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The Best PC Gaming Controller

By Haley Perry

Haley Perry is a writer focused on video games and booze. She has spent innumerable hours playing games and tasting spirits.

Any controller that has two analog sticks, two shoulder buttons, and two trigger buttons is functional for PC gaming, as long as you can connect it to your computer via USB.

If you already own a game console that came with a controller you like, you don’t need to spend more money on a controller specifically for your PC.

But an extra gamepad can be a great addition to any setup if you want a controller that better fits your connectivity, ergonomic, and aesthetic needs, or if you want to further customize your gameplay with extra buttons and programmable options.

After our numerous rounds of testing over the years, the official Microsoft Xbox Wireless Controller has remained our top pick because it’s comfortable and supported by most games on PC. We also have recommendations for cheaper and more customizable wireless controllers, as well as options that meet retro-gaming and some accessibility needs.

Everything we recommend

Microsoft Xbox Wireless Controller

The best pc gaming controller.

Microsoft’s controller is comfortable to hold, and it benefits from built-in Windows support—simply plug it in, and it works with just about any game that supports a controller. But it requires AA batteries or an add-on rechargeable battery pack if you want to play wirelessly.

Buying Options

Budget pick.

8BitDo Ultimate C 2.4G

An affordable wireless controller.

This wireless controller has all of the buttons you need, long battery life, and effortless pairing with PCs through a USB-A dongle. It’s also more comfortable for small hands than the official Xbox controller.

8BitDo Ultimate 2.4g

Comfortable and customizable.

The wireless Ultimate 2.4G is almost identical to our budget pick but has customizable controls and extra rear paddles, and it comes with a charging dock in the box.

Microsoft’s Xbox Wireless Controller for the Series X|S consoles has a proven design that works well, and the vast majority of PC games use controls and button layouts made for an Xbox controller (or one with an Xbox-style button layout). It has a Share button for clips and screenshots, a USB-C port, an eight-way directional pad, and a headset jack with good audio quality, if you don’t want to connect your headphones directly to your computer. The biggest downside is that it requires a pair of AA batteries or a rechargeable battery pack if you want to play wirelessly.

If you’re looking for a basic wireless controller, the 8BitDo Ultimate C 2.4G feels great and works well for PC games. It’s half the price of the official Xbox controller but offers similar functions: It uses the same convenient ABXY layout, it includes all of the standard buttons necessary for casual gaming, and it has a center button that pulls up the Microsoft Game Bar overlay. It also has a Turbo button and a rechargeable battery, and its narrow frame sits more comfortably in small hands than the Xbox controller. But you can’t remap the Ultimate C’s controls easily, and it’s not compatible with game consoles (aside from DIY Raspberry Pi systems ).

The 8BitDo Ultimate 2.4G is the same controller as our budget pick, but it adds two rear paddles and compatibility with 8BitDo’s Ultimate software, which opens up a suite of settings for you to alter the feel and function of the controller. Using the Ultimate software, you can remap controls and assign macros, and you can tweak the sensitivities of the triggers, thumbsticks, and controller vibrations—qualities you can’t adjust on our other picks. But these settings might be superfluous for some people, and the pared-down Ultimate C will serve you fine if you just want a simple, affordable controller for casual gaming.

The research

Why you should trust us, who this is for, how we picked, how we tested, our pick: microsoft xbox wireless controller, budget pick: 8bitdo ultimate c 2.4g, also great: 8bitdo ultimate 2.4g, other good gaming controllers, the competition.

Between my professional and personal collections of game consoles and gear, I’ve accumulated more controllers than the average person should. For the most recent update of this guide, I tested 13 controllers in a range of different games, and I tagged in a few friends to assess how each model felt to people with varying hand sizes and tactile preferences. I also compared each controller against official versions from current and previous generations of Xbox and PlayStation consoles.

Previous testing for this guide was performed by Britt H. Young, a writer and PhD candidate in geography at University of California Berkeley who has contributed to Wirecutter on technology and cooking topics.

If you already own an Xbox or PlayStation console and you’re happy with the controller that came with it, or if you own a Nintendo Switch Pro controller, you can easily repurpose it for PC gaming. However, most games follow the ABXY button layouts found on Xbox controllers, and translating the controls shown on screen to correspond with the discrepant layouts of PlayStation and Nintendo controllers can be cumbersome.

For PC gaming, you can never match the accuracy of a mouse and keyboard with a controller, but even so, you should use whatever input device you’re more comfortable with. If you’re not already familiar with playing games on a mouse and keyboard, retraining your body to use such a setup can feel somewhat like learning a new musical instrument. That isn’t a bad thing, but it isn’t a necessity for most people, including those set on gaming at a competitive level—even some professional esports players prefer using controllers . A controller can also be more comfortable to use if you have smaller hands, because your fingers don’t have to stretch as far as on a gaming keyboard or compact keyboard .

Controller preference is highly personal, and your decision may differ based on your hand size, gaming style, and operating system. The controller you like may also depend on what games you play—and at what intensity. For this guide we seek out controllers that are capable, comfortable, and practical for most nonprofessional gamers, using the following criteria:

• Comfort: You should be able to hold a controller for a couple of hours without cramping, regardless of your hand size. It shouldn’t be so heavy that it causes arm and wrist fatigue, and it shouldn’t slip around if your hands get sweaty.
• Responsive buttons and triggers: Every button, trigger, and joystick on the controller should do what you want, when you want. Everything should be easy to reach, and the buttons should have enough space between them for you to find them by touch without accidentally pressing multiple buttons.
• Compatibility with Windows and other software: A controller should require minimal setup, particularly in Windows, where the vast majority of PC gaming happens. But compatibility with macOS and iOS (and the Apple Arcade service) is a plus, as is support for game stores, such as Steam, that offer their own controller support.
• Price: A good wireless controller usually costs somewhere between $40 and $60, and a decent wired controller should cost around half that.
• Connectivity: We prefer wired controllers with detachable cables because they allow you to modify the length to fit your setup, and they’re easier to replace if they break. A good wireless controller should also support wired connectivity.
• Battery life: No one wants to pick up a controller and find that it’s dead. A wireless controller should leave a decent margin of error in case you forget to plug it in, ideally lasting at least 10 hours on a charge. We also prefer controllers with internal rechargeable batteries, although our top pick, Microsoft’s Xbox Wireless controller, still runs on AAs.
• Extra features: Not everybody needs extra customizable buttons or RGB lighting, but a controller that offers them should be easy to program, and you should be able to toggle them on and off at will.

For our first round of testing, we paired or plugged in each controller to a Windows gaming laptop to look for any initial setup or connectivity issues. If the controller offered programmable functions, onboard audio support, or extra buttons, we configured them to confirm whether these functions worked properly. We then fired up a rotation of games, including Baldur’s Gate 3 , Cuphead , Doom, Overwatch 2 , and Soulcalibur VI, to assess the analog sticks, D-pads, and trigger buttons. We dismissed any controller that felt uncomfortable to hold or had sticky or imprecise buttons. If the controller felt delayed or unresponsive, we connected it to a different PC for further examination.

For the most promising contenders, we pulled in friends with different hand sizes and levels of experience, and we asked them to play games for at least two hours with each controller to consider how the model felt to hold and use. We repeated these tests for any controller that offered multiplatform support on various consoles and devices, to confirm that the performance was consistent. We also compared the dimensions, weight, and tactility of each new contender side by side with our top pick and other familiar or premium controllers, such as the Sony DualSense Edge and Microsoft Xbox Elite Series 2 .

Microsoft’s Xbox Wireless Controller for the Series X|S is a comfortable controller with a familiar design. It doesn’t have many of the flashy embellishments that you can find in third-party entries, such as RGB lighting and extra buttons, but it works the way a great controller should. And its direct kinship to Windows is hard to beat: Just hook it up, and it works automatically with nearly every controller-compatible game you can play.

It has built-in support on Windows. Many games use Xbox button labels in their interfaces, regardless of which controller you’re using, so having this controller makes tutorials easier to follow and control schemes easier to learn. The center button also brings up a handy gaming menu in Windows that you can use for streaming, taking screenshots, changing volume settings, and more.

It feels good to hold, and it’s comfortable for most hand sizes. This controller is hefty yet avoids tiring out the hands and wrists, and the lightly textured plastic on the front and back is pleasant to use for long periods of time. Though the size and shape are suitable for a wide range of hands, the design does slightly favor larger grips, and people with the smallest hands may be happier with a more compact option such as our budget pick.

The buttons are satisfying to use. The ABXY buttons are responsive, the sticks glide smoothly, and the shoulder and trigger buttons have two different matte textures, making it easier for you to tell the difference between them. The eight-way D-pad is also nice and clicky.

It can work with a wired or wireless connection. You can pair the controller for wireless gameplay through your device’s Bluetooth settings, and Xbox sells a separate wireless USB-A adapter to reduce latency between the controller and your PC. You can also use the controller in wired mode with a USB-C cable. However, it is not compatible with Apple devices through a wired connection or the wireless adapter.

On Apple devices, it supports a Bluetooth connection. The Xbox controller can pair wirelessly with iPhones, iPads, Apple TVs, and Macs updated with software after September 2022 (including iOS 16, iPadOS 16, macOS Ventura 13, and tvOS 16 or later).

You can fully customize it. The controller comes in basic colors—silver, white, and black—which are fine, and Xbox also sells a range of colorful and special-edition controllers. But if you want to personalize it even more, you can create a unique controller using the Xbox Design Lab tool, which allows you to customize elements such as the body colors and the finishes of the D-pad and ABXY buttons.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

It relies on AA batteries rather than a built-in rechargeable battery. You’ll need to keep an extra pair of AA batteries on hand to use this controller wirelessly, though a standard charge should provide about 40 to 50 hours of battery life. Microsoft also sells a rechargeable-battery kit for about $25, and a number of third-party companies offer rechargeable docks and kits.

It may feel big for tiny hands, and it’s the heaviest of our picks. The Xbox controller weighs around 1.3 ounces more than our budget pick and about 0.3 ounce more than our also-great recommendation. In addition, it’s wider than our other picks, and if you have small hands, you might prefer one of our other options instead.

Apple users are limited to Bluetooth-only connections. The Xbox Series X|S controller does not offer wired connectivity for Apple devices or Mac computers, and the Xbox USB-A wireless dongle is compatible only with PCs.

If you want a straightforward wireless controller that costs less than our top pick, the 8BitDo Ultimate C 2.4G is a capable companion. It’s effortless to set up, it works just as well as the official Xbox controller, and it uses the same ABXY layout found on Xbox controllers. As a result, almost any game you boot up will match the Ultimate C 2.4G’s control layout, and this controller has a compact shape that’s suitable for small hands.

It connects through a wireless USB-A dongle. We prefer wireless gaming peripherals that connect with 2.4 GHz dongles over those reliant on Bluetooth-only pairing because dongle-based connections offer lower latency and more stability, and they’re less susceptible to interference from other devices that might be nearby. This controller also supports wired connectivity via USB-C.

It’s effortless to set up. All you need to do to use this controller with your PC is plug in the dongle or USB cable, and it’s ready to go. The Ultimate C 2.4G has no dedicated software support, so you have nothing to fuss with to get it working. But that also means you have little freedom to customize the controller’s feel or remap the controls—for those features, you have to upgrade to its sibling, the Ultimate 2.4G .

The control scheme and layout are familiar. The Ultimate C 2.4G has the same ABXY composition as the official Xbox controller, which is ideal—most PC games are designed using this arrangement by default, so you don’t have to translate the controls, as you would with a Sony or Nintendo controller. All of the buttons, including the triggers, joysticks, and D-pad, register precisely and are satisfying to press.

The center button pulls up the Microsoft Game Bar overlay on PCs. Most third-party controllers have a home button of some kind, but very few pull up the Microsoft Game Bar overlay as Xbox controllers do by default. The center button on this 8BitDo controller automatically pulls up the overlay, which is handy for streaming, taking quick screenshots, and zipping over to your friends list.

It has an extra Turbo button, and it’s easy to program. Turbo buttons used to be popular on retro game controllers, and not everybody needs that function. But if you regularly play retro-style games and you want to save your fingers from tiring bouts of rapid button presses, the Ultimate 2.4G’s Turbo button is a nice bonus. It’s easy to program straight from the controller, and in our tests it worked reliably to carry out our commands.

It has a long-lasting internal rechargeable battery. The Ultimate C charges quickly via USB-C cable, and although we didn’t formally test its battery life, we noticed its impressive lifespan. It lasted hours longer than Sony’s DualShock 4, our previous budget pick, and over the course of our testing, it never ran out of battery.

It’s smaller and lighter than the Xbox controller. This controller weighs about 1.3 ounces less than our top pick, and it has a narrower frame that sits comfortably in small hands. Our large-handed testers also found it pleasant to hold and use for hours at a time.

The available colors are cute but limited . 8BitDo offers this controller only in pastel green and lilac. Though they look adorable, they don’t suit every aesthetic preference.

The 8BitDo Ultimate 2.4G is small but mighty. It’s an upgraded version of our similarly named budget pick, the Ultimate C 2.4G, and it’s molded in the same shape and size as that controller. But this version allows you to fine-tune assorted settings with 8BitDo’s official software, and it includes extra features that are nice to have on a controller at this price.

The official 8BitDo Ultimate software offers more controller settings than the Xbox app. With the Ultimate software, you can remap controls, assign macros, and program the built-in rear paddles. You can also adjust the sensitivities of the triggers, thumbsticks, and controller vibrations with sliders to match your feedback preferences. In contrast, the standard Xbox controller offers only an on/off toggle for vibrations.

It comes with programmable rear paddles, and they’re not too intrusive. Extra paddles can be more annoying than helpful if they’re positioned poorly on the back of the controller. We liked the rear paddles on the Ultimate 2.4G, and compared with those on other controllers we tested, they felt more comfortable in placement and size to our testers. The buttons felt clicky to press, and we didn’t have to shift our hands or outstretch our fingers to reach them. They also didn’t protrude so much as to cause unintentional inputs.

You can create and switch between three different profiles on the fly. If you frequently switch between games, or if you share a controller with somebody else, you can use the Ultimate software to create and store different profiles. Customizing profiles in the software is simple to figure out and get the hang of, and the controller has a dedicated button in the center for quickly swapping between your saved profiles.

It offers Bluetooth connectivity, and it works wired or wirelessly with Apple devices. This controller comes with the same 2.4 GHz USB-A dongle as our budget pick does, but it also supports Bluetooth pairing. It supports wired connection to Apple devices with USB-C ports, as well as wireless Bluetooth connection to iPads, iPhones, Apple TVs, and Macs with software updated after February 2023 .

It comes with its own charging dock. The Ultimate 2.4G ships with a dedicated charging dock that matches the color of the controller. The dock is sleek looking, and it stands pretty stable on its own—it didn’t tip over or slide around when we plugged in or removed the controller. The included cable is a bit short, but you can easily interchange it with your own USB-C cable if you need more length.

The available colors are more universal than those of our budget pick. This version of the Ultimate controller is sold in black, white, and pale pink, which are a bit more aesthetically safe than the pastel colors of our budget pick.

If you play a lot of retro games: If you play retro (or retro-throwback) games that don’t need all the extra buttons, sticks, and triggers of modern controllers, a simpler gamepad can provide a better and more authentic experience. The Retroflag Classic Wired USB Gaming Controller is a dead ringer for the replica Super Nintendo controllers that come with the Super NES Classic Edition or the SNES-style controllers that Nintendo makes for the Switch . Its buttons are comfortable, responsive, and clicky, it has a Turbo feature to help with repetitive button mashing, and it works well with Windows, macOS, and most retro gaming software out of the box. But it’s a bad fit for most modern games, which require thumbsticks and more buttons than SNES-style controllers have.

If you’re seeking the best choice for some accessibility needs: If you have an upper-limb disability or injury, you may need a gaming controller that allows for easy remapping of controls. Because the PowerA Enhanced Wired Controller for Xbox Series X|S can frequently be found for around $30, we recommend that anyone who wants to game with one hand try this model out to see if it suits their specific needs before moving on to more expensive, customizable options like the Evil Controllers One-Handed Custom Controller or the Xbox Adaptive Controller ecosystem . The PowerA controller is, in many respects, identical to the Microsoft-made standard Xbox controller, so it’s well supported for PC gaming. It features mappable “advanced gaming buttons” on the underside of the handles, which makes it much easier for one-handed players to use. The D-pad also has four discrete buttons that are easier to press accurately with an irregularly shaped limb, or if you have limited dexterity. PlayStation’s Access controller is also now available, and we’ll be investigating it and other accessible-controller options soon.

Wireless controllers

Sony’s DualSense wireless controller for the PlayStation 5 uses the same basic button layout as the older DualShock 4, but it’s physically larger and more expensive. It feels great, and its headset jack actually works properly with Windows when it’s plugged in through its USB-C port, but like the DualShock 4, it can be hit or miss in its compatibility with Windows and games outside of Steam. It’s a good PC controller if you already own a PS5, but there’s no reason to spend this much if you’re buying a controller specifically for a PC.

The Sony DualSense Edge , the pro version of the standard PS5 controller, is a nice option for PlayStation owners . But the symbols on PlayStation’s buttons deviate from the traditional ABXY layout used in most PC games, which can be a headache to translate when you’re learning new games. We’ve also seen limited but consistent reports of some people experiencing problems with or failure of the controller’s back paddles.

Microsoft’s upgraded Xbox controller, the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 , offers extra rear paddles, rubberized grips, and adjustable triggers and thumbsticks, plus a carrying case with a built-in charging cradle. But we’ve seen numerous reports of reliability problems with both Series 1 and Series 2 of the Xbox Elite controller, and Wirecutter staffers have experienced these problems firsthand. If you’re determined to spend a lot on a controller like the DualSense Edge or the Xbox Elite Series 2, you should probably spring for added warranty coverage.

The comfortable and responsive Nintendo Switch Pro Controller can connect to a PC over Bluetooth or USB-C and has built-in support in Steam. But if you want the same level of support in Windows and other games that you get with the Xbox controller, you need to use software like x360ce to configure it, the same as with Sony’s controllers. The Switch Pro Controller’s ABXY buttons aren’t laid out the same way as on an Xbox controller—A and B are reversed, as are X and Y—which could create some confusion in games that expect an Xbox-style button layout. This controller also lacks a headset jack. It’s great if you already own it, but it wouldn’t be the first controller we’d recommend if you were using it only with a PC.

The Nintendo-oriented layout of the 8BitDo Ultimate Bluetooth isn’t ideal for PC gaming, and those looking for a controller for the Switch are better off with Nintendo’s official Pro controller. When we tested the Ultimate Bluetooth, the B button kept sticking down, and the small bumpers weren’t as pleasant to press.

8Bitdo’s SF30/SN30 Pro represents a neat idea: an SNES-style retro gamepad updated with the joysticks, triggers, and vibration motors that modern controllers include. It’s compatible with Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and the Nintendo Switch, and it works well with Steam in Windows mode. But there’s a reason that modern controllers have handles—the SF30/SN30 Pro is uncomfortable to use for extended periods of time. The buttons and sticks are all pretty close together, increasing the risk of cramping, and people with sweaty hands may have trouble holding on to it.

The PowerA Moga XP-Ultra controller made us deeply unhappy. We spent multiple days testing two samples of this controller, and both were frustrating to connect and impossible to use. When we managed to pair one controller successfully, it recognized only two buttons at best. And the other sample refused to stay powered on for more than a second, though we had charged it overnight, and the LED showed a full battery.

Wired controllers

We liked the wired PDP AfterGlow Wave , and we considered it as a pick for this guide. It’s a good-looking controller that feels lightweight and comfortable to hold, it has two mappable rear paddles, and it includes onboard volume and chat controls. But we found a concerning number of reviews expressing complaints about PDP’s poor customer service and lack of response to broken controllers and warranty claims.

