating: 4.2★ (App Store), 4.1★ (Google Play)
Mahjong Time offers traditional multiplayer games across multiple rulesets: Hong Kong, Riichi, American, and more. It’s a bit more advanced but perfect if you want to grow into competitive play.
Connor’s Take: “This is where I felt like I was finally in the big leagues. Competitive, intense, and no-nonsense – just how I like it.”
✅ Pros:
- Supports multiple styles
- Real tournaments and rankings
- Deep player community
❌ Cons:
- UI is clunky on small screens
- Learning curve for newcomers
6. Jong-Tile Game (Solitaire)
Platform: iOS & Android
Rating: 4.7★ (App Store), 4.5★ (Google Play)
If you’re just looking for a peaceful tile-matching experience, this is one of the better solitaire versions. Elegant design, relaxing music, and no aggressive ads.
Connor’s Take: “I use this one when I want to chill out before bed. It’s not ‘real’ mahjong, but it scratches the tile-sorting itch nicely.”
✅ Pros:
- Beautiful minimalist style
- Great brain break
- Offline play supported
❌ Cons:
- Not a 4-player game
- No progression system
FAQ
What’s the best mahjong app for American Mahjong beginners?
👉 I Love Mahj and Real Mah Jongg are your best options. Both use the NMJL rules and have practice modes.
Can I play American Mahjong free?
Yes — I Love Mahj offers a free two-week trial (no credit card required).
Can I play offline?
Some apps like Jong-Tile allow offline play. Most multiplayer platforms require a connection.
Which app has the most active players?
Mahjong Soul and Mahjong Time have global communities, while I Love Mahj focuses on the American Mahjong audience.
Do these apps teach you how to play?
Some do. Mahjong Soul and Real Mah Jongg offer helpful in-game guides. PlayMahjong.io is intuitive but doesn’t have a formal tutorial.
Final Thoughts
The best mahjong app depends on your goals:
- 🀄 Learn & practice American Mahjong: I Love Mahj
- 🧠 Want real Riichi games: Mahjong Soul
- 💬 Play with the NMJL card: Real Mah Jongg
- 🎮 Get competitive: Mahjong Time
- 😌 Just want to relax: Jong-Tile Game
“Mahjong apps are how I keep my game sharp between real-life sessions. Whether you’re learning or climbing the leaderboards, there’s a good fit for you.”
Written and reviewed by Connor, your go-to guy for tile-based obsessions and way-too-honest app reviews.