The build quality of the HyperX Clutch Gladiate isn’t great. Some buttons and triggers felt gummy in our tests, while others were clicky and precise. The joysticks also have ridged edges that some people might like for grip, but we found it scratchy on our skin.

GameSir’s G7 Wired Controller comes with a compatible USB-C cable, but the sunken port on the controller is too narrow to fit the housing of any other cable we tried to plug in. The option and share buttons are also spaced too far away from the center to access quickly, and the bumpers felt muddy to press.

The PowerA Advantage Wired Controller with Lumectra has customizable RGB lighting that can sync with Lumectra light strips , a feature that we found fun to use. But some of the triggers and buttons felt sticky and imprecise. If you have your eye on this model, we suggest looking at PowerA’s similar Spectra Infinity Enhanced controller, which offers onboard chat and volume controls, rear paddles, and RGB lighting for the same price. We liked the Spectra when we tested it, but we don’t recommend it as a pick in this guide because it isn’t as sturdy as our top pick, and its triggers felt rattly.

Hori’s Nintendo Switch Horipad is similar to the Switch Pro Controller, but it’s wired and costs around a third as much. Like the Switch Pro Controller, it works well enough with Steam’s Nintendo Switch gamepad support, but it lacks vibration. It isn’t quite as comfortable as the Switch Pro Controller, and its mushy, removable D-pad is much less satisfying than those on our other picks.

The ZD-V+ has a DualShock-style layout, but because it uses the Xbox controller driver in Windows, it benefits from the same Windows and Steam integration as Microsoft’s gamepads do. But its glossy finish and light weight make it feel cheap in the hand, it lacks a headset jack, and its vibration motor is weak. It’s also incompatible with actual game consoles.

At around $12 for a two-pack, Saffun’s Innext SNES Retro USB Controllers are a good value if you want a working pair of super-cheap SNES-style controllers. They feel fine, and we had no problems with button responsiveness in our testing. But the plastic is inferior to that of the Retroflag gamepad , the shoulder buttons are mushy, the Start and Select buttons aren’t as comfortable to press, and it lacks a Turbo feature, all of which make the Retroflag controller worth the extra money.

This article was edited by Arthur Gies and Caitlin McGarry.

Meet your guide

Haley Perry

Haley Perry is an associate staff writer at Wirecutter covering video games and technology. She used to review video games full-time, and she’s also a big fan of mezcal. If you get enough in her, she may just admit that she still plays The Sims ... a lot.

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The best PC game controllers in 2024

Find the best PC game controller for your budget and play style

• Best overall
• Best on a budget
• Best pro controller
• Best connectivity
• Best design
• How to choose
• How we test

The list in brief 1. Best overall 2. Best on a budget 3. Best pro controller 4. Best connectivity 5. Best design 6. Best retro 7. How to choose 8. How we test

The best PC game controllers provide a great alternative to using a mouse and keyboard, and provide an excellent fit for folks who have recently swapped from gaming on a console to playing on PC. And spoiler: I'm just not very good with a mouse and keyboard when it comes to tackling the best Steam games .

My pick of the best PC game controller for most people? It has to be the Xbox Wireless Controller , as it proves to be the most reliable and comparatively affordable option when you want to enjoy your favorite titles on one of the best gaming laptops .

Whether you’re hunting for a premium controller with ‘Pro’ level customization features — like the Xbox Elite Series 2 — or need a wired controller if your PC somehow lacks native Bluetooth support, my picks of the best PC controllers have your desktop or laptop gaming needs covered. 

The quick list

Below you'll find everything you need to know about the best PC game controllers at a glance. Whether you're looking for a premium wireless controller with great customization options or a reliable wired controller that still has plenty of useful features, there's something here for every budget.

The best PC game controller overall The Xbox Wireless Controller can connect to your PC using a USB-C cable, Bluetooth or a USB dongle and it uses two AA batteries. Textured grips on the back make it easy to hold and most PC games are natively optimized for this controller.

Read more below

The best PC game controller on a budget

The HyperX Clutch Gladiate is a wired controller that ships with a 10 foot cable. There are two programmable back buttons as well as trigger locks for pulling off faster shots in FPS games. The HyperX Clutch Gladiate is a great choice if you're looking for some pro-level features on a budget.

The best pro PC game controller

The Xbox Elite Series 2 is a highly customizable controller that connects to your PC over USB-C or wirelessly using Bluetooth. It has four customizable rear paddles, swappable parts and comes with a carrying case to charge it.

The best PC game controller for connectivity

The 8BitDo Ultimate Controller can connect to your PC via USB-C, wirelessly with a USB dongle or through Bluetooth if you choose the top configuration. It has two rear buttons and can be customized with 8Bitdo's Ultimate Software.

The best designed PC game controller

The GameSir T4 Kaleid is a wired controller that also packs in some pro-level features like mechanical face buttons, remappable back buttons, turbo functionality and joysticks with Hall Effect sensors. The controller is also clear and has two RGB light strips on either side.

The best retro PC game controller

The 8BitDo Pro 2 can connect to your PC using a USB-C cable or wirelessly over Bluetooth. It has an excellent D-pad, asymmetrical joysticks, two back buttons and it can be completely customized with 8BitDo's Ultimate Software on PC.

The best PC game controllers you can buy today

Why you can trust Tom's Guide Our writers and editors spend hours analyzing and reviewing products, services, and apps to help find what's best for you. Find out more about how we test, analyze, and rate.

The best PC game controller overall

1. Xbox Wireless Controller

Specifications, reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

The Xbox Wireless Controller is the best PC game controller for most people due to the fact that most PC games offer native support for it. This means you won’t have to configure it yourself using a program like reWASD and all of the prompts you see in games will be identical with the buttons on your controller which isn't the case if you’re using a PlayStation controller like the DualSense Edge . Another great thing about the Xbox Wireless Controller is that it can connect to your PC with a USB-C cable or wirelessly with Bluetooth.

The Xbox Wireless Controller for the Xbox Series X/S offers a number of improvements over its predecessor including USB-C support, a new D-pad design and textured grips that make it easier to hold in your hand. There’s still one big downside though as it isn’t rechargeable and requires two AA batteries. Still, if you don’t need back paddles or other customization options, the Xbox Wireless Controller is a solid choice for gaming on PC.

2. HyperX Clutch Gladiate

Our expert review:

Unlike with a console, when you're gaming at your PC, you're most likely sitting at your desk. For this reason, many PC gamers actually prefer wired controllers over wireless ones. A wired controller will have less latency and you don't have to worry about it being charged. The HyperX Clutch Gladiate is the latest PC controller from the PC accessory maker HyperX and it packs in quite a few pro-level features for just $35.

On the backside of the HyperX Clutch Gladiate, you'll find two remappable back buttons along with trigger locks. The back buttons are easy to program and you can configure what they do on the controller itself instead of having to download yet another app. The trigger locks may not have as many settings as the Elite Series 2 or other Pro-style controllers but they let you reduce how far you have to push the triggers down by half. The HyperX Clutch Gladiate is lightweight, very comfortable in the hand and it also works on Xbox Series X/S.

Read our full HyperX Clutch Gladiate review .

3. Xbox Elite Series 2

The Xbox Elite Series 2 and the cheaper Xbox Elite Series 2 Core both build upon the best parts of the Xbox Wireless Controller. You have the same button layout but a whole lot more customization options like a more traditional D-pad you can swap out on the fly and four rear paddles. Microsoft also lets you adjust the tension of the controller’s analog sticks as well as the triggers. You won’t need batteries with the Xbox Elite Series 2 either as it comes with a rechargeable battery that lasts for up to 40 hours and the included carrying case doubles as a charger.

If price is holding you back from picking up an Xbox Elite Series 2 controller, then you’re in luck as Microsoft released a cheaper version that comes in several different colorways called the Xbox Elite Series 2 Core. The catch is that it doesn’t come with any accessories like extra joysticks, rear paddles or the carrying case. However, you can easily fix the back paddle situation with a $12 accessory which I highly recommend as having four back paddles means that you won’t have to take your thumbs off the controller’s joysticks since you can map all of the face buttons to them. The Xbox Elite Series 2 is the best option for those that want one of the best PC game controllers but the Xbox Elite Series 2 is a better choice for those on a budget who still want a ‘Pro’ controller.

4. 8BitDo Ultimate

The 8BitDo Ultimate controller is another great choice for PC gamers as it comes in several different varieties to meet every budget. The new 8Bitdo Ultimate C controller is the cheapest at $20 for the wired version and $30 for the wireless version but you miss out on the two back buttons. Meanwhile, the 8BitDo Ultimate 2.4g can be had for $50 and comes with a charging dock and a USB dongle so that you can use it wirelessly. The 8BitDo Ultimate Bluetooth on the other hand lets you connect over USB-C or wirelessly with either Bluetooth or the included 2.4Ghz dongle.

One thing to keep in mind is that the 8BitDo Ultimate Bluetooth uses Nintendo’s button layout with B at the bottom instead of A. However, it does come with Hall Effect joysticks which means you won’t have to worry about stick drift. Regardless of which version of the 8BitDo Ultimate you pick up, it’s an extremely comfortable controller to use and it also has one of the best D-pads if you’re into platformers or retro titles. You can also use 8BitDo’s Ultimate Software to remap buttons and to calibrate the controller’s joysticks, triggers and vibration. The 8BitDo Ultimate is as versatile of a controller as it is comfortable to hold in your hand.

Read our full 8BitDo Ultimate Controller review .

5. GameSir T4 Kaleid

The GameSir T4 Kaleid is an interesting controller to say the least because it gives you quite a few ‘Pro’ level features at a much more reasonable price. However, the one caveat is that this is a wired controller and can’t be used wirelessly. Still though, you get two customizable back buttons, joysticks with Hall Effect sensors, mechanical face buttons, turbo functionality and even RGB for just $42. In addition to PC, the GameSir T4 Kaleid also works on Android as well as on the Nintendo Switch and there’s even a setting for swapping the A and B buttons.

While the front face plate of the GameSir T4 Kaleid is clear, the controller’s handles are frosted and have etchings on them just like the Xbox Wireless Controller to give you a better grip. Besides being able to see the controller’s PCB, there are two customizable RGB lightstrips on either side of the controller. One thing I really like about the GameSir T4 Kaleid is that you can remap the back buttons, control its RGB lighting and even enable turbo right on the controller itself. The mechanical face buttons give a nice audible click with just the right amount of travel too. The GameSir T4 Kaleid is a great choice if you want to add a little RGB to your battlestation without going too overboard.

Read our full GameSir T4 Kaleid review .

6. 8BitDo Pro 2

The 8BitDo Pro 2 is a great choice if you’re coming from the PS5 or PS4 and want a PC game controller with symmetrical joysticks. However, it’s also a good fit for platformers and retro titles since its D-pad and face buttons line up. The 8BitDo Pro 2 is available in several different colorways including a GameBoy-styled one as well as a clear black and clear purple variant. It has a USB-C port at the back if you want to use wired, though you can also connect it to your PC using Bluetooth.

Just like the 8BitDo Ultimate, the 8BitdDo Pro 2 has two customizable back buttons and you can remap buttons and make other tweaks using the company’s Ultimate Software on PC or on mobile. It’s also a multi-platform controller with support for Switch, Mac, Android, iOS and Apple TV in addition to PC. A mode switch at the back makes it easy to switch between platforms. The 8BitDo Pro 2 has a 1,000 mAh battery pack but 8BitDo also gives you the option to use two AA batteries if you want instead. There’s even a wired-only version that’s slightly cheaper at $35 as opposed to $50. The 8BitDo Pro 2 is the best PC game controller if you prefer symmetrical joysticks.

How to choose the best PC game controller for you

When it comes to picking the best PC game controller for you, a lot of factors come into play and there are a few questions you need to ask yourself first. 

For starters, do you absolutely need a wireless controller or would a wired one be okay? Likewise, do you want an official first-party controller from Microsoft or are you open to trying out a third-party controller instead? Finally, are you fine with a stock controller or are you looking for a controller with ‘pro’ level features that you can customize? Whether or not you want back buttons or rear paddles is another thing to consider and will two be okay or do you want four so that you can remap all of the face buttons on your controller to them.

Once you’ve answered these questions and thought long and hard about which kind of controller is right for you, the next thing you’re going to want to consider is price. Controllers like the Xbox Series Elite 2 or the DualSense Edge are much more expensive than the standard Xbox Wireless Controller as well as third-party controllers from companies like 8BitDo, GameSir and HyperX. 

At the same time, if stick drift has been a problem for you in the past, then you’re going to want a controller with Hall Effect joysticks like the GameSir T4 Kaleid or the 8BitDo Ultimate Bluetooth. Connectivity is another big concern, especially if you prefer a wireless controller. While Bluetooth may be more convenient, it introduces a bit more lag than using a controller that comes with a 2.4 Ghz USB dongle. However, if lag is something you’re really worried about, then going wired will always be your best bet.

Fortunately, there are loads of different controllers on this list for every kind of PC gamer and every type of budget. We’re also constantly reviewing new models and trying out different kinds of controllers to build out this list further, so stay tuned.

How we test the best PC game controllers

When it comes to testing the best PC game controllers, we take a two-step approach. 

First off, we play with them ourselves and put them through the paces with a variety of games from different genres. This helps us determine how each controller will stand up over time and if a particular controller is likely to experience stick drift or other problems down the road. We also test out each of their different connection options and see how well they perform using a wired or wireless connection or a USB dongle if one is available.

From here, we then use Hardware Tester’s Gamepad Tester to check for errors with the joysticks and buttons. If a controller manufacturer has their own customization software, we load it onto one of the best gaming PCs and see how intuitive it is to use for button remapping and other types of customization like changing the dead zones on a controller’s joysticks. If there isn’t any customization software available, we use programs like reWASD to try and do it ourselves. 

For more information, check out our how we test page for Tom’s Guide.

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Dave is a computing editor at Tom’s Guide and covers everything from cutting edge laptops to ultrawide monitors. When he’s not worrying about dead pixels, Dave enjoys regularly rebuilding his PC for absolutely no reason at all. In a previous life, he worked as a video game journalist for 15 years, with bylines across GamesRadar+, PC Gamer and TechRadar. Despite owning a graphics card that costs roughly the same as your average used car, he still enjoys gaming on the go and is regularly glued to his Switch. Away from tech, most of Dave’s time is taken up by walking his husky, buying new TVs at an embarrassing rate and obsessing over his beloved Arsenal. 

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• Lokomalo If you like the Xbox Elite Series 2, look for the Elite Core Series 2. It's the same controller without the accessories. You can get it for $99 and buy a third-party accessories kit for $20, saving over $60. Reply
• doombadger You forgot to mention the GameSir G7 SE. Hall effect triggers AND joysticks. Precision and no stick drift. I've got three Microsoft Xbox One wireless controllers now. They all had to be repaired under warranty for stick drift and they have all since developed stick drift again after the warranty has expired. I don't want to be buying a new controller that frequently. I will never buy a Microsoft controller again. Reply
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The Best Game Controller for Every Kind of Player

If you buy something using links in our stories, we may earn a commission. This helps support our journalism. Learn more . Please also consider subscribing to WIRED

Best for PC (and Some PS5) Players Scuf Reflex Controller Read more

Best PS5 Controller Sony DualSense Controller Read more

Best for Xbox One & Series X Scuf Instinct Pro Controller Read more

Alternative Controller for Xbox or PC Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra Controller Read more

Years ago, third-party game controllers were dirt cheap and notorious for poor craftsmanship—especially the eggshell-plastic MadCatz knockoffs. Every household had one. It was reserved for kid siblings and houseguests you maybe didn't like that much. Those kinds of controllers gave third-party gamepads a bad name—one that persists to this day.

In recent years, though, companies like Scuf and Astro have donned their armor and unfurled their banners on a quest to rebuild the reputation of “off-brand” gamepads, one game controller at a time. We've tried a bunch of them in the past few years, and these are our favorites. Here are the best game controllers, official and unofficial, for the Nintendo Switch, PS4, PS5, Xbox (One and Series X/S), and PC.

Be sure to read our guides to the Best Gaming Headsets and Best Gaming Mouse for more recommendations. If you are looking for something to pair with your smartphone, check out the Best Mobile Game Controllers .

Updated April 2024: We added controllers from Turtle Beach, Sony, Nacon, QRD, and Logitech, a new honorable mentions section, and updated prices throughout.

Special offer for Gear readers: Get a 1-year subscription to WIRED for $5 ($25 off) . This includes unlimited access to WIRED. com and our print magazine (if you'd like). Subscriptions help fund the work we do every day.

Best for PC (and Some PS5) Players

If you have a PlayStation 5, the official DualSense below is absolutely the best controller for you. However, while it's technically compatible with Windows, iOS, and Android, it's a bit of a pain to pair with anything but a PS5. The Scuf Reflex is a PS5-silhouette controller that brings one of our favorite controllers to other platforms, without the pairing headaches.

The Reflex has all the bells and whistles that make the DualSense a great controller (three-dimensional rumble, custom-tensioned triggers), and it includes four removable, re-mappable paddles on the rear of the controller. They lie precisely where your fingertips rest, so you don't need to adjust your grip to use them. It also stores three onboard configuration profiles, so you can swap between different button maps without reconfiguring them every single time. And it just feels great . It's coated in a soft-touch plastic that feels grippy without being sticky; the triggers feel super responsive; and the thumb sticks can be swapped out for taller ones for extra-fine control. These extra features are all must-haves for players who spend a lot of time in competitive online games.

Officially works with PS5, PC, MacOS, iOS, and Android

Best PS5 Controller

Years after its release, the PlayStation 5 remained a mythical beast . A cryptid. A scarcely glimpsed and rare creature most folks had only heard tell of. Due to supply chain issues, it was just hard to get your hands on one. But if you’ve managed to now, you might be looking around for a good third-party controller. Well, there just isn’t one that beats Sony’s housemade DualSense. This little thing looks slick and futuristic, feels great, and comes packed with features you can't find elsewhere.

These new features include three-dimensional rumble, which gives you haptic feedback in a variety of places on the controller based on what’s going on in your game. The same goes for the custom-tensioned trigger buttons. Games can alter how hard it is to pull the triggers, how it feels, and the feedback the controller gives you. It’s amazing, and I went on about it in my PS5 review .

Officially works with PS5, PC, Android, and iOS

Best for Xbox One & Series X

What's nice about PC gamepads is that they're usually compatible with the Xbox One and Xbox Series X . The Scuf Instinct Pro is no exception. It's a well-built controller, with a matte black finish and grippy underside. It feels premium, and it also has a number of features that set it apart from competitors. 

The paddles on the back are my favorite. There are four that can be mapped to 16 different controller functions. The paddles themselves are like hair triggers that rest right underneath your fingers, so you don't need to adjust your grip at all to use them. They come in handy for games like Destiny 2 and Overwatch 2 when you have to juggle class abilities. It's compatible with PC, but the Xbox silhouette doesn't feel quite as nice for PC games as it once did. Thankfully we have another pick for PC players in this guide. 

Officially works with PC, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, MacOS, iOS, and Android

Alternative Controller for Xbox or PC

While it’s very expensive and has a gimmicky color screen that can display your phone notifications, the Stealth Ultra from Turtle Beach boasts Hall Effect thumbsticks, remappable microswitch face buttons, and four programmable rear buttons. You can customize almost everything, from trigger actuation distance to vibration intensity to RGB lighting. It falls well short of the 30-hour battery life with everything turned on, but there’s a handy magnetic charging dock and good quality braided cable in the fleece-lined, zip-up case. There is also a 3.5mm audio jack, and it comes with thumbstick caps.

The Stealth Ultra connects via Bluetooth or the 2.4GHz wireless USB dongle provided. It also works with Windows, Android, or iOS. I was skeptical as I unboxed, but once in hand, this responsive and precise controller never failed to impress. Flicking between Halo Infinite and Forza Horizon 5, the Stealth Ultra proved to be a trusty companion. After initially dismissing the screen as superfluous, it turned out to be handy for changing settings without dipping into the buggy software. It costs more than most folks will ever want to spend on a controller, but Turtle Beach has packed in just about everything you could want.

Officially works with PC, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, iOS, and Android

Best for Nintendo Switch

First-party controllers are often quite good. They're usually well-built, feel comfortable, and do everything a controller should do. Still, it's rare for a first-party controller to feel as nearly perfect as the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller. This controller might top every category if you could use it as easily with PC, Xbox, and PS4 as you can with the Switch.

There are no other gamepads on the market that feel as comfortable and responsive as the Pro. It is the king of controllers. If you use your Switch in docked mode, you owe it to yourself to invest in one of these gamepads. It'll spoil you for all other controllers. Check out our Nintendo Switch Accessories guide to learn more.

Officially works with Nintendo Switch, iOS, and Android

Alternative for PC or Switch

This feature-packed controller from 8BitDo has lots to offer at a reasonable price. At first glance it looks like an Xbox controller, but it has five central buttons on the front and a pair of rear paddles. It boasts a host of customization options to suit your play style. Using 8BitDo’s software, you can remap buttons, tweak the stick and trigger sensitivity, assign macros, and tune the vibration intensity.

It’s a compact controller with a grippy texture on the handles, satisfyingly clicky triggers, and a decent D-pad. The Bluetooth support is for Nintendo Switch, making this a solid alternative to the Switch Pro controller, but there’s also a 2.4G dongle in the charging dock for PC gaming. Battery life tops 20 hours, but the convenient charging dock keeps it topped up.

Officially works with Nintendo Switch, Windows, SteamOS

Best for PS4

There's something comforting about the plain old DualShock silhouette. It's familiar and feels great, but it isn't without flaws—mostly battery life. Those things die in just a couple of hours. Scuf has a solution: the Infinity4PS Pro controller. It has better battery life, and there are a couple of customizable paddles on the back side of the gamepad for fast-twitch performance. This is a controller for anyone who wants to have their cake and eat it too. It works best with PlayStation 4, but it's compatible with PC as well.

It captures what I loved about the original PS4 controller and expands on it. It's weighty without being too heavy, or too light and cheap-feeling. It’s the controller Sony should have made for the PS4.

Officially works with PS4, PC, MacOS, iOS, and Android

Best Wired Controller

At first glance, this looks like a standard Xbox controller, but GameSir has packed in high-end features like Hall Effect analog triggers, customizable back paddles, a hair trigger mode, four rumble motors, and swappable faceplates that you can paint (you get a white spare in the box). GameSir also promises a 256-Hz polling rate and 0.004-second input latency.

Cutting through the specs, this controller feels responsive, the joysticks glide smoothly, and the buttons have a satisfying mechanical click. It is lightweight, I don’t love the 4-way D-pad, and the USB-C port is weirdly deep, but these are minor complaints. The build quality is impressive for the price, and you can tweak to your heart’s content in the GameSir Nexus app (Xbox and Windows).

Officially works with PC, Xbox Series X/S, and Xbox One

Best for Retro Play

No, you're not hallucinating. This is a SNES-style controller with joysticks. And Bluetooth. And support for Switch and PC. Functionally, it's not unlike a PS4 controller, with the sticks at the bottom flanked by buttons and a directional pad. But it feels very different. The familiar flat profile of a classic SNES controller makes it a perfect choice for playing retro games, but it's fully functional with modern titles. So if you're looking for a retro gamepad for the classic Nintendo games available on the Switch, or just something to spark some nostalgia, this is it.

If you struggle to get by without handles, the 8BitDo Pro 2 ($50) adds them, along with a couple of handy programmable back buttons. It currently tops our Best Mobile Game Controller guide. Both controllers can also be used with retro consoles like the SNES Classic.

Officially works with Nintendo Switch, PC, MacOS, iOS, and Android

Best Accessible Controller for Xbox and PC

The Xbox Adaptive Controller is designed to offer a wide variety of options for gamers who may not be able to comfortably use a traditional gamepad. It essentially deconstructs all the inputs in a gamepad and lays them out in a way so anyone can create a controller layout that works for them.

Games are for everyone, and this controller offers an easier way for anyone to play Xbox and PC games. The Adaptive Controller is just the base station, though. You can also plug in buttons, switches, or foot pedals to customize your setup.

Best Accessible Controller for PlayStation

Sony’s palm-sized, turtle-shaped Access controller ( 8/10, WIRED Recommends ) is a welcome addition to adaptive gaming. This customizable kit has swappable buttons, adjustable stick length and caps, and expandable inputs (four 3.5mm ports), so folks can add compatible accessories.

The Access controller can be used flat on a table or tray, in your lap, or attached to an AMPS pattern mount. You can create up to 30 custom control profiles on your PS5 and store three on the Access controller itself (there’s a dedicated button for switching). It lacks Remote Play support, a touchpad, and haptics, but our reviewer mostly liked it , saying, “...the Access Controller’s ingenuity solved my issues and opened gaming back up for me.”

Best Budget Controller

Sometimes you want an extra controller for couch co-op but don’t want to spring for an official gamepad. The React-R is the cheapest Xbox controller we’ve used that wasn’t terrible (it will work on PC, too, but we’ve yet to find one for PS5 that we can recommend). The React-R is corded and feels lightweight, if a little cheap. There are textured handles and shoulder buttons, and it’s comfortable to use until you get sweaty hands. Button presses are crisp but hollow, and the D-pad is mushy. The best thing about this controller is the two programmable paddles on the back. Turtle Beach also offers a handy mute mic button, game audio and chat mix controls (Xbox only), and a weird EQ filter designed to amplify certain sounds like enemy footsteps.

An extra $10 gets you the Turtle Beach Recon ($50) which adds mic-monitoring, EQ presets, a focus mode that drops the sensitivity on the right stick for easier aiming, and superior rubber grips on the handles. But you can also snag an official Microsoft Xbox Wireless Controller for $48 .

Honorable Mentions

There are so many game controllers out there, but not all of them were good enough to make the list above. These are the other controllers we have tested recently.

Nacon Revolution 5 Pro for $200 : This highly customizable PS5 controller boasts Hall Effect sticks and triggers, programmable back paddles, and a great D-pad. You can tweak the weight, stick length and grips, and even the trigger actuation. It boasts a 10-hour battery life and you can connect your headset via Bluetooth or plug-in. Unfortunately, it's expensive and you don't get the haptic feedback or adaptive triggers that you'll find in Sony's excellent DualSense controllers.

Nacon Pro Compact Controller Colorlight for $50 : I am a sucker for translucent tech , so this Nacon controller immediately caught my eye. Not only can you see through to the electronic innards, but they also added colored LEDs with lighting effects you can cycle through. As the name suggests, this is a compact controller. The smaller size may suit kids or folks with smaller hands, but I found it slightly uncomfortable after an hour in Minecraft . It is also a wired controller, but you can tweak stick sensitivity and some other bits and pieces in the Nacon app, and it’s not too pricey.

Power-A Fusion Pro 3 for $78 : With a detachable faceplate, nicely textured grips, trigger locks for different depths, swappable thumbsticks, and a long detachable cable, this controller has a lot to recommend it. The shoulder buttons and relatively high price are why it misses out on a place above (the GameSir G7 edges it on value). But this is my daughter’s favorite wired controller because she plays with a headset and loves that there is a 3.5mm audio jack with volume and mute controls. She also likes the four mappable back buttons.

Nacon Revolution X Pro for $100 : This wired Xbox and PC controller comes with a long (around 10 foot), detachable, braided USB-C cable. Nacon offers an impressive level of customization, including interchangeable thumbsticks, programmable back buttons, and weights to help you get the feel you want. The Profile button lets you cycle through four presets, a switch toggles configurations, and it has a 3.5mm headphone jack. You can tweak everything in the flaky Revolution X app for Xbox or PC. While it works well, I don’t love the cheap feel (even with adjusted weight), and the rear triggers are awkward. At full price, the Revolution X Pro is too expensive for a wired controller, but discounts are frequent.

QRD Spark N5 for $49 : This affordable PS4 controller has Hall Effect joysticks and triggers, programmable back paddles, adjustable LED lights, and decent battery life (around 8 hours). It also works with Windows, Steam Deck, Android, or iOS and can be used to play PS4 games on PS5 (but not PS5 games). It can’t compete with our pick above (Scuf) but is a decent alternative at a quarter of the price. Unfortunately, it feels kinda cheap, with the shoulder triggers and D-pad particularly disappointing.

QRD Stellar T5 for $59 : I love the idea behind this Nintendo Switch controller. At first glance, it looks like the official Nintendo Switch Pro Controller above, but you can take it apart to slide your Switch into the middle. The controller boasts Hall Effect joysticks, mechanical switches, adjustable vibration, and LED lights. It also has a six-axis motion-sensing gyroscope and programmable back buttons. It works with Windows, Android, or iOS, too. Unfortunately, the triggers are mushy.

Logitech G Pro Racing Wheel for $1,000 : WIRED editor Parker Hall raved about Logitech’s racing wheel accessory , and racing game fans with deep pockets will love it. It adds a layer of reality to your in-gaming driving with force feedback and vibrations that help you feel every surface. The gear shift paddles have Hall Effect sensors. There is also an OLED display that enables you to tweak settings without opening the app.

Power-A Advantage Wired Controller with Lumectra for $45 : This Xbox Series X/S controller is affordable, and a lengthy (10-foot) detachable cable comes in the box. It feels much like a regular Xbox controller, but it’s not very grippy, and I’m not keen on the shoulder triggers. The 3.5mm audio jack is handy, but there are no volume and mute controls (unlike Power-A’s superior Fusion 3). The Lumectra model comes bundled with an RGB light strip, but we found the lights tricky to control, and they often changed unexpectedly. Over time, the detachable USB-C cable got quite loose and occasionally slipped out in the middle of a game.

Wireless controllers are great, but you do have to remember to charge them. If you don’t want to mess with cables, a charging dock is the way. After testing several, we have some recommendations.

For PS5 Controllers : Playstation DualSense Charging Station ($30) The official Sony charging station is the best for DualSense controllers. It is compact, charges two controllers, and frees up your PS5's ports. Slotting your controllers into place is a breeze, with successful docking marked by a click.

For Xbox Controllers : 8BitDo Dual Charging Dock ($45) This stylish charging station is for wireless Xbox Series X|S or Xbox One controllers and comes with battery packs and replacement doors. The molded plastic makes it easy to slide your controllers into, and you can tap the top to change the lighting. The only drawback is that it is bulky.

For Nintendo Controllers : PowerA Controller Charging Base ($30) This charging base can charge a Switch Pro controller and two Joy-Cons. It is simple to use, although you must insert a USB dongle into the Pro controller. I actually slightly prefer Power-A’s charging dock, which is more compact than the base, but it is out of stock at the moment. If you only need Joy-Con charging, try the HyperX Chargeplay Quad ($30) .

A Question of Tradition

If you tell teammates on Apex Legends that you play with a gamepad, a couple of them will probably quit. There is a huge stigma against using gamepads in online games, particularly on PC. Hardcore gamers cite lack of precision, slow reaction times, and clumsy aim as justification for dumping on gamers who use controllers instead of a mouse and keyboard.

There are two things to unpack here. First, the gamepads on this list are designed to banish that stigma. The Scuf Prestige is specifically designed for competitive use even in PC games. Customized correctly, a gamepad isn't going to hold you back. Second, there's a question of accessibility. Not everyone can use a mouse and keyboard, even if they want to. The perception that someone could never perform as well as their mouse-and-keyboard-using compatriots is false. Games are for everyone.

Screen Distancing

If you’re in the market for a new controller or console, or you’re getting a controller for a PC for the first time, I want to point a few things out about placement—specifically, your placement, where you are in relation to your TV or monitor. For most of us, when we’re playing a console game we sit on the couch. If we’re playing a PC game we sit at our desks. But the distance between you and your display can play a huge role in your overall feelings about gaming with a gamepad.

If you’re too far away it can feel like you’re slow and sluggish, like you’re oddly detached from the game. For me, it feels like trying to type with chopsticks. I’m able to hit the same keys and type, but it isn't optimal. You would get the same using a mouse and keyboard far from your PC, but you don’t typically use those if you aren't sitting very close to the screen.

So if you’re using a gamepad and find yourself feeling less capable than you were with a mouse and keyboard, this hand-eye coordination disconnect could be the culprit. Don’t be too proud to sit closer to your TV or monitor, even if that means sitting on the floor like a kid watching Saturday morning cartoons. You might find that you do better with about 5 to 6 feet of distance between you and your TV, or about 3 feet between you and your monitor. Footie pajamas optional.

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A range of shapes, sizes, and features to fit your hands as well as your play style

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Finding the best controller for playing PC games is a more personal journey than it sounds. It’s got to be comfortable to use, with every button, stick, and trigger easily in reach. It’s also important that you’re getting the features you want. For example, those might include easy setup on PC, good battery life, multi-platform compatibility, and accessibility options, like the ability to remap buttons and adjust stick or trigger sensitivity.

At Polygon, we play games on a lot of consoles and platforms — both new and old. Our staff has a wide variety of preferences and needs. We’ve come together to share our favorite PC-ready controllers.

Microsoft Xbox controller

On the Polygon team, the Xbox controller got the highest number of endorsements of any controller. This speaks to its comfort and value, and that Microsoft has released enough colors to satisfy varying tastes in design. It also helps that it’s usually around $50 (depending on the color), and that it just works with most PC games. Regardless of the Windows PC game client, there are no extra steps for setting it up.

Xbox wireless controller

Prices taken at time of publishing.

Compatible with PC, Steam Deck, Xbox, mobile (Android/iOS) 

• $60 at Walmart
• $60 at Amazon

This controller is a refined version of Microsoft’s Xbox One wireless model, with added texture around its grips, plus a capture button in the middle. It can, of course, connect to Xbox consoles, and to PCs that have Bluetooth. One universally positive change from the older version is that, if you want to connect via a cable for wired play, its connector port is the more ubiquitous USB-C instead of Micro USB. It also has a 3.5mm headphone jack for private listening, though it can only be used if your controller is wired into your PC, not wirelessly.

Beyond PC compatibility, the Xbox controller boasts native compatibility on Steam Deck, plus recent versions of Android and iOS. So, whether you have a phone or tablet, this controller can easily connect via Bluetooth. A growing number of mobile games support it, too, and it works like a charm with the Xbox Game Pass game streaming app.

It can work on even more platforms if you purchase 8BitDo’s clever $19.99 USB Adapter 2 . With it, you can use the Xbox controller on your Nintendo Switch. In addition to Switch support, this USB adapter lets you easily connect your Xbox controller to other devices, like Mac, Raspberry Pi, and more.

The biggest downside to the Xbox controller might not bother you: It requires two AA batteries , though on a positive note, the battery life is around the 40-hour range, depending on usage. If you don’t want to change out batteries, we recommend this $44.99 8BitDo dual controller charging dock , which includes two rechargeable battery packs, enough for two controllers.

Microsoft’s Xbox Elite Series 2 builds on the excellent foundation of Microsoft’s Xbox controller with features that enthusiast gamers may appreciate. It features swappable stick caps and directional pads, adjustable tension for its analog sticks, and customizable back paddles. It also ships in a nice zip-up case. If you want more buttons and tweakable settings in a controller, this might be worth its $178.99 price. This model is compatible with Xbox and PC.

Xbox Elite Series 2 wireless controller

• $151 at Amazon
• $151 at Microsoft

If you don’t need all of the extra accessories that come with the Elite Series 2, Microsoft makes a cheaper Elite Series 2 Core. If you decide later on that you want the paddles, zip-up case, and swappable sticks, you can buy this third-party kit on Amazon for $22.99 .

Xbox Elite Series 2 Core wireless controller

• $105 at Amazon
• $105 at Target
• $130 at GameStop

Sony DualSense controller

There’s another slice of our staff who swear by Sony’s DualSense , a modern controller that retains the symmetrical analog stick arrangement that PlayStation controllers are known for. Compared directly to the Xbox controller, the DualSense has similar levels of compatibility (both are compatible with Android and iOS, and feature built-in Bluetooth for support on PC). However, the DualSense does have key differences, as well as a few perks that help to justify its higher $69.99 price.

In terms of using the DualSense on a PC, it’s possible to do, but it’s a little complicated. It can connect via Bluetooth for a wireless connection, but games that don’t support the DirectInput controller API likely won’t recognize it as a controller. Plugging the controller into your PC might solve that issue, but there are other ways to get around this barrier if playing wirelessly is important to you.

PlayStation DualSense wireless controller

• $70 at Amazon (cobalt blue)
• $70 at Amazon (white)
• $75 at Amazon (cosmic red)

One is to rely on Steam, which supports the DualSense controller with its SteamInput API. That makes Sony’s controller a first-class citizen in the eyes of Steam, right next to the Xbox controller, and plenty of games should offer no-fuss DualSense support.

If you have PC games that you want to play on other services, like PC Game Pass, Epic Games Store, and more, you might experience some middling compatibility with the DualSense. However, adding them as a “non-Steam game” within Steam can solve for this. To do this, click the “Add a Game” option in the bottom left corner of the Steam client, then find the executable file (.exe) in your storage.

To get around using Steam entirely, you can download an app called DS4Windows along with some drivers , which ensures game compatibility on PC by emulating the DualSense as an Xbox controller. The app gives you a host of settings to customize the DualSense’s button mapping, if you wish. And, in case you want to go down the rabbit hole of figuring out which PC games support the DualSense’s haptics and adaptive trigger features (and the steps to getting them to work), the site PCGamingWiki has you covered.

The DualSense is the official controller for the PS5. In games that support its features, it can have realistic-feeling haptic feedback and gyroscopic motion controls, and its triggers can provide tension to make certain actions feel more realistic. There’s no better controller for the PS5 than this one. It’s a good controller for using PS Remote Play, too. When it’s connected to an Android device for a PS Remote Play session, the DualSense supports adaptive triggers in games that take advantage of the feature.

8BitDo’s $19.99 USB Adapter 2 also works perfectly with the DualSense, letting you play games on your Switch with it once it’s paired. I preferred to play Splatoon 3 with my PS5 controller’s analog stick arrangement. Heck, it even supports gyroscopic camera movement, just like the official Switch controllers.

Just like Microsoft, Sony also has its own pro-grade controller. It’s the $199.99 DualSense Edge , which is compatible with the PS5. It’s tempting to call out its similarities to the Xbox Elite Series 2, of which there are plenty, but it’s more helpful to speak about how it differs. For one, its stick modules can be replaced entirely — a move that makes the DualSense Edge a little more user-repairable. Also, the PS5’s interface for the Edge is intuitive, and it makes remapping controls and setting schemes the breeze that it should be.

While the Edge is compatible on PC, Sony and Steam haven’t developed drivers that let gamers take full advantage of its back paddles and swappable control schemes.

Sony DualSense Edge

• $200 at Best Buy
• $200 at Amazon
• $200 at Walmart

Nintendo Switch Pro controller

The Switch Pro controller is another staff favorite. If it’s a great Nintendo Switch and PC controller you’re after, this is the pinnacle in terms of comfort, durability, battery life, and other Switch-specific extras, but we’ll get to those a little later.

Compatible with PC, Switch

• $69 at Amazon
• $70 at GameStop
• $70 at Best Buy

The Switch Pro controller can be used to play PC games. But like the DualSense, it’s not a plug-and-play affair unless you literally plug it in via USB. To use it wirelessly, running Steam can help you out, as it officially supports the Switch Pro controller. Adding non-Steam games to your Steam library is a clever way to ensure compatibility for games that support controllers. Again, you can do that by clicking the “Add a Game” option on the bottom left corner in the Steam client.

Alternatively, if you don’t want to use Steam to play your games, relying on DS4Windows and its bevy of drivers is a free yet slightly advanced way to make Windows recognize your Switch Pro wireless controller. Of course, that $19.99 8BitDo USB Adapter 2 that I keep referencing can come in handy here, too. After plugging it into your PC and tethering wirelessly to it, you’re good to go — no fussing with apps required.

The Switch Pro controller is, unsurprisingly, a fantastic Switch controller. Like the Joy-Cons, it supports motion controls, HD rumble for more subtle, accurate jolts of haptic feedback in games, and amiibo connectivity to redeem in-game perks in several games, including the upcoming The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom .

This might seem small, but it stands out as being one of a few wireless Switch controllers in existence that can wake the console remotely by holding down its home button. Many require you to manually turn on the console, which can be a minor annoyance.

8BitDo Ultimate 2.4g controller

8BitDo has released a lot of controllers in recent years, but the name for its Ultimate controller is fitting. It has many of the features from its best gamepads, plus some extras that should settle any sticker shock associated with its $49.99 price.

For starters, its asymmetrical analog stick layout, overall shape, and face button labels should feel right at home for people who love the shape of the Xbox controller. All of the buttons, triggers, and sticks feel just as good to use as any modern controller from a console manufacturer.

Like several other 8BitDo controllers, this one can be thoroughly customized with its Ultimate software on mobile devices, or on PC. From there, you can remap controls, assign buttons to its two rear paddle buttons, tweak the actuation sensitivity of its triggers, and adjust stick settings. The controller allows up to three custom control schemes, which you can switch between with its middle “star” button.

Compatible with PC, Android, iOS, iPadOS, Apple TV, and Mac hardware

• $50 at Amazon

The Ultimate controller ships with a charging dock, and nesting inside of that dock is a 2.4 GHz transmitter that makes it fast and easy to connect to a PC. The dock makes for a convenient way to charge the controller, and you can switch between DirectInput and XInput by using a switch on its back, depending on the requirements of each PC game.

8BitDo makes a pricier version of this controller with Nintendo-style face buttons called the Ultimate Bluetooth . They’re virtually identical, and it can work via 2.4 GHz with PC, too. However, its biggest benefit is its Gulikit Hall effect analog sticks, which are resistant to developing drift over time by design. By comparison, the potentiometer-based sticks used in the Ultimate 2.4g (and all of the other controllers mentioned so far) bear no such guarantee. There’s a possibility you may never experience the issue firsthand, but the anti-drifting sticks alone might be a reason for some to consider buying the Ultimate Bluetooth.

The Ultimate Bluetooth is similar in a lot of ways to Nintendo’s Switch Pro controller, with its motion control support, rechargeable battery, and Nintendo-style face button layout. However, it doesn’t have all of the same features. For instance, it doesn’t support NFC, so you can’t tap an amiibo on it, and its haptics aren’t up to par with Nintendo’s. However, it’s one of a few third-party Switch controllers that can wake your console from sleep. If it’s paired, press the home button, then shake the controller to awaken the Switch.

8BitDo Ultimate Bluetooth controller

• $54 at Amazon (black)
• $59 at Amazon (white)

Update (Nov. 17) : Checked prices and links for accuracy.

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Must-Have PC Travel Accessories

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Using a PC is one of the most powerful ways to interact with a screen. However, there is a reason they aren't called "mobile" devices, as they're generally stuck in one place. Traveling with a PC takes dedication and effort and is usually only done with purpose, such as at a gaming convention, work site, or during a move. People worry too much about messing up their favorite CPU , monitor, or other gear to travel with their PC regularly. Fortunately, it doesn't have to be so tricky, and companies are largely aware of the stress associated with traveling with a PC. Some have even looked to make the experience enjoyable.

Typically, PC travel accessories come in the following flavors: Desktop tower carrying cases, keyboard/mouse carrying cases, monitor carrying cases, and specialized equipment to use specifically while traveling. While many of the larger tower carrying cases have storage compartments for other items travelers often carry, there are also products designed for specialized uses, such as USB/cord organization cases and specialized mouse compartments. Mixing and matching products based on the gamers' personal traveling needs is recommended.

CURMIO Double-Layer Carrying Case

Trunab computer desktop tower carrying case, curmio rolling desktop computer carrying case, kemove x keyboard travel case, nuphy air 75, logitech g305 lightspeed gaming mouse, rlsoco hard case, anker soundcore vr p10 wireless earbuds, curmio 24-inch monitor carrying case, waterproof cable organizer bag, gamesir g7 se wired controller for xbox.

The CURMIO Double-Layer Carrying Case is a solid carrying case for any PC tower and has room for other PC peripherals, such as keyboards and headphones. Additionally, it thinks about the smart parts on the inside of a tower by providing 6-sided protection and reduced bumping and sliding.

• Reinforced Padding
• Bump and Slip Resistant Bottom
• Room for Additional Accessories

The CURMIO Double-Layer Carrying Case is the perfect standard PC tower carrying case for typical users. It provides a snug, rectangular interior that fits the shape of most PC towers, as well as double-layered cushioning to make sure the precious motherboard and awesome graphics cards aren't getting jostled about too much. When moving about, the CURMIO Double-Layer Carrying Case can be carried by a soft, reinforced hand grip and an optional shoulder strap. Need to rest? Putting a PC down on the ground won't be troubling either, as this case includes anti-slip feet pads and an optional bottom pad (that goes inside the case) to reduce bumping even more. Of course, this comes with the slight downside of not having wheels, but it is hard to have excellent vibration dampening and wheels on the same device.

The CURMIO Double-Layer Carrying Case also provides room for other PC parts and peripherals. For example, the rectangular compartment up top will be great for a keyboard (if the keyboard can fit on top of the desktop, it should fit) while the other side compartments can take a mouse and headset. They're all encased in double-layered softness as well. Ultimately, the CURMIO Double-Layer Carrying Case comes together to act as a luggage container for a very special co-traveler.

The Trunab Computer Desktop Tower Carrying Case is a PC tower carrying case in backpack form. Users can carry any PC tower and accompanying accessories by back or use the top handle to carry it like any other luggage compartment.

• Chest Support Strap
• Option to Carry
• Additional Spots for Accessories
• Limited Padding
• Rough on Back for Long Trips

The Trunab Computer Desktop Tower Carrying Case is a great carrying case alternative for those who need to keep their hands free for all their other luggage. In addition to the traditional handle, gamers can also stick their arms through hoops to carry their PC along with them, backpack style. There's even a connector strap to give users more support. It has a large interior that supports even the largest PC towers or pre-built PCs , with additional room for accessories. But don't get too excited; users will still need to carry the products on their back.

Naturally, Trunab understands that gamers probably won't want to carry a PC on their back for a lengthy amount of time. As a result, the Trunab Computer Desktop Tower Carrying Case works excellently as a handle-carried case as well. It even comes with anti-slip feet and a bit of padding. It can be the best of both worlds for those who plan right.

The CURMIO Rolling Desktop Computer Carrying Case is a PC tower carrying case that acts like an airport luggage case. It has an extendable handle and wheels for easy rolling.

• Adjustable Handle Height
• Double-Lined Interior
• Space for Other Accessories
• Still Best to Carry Over Gravel, Rough Surfaces

The CURMIO Rolling Desktop Computer Carrying Case is perfect for flights or taking a PC up to and out of the hotel. Like many standard luggage compartments, it has wheels on the bottom and an extendable handle. In this way, users can roll it — and the PC tower — together to make it to their destination easily. In addition to the main, softly double-lined compartment for the PC tower, users will find similarly soft and double-lined compartments for other PC products. In this case, gamers will want to load up as much as possible — keyboard, mouse, headset, headphones, even a toothbrush — as the CURMIO Rolling Desktop Computer Carrying Case's wheels make everything feel lightweight and easy to move.

Unfortunately, the CURMIO Rolling Desktop Computer Carrying Case is not for every situation. Due to the nature of how wheels and surfaces work, the PC inside might still go through a rather bumpy ride if it goes over the wrong surfaces, such as gravel or cobblestone. Even rough concrete can cause a certain amount of bumpage or rattling. Luckily, there is still a comfortable handle to use in these situations. That being said, this PC tower carrying case is a bit more expensive than others — primarily due to its rolling nature — so for those gamers who aren't going to get maximum usage out of the wheels, it's an easy skip. However, if the route will take advantage of the wheels to maximum effectiveness, it could be worth every penny. It all depends on the gamer's unique situation and needs.

DIERYA's KEMOVE X Keyboard Travel Case is the perfect choice for traveling with a 60% or 65% mechanical keyboard. It is made of a combination of soft nylon fabric and a hard EVA shell to offer maximum protection.

• Hard Outer Case
• Inner Strap to Reduce Movement
• Optional Shoulder Carrying Strap
• Won't Fit Wide Keyboards

Moving a mechanical keyboard from one place to another can be a bit stressful. After all the time spent carefully putting customized keys on a mechanical gaming keyboard , the thought of getting it banged about in a backpack is just a no-go. To keep a keyboard safe, try the KEMOVE X Keyboard Travel Case. It provides a cushioned interior with a hard EVA case to provide the perfect combination of soft padding and tough shell that an excellent keyboard deserves. There is even an internal strap to "buckle" the keyboard in and prevent extra shaking about. There's also an additional mesh compartment for a couple of small cords, spare caps, or whatever else can be needed.

The KEMOVE X's interior dimensions are 11.8" x 3.9" x 1.4" and are designed around being compatible with 60%-65% mechanical keyboards. This is worth noting for gamers looking for a keyboard case for a long move. For travel, however, the KEYMOVE X will suit most needs fine and help gamers make conscious decisions about how much they need on their travels.

The NuPhy Air75 is an ultra-thin keyboard made for people on the go who don't want to compromise their typing experience. Measuring only 16mm thick, this keyboard is unlike most mechanical keyboards on the market. The Air75 aims to be the first thing people think of when they hear "thin keyboard".

• Incredibly lightweight
• Works with up to 3 devices (including PC, tablet, and smartphone) simultaneously
• Difficult for those with Extra Large Hands

For those gamers who want a keyboard that is easy to pack even without a case, look no further than the NuPhy Air 75. This ultra-thin keyboard measures only 16mm thick and does not compromise the typing experience. The NuPhy Air75 is a mechanical keyboard with red, blue, or brown low-profile mechanical switches, but it is also fully hot-swappable, so gamers who want to customize it and make it their own can easily do so.

As far as gaming on this keyboard, it is an absolute delight. There are three ways to connect it: wired, 2.4GHz wireless, and Bluetooth. Most gamers will probably want to use the wired or 2.4GHz wireless option because Bluetooth is not quick enough for fast-paced gaming. However, the Bluetooth connection is excellent when gamers are in a pinch or want to connect it to their tablet. By default, the Air75 only comes with the keyboard, but for those who plan to travel with this keyboard, a folio carrying case can be added on for an extra $19. This folio case won't just protect the keyboard from bumps and scratches, but it also doubles as a tablet stand.

With up to 250 hours of battery life, the Logitech G305 Lightspeed Gaming Mouse will outlast almost any wireless mouse. At the same time, the mouse's HERO sensor is rated at up to 12,000 DPI, so gamers sacrifice little when opting for this more portable, budget-friendly mouse.

• Up to 12,000 DPI
• 1,000 Hz polling rate
• Incredibly long battery life
• No Bluetooth connection option
• Have to replace AA battery there is no way to recharge it via cable.

Mice are typically smaller and will fit into most bags or cases regardless of the size of the mouse, so finding one that is good for travel is generally easier than most accessories. But where the Logitech G305 makes the case for itself as the best travel gaming mouse is the price and impressive battery life. Unless gamers are traveling for an e-sports competition and can not give up their favorite gaming mouse, carrying around an expensive top-of-the-line mouse might not be the best idea. The G305, however, is typically below $50 and is okay if it gets banged up or tossed around a bit.

When traveling, gamers will not always have access to a typical gaming desk setup, so having a wireless mouse will reduce the need for a clear path for the cable. Of course, with a wireless mouse, it will need to be recharged at some point, but because the G305 is incredibly efficient, it has an extremely long battery life of 250 hours. If it does happen to die while traveling, users can replace the AA battery for another 250 hours of use instead of recharging.

The RLSOSO Hard Case is a mouse case that is designed for Logitech G Pro series and MX Master series mice. It will also support similarly sized mice from other manufacturers. The case has a hard shell with a soft coating, plus a nice interior strap to keep the mouse even more stable during travels.

• Internal Strap to Reduce Shaking
• Soft Interior, Hard Exterior
• Basically Universal
• Loop for Carabiner
• Limited Internal Storage with Larger Mice

As some gamers seem to have a soft spot for Logitech gaming mice , it figures that they'll also need to transport them about. RLSOCO's hard case is designed with Logitech G, G Pro, and MX Master series mice in mind, although it can also carry any mouse under 5.5" x 3.9" x 2.0" in size, as it is truly universal.

The RLSOCO case features a hard EVA exterior that can keep a mouse from getting crushed and a soft interior that will keep it from getting banged about. There's even a "seatbelt" strap inside to reduce extra moving. With it ready to go, toss the small case in a bag or use the loop to carry it. Users can attach it to a carabiner or pop it on a keychain. This makes the RLSOCO mouse case an excellent choice for con-goers or LAN party attendees who expect to have a PC provided but want to bring their own special mouse.

The Soundcore VR P10 wireless earbuds are made to be used with the Meta Quest 2, but thanks to the under 30ms latency and USB-C 2.4Ghz dongle, these earbuds can be used for gaming regardless of the system. Plug in and play using the USB-C dongle to connect to Meta Quest 2, Steam Deck, PICO 4, PS4, PS5, PC, or Switch. And don't worry about running low on battery. The dongle has a pass-through charging port to keep gamers playing all day.

• Excellent sound quality
• USB-C dongle connection for ultra-low latency connection
• Built-in microphone
• Fairly short battery life

Gaming headsets make any gaming experience much more immersive and enjoyable, but most travelers won't have room for a full-sized headset in their bag. The Soundcore VR P10, on the other hand, offers incredible sound, a low latency wireless connection, and a built-in microphone, all in a tiny package that can fit in a pocket. The VR P10 are true wireless earbuds made for gaming with the Meta Quest 2, but thanks to the USB-C 2.4 GHz dongle, gamers can easily connect them to their PC.

These earbuds won't give the same surround sound experience that some gaming headsets offer, but they sound absolutely fantastic for their price and size. They have a feature called Super Hearing that boosts the bass in game, so it is easier to hear footsteps and shots. Plus, they can be used as regular Bluetooth headphones with a simple, understated look when not gaming.

The CURMIO 24-Inch Monitor Carrying Case is perfect for taking any monitor on the go. The 24-inch size is a great compromise for most gaming setups. This case completely covers the monitor and leaves room for the accompanying stand.

• Lightweight
• Don't Need to Remove Stand
• Sturdy, 6-Clip Design
• Limited Other Storage
• No Stand Protection

The CURMIO 24-inch Monitor Carrying Case surrounds and secures a monitor as users travel with it. Unlike a lot of cases where the product it is meant to protect is inserted into the case, the CURMIO case initially appears as a sheet. By folding this "sheet" around the monitor and using the six provided clips, a 24-inch gaming monitor will be completely surrounded and protected. There's even a cutaway for the stand and a handle at the top. This means users can carry their monitor like any other piece of luggage and rest it on its stand when they stop moving. Not that gamers should expect to need to put the case down regularly, as it is only one pound.

While the CURMIO 24-inch Monitor Carrying Case boasts extra storage compartments, gamers will likely find that they are limited and don't offer the solid protection that more dedicated cable cases offer on this list. Additionally, the stand isn't afforded any protection from this setup, which can feel like an oversight. However, for those traveling with a PC and monitor and having any say in how they are handled, this will easily be the setup to go for.

The ORIENT FORMULAY Travel Electronics Waterproof Cable Organizer Bag is a great way to keep computer cables organized and untangled when travelling. Plus, there is even room for an iPad.

• Carries All Small Accessories
• Anti-Tangle Design
• Can Store Tablets, Power Banks, Etc.
• Water Resistant
• Double Zipper Design Provides Entrance for Water

The waterproof cable organizer bag from ORIENT FAMULAY is a great way to carry a ton of USB, HDMI, and other connection cables that stick into a PC tower. Not only does it keep them organized and as tangle-free as possible, but it also keeps them safe from the elements with a water-resistant outer casing. While the double zipper design does leave an opening for water to enter during a deluge, being smart and keeping the zippers to the side should protect the wires and gear from most sources of harm.

Gamers will also find storage slots perfect for a power bank or an iPad, so if gamers happen to be using their vacation to get through a backlog of great iPad games , then the ORIENT FAMULAY bag will suit their needs well.

The G7 SE Controller is a licensed Xbox controller featuring Hall Effect sticks and tons of customization options. With two extra buttons and four on-board profiles, remapping the button layout is quick and easy. The GameSir Nexus app allows for further customization of the controller's haptic feedback and input sensitivity. The only Xbox controller to have Hall Effect joysticks, this wired controller is one of the most cutting-edge options available.

• Only Xbox controller with hall effect sticks
• Save up to four profiles
• Extremely customizable
• Long wire may be too unwieldy for some gamers
• Only two extra buttons

A controller is always a great thing to have, even though most PC gamers prefer the accuracy of a mouse and keyboard. For those casual games or games like Dark Souls that are nearly impossible to enjoy on a mouse and keyboard, a portable and sturdy controller is an excellent thing to have. For this list, Game Rant has selected the GameSir G7 SE. The under $50 price tag for such high-end specs makes it a no-brainer for most PC and Xbox gamers alike.

Related: GameSir G7 SE Wired Controller Review

The main draw of the G7 SE is the Hall effect joysticks, which have become all the rage lately, with that no-good stick drift ruining everyone's day. Thanks to the Hall effect joysticks, gamers can easily throw this controller into a bag and not worry about having issues with it afterward. The only real downside of the G7 SE is that it is wired, but when traveling, it feels like everything needs to be recharged, so having one accessory that is only wired might be a relief.

How to choose good PC travel accessories

It's already pretty stressful thinking about having to move a PC around, so most gamers don't want to have to overthink getting the carrier as well. Don't worry, it's not too complicated!

Beyond simply picking out a carrier that fits the device , be sure to also look at the materials used to support the outside and inside, the ease of carry , and the shock absorption of the accessory.

While there are similarities between the carriage of a PC tower and the other components that come with computing, sometimes the needs and capabilities to do so are different. When these differences are significant enough, this guide will highlight those differences.

Materials — Inside & Out

The exterior of PC travel accessory bags is usually a soft, water-resistant material that is built tough to resist wear and snags. This soft material will help avoid pain from repeatedly bumping into the skin. Sometimes, smaller accessories skip this part and simply provide a harder exterior. This is because these carrying cases are meant to be put in a backpack or other carrying case and aren't so focused on protecting from the harshest outdoor elements.

Some cases have a hard layer to protect the device from crushing damage. This is more typical for smaller cases made for gamers' favorite mechanical gaming keyboard or mouse. Where PC towers already have a hard exterior shell, letter keys, and mouse buttons are more likely to take damage in transit.

The interiors are typically made up of nylon , a lightweight but strong material that is often used in luggage. Nylon is non-conductive , so it is often used in electronics products but can have some static issues. As a result, users may wish to carry their hard drives in a special carrying case .

Traveling with the best gaming monitor ? The form factor may be completely different. Monitors are more likely to be "strapped in" to a carrier than placed inside one. Still, the materials used will be similar. Need a new gaming pc entirely? Check out Game Rant's list for the best gaming PCs !

Ease of carry

There are several carrying styles used by PC travel accessories. Factor in stature, strength, and predicted walking distances when evaluating a carry style for PC accessories. Also, if traveling with other stuff (clothes, etc.), don't zero in so much on carrying a PC that the essentials like clothes are forgotten. In any event, here are the likely things most gamers will encounter and what to know about each one:

• Handle: The most basic style of carriage. Since the materials in a carrying case are usually quite light, that won't be an issue, but the PC tower on the inside might add quite a lot of weight. Be sure the handle is made of a comfortable material.
• Backpack Loops: Backpack style carriage is nice for saving a hand, but can have other issues. Typical school backpacks push the books down, keeping a low center of gravity, where PC tower backpacks tend to go high and raise the center of gravity. Shorter, lightweight people may struggle with this type of case.
• Handle and Wheels: The best carrying style for avoiding dealing with heavier weights. If traveling over gravel or uneven surfaces, it is still advised to carry off the ground to avoid unnecessary jostling.

Shock Absorption

The final piece of the puzzle is shock absorption. The soft interior takes care of part of it, but that doesn't account for the whole story.

Interior shock absorption is aided by straps, tightening belts, and (if the travel accessory is meant to hold multiple components) having separate compartments for each component. Foam inserts and choosing a carrying case that fits snuggly around a PC tower further help. Cases for mice and keyboards are typically aided by elastic straps , but be on the lookout for product-specific cases for gamers who have a particularly popular product.

As for the exterior, check the bottom of the case . Shock-absorbing feet aren't on all the best PC travel accessories, but they are a welcome addition when available.

Q: How do I pack my computer for travel?

How to pack your computer for travel depends heavily on the distance you are traveling, the components you have, the means of transport, and your personal risk tolerance. If you are expecting heavily bumpy traffic, it could be advisable to remove HDD storage and place it in anti-static casing. You may also wish to re-insert any foam that came with the PC during initial shipping back into the tower, as it is likely to fit perfectly, or try using your own PC-safe material. Put the PC in a PC tower carrying case for travel and try to place it on a spongy surface in your car or other means of transport. All PCs and trips are different, so readjust as necessary.

Q: Can I carry my PC in flight?

According to the United States' Transport Security Administration (TSA) decision about desktop computers in flight , you can bring your PC with you on a plane in your carry on bags or fly it via your checked bags. You should note that you'll need to remove your PC from the carry-on bag to have it run through X-ray screening. For this reason, it is best to use simple packaging — such as a PC tower carrying case — whenever possible. As the TSA warns that the officer on duty has the final say on whether a PC is allowed onto the plane, contacting your local airport with any questions about your specific case is highly recommended.

We hope you like the items we recommend and discuss! Game Rant has affiliate and sponsored partnerships, so we receive a share of the revenue from some of your purchases. This won’t affect the price you pay and helps us offer the best product recommendations.

Article updated on April 8, 2024 at 7:00 PM PDT

Best Xbox Controller for 2024: Series X and Series S

Your Xbox controller can make or break your gaming experience. We’ve tested some of the best wired and wireless options available, and here are our top picks.

Our Experts

• More than two decades experience writing about PCs and accessories, and 15 years writing about cameras of all kinds.

CNET’s expert staff reviews and rates dozens of new products and services each month, building on more than a quarter century of expertise.

When it comes to controllers for your next-gen Xbox console , there are countless options available. And it doesn't matter if you've got the full-size Series X or the more affordable Series S console. If you're looking for the best Xbox controller, start by considering size, features, design and the kind of games you most frequently play. You'll want to make sure you're choosing a controller that also fits your budget. We considered all those things while compiling this list of the best Xbox controllers on the market. And if you're looking for one to use with Xbox Game Pass and your phone, here's the best Xbox controller for cloud gaming .

What's the best Xbox controller?

Microsoft's standard controller for the Xbox Series X and S is the best controller. This wireless controller has all the basic controls you need and a good weight and feel so you can game for hours without issue. It runs on AA-size batteries, but there are several third-party rechargeable battery pack options as well as other accessories to change the look and feel of the controller.

But if you want to move beyond the basic Microsoft controller for Xbox, we've tested many third-party controllers, most of which do double duty as PC gaming controllers as well. Some are wired and some are wireless. Wired non-Microsoft controllers can be a lot less expensive, and some gamers prefer wired connections for cutting down lag in competitive matches. (And you never have to worry about a dead battery.) The official controller, available in a wide variety of colors, might be our gold standard, but if you're looking for your next favorite Xbox gaming controller, these are the best we've tested. 

Read more :  Xbox Game Pass Ultimate Review: The Best Content Deal in Gaming Right Now

Best Xbox controllers for Series X and Series S

Best xbox wireless controller for basics, microsoft controller for xbox series x and s.

If you just want a good standard wireless controller for the Xbox, start with the one that comes in the box. Available in multiple colors, Microsoft's Xbox controller might not have a lot of features, but it is comfortable and can last for up to 40 hours on a couple of AA batteries. And if you'd rather have rechargeables, there are several options available  -- I've been using HyperX's ChargePlay Duo  which locks the controller into place for charging. There's a 3.5mm jack on the front edge next to the expansion port for connecting accessories like a chat keyboard that fits between the grips or audio controls for your headset . You can also remap its buttons, flip the sticks and use other customizations with the Xbox Accessories app.

Best Xbox wired controller for basics

Powera enhanced wired controller for xbox.

We like the PowerA wired controller as a good, inexpensive option when you need an extra Xbox controller for guests or one to use while your wireless controller charges. There are two extra buttons on the bottom of the controller that can be mapped on the fly as well as a 3.5mm jack on the front for a headset. Just above the jack on top is a toggle for volume and a chat mute as well as a diamond texture to the bottom for better grip. Also, like many of PowerA's controllers, it's available in multiple colors, though prices jump around a bit between different variants. 

Best Xbox wired pro controller

Razer wolverine v2 chroma.

Feature-packed is an understatement when it comes to the Wolverine V2 Chroma. The ABXY buttons and the D-pad all use Razer Mecha-Tactile switches. They feel amazing, with a crisp response and satisfying click similar to the clicks from a mouse. There are also six additional buttons: two top bumpers and four bottom triggers. The bottom triggers are especially nice because the design makes them feel like paddles you'd find on other pro controllers but with a sturdier design like the rear triggers. There are also lockouts for the rear RT/LT triggers. Slide the switches over and they cut the travel distance in half for quick shots.

The Razer Wolverine also includes a couple of additional thumbstick caps: one taller concave cap for accuracy, one domed cap for quicker movements. There are RGB lights, too, and you can use Razer's Synapse app for Xbox or PC to change them and remap the controller's buttons.

Best Xbox compact wired controller

Rig nacon pro compact.

A good choice for smaller hands or anyone who just prefers a more compact controller. The grips are sculpted in a way that makes the controller comfortable to use even with larger hands and they're textured, which kept the grips from slipping or sticking to my palms. 

While it might not have the removable USB cable, extra buttons or swappable thumb sticks found on the company's pricier Revolution X Pro controller , it does have some features I didn't expect at this price. For instance, there's an app for the controller that lets you remap its buttons and adjust its sticks, trigger sensitivity and vibration. A switch underneath lets you drop between your custom profile and a classic mode. 

There's a 3.5mm headset jack on the front edge, which isn't out of the ordinary. But RIG includes a license for  Dolby Atmos for Headphones  support to give you a more immersive experience in games, including Cyberpunk 2077, Gears 5, Borderlands 3 and Forza Horizon 4. Pair it with RIG's own 500 Pro HX Gen 2 headset and you can really improve your gaming experience for less than $100. 

Best Xbox wireless controller for customization

Scuf instinct pro.

This Xbox wireless controller has it all. It can be used wired or wireless. The thumbsticks can be swapped for greater precision or faster speed. Holding the controller, your fingers fall naturally between two pairs of remappable paddles. The controller stores three profile configurations for the paddles and it's preset for FPS, sport and racing games; a button on the bottom lets you quickly switch between them. Remapping can be done on the fly, so there's no need for an additional app. There are also switches for the triggers so you can change them from a long pull to a quick click. 

And then there's the look. You can choose everything from the color of the buttons to the style of the thumbsticks to whether you want rumble installed. Scuf also has a variety of faceplates in different colors and designs. The price is the only real drawback here, starting at $230 and going up from there depending on your customizations.

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Best Game Controllers 2024: Hit the next level with these tested picks

Looking to take your gaming experience to the next level? Well, having the best game controller to suit your needs is going to be integral so you be comfortable and perform well.

The problem is, there are a lot of controllers out there, and finding which one will be best for you is a little fiddly. Well, to help you out, our team of experts has tested a vast range of controllers from across different platforms and price ranges and assembled this list of the very best.

We’ve taken into account their key features – the way they look, feel and perform are vital, as well as compatibility if they can be used with more than one platform, and used them as our main controllers for at least a week to get some real-world results.

If you can’t find a controller you like at the moment, then it’s worth bookmarking this page as we’ll be updating it frequently as more excellent candidates make their way into the Trusted Labs. While these controllers can be used with either a console or PC, if you want a more traditional experience with the latter, then opting for the best gaming mouse and best gaming keyboard may be a better bet.

Best games controller at a glance

• Best Xbox and PC controller : Xbox Elite Controller 2 – check price
• Best PS5 controller: DualSense Edge Controller – check price
• Best budget controller: Nacon Pro Compact Controller – check price
• Best racing games controller: Thrustmaster eSwap XR Pro – check price
• Best Switch controller: Nintendo Switch Pro Controller – check price
• Best customisable controller: Scuf Instinct Pro Controller – check price
• Best mobile controller: Backbone One (2023) – check price

How we test

We use every controller we test for at least a week. During that time, we’ll check it for ease of use and put it through its paces by playing a variety of different genres and on whichever platforms the controllers are stated to work on. If there’s any additional software, we’ll also be sure to test its functions and ease of use. We”ll also test out the controller’s battery life if it’s a wireless option.

• Xbox Elite Controller 2
• Attachments provide endless amounts of customisation
• Comfortable to play for extended play sessions
• Fantastic battery life
• Works on a number of platforms and devices
• Small parts of the device lack a premium feel
• D-pad still isn’t the best in the business

• More personalisation options than ever
• Replaceable stick modules
• Function buttons on the front and rear
• Comes with a sturdy carrying case
• Extremely expensive
• Poor battery compared to the DualSense

• Compact design
• Decent build quality
• Software customisation is cool
• Lack of rubberised support
• Shorter shoulder buttons

• Solid build quality
• Wheel attachment offers precision
• Excellent tactility
• Wired connection is a bit cumbersome

• Great for twitch movements
• Makes portable gaming feel like console gaming
• Excellent D-Pad
• Connectivity issues
• Dated trigger buttons

• Incredibly comfortable
• Highly customisable
• Sturdy build quality
• Heavier than a normal controller

• Excellent mobile gaming controls
• Improved and updated hardware compatibility
• Excellent all-encompassing UI
• Still expensive
• Can be fiddly to fit your phone
• Not very different from the original

Best Xbox and PC controller

For the Xbox and PC fans in the audience, the Xbox Elite Controller 2 is a great choice.

Its design picks up where the original Elite Controller left off, with a handful of changes involving small alterations to the controller’s colour scheme, attachments, and button layout. For instance, the strip of plastic nearest the home button is now consistently black as opposed to being a blend of black and silver, while the button layout has been changed ever so slightly so there’s just one profile switch to allow you to flick between different options. As for the attachments, the Elite Controller 2 offers six thumbsticks which now omit the pair of tall options and instead provide just one. What’s more, there’s only a pair of D-Pads to pick from, and the paddles on offer add even more functionality and inputs if you need them.

The Elite Controller 2 also comes with triggers that feature adjustable actuation points, like some properly premium gaming keyboards, to allow you to adjust the point at which an input is recognised and therefore decrease/increase the distance needed before it’s inputted. For FPS games where speed is everything, you’ll be able to fire faster with a shorter travel distance. We also found charging the controller to be a breeze, mainly thanks to the option to use the bundled charging dock the Elite 2 comes with, which also enables you to leave it in the case while it recuperates. The fact there’s also 40 hours of battery life is also simply stunning.

During testing, the Elite Controller 2 proved excellent in virtually every scenario, whether we were playing Forza Horizon 4 or Halo: The Master Chief Collection. Especially in the former, the controller’s revamped vibration motors shined with a level of feedback we hadn’t previously experienced in a controller. Every input felt sharp and precise, while the rubberised grip on the back of the controller also meant it was especially comfortable during extended play sessions. Its Bluetooth connectivity also allowed for more flexibility, given that it meant we could use the Elite 2 with not only Xbox and PC, but also phones and tablets, too – handy if you want to use this controller with Xbox Cloud Gaming on the go.

Reviewer : Jade King Full review : Xbox Elite Controller 2

DualSense Edge

Best ps5 controller.

The DualSense Edge is a fantastic controller developed for the PS5 that also works with PC, and is the most customisable controller Sony has ever released.

It looks almost identical to the vanilla DualSense , only a tad heavier and with a slightly edgier aesthetic (pun intended). Our reviewer really liked the PS branding on the touchpad and the sleek plastic used around the analogue sticks, as it gives the controller a more premium look compared to its matte sibling. The trigger buttons are rubberised for a more precise grip and come with three options in terms of sensitivity, with the short-range option being best for FPS gameplay and the long-range option being better suited for gradual movements, like braking in Gran Turismo 7 .

The DualSense Edge is extremely customisable; users have the chance to remap every single button on the controller, aside from the centre-stage PS button. This amount of personalisation means that the possibilities are almost endless, since you can also create four specific profiles that can be accessed by simply clicking the new function button at the bottom of the controller. We thought that these profiles were best used for specific gaming genres, such as FPS, open-world and racing games. Sony included an extra profiles page too, meaning that you can create as many of these set-ups as you want and store them until you need them most.

The Edge features the same haptic feedback as the standard DualSense, and we found that it was equally as responsive. We could feel the Leviathan Axe leave Kratos’ hands in God of War Ragnarök and the purrs of our cat protagonist in Stray, with our reviewer claiming that this feature helps to add a whole new level of immersion to every supported game. The two new back buttons can be equipped with either a dome or lever-style button and allow for precise and accurate control, ideal for games like Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 .

The main downside of the DualSense Edge is that its battery is not as expansive as the DualSense, with Sony claiming that all the new features drain its power much quicker. We managed to game for five hours on the PS5 and PC before it died. Thankfully, this issue is somewhat alleviated with the new braided USB-C charging cable, which was more than long enough to accommodate our setup. The new charging lock adaptor also means that there is no possibility of the charger disconnecting during more intensive gaming sessions, which we found massively handy.

While the price of the DualSense Edge may be too high for some, at £209.99/$199.99, it is a must-have for any professional gamers out there. The levels of customisation are unmatched and the new back buttons mean that you can create any number of set-ups that work for you.

Reviewer: Gemma Ryles Full Review: DualSense Edge

Nacon Pro Compact Controller

Best budget controller.

The Nacon Pro Compact Controller is our top pick for the best budget games controller.

At 203g, it is noticeably lighter than the standard Xbox Series X controller and this results in a controller that feels quite narrow in hand, at least in our view. It comes dressed with a black hard plastic construction, like other more affordable controllers, but with a textured back, this aids in making the Pro Compact a decently comfortable option. As this is a smaller controller, some of inputs feel a little more compact compared to the standard Xbox Series controller from Microsoft, such as the dinkier D-Pad, as well as smaller triggers and shoulder buttons.

Even if they were smaller, we felt their button presses felt satisfying with decent tactility. This is a wired controller, and its super-long 3-metre USB-A-ended cable will be particularly handy if you’re a fair distance away from your Xbox.

In testing, the Pro Compact felt good to use, with responsive buttons and triggers that, once you get used to them, don’t feel small. Its vibration is plentiful and responsive, although in our experience offered a load of volume to go with it, which felt a little jarring at first. To go with the responsive and satisfying inputs, the Pro Compact is also programmable with Nacon’s own software. Here you can remap buttons and change the trajectory and sensitivity of analogue sticks to suit which genre or game you’re playing. In testing, this particular function proved to be more than a marketing gimmick, offering a markedly different experience whether you’re indulging in a racing game or FPS title. The trigger inputs can also be adjusted so there can be a shorter degree of travel before input is registered – this is a feature usually present on more premium controllers, which just highlights how much bang for the buck the Pro Compact provides.

Reviewer: Reece Bithrey Full review : Nacon Pro Compact Controller

Thrustmaster eSwap XR Pro

Best racing games controller.

Racing fans will want to take note of the Thrustmaster eSwap XR Pro controller, which comes with a dedicated wheel attachment for racing games. The wheel module is designed for more precise car movement, potentially offering the benefit of quicker lap times for those who perfect it. We felt that it did exactly what it said on the tin, providing our reviewer with more accurate steering in Forza Horizon 5 , allowing them to tackle acute corners without concern. 

Much like other pro controllers on this list, the eSwap XR Pro comes with swappable thumbsticks and D-Pad choices. Thrustmaster opted for a hot-swappable system where can you swap out and drop in new modules at will. These modules are held together with strong magnets, so you won’t have to worry about them going anywhere unless you intentionally seek to remove them. 

Beyond the swappable mechanics, the eSwap XR Pro comes with lockable triggers, a selection of remappable rear buttons as well as some tactile main ABXY buttons. These switches are all mechanical, with a similar feeling to the right and left buttons on a mouse, giving them a snappy and slick actuation. 

The eSwap XR Pro is wired, coming bundled with a three-metre-long braided cable. It can be hooked up to an Xbox or PC thanks to the USB-A connector, giving the controller a lot of versatility. 

Overall, this pro-grade controller may not be for everyone, but it’s the perfect pick for any racing game enthusiast. If you’re a part of the wider player base, then the Xbox Elite Series 2 and Scuf Instinct Pro may be the best option for you, but there is no mistaking the Thrustmaster eSwap XR as anything other than one of the best racing game controllers out there. 

Reviewer: Reece Bithrey Full Review: Thrustmaster eSwap XR Pro

Nintendo Switch Pro Controller

Best switch controller.

Don’t worry Nintendo Switch fans, we haven’t forgotten about you – the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller is just for you.

It offers a more conventional controller as opposed to the rectangular Joy Cons that come with the Switch itself, and borrows some aspects of its design from the comfortable Xbox One Controller. There’s the same stick placement, which provides a degree of familiarity. However, when you pick the Pro Controller up, there are some notable differences. For instance, the triggers are the same size as the normal Joy Cons, and don’t offer much in the way of tactility. On a more positive note, the analogue sticks offered smooth rotation while the action buttons have a satisfying feel to them, and the return of a proper D-Pad on a Nintendo controller brought with it plenty of nostalgia.

During testing, the Pro Controller offered a user experience that takes things up a gear compared to the standard Joy Cons. Our inputs felt a lot more precise and sharp, whether that be for drifting in Mario Kart or for better aiming in Splatoon. It’s worth noting at this juncture though the gains were less apparent in games that were designed to work especially well with Joy Cons such as ARMS. The vibrations offer decent feedback that sits between the HD rumble of the Joy Cons and the now antiquated feel of older controllers. With all this in mind though, our user experience was marred by persistent connectivity issues that came and went as they pleased, causing functions such as the controller’s vibrate function to not work as they should. A simple restart of the Switch solved the issue, but it’s just a pain that such issues were present anyway.

Reviewer : Thomas Deehan Full review : Nintendo Switch Pro Controller

Scuf Instinct Pro Controller

Best customisable controller.

If it’s extensive customisation you want from a controller, the Scuf Instinct Pro Controller should be right up your alley.

We found it to offer the complete package when it comes to design, providing a generally comfortable experience, especially thanks to the rubberised back that felt great to hold. The real appeal of the Instinct Pro centres around how customisable it is, and it wouldn’t be much of a stretch to suggest that you can make it totally unique. Our sample was customised in a fetching purple and orange combination with a customised faceplate and orange buttons to match. You get a myriad of different features to customise, with regard to the faceplate, buttons, triggers, and thumbsticks. Having such a vast set of customisation aids in making the controller feel personable and unique, which not only makes it look good, but also makes it feel like it’s your own.

During testing, the Instinct Pro offered a fantastic experience overall, with a familiar button layout, responsive triggers and paddles and some especially strong vibrations with the rumbles inside.

The paddles unlock all manner of customisation and can be set to have up to 16 functions at the same time. In racing games for instance, they can be remapped to work as a paddle shift, which proved especially responsive. It’s with extra functionality like this where the Instinct Pro wins against a standard controller.

To go with its extensive button functionality, the Instinct Pro also offers two means of connectivity – Xbox Wireless and Bluetooth. Both of these felt responsive with no noticeable latency between my Xbox and the Instinct Pro. In addition, we also found the battery life here to be pretty good. While it isn’t able to match the 40 hours outputted by the Xbox Elite 2, the Instinct Pro still provides great endurance – it’s 30 hours in total – which should be enough to last for a few days’ worth of gaming.

Reviewer: Reece Bithrey Full review : Scuf Instinct Pro Controller

Backbone One (2023)

Best mobile controller.

When it comes to replicating the console experience on your smartphone, the conversation starts and ends with the Backbone One (2023) . While there are other options that made their way into our round-up for the best mobile controllers , the latest Backbone still comes out on top.

The brilliance of the Backbone One is in just how easy it makes the transition to mobile gaming for those who are used to consoles. The controller itself feels great in the hand as the face buttons and joysticks offer instant and satisfying feedback, and one you plug it into your phone, you’re pretty much ready to go.

Whether you’re looking to play an on-device title like Call of Duty Mobile, stream Xbox hits via Game Pass or even use your PS5’s Remote Play feature, the Backbone One can do it all. There’s even a dedicated 3.5mm headphone jack for those who prefer to have lossless wired audio whilst gaming, alongside a USB-C in port to keep your phone topped up during your sessions.

Previous iterations of the Backbone One have supported either Android or iPhone but this newer model supports all USB-C compatible phones including the iPhone 15 range, so if you have multiple people in your household who also enjoy a spot of mobile gaming, you can easily swap the controller from one phone to another.

As a final cherry on top, the orange ‘Backbone’ button on the pad takes you straight into the Backbone app which, much like a streaming UI like Fire TV, collates all of your compatible services into one place which is handy for getting straight back into the action.

As easy as it is to recommend the Backbone One, there’s no denying that for some budgets, the controller is priced a little too high. With an RRP of £99.99/$99.99, it’s no small investment, and with cheaper options available, the Backbone One is best saved for those who know they’ll get plenty of use out of it.

Reviewer: Jon Mundy Full review : Backbone One (2023) review

In our view, the best games controller for PC is the Xbox Wireless Controller given how easy it is to connect to PC (as well as Xbox too), as well as how comfortable it is to use and with decent battery life.

This is arguably down to personal preference. For instance, the PS5 offers a sleek design with its two tone white and black frame, but if you’re used to an Xbox or Switch controller, you may well find that more comfortable.

If you’re a hardened PC gamer, then you may well find that a keyboard suits you better than a controller. However, for true precision, a controller’s analogue stick and triggers may be better, but this is all down to personal preference.

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Comparison specs.

After graduating with an MA in History from University College London and cutting his teeth for several years as a journalist in the film and TV industries, Tom joined the Trusted Reviews team as a Co…

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Best PC controllers in 2024: the pads I recommend for PC gamers

Grab one of the best PC controllers for when your keyboard and mouse simply won't do.

• 1. Best overall
• 2. Best budget
• 3. Most customizable
• 4. Best Hall effect
• 5. Best symmetrical

Also tested

• How we test

🎮 The list in brief 1. Best overall 2. Best budget 3. Best customizable 4. Best Hall effect 5. Best symmetrical sticks 6. Also tested 7. FAQ 8. How we test

The best PC controller is a great way to game. While we still love our mouse and keyboard setups for shooters, there are plenty of games designed primarily with controllers in mind. For any of those, you want a proper PC gaming pad.

The Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 is currently our choice for the best PC controller. It has plenty of swappable bits and bobs and feels great in your hands. Similarly, like the other controllers we have meticulously tested and ranked below, it also performs well in driving games. The Xbox Wireless Controller backs it up as the best budget controller, for anyone looking for a cheaper alternative.

Many may disagree, but the truth remains: controllers are sometimes the best tool for the job, even in games considered PC classics. Take Elden Ring or The Witcher 3, for example—both have a much simpler control system when played with the best PC controller than a mouse and keyboard. Even Baldur's Gate 3 is playable on a pad. You can bet that the best gaming mouse and the best gaming keyboard will prevail in almost every PC exclusive ever made, but adding a great controller to your inventory will cover the areas where they fall short.

Dave cut his industry teeth writing guides for PlayStation and Xbox magazines a million years ago, and is as well versed in the world of gamepads as he is in the obviously more accurate keyboard and mouse realm. He's also got a penchant for arcade football games, and two small children, and so knows a thing or two about the need for reliable pads that can take some punishment.

The quick list

The best overall

Everything about this controller screams luxury. It's lovely in-hand, plays great, and it comes with all the extra bits you could ask for. It's anything but cheap, however.

Read more below

The best budget

Sometimes you can't beat the classics, and this is very well-built controller for the money. Xbox makes masses of these, so they're relatively cheap for what you get.

The best customizable

You can really make this controller your own, in such a way that's not as easy with any other premium controller. It's pricey for it, but it is great for colour-matching to your setup.

The best Hall effect

The Stealth Ultra uses Hall effect thumb sticks which, thanks to their frictionless, contact-less sensors, will never suffer the vagaries of stick drift.

The best symmetrical

If you're looking for symmetrical thumbstick placement, no one really does it better than Sony. It's the master of its craft, and the DualSense is a great controller for the money.

Recent updates

Updated May 29 to ensure our picks are up-to-date and accurate, and to carry out some general housekeeping.

The best PC controller

1. xbox elite wireless controller series 2.

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

✅  You want the best gaming controller: The Microsoft Elite Series 2 controller has been around for a while, but to this day it remains our favorite gaming controller. Whether ergonomics, functionality or customization options, it's got the lot. ✅ You want seamless operation: If you're an Xbox gamer, a PC gamer, or both, the Elite Series 2 simply works. If anyone knows how to get a Microsoft controller working seamlessly with Windows, it's Microsoft!

❌ You're on a budget: While it has dropped in price since it launched, it's still a pricey affair. There are plenty of cheaper options available, though they don't offer the same all-round experience the Microsoft Elite Series 2 controller does. ❌ You want a Hall effect pad: Surely there has to be a Series 3 in the offing and if it doesn't have no-stick-drift Hall effect thumbsticks I'll be stunned. The Series 2 doesn't, however, which is maybe a tough one to take for an expensive pad in 2024.

The Microsoft Elite Series 2 controller is our pick as best controller for PC, and if you use one more than ten minutes, you'll understand why. Everything about the Series 2 screams luxury. The customization options give you an unparalleled level of control (pun intended) over your gameplay. Being able to tweak all aspects of the controller, like d-pads, shift paddles, and joystick tension, is an absolute godsend.

The most significant changes in the Series 2 over the Series 1 (which we also loved) include a neat little carrying case that doubles as a portable USB Type-C powered  charging station for the controller's new rechargeable battery, which has around 40 hours of juice.

It comes with a bunch of custom bits: six thumbsticks, two d-pads (cross-shaped and faceted), four rear pedals, and one tool for adjustable thumbstick tension.

The lack of Bluetooth on the Series 1 has been rectified with the Series 2, which means you now have a controller that’ll pair with a phone to play the Apple Arcade or mess around with Xbox streaming. It makes the controller that much more versatile, which is essential given the high price of admission.

The hair-trigger locks allow you to control how far you need to pull the trigger to actuate it, so there’s no wasted effort or time in competitive shooters. The four back paddles are a great extra feature, too and can make for some interesting controller layouts. If you never want to take your thumbs off of the sticks, you can assign the face buttons to the back paddles, a feature that should please both the competitive gamer and those looking for a more comfortable controller position than standard. 

In fact, the extreme flexibility of the Series 2 has the benefit of making the controller highly accessible, meaning that more people can use it to play PC games.

It's worth noting that having used my Elite Series 2 for years (since 2019) I have had issues with the bumper buttons. But it's also worth noting that it's very easy to set right, too. I've now fixed both of my non-responsive bumpers on two separate occasions, one because of Elden Ring and one because of FC24. Here's how to fix those Series 2 bumper buttons .

Downsides? Well, it's heavier than the standard Xbox controller by a few ounces, which takes a little getting used to. And both the d-pad options are a little unconventional, meaning some muscle memory reprogramming may be necessary.

And then there's the price. Spending $160 for a controller is a tough sell for most people, and you can arguably receive a lot of the same fundamental features from the regular Xbox Wireless controller for a lot less. But if you're a serious gamer who values performance and extreme levels of customization, the Series 2 is a no-brainer and worth every penny.

Read our full Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 review .

The best budget controller

2. xbox wireless controller.

✅  You're on a budget: The Xbox Wireless Controller stands up to even the more expensive controllers in many regards. Its comfort, ergonomics and Bluetooth support mean it feels like helluva steal.

❌ You want something rechargeable: The Xbox Wireless Controller lacks recharging capabilities, meaning you'll need a stock of AA batteries nearby. 

The best budget controller is the Xbox Wireless Controller. It's exceptionally high quality for the money, comfortable, colorful and frequently discounted. What more could you need in a budget pad?

The original Xbox One Wireless Controller was a staple for PC gaming. With the release of the Xbox Series S/X, we were all curious to see how Xbox improved on an already outstanding gamepad. Clearly, it's fantastic.

This controller retains many of the features we loved about the original. It maintains the overall comfortable design and includes texturized rubber grips that provide a great feel in your hands. Similar to its predecessor, it boasts a vastly superior d-pad that you won't hesitate to use in fighting games and platformers, taking inspiration from the Xbox One Elite Series controllers.

You might have noticed a new button in the controller's center—a much-requested Share button that allows you to capture screenshots and gameplay footage without delving too much into the menus. However, honestly, that's a minor aspect when it comes to PC gaming.

We capitalize "Wireless" for a reason—not because the word is a proper noun per se, but because the Xbox Wireless Controller leverages Microsoft's wireless protocol called "Xbox Wireless." Though the name could benefit from some creative refinement, you can find comfort in the fact that, since 2016, the Xbox Wireless Controller offers much-needed Bluetooth compatibility as well.

On PC, if you don't have Bluetooth, you'll need to purchase a Microsoft Wireless dongle separately to enable your machine to connect to the fast non-Bluetooth protocol.

However, the standard Xbox Wireless pad is such a well-made and reasonably priced piece of hardware that it's challenging to see how other manufacturers can possibly compete with Microsoft's exceptional controller. Of course, you could pay a lot more for the extra features of the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 , but if the fundamentals are all you need and you don't want to spend a lot, this is exactly where you'll want to be.

One thing's almost certain: this controller will continue to be on our recommended list for a long time to come.

The best customizable controller

3. scuf instinct pro.

✅  You want customization options on top of customization options: Whether its the looks of the Scuf Instinct Pro or its buttons, the sheer number of alterations possible here make it the best there is. ✅  You want something built to last : The Scuf offers a  solid, reliable feel. It can take a thrashing, leaving the impression that it's built to last.

❌ You want something affordable: At $200 before adding the customization options, the Scuf Instinct Pro is a seriously expensive affair. And at that price, it butts heads with the Elite Series 2 , which is a formidable competitor, to say the least.

Scuf doesn't mess around with its controllers, offering some of the best premium pads outside of Sony and Microsoft, and the Instinct Pro is the absolute best customisable controller we've tested to date. But when the  Elite Series 2  exists in the world, how does anyone else compete in the enthusiast controller space?

Well, for starters, there are more customisation options on offer with the Instinct Pro than with pretty much any other pad you could name. Scuf is offering a huge variety of different cosmetic and physical customisation options from the initial store page. The faceplate options, and the rings around the thumbsticks, are the most obvious, but you also get to pick your choice of actual thumbsticks in terms of length and topper (convex or concave).

There are also options to change the D-pad, button facades, as well as the styling of both the bumpers and the triggers. Interestingly, there is also the option to remove the rumble motors from inside the controller which is something you'll often find the pros end up removing from their tournament controllers, to cut down on the inherent distraction of hand-wobble.

Though that will definitely impact the price—with my own choices I managed to bump the cost up to just shy of $250. But did create a gloriously pink pad without the distraction of rumble packs.

Scuf has at least acknowledged there's little point trying to one-up Microsoft when it comes to the overall design of the Instinct Pro, because it looks physically identical to a standard Xbox Series X/S controller . Obviously aside from the faceplate, rings, and mute button on the front.

The thumbsticks are reassuringly solid and responsive during gaming a session. Hammering the sticks with quick switches of direction in a twitch game haven't had an impact on the pad, and they still feel smooth and accurate when you're in something less fast-paced. The triggers have a pleasing action, too, maybe not quite so deep as the Elite, but still just as accurate.

The rest of the button-feel is robust and reassuringly clicky too, though I would say the hair-trigger mode feels a little too shallow for my tastes. But I can see where some folk might prefer it, so I'm not going to count that as anything more than personal choice, not a negative.

The Scuf Instinct Pro requires AA batteries, like standard Xbox pads, unlike the Elite which houses a lithium ion battery. The ability to swap in a fresh pair of batteries mid-tournament is potentially a selling point, and lithium ion batteries are meant to have a finite shelf life. Though it's not something I've ever experienced with my Elite pad in the past few years of use.

Either way, it's a fantastic device that feels great in the hand and is as responsive as you could wish for, and the best customisable controller overall. It's just painfully pricey with all my chosen greebles.

Read our full Scuf Instinct Pro review .

The best Hall effect controller

4. turtle beach stealth ultra.

✅  You thrash your thumbsticks: The Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra boasts no-drift thumbsticks which adds an extra assurance that this is a controller built to survive many a torturous gaming session. ✅  You like the on-controller LCD screen : The Stealth Ultra's in-built LCD screen is actually useful for monitoring and adjusting its various functions. And it can display social media notifications if that is of interest to you.

❌ You have an Elite Series 2 already: Buying a new $200 controller is a tough ask if you already have a Microsoft Elite Series 2 . The hall effect alone isn't enough to justify such an outlay.

If stick drift drives you crazy, look right here to the best Hall effect controller: The Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra promises to remove that particular blight thanks to its Hall effect thumbsticks. It features frictionless, contactless sensors, and will never suffer the vagaries of stick drift.

This is a controller that looks and feels like it goes a long way to justifying its steep $200 asking price. It's got an LCD display that's useful for monitoring and adjusting its various functions. And it can display social media notifications if that's of interest to you. Oh, and it's got RGB lighting. Of course.

It's a wireless affair with an inbuilt lithium ion battery, which can be charged via the included USB cable. It connects via 2.4GHz wireless or Bluetooth. Turtle Beach claims the unit can run for up to 30 hours depending on the power mode you use.

Flashy stuff aside, the Stealth Ultra's claim to fame is its sticks and buttons. It features microswitches under the d-pad and face buttons, giving it a mechanical tactility. The concave d-pad isn't swappable, but the microswitches on the Stealth Ultra improve the experience a great deal. Its 'clicky' feel gives it a precision that's often missing from cheaper controllers.

The left and right triggers have adjustable depths, while the two switches on the back of the controller can toggle between a default deep stroke and a much more shallow stroke.

The Stealth Ultra is highly configurable. Assigning functions to the P1-P4 switches in each of the ten onboard profiles is painless, as is adjusting sound settings on a per-profile basis. The latter includes not only mic monitoring and volume, but also some EQ options. To access these functions there's an extra button beneath the usual Xbox share button which toggles the screen between controller use and menu use. 

If you're going to spend the big bucks on a gaming controller and you expect it to take a lot of punishment, Hall effect sticks are where it's at, and this is the best version of them we've seen to date. Sure, it's pricey, but its big price tag is amply justified, thanks to its no-drift stick technology, brilliant microswitches, paddles, and on-the-fly customization capabilities.

Read our full Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra review .

The best symmetrical controller

5. sony dualsense wireless controller.

✅  You appreciate excellent haptics and adaptive triggers: Sony knows a thing or two about gaming controllers, and even if the Microsoft options feel a little better in many hands, the 'control' part of the DualSense controller remains excellent. ✅  You want something very well built : The PlayStation wouldn't have gotten where it was without a quality controller. You can expect years of use out of a DualSense controller

❌ You want seamless PC integration: The DualSense works well if you use it with Steam, but it doesn't deliver the same plug and play functionality of many PC optimized controllers.

The PlayStation 5 DualSense has a "you have to touch it to believe it" quality, and a mirrored thumbstick design that makes it the best symmetrical controller by far. Thanks to its haptic motors and "Adaptive" triggers, which can provide resistance under your finger, firing a bow can actually feel like, well, firing a bow. 

The rumble feedback is also the best and most nuanced we have ever experienced in a controller. It truly lives up to the praise it receives.

The downside is that games need to be programmed to take advantage of them, and only a few do. However, Steam already offers full support for the controller, so it's relatively easy to plug in and use like any other gamepad. It is slightly less comfortable than the Xbox Series X controller and not as straightforward to use in non-Steam games. However, if you prefer Sony's analog stick layout or enjoy gyro aiming, this is the controller to go for.

The DualSense does not have official PC drivers, but that is not a major issue, as Steam makes it incredibly easy to use the controller via USB and Bluetooth. The DualSense uses the older DirectInput API instead of the more widely supported XInput, meaning many games may not instantly recognize it. By enabling 'PlayStation Configuration Support' in Steam's controller settings, your controller will work with most games.

The relationship between PC and DualSense is complex. Still, it has become slightly simpler now that we can update the controller firmware directly through our PCs instead of having to connect it to a PS5. Simply download the 'Firmware updater for DualSense wireless controller' tool from the official PlayStation site, follow the instructions, plug in your DualSense via a USB cable, and you're ready.

If that sounds like too much fuss for you (and trust us, it's really not that bad), there's always the Microsoft Elite Series 2 or Xbox Wireless controllers to consider, which are about as plug and play as they come.

Nevertheless, the PS5 DualSense remains an incredibly well-built controller and is as responsive as one could wish. If you dislike the offset sticks of the standard Xbox layout, this is the best symmetrical pad money can buy.

Scuf Envision Pro Designed from the ground up for PC, the Scuf Envision Pro shows a heartening look at what a controller tailor made for PC can be. Satisfying buttons, d-pad and more are on the agenda, alongside a high price tag and some unfortunate iCUE requirements.

Read our full Scuff Envision Pro review .

Nacon Revolution 5 Pro Nacon Revolution 5 Pro would be a significant entry to the gaming controller market if not for the fact it skips out on expected features, particularly for PS5 owners. It manages to hit most of the important stuff and does so with a premium feel, but the drawbacks make the price tag look silly.

Read our full Nacon Revolution 5 Pro review .

PowerA Advantage A comfy and affordable third-party controller with a good feel and some useful extra buttons, with a frustrating RGB implementation.

Read our full PowerA Advantage review .

Rig Nacon Pro The Rig Nacon Pro Compact wired controller is a decent $50 alternative for folks trying to find a smaller form factor gamepad that works for both PC and Xbox.

Read our full Rig Nacon Pro review .

Controller FAQ

Can you use a console controller on pc.

The short answer is yes. The slightly longer answer is that you might need to perform a little fiddling the first time you set it up—although after that it will just be a case of plugging it in. 

How to set up your controller on PC:

• PS5 controller on PC
• PS4 controller on PC
• PS3 controller on PC
• Nintendo Switch Pro controller on PC
• Xbox One controller on PC

Is PC gaming better with a controller?

This might seem an utterly offensive question to ask in the annals of PC Gamer, but it remains true that certain PC games are far better played with a controller than the classic keyboard and mouse combo.

Sports games are the most obvious, as anyone who has tried to play FIFA using the strange keyboard/mouse control scheme can attest to. But there are other titles, specifically those which were primarily designed for consoles whose control schemes are so unwieldy away from a pad that playing them any other way is a pain.

For example, you could play Elden Ring without a controller, but using a pad on a PC felt far better. Oh and for racing games? You really want one of the options above, although of course you could go all out and get a full on racing wheel instead.

How we test controllers

Ignore those who seem to think every game is best with a mouse and keyboard. Assassins Creed Valhalla is not best played with a keyboard. Street Fighter 5 is not best played with a keyboard. True, we play most games with a mouse and keyboard, but for PC gamers with ranging tastes, a good controller is a must.

Though I've done some testing with first-person shooters, I've largely ignored the genre. While it may be necessary for console gamers, we're almost always going to use WASD for any kind of shooter. With that in mind, the games I used mainly for testing are the ones mentioned below:

Katana Zero: A game that requires excellent d-pad control and responsive face buttons.

Street Fighter V: I've put a lot of hours into Street Fighter V with both controllers and fight sticks, so I know how it ought to feel. If I can't crush an AI opponent as Ken, something isn't right.

Forza Motorsport: I chose Forza primarily to test the analog sticks, which according to my preferences, need three qualities: springy enough to quickly snap back to center, sensitive and resistant sufficient to make slight steering adjustments, and comfortably contoured. Hence, my thumbs aren't bloody stumps at the end of a few hours.

The biggest gaming news, reviews and hardware deals

Keep up to date with the most important stories and the best deals, as picked by the PC Gamer team.

Dave has been gaming since the days of Zaxxon and Lady Bug on the Colecovision, and code books for the Commodore Vic 20 (Death Race 2000!). He built his first gaming PC at the tender age of 16, and finally finished bug-fixing the Cyrix-based system around a year later. When he dropped it out of the window. He first started writing for Official PlayStation Magazine and Xbox World many decades ago, then moved onto PC Format full-time, then PC Gamer, TechRadar, and T3 among others. Now he's back, writing about the nightmarish graphics card market, CPUs with more cores than sense, gaming laptops hotter than the sun, and SSDs more capacious than a Cybertruck.

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The best PC controller for gaming 2024

Stay competitive and get comfortable with the best PC controllers for gaming right now

Best overall

Best budget

• Best WASD alternative

Best for most

Best for longevity

Best for Xbox fans

Best for PS5 fans

Best for game feel

Best PC controller: FAQs

1. The quick list 2. Best overall 3. Best budget 4. Best keyboard alternative 5. Best for most 6. Best value 7. Best for longevity 8. Best for Xbox fans 9. Best for PS5 fans 10. Best for game feel

The best PC controllers will enhance game feel. That sounds like a bit of a nonsense term, but controllers are one of the best bits of gaming hardware because they help create a feeling of connection between you and your in-game avatar. Whether it's a slug cat exploring Rain World, a soldier pulling the trigger of a crunchy shotgun, or a mythical deity wielding a magical axe, the best controllers on the market will enhance every action you input.

The controller market is in a fantastic place at the moment. With a newly expanding PS5 controller scene, there are now new additions to our list, such as the Nacon Revolution 5 Pro, the DualSense Edge, and the Victrix Pro BFG. These pads can be expensive though, which is why it's great to see GameSir make cheaper options like the T4 Kaleid. There are affordable, viable, and comfortable options out there for everyone, and since compatibility is usually down to licensing, you'll gain a multiplatform controller regardless of which you go for.

Today's PC controllers pack a whole host of customization features, including those aforementioned extra paddles, and even the ability to swap out whole components thanks to modular designs. Along with your purchase, you'll usually get conclusive software that lets you control the essential parts of your gamepad, with some letting you set custom dead zones for the analog sticks. The market is stocked full of wired and wireless options, and with the popularity of having a console and gaming PC setup at the moment, you'll most likely be able to find something that works for both.

The quick list

With excellent customization options and a competitive price point, the Victrix Pro BFG is the gamepad to beat right now - its new Xbox version may even be an improvement.

Read more below

If you're working with a smaller budget, the T4 Kaleid offers fantastic value in its Hall effect thumbsticks, extra back buttons and responsive performance. 

Best keyboard alternative

If you want the functionality of a keyboard combined with the thumbstick movement of a controller, the Azeron Cyborg is the ultimate way to play games.

It's a classic, but it's stood the test of time. The Xbox Wireless controller packs a flexible feature set while also offering an improved overall feel. 

The EasySMX X10 screams value with its micro-switch buttons, magnetic faceplates, Hall Sensor thumbsticks, ergonomic back buttons, and snappy feel. 

Hall Sensor sticks that are immune to stick drift make this the best gamepad if you want something long-lasting. It's great for Esports and multiplayer too.

Load the next 2 products ↓

The Elite Series 2 has reigned supreme in the premium PC controller space for a while now, but it still impresses today with its customization options and flexibility. 

The Victrix Pro above is our top PS5 option as well, but if you're after something more aesthetic, the DualSense Edge also packs an excellent feature set and a case to boot.

The Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra has some amazing feedback for a gamepad without haptic feedback. Its microswitch buttons go a long way too.

The best PC controller overall

1. victrix pro bfg.

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

Are you tired of hearing that folks who use a controller can't keep up with the raw power of a mouse and keyboard? Because with the Victrix Pro BFG in your hands, that might not be so plain and simple anymore. The original Victrix Pro BFG launched at the beginning of 2023 for PS5, PS4, and PC, but it's since made its way to Xbox with a version that might even be superior if you aren't looking for a controller to use with Sony 's console as well as your computer. 

This controller is designed with elite performance in mind, and thanks to its amazing modular design, you can tailor it to your exact preferences thanks to the suite of attachments that come in its case. Among them are a taller analog stick for precision aiming, multiple D-pad choices, stick gates, and a fightpad module that gives you six face buttons. The facial modules can also be flipped around so the sticks are symmetrical if that's your thing.

The PS5 version can feel pretty lightweight in the hands and has absolutely no rumble or haptic feedback. It's a controller that's bred to get the best performances out of you in whatever game you play, not providing luxurious feedback as you play. The Xbox version, on the other hand, has rumble, which gives it a previously missing feeling of heft in the hands, as well as a real quality of life bonus. Either can be used wirelessly - even the Xbox version, which is still rare for gamepads that are officially licensed for Microsoft 's console.

The BFG has four back buttons that are as comfortable as they are useful, as well as a clever "Tournament Lock" mode that stops you from pressing the system buttons during competition, which could result in disqualification. During tests, there wasn't a single game we could throw it at and not have a good time with.

In terms of value for money, this is absolutely one of the best controllers to hit the shelves in recent years, especially when you consider that it's cheaper than its competition in the PS5 controller arena.

Read more: Victrix Pro BFG for Xbox review

The best budget PC controller

2. gamesir t4 kaleid.

A transparent controller design isn't seen all too often these days, especially among the  best Nintendo Switch controllers . The GameSir T4 Kaleid is the latest multi-platform controller from GameSir, and it's available for use on PC, Android TV, and Nintendo Switch. It asks an important question: how expensive should a pro controller be in this day and age? Because despite the number of features on offer here, it might be one of the cheapest controllers worth buying right now.

Somewhat most notably, the offset or asymmetrical sticks are Hall Sensor ones, meaning you won't encounter stick drift with this controller, despite it being much cheaper than a lot of the alternatives. On the textured grips of the T4 Kaleid, you'll find two back buttons. These are excellently placed where my middle fingers wrap around the controller and take absolutely no displacement of my hands to use.

If you're a PC player looking for a semi-decent controller to use in third-person games, shopping can be tough. You want a cheaper brand, but you want quality, and you want something that will last you. The T4 Kaleid is that controller, and its price is insanely affordable in the current market. 

The best keyboard alternative

3. azeron cyborg.

For a lot of PC gamers, the need for a decent pro controller comes from the fact they've never felt at home using the WASD inputs of a traditional gaming keyboard. If you also struggle to bring your fingers back to the "home" position when you're using a keyboard, the Azeron Cyborg is designed for you. 

This is a fully customizable gaming keypad that's endlessly comfortable and utterly brilliant to use. Since it's vastly different from the shape of a gamepad and combines elements from a keyboard, it does take a lot of re-learning and setting up. You rest your hand in this ergonomic robot claw with one hand and use a mouse with your other as you would normally. The thumbstick will give you familiar controller movement, but the nearly 30 other inputs that are all a finger's twitch away are up to you. Create personalized input maps based on what works for you and your brain, change them on the fly with brilliant companion software, and soon you'll be playing games like never before.

The best part is, it's so adjustable to your hand shape and what's comfortable for you. All of the finger towers have multiple joints that you can bring closer or further away. You can change their angles, the heights they sit at, and their distance from one another. This is a customizable controller at its absolute best, and you even get to choose different colors as well. If you want to keep up with the functionality of a keyboard but you want the best parts of a gamepad, don't miss the Azeron Cyborg.

The best PC controller for most

4. Xbox Wireless Controller

It should be of little surprise to anyone that the latest revision of the Xbox gamepad lands so high on our list for its performance and comfortable feel. Couple that with the fact that it works natively on PC - just plug it in or link up via Bluetooth - and it's ready to go with no further messing around. 

The new additions this time around, though distinctively minor, are the inclusions of USB-C charging - much faster than Micro-USB (if you use a rechargeable pack at least) - as well as the 'hybrid' D-pad which takes its cues from another much more expensive Xbox model that we'll get to later. There's also a share button - as was found on the DualShock 4 - which does exactly the same thing; create and share photos and video clips to upload to social media; something which offers limited functionality for use on PC. 

There's a reason why not much has changed in eight years - when the Xbox One controller launched - and it's because it was already damn near perfect. If you want to go even further back, it's only really been iterative since the Xbox 360's gamepad back in 2005 - because it all just works exceedingly well and continues to be the go-to pad for PC, balancing performance and value. 

Read more: Our impressions of the Xbox Series X controller

The best value PC controller

5. easysmx x10.

The EasySMX certainly doesn't have an easy job. It's in a super competitive price bracket that's stocked full of budget options, but it has to stick out from the crowd and still come across as a premium option that's worth buying. That's exactly what it does, and the online reviews as well as our own experience attests to that. 

If you're in the market for micro-switch buttons, your options are limited in the controller world. Sure, Razer has plenty of choices for you, but the buttons they use have a spongy quality that don't exactly match up the tactile speed people might be looking for. The GameSir T4 Kalied is another option, but if you want extra aesthetic options, wireless capability, or Bluetooth as well, the X10 does beat it out in terms of value. You also get two back buttons here, so EasySMX is clearly doing enough to stand out. 

When we tested it out, we were amazed at the brilliant feel and overall value this gamepad had to offer. The EasySMX X10 is one of those rare controllers that makes the biggest brands look bad. It offers a premium feel for a fraction of the price the big names charge. Particularly if you like micro-switch buttons and an Xbox controller shape, don't overlook this.

The best PC controller for longevity

6. nacon revolution 5 pro.

The Nacon Revolution 5 Pro is the spiritual successor to the Nacon Revolution Unlimited, which was one of the best officially licensed pro controllers for PS4. Equipped with Hall Sensor sticks, it's the first controller on this list that's immune to stick drift issues. In its design, the Nacon Revolution 5 Pro feels very similar to the  Nacon Revolution Unlimited . It's got the same broad shoulders and long grips, its face buttons are large, and the circle button spills over the right-hand side in the same way.

The features list of the Revolution 5 Pro (R5P) is as exhaustive as you'll find these days: wired and wireless connectivity, an impressive 10-hour lifespan, companion PC software for fine-tuning, and even extensive audio settings and multipoint wireless connectivity.

Alongside asymmetrical Hall Sensor thumbsticks, the R5P also packs in four back buttons, varying stick tops and gates, weights you can add to the handles, and four profiles per platform. The chassis sports a matted rubberized surface that feels really nice and cool in the hands. Nacon deserves additional praise for putting sustainability at the heart of this gamepad's design.

When it comes to competitive gaming, the Nacon Revolution 5 Pro is as close as it gets to the Victrix Pro BFG. Its larger size and increased heft might even make it more appealing to a lot of players. Annoyingly, looser stick tension and less ergonomic back buttons make it fall short for us. 

Either way, this is one of the best controllers we tested in 2023, and it felt just as at home in a first-person shooter as it did in a platformer or a third-person game. Being immune to stick drift would make this the best PC controller for longevity as it is, but the build quality here gives us so much confidence that this controller will last you a long way into the future.

Additionally, there are some flaws, particularly if you use a wired headset plugged straight into the controller, as Nacon's noise canceling software means your microphone audio will be accompanied by a grating white noise. 

The best PC controller for Xbox fans

7. xbox elite series 2 controller.

Here's where things start to get serious - with a price tag to match no less. I'll preface this by saying that this gamepad is, at heart, a mega-charged edition of the standard Xbox Series X controller. 

Included in the box are replacement thumbstick heads, a classic cross-design D-pad, and tools to tailor the feel of the controller to your liking - with physical adjustments to almost every part of the controller. Also to note, the extended 40-hour battery life - akin to the Switch Pro controller - a good 8-hour bump up from the Xbox Series X gamepad's lifespan between charges. We found that that recommended battery life from Microsoft largely rang true in our own testing. 

The Xbox Elite Controller Series 2 doesn’t reinvent the wheel, but at times it feels like a revolution. Xbox Elite Controller Series 2 review

We were pleased to find new textured grips covering the legs of the Series 2 version of the Elite controller, offering low-profile tactile feel that didn't seem prone to wear or scratches during our romps with these buttons. We also found it particularly easy to swap in any of the alternative analog sticks or d-pad buttons.

However, we saw the greatest leaps in the software improvements under the hood. We were still able to fully remap each function, but there's plenty more going on here. You can assign system-level functions like taking a screenshot or opening up achievements in console play.

The Elite 2 does justify its asking price through its premium features but at the end of the day, these features and this price will not suit everyone's needs or budget. If are on the look out for a high end controller and do have the money to splash out then this could definitely be considered the best controller for you. 

Read more: Xbox Elite 2 controller review

Xbox Elite Series 2 Core

The Xbox Elite Series 2 Core takes the high quality of the full-fat Elite Series 2 and brings it down to a more affordable price point, making it one of the best PC controllers out there. If you want a premium controller with great software benefits and features, this is a great value gamepad. This is essentially the same great package as you get with the Elite Series 2 - the main difference between the two is the accessories you get bundled along with them.

The original Elite Controller Series 2 will set you back $179.99 / £159.99 and comes with all the customizable goodies you could ever need for it. The Elite Series 2 Core only costs $129.99 / £114.99 and comes with the exact same body and features, but none of the accessories. These are available to purchase separately and can be used with the Core, but they will bring the total investment back up to $179.99.

Although I'm disappointed that there aren't any attachments on offer here, and really would have appreciated some form of back paddles or extra stick caps, I can't seriously fault the Elite Series 2 Core. It feels like going to a bougie, Michelin-star restaurant and being served something as basic as bread and butter. It's stripped back, simple, and you expect a more complicated course for how much you pay. But it's probably the best bread and butter you'll ever eat.

The best PC controller for PS5 fans

8. dualsense edge wireless controller.

The DualSense Edge is the first homemade pro controller from Sony, and wouldn't you know, it works with PC as well. Rounded corners at the bottom of the grips, as well as a heftier weight make it feel far better in the hands than the original DualSense. Clever software integration into the PS5 means you can fine tune bespoke PS5 features like adaptive triggers and haptic feedback, and function buttons found under the control sticks help to change customisable profiles in a flash.

The two back button attachments are extremely comfortable, and work extremely well no matter how you map them. Unfortunately, there are only two of them, which means for a similar price you can get a third party controllers that offer fewer features and software integration, but a load more functionality. 

More importantly, the DualSense Edge has a shorter battery life than the original DualSense, and doesn't truly fix the widespread stick drift issues. Although entire stick modules can be replaced, we'd have an easier time recommending it if there were genuine fixes built in.

Regardless, the DualSense Edge is still a great controller that will serve you well for PC and PS5. If you play a lot of third-person action adventure games, or specifically, PlayStation first-party games on PC, this controller is the one you want.

The best PC controller for game feel

9. turtle beach stealth ultra.

The Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra Wireless controller has so much tactility for a controller that doesn't officially feature haptic feedback. Microswitch buttons and really precise vibration make it exceptional for immersing you in the games you like to play. If you really want to get lost in the feeling of controlling your in-game avatars, then this is one to consider. 

The design of this gamepad is beautiful. It's got some RGB lines striking through its grips and framing its face, and some classy bronze panels that pair nicely with its black grips. What may be most appealing from a glance is this controller's facial display that helps you to control and customize its various settings. This is indeed a standout feature since it can make assigning the four truly innovative back buttons an absolute breeze. It'll also help you switch between the 10 savable profiles this controller can store. All of the Stealth Ultra's buttons are microswitch ones, and its triggers and thumbsticks have Hall Sensor tech inside them for extra longevity.

You get the usual connectivity of a pro controller here; a 3.5mm headphone jack and USB-C charging, but in your case, you get a small USB dongle and a small magnetic charging stand too. While you might not get the kind of assortments and attachments as some more Esports-specific controllers do, you do get some thumbstick toppers for your money, and these go a long way to correct the sub-par designs of the regular sticks. 

What I love about this controller is that it does everything well. It isn't quite as good performance-wise as something from Victrix, but it isn't far off. Besides the BFG with its fully modular design, you'd be hard-pressed to find a controller that outperforms this. What's more, its 30-hour quoted battery life is accurate, and thanks to the charging stand, I never have to worry about it running out of charge. 

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How to use an Xbox controller on PC

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Using your Xbox gamepad as a PC controller is significantly easier - it's all Microsoft after all. Again, you can simply connect via a standard cable and you're good to go. However, a wireless connection can be achieved by holding down the main Xbox button and then the pair button while in your PC's Bluetooth settings. You'll see Xbox Wireless Controller appear as an option. 

How to use a PlayStation controller on PC

Using your Xbox gamepad as a PC controller is significantly easier than a PlayStation one - it's all Microsoft after all. Again, you can simply connect via a standard cable and you're good to go. However, a wireless connection can be achieved by holding down the main Xbox button and then the pair button while in your PC's Bluetooth settings. You'll see Xbox Wireless Controller appear as an option. 

What game controller is best for PC?

The best PC controller overall in our opinion is the Victrix Pro BFG as its modular build means you can change it to suit whatever game you want to excel in. It's available for PS5 as well as Xbox, although the Xbox version might be better if you aren't looking for a multiplatform device. It's competitively priced for such a solid gamepad these days, and the number of attachments and accessories you get for your money is unmatched. 

Do PC gamers use controller?

Overall, whether you want to use a PC controller or keyboard and mouse is entirely up to you and what you find comfortable. Some people prefer controller when they migrate to PC due to the familiarity. However, there are benefits to using keyboard and mouse, one being higher accuracy when aiming which can allow for a competitive advantage. There are also hybrids of the two like the Azeron keypads.

Regardless; our advice would be to play with whatever you individually feel comfortable using. And perhaps most importantly, don't judge or mock others for what they choose. You never know why someone might need to use a controller over a mouse and keyboard - it could be for accessibility reasons. Either way, the toxicity around the controller vs mouse+keyboard debate isn't a healthy thing we should be keeping around in 2023. 

Is the PS5 controller good for PC?

The DualSense is definitely one of the stronger controller options on the market thanks to its adaptive triggers and haptic feedback. However, it doesn't have programmable back buttons or much of the software that separates the men from the boys in the best PC controller market. Having said that, with PlayStation now starting to release more of its first-party games on PC, the PS5 controller is probably one of the best ways to experience them. Although we'd recommend the DualSense Edge if your budget can stretch to it.

How we test PC controllers 

In brief, every controller that we have had our hands on is used in a series of different video games to accommodate for most genres. This means that we'll test the responsiveness of the sticks, face buttons, bumpers, triggers, and any other additional features found on the unit. If a controller is wired or relies on rechargeable batteries, then the duration of the lifespan is tested, too. The same can be said for any specialist software, such as drivers, that may be included with the gamepad as well. 

For more on how we test controllers at GamesRadar+ check out our full article, and for something more representative of our holistic approach to the latest gear, check out our Hardware Policy . 

Looking for more ways to enhance your gaming setup? Definitely check out your control alternatives with the the best gaming keyboards and best gaming mouse candidates. And maybe it's time to upgrade to one of the best gaming desks or best gaming chairs . If your PC is getting on a bit, take a look at our guides on the best gaming laptops and best gaming PC .

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Ever since playing Journey at the age of 15, I’ve been desperate to cover video games for a living. After graduating from Edinburgh Napier University with a degree in Journalism, I contributed to the Scottish Games Network and completed an Editorial Internship over at Expert Reviews. Besides that, I’ve been managing my own YouTube channel and Podcast for the last 7 years. It’s been a long road, but all that experience somehow landed me a dream job covering gaming hardware. I’m a self-confessing PlayStation fanboy, but my experience covering the larger business and developer side of the whole industry has given me a strong knowledge of all platforms. When I’m not testing out every peripheral I can get my hands on, I’m probably either playing tennis or dissecting game design for an upcoming video essay. Now, I better stop myself here before I get talking about my favourite games like HUNT: Showdown, Dishonored, and Towerfall Ascension. Location : UK Remote

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• Best overall
• Best budget
• Best high-end
• Best with RGB lights
• Best for classic games

How we test PC gaming controllers

The best pc controller for gaming in 2024.

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When most people hear "PC gaming," they think of esports pros mashing their RGB mice and keyboards. But although some PC games do work better with a mouse and keyboard combo, many of them — like racing titles, sandbox adventures, platformers, and arcade fighters — demand the best PC gaming controller you can find.

I spent months testing over a dozen popular controllers across multiple games in different genres to find the best PC controller for gaming. One controller stood above all the rest: The 8BitDo Ultimate 2.4g , which features a wireless design, tactile buttons, and loads of customization options. But if you have a tighter budget and don't mind a wired connection, you can't go wrong with the more affordable HyperX Clutch Gladiate .

Below, you'll find all my picks for the best PC gaming controllers, including additional options for retro gaming, and even designs with sleek RGB lights.

Our top picks for the best PC controller for gaming

Best overall: 8BitDo Ultimate 2.4g Controller - See at Amazon The 8BitDo Ultimate 2.4g Controller stands out from the crowd with its finely textured grips, detailed customization options, and included charging dock.

Best budget: HyperX Clutch Gladiate - See at Amazon The HyperX Clutch Gladiate requires a wired connection, but you'd be hard-pressed to find a controller with the same adjustable triggers and extra paddle buttons for such an affordable price.

Best high-end: Xbox Elite Series 2 Controller - See at Best Buy Although it's expensive, the Xbox Elite Series 2 earns that price point with modular components, customizable controls, and a phenomenal half-rubber design.

Best with RGB lights: Asus ROG Raikiri Pro - See at Amazon The Asus ROG Raikiri Pro offers grippy handles, a sleek RGB-lit design, and the best paddle buttons I've ever used on a full-sized controller.

Best for classic games: 8BitDo SN30 Pro - See at Amazon It might look retro, but the 8BitDo SN30 Pro has all the modern features you'd expect from a top-tier controller and the best D-pad I've ever used.

Best overall: 8BitDo Ultimate 2.4g Controller

Pros: Finely textured handles, excellent rumble, loads of customization options and compatible devices, includes a convenient charging dock

Cons: Wireless mode on PC requires a USB dongle, paddle buttons are sensitive

No matter what system you're playing on, it's hard to find a better gamepad than the 8BitDo Ultimate 2.4g Controller , which offers premier comfort and performance at a reasonable price.

Its textured grips feel great on the palms of your hands, and although the joysticks aren't as grippy as more expensive gamepads, they're still comfortable. And every button presses down with a satisfying click. I'm also a big fan of the Ultimate Controller's rumble, which feels more natural and consistent than any other gamepad I've used.

The 8BitDo Ultimate's most impressive quality is how customizable it is. Using the free 8BitDo Ultimate Software app (available for PC, Android, and iOS), you can edit any button input, adjust the joystick and trigger dead zones, and set the rumble strength. You can even set up macros, or short button combinations, to automatically perform complex tasks. 

The Ultimate Controller also prides itself on being compatible with a wide array of different devices. As of this writing, the Ultimate 2.4g Controller works with PC, Mac, Switch, Android, iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, Steam Deck, and Raspberry Pi. And if that's not enough, the controller also comes bundled with a charging dock, which makes it easy to store and charge when not in use. It's an immense amount of value.

The Ultimate Controller's few flaws are minor. The 2.4g wireless model can't connect to Windows using Bluetooth, only 2.4GHz, which is a stronger connection but requires an included USB dongle. The paddle buttons on the back are useful but easy to press accidentally. And the white edition of the controller picks up dirt easily.

8BitDo also sells a slightly more expensive version of this gamepad called the Ultimate Bluetooth Controller . This model can connect to all the same devices but adds Nintendo Switch motion control and Hall Effect joysticks, which are less prone to drift. Its face buttons are also designed to match Nintendo consoles, which means the A and B buttons are swapped compared to a typical Xbox-style layout. 

I love the 8BitDo Ultimate Controller, and give it my strongest recommendation not only as the best PC controller for gaming, but also as the best iOS gaming controller and best Nintendo Switch controller . Most PC gamers will be satisfied with the 2.4g model, but the Bluetooth version is better for Switch owners, and there's even a less expensive wired version for budget shoppers.

Read our 8BitDo Ultimate Bluetooth Controller review .

Best budget: HyperX Clutch Gladiate

Pros: Adjustable triggers, remappable paddle buttons, built-in headphone jack, affordable

Cons: Wide handles can feel awkward, no wireless features, not very pretty

The wired version of our best overall pick, the 8BitDo Ultimate, is also a great budget controller, but if you're looking for an alternative, you can't go wrong with the HyperX Clutch Gladiate.

This controller looks simple but actually has a few cool features. It has switches on the back that let you change the trigger buttons from analog to digital, and vice versa. Also on the back are two extra paddle buttons that can be remapped to any other button, no software needed. And at the bottom, you'll find a 3.5mm jack for headphones and microphones. 

Alongside these extra features, the Clutch Gladiate offers the same high-quality joysticks and face buttons you'd expect from a great PC controller.

The Clutch Gladiate's budget status does come across in its design, though. The handles don't have much grip, and they're wider than most other controllers', meaning they'll feel awkward in smaller hands. The aesthetic design isn't great — the joysticks and bumpers, in particular, look cheap, even though they feel fine. There also aren't any wireless options; you'll need to connect it to your PC with a USB-C cable.

Despite these flaws, the HyperX Clutch Gladiate is a reliable gamepad that will carry you comfortably through any game. If you want the best PC controller for gaming on a budget, this model should be high on your list.

Best high-end: Xbox Elite Series 2 Controller

Pros: Premium rubber grips, interchangeable components, long battery life

Cons: Expensive, removable components can feel flimsy

The crown jewel of the PC gaming controller market is the Xbox Elite Series 2. Built with a mix of cool rubber and smooth plastic, it's hard to find a better controller from any manufacturer — if you can afford it.

The Xbox Elite excels in nearly every area. It features clicky, tactile face buttons and finely gripped joysticks. Two switches on the back let you adjust how hard you can press the trigger buttons before they register, ranging from analog to digital. The handles are covered in an amazingly comfortable rubber grip. And the Xbox Accessories app, free for Windows, lets you edit inputs, adjust vibration, configure joystick sensitivity, and more. You can save up to three profiles onto the same controller and switch on the fly.

But the Xbox Elite's biggest selling point is its interchangeable parts. The controller comes with a carrying case, and inside that case are a new D-pad, a variety of different joysticks, and paddles. You can easily remove the D-pad and joysticks that the controller already has — they're latched on with relatively weak magnets — and replace them. This gives you a massive amount of control over how your gamepad functions and how it feels in your hands.

The replaceable parts aren't perfect. The paddles, in particular, feel flimsy, and it's easy to knock them out of place while playing. But the customizability, combined with the included charging dock and long battery life — up to 40 hours — makes the Xbox Elite a supremely convenient controller.

At a retail price of $176, the Xbox Elite is absolutely a premium buy. But if you have the budget and know that you'll be using it a lot, it's a worthwhile investment. Just keep in mind that Microsoft also sells a cheaper version of this controller, called the Xbox Elite Series 2 Core . Both gamepads are the same, except that the Core package doesn't include the carrying case, charging dock, or extra buttons.

If all you want is an official Xbox controller, you could also opt for the standard Xbox Core Wireless Controller . It's a third of the price but isn't as customizable and runs using disposable AA batteries. It might be more affordable, but it's nowhere near as convenient.

Read our Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 review .

Best with RGB lights: Asus ROG Raikiri Pro

Pros: Customizable RGB lighting, grips feel great, better paddles than most controllers

Cons: Pricey, built-in screen is gimmicky

Like most Asus products, the ROG Raikiri Pro is flashy and functional. Its front side is lit with a subtle RGB glow, which is sure to complement any RGB-enabled PC setup.

The Asus ROG Raikiri Pro is expensive ($170), but it earns its premium status. Finely gripped joysticks and handles make gaming comfortable, and responsive buttons mean you'll never miss an input. It also has one of the best circular D-pads I've ever used and by far the best paddle buttons. These paddles are positioned in the exact right spot to make them easy to press when you want to, but hard to hit accidentally.

You can customize any of the buttons, along with the joysticks, using the free Armoury Crate PC app. This app also lets you edit the RGB lights by allowing you to choose new colors and strobe effects. It offers a wonderful amount of personalization.

The ROG Raikiri Pro's most striking feature is the small screen at the top of the controller, which can display the current battery life and profile. Using the Armoury Crate app, you can also design and run short animations on the screen while you play. But while it's fun to look at for the first few minutes, it's more annoying than interesting after that point.

Between the sleek RGB lights and amazing grip design, the ROG Raikiri Pro both looks and feels great.

If you're looking for an RGB-enabled controller that isn't as expensive, consider the Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma . It's not as comfortable, but has great lightning effects too.

Best for classic games: 8BitDo SN30 Pro

Pros: Classic and comfortable design, fantastic D-pad, compatible with loads of devices

Cons: Smaller than other gamepads, can be confusing to connect, not all models are customizable, uses Nintendo button layout

Easily one of 8BitDo's best PC gaming controllers, the SN30 Pro is a compact gamepad that blends retro design with modern controls. It's a must-have for any PC gamer who focuses primarily on classic games from the early console or handheld eras, or modern 2D platformers.

The SN30 Pro 's best quality — aside from its sleek design, which calls back to the iconic SNES controller — is its D-pad. The D-pad is sturdy and responsive. Unlike other controllers with squishy D-pads, you'll never wonder if you're pressing the SN30 Pro's D-pad hard enough or have to tap twice because your input didn't register. And it's covered with a light texture that helps keep your thumb in place, even while mashing. It's one of the best D-pads I've ever used.

This makes the SN30 Pro fantastic for games that rely on a good D-pad, like 2D platformers and other classic 2D games. If you're big into classic emulation, it's made for you. It also features twin joysticks and twin triggers, meaning you can play any game with it, though it's a bit too small to be comfortable with some modern titles.

The SN30 Pro is compatible with loads of different devices, both wired and wirelessly. Aside from a Windows PC, you can connect the controller to your Mac, Nintendo Switch, Steam Deck, Android, iPhone, iPad, and Raspberry Pi. When connected to a Switch, it has motion controls too.

It can be confusing to switch between devices — make sure you keep your controller manual to remember the pairing process — but it gives you so much freedom.

The only real drawback with this controller is its default button configuration. Most versions of the SN30 Pro come with their face buttons in the Nintendo layout, which puts the B button on the bottom and the A button on the right. Most PC games default to the more common Xbox configuration, which reverses those buttons.

8BitDo does sell a version of the controller in the Xbox configuration , but it's made primarily for cloud gaming on Android phones, so you'll need to buy a separate USB adapter to use it with your PC. 8BitDo also offers a wired version of the SN30 Pro , which costs about $20 less. It's not compatible with as many devices, but it's worth a look if your budget is tight.

Read our 8BitDo SN30 Pro Controller review .

Every gamepad in this guide went through hours of individual testing across multiple games in multiple genres, including Tekken 7, Grand Theft Auto V, Marvel's Spider-Man Remastered, and Elden Ring . I also use external tools like Gamepad Tester to measure joystick drift and accuracy. The best PC controllers for gaming featured here only represent a small subset of the many controllers I tested, which also included models from Sony, SteelSeries, PowerA, and more.

I evaluate every controller across a number of categories, including comfort, button feel and responsiveness, extra or missing features, and price. The best PC controller for gaming will excel in all these areas, but I may occasionally recommend a controller that's only average in certain areas if it goes above and beyond in another category.

As I test and write, I also consult existing reviews of the controllers I'm testing. This gives me insight into other gamers' experiences with the controller and tells me whether my experience has been typical. All of this helps me write the most useful and well-rounded reviews possible.

PC gaming controller FAQs

How much should I expect to spend on a PC gaming controller?

PC controllers tend to retail at three different price points.

Budget controllers cost between $25 and $40. These controllers usually require a wired connection and don't have extra features like paddle buttons or input customization. Depending on the brand, they might also be made with cheaper plastic.

Standard PC gaming controllers retail at about $50 to $70. They'll have grippy handles and joysticks, tactile buttons, and usually include a few special features, like customizable controls and extra buttons. Most can be played wirelessly.

High-end controllers cost upwards of $150. Controllers that expensive should have all the great features of a standard controller, and hopefully include extras like interchangeable components and incredibly sleek designs. They're also built with sturdy plastic, rubber, or metal.

But what kind of controller should you buy? In my experience, a standard PC gaming controller — around $70 — is perfect for most gamers. Premium controllers are nice, but they come with a big jump in price that the extra features rarely make up for.

Are wireless controllers better than wired controllers?

In nearly all cases, wireless controllers cost more than wired ones. But that doesn't necessarily mean they're better.

Both connection types have their pros and cons. Wireless controllers are more convenient — you don't need to worry about getting tangled up in cables — and can usually connect to more types of devices. That's great for multi-platform gamers.

But with wired controllers, you don't have to worry about charging batteries or wireless signals dropping out in the middle of games. They might not be as convenient, but they're more reliable.

The good thing is that nearly all wireless controllers also let you play using a wired connection. Just plug the controller into your PC using its charging cable, and apps like Steam and Xbox Game Pass should recognize it immediately. This way, you can play wirelessly or wired whenever you want.

Do wireless controllers use Bluetooth or 2.4GHz?

These days, Bluetooth is the most common way that wireless devices connect to each other. However, although many of the best PC controllers for gaming do offer a Bluetooth option, most connect using a different kind of wireless signal called 2.4GHz.

2.4GHz signals are stronger than Bluetooth and transfer your button inputs faster. This makes 2.4GHz great for certain genres, like fighting games, that demand quick inputs. You also don't need to mess around with confusing Bluetooth menus — you can just plug the included USB dongle into your computer, turn on the controller, and start playing. The downside is that you need to keep track of both the controller and the dongle, which is usually very small and easy to misplace.

Because of these benefits, 2.4GHz connections are also used on the best wireless gaming headsets and best wireless gaming mouse models. 

Before buying a controller, check whether it uses Bluetooth, 2.4GHz, or both.

What are trigger locks or trigger switches?

Many newer PC gaming controllers have special switches on the back called trigger locks. Flipping these switches lets you change how far you need to press the trigger buttons before they register an input.

By default, the triggers will be unlocked, or set to "analog" mode. This means that the triggers have a full range of motion and can track exactly how much pressure you're putting on them. The most common use for this feature is in racing games — the harder you press the trigger, the harder you jam your foot down on the gas pedal.

When you flip the switches to lock the triggers, you're setting them to "digital" mode. Digital triggers don't move very far and only track whether you're pressing them at all. They're not pressure-sensitive. This is great in shooting games, where you need to press the triggers as fast as possible.

Can I use a console controller on my PC?

If you already own a gaming console, you can definitely use the controller that comes with it on your computer.

Nearly all wireless controllers can connect to your PC using Bluetooth. Just put them into pairing mode and open your PC's Bluetooth menu to search for connections. And if that doesn't work, just connect the controller to your computer using a USB cable. It should connect immediately.

Although we don't recommend them as the best PC controller for gaming, both the official Nintendo Switch Pro Controller and PlayStation DualSense/DualShock are also solid PC gamepads. And the standard Xbox controller is specifically designed to work with both Xbox and PC.

Depending on how you play your games, you might need to configure the gamepad's controls to work with your PC. Steam should automatically sense what kind of controller you have, but other platforms like Xbox Game Pass might not.

The only console controllers that you can't use are old ones. If your console controller was made before the seventh console generation (in other words, before the Wii, PS3, and Xbox 360), you'll need to buy a special adapter to use it with your PC. And if you're trying to connect your Nintendo Switch's Joy-Cons, you'll likely have to use each Joy-Con as a separate controller.

You can purchase logo and accolade licensing to this story here . Disclosure: Written and researched by the Insider Reviews team. We highlight products and services you might find interesting. If you buy them, we may get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our partners. We may receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test. This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product is featured or recommended. We operate independently from our advertising team. We welcome your feedback. Email us at [email protected] .

• Main content

The best PS4 controllers in 2024

These are the best PS4 controllers around

• Best overall
• Best premium
• Best modular
• Best for Xbox converts
• Best for kids

The list in brief 1. Best overall 2. Best premium 3. Best wired 4. Best for Xbox converts 5. Best for kids FAQs

The best PS4 controllers are excellent for providing extra functionality on the console for those who're looking for an enhanced play experience. With Sony 's previous-generation system firmly over a decade old, third-party controllers especially are becoming more affordable and plentiful.

Despite the console's age, the PS4 remains a popular system to this day and still receives strong support from first and third-party software. And while the system's pack-in controller is great, the console is also compatible with many of the best PC controllers . That's a great thing for those wanting features like trigger stops, extra programmable buttons, and other Pro-adjacent functionality. Read on, then, to learn all about our picks for the best PS4 controllers you can buy today.

The quick list

The best overall PS4 controller

Sony's official PS4 pad impresses with ergonomic grip, an innovative touchpad and quality-of-life features such as the Share and Home buttons.

Read more below

The best premium PS4 controller

Nacon's premium Revolution pad works as excellently on PS4 as it does the current generation of consoles.

The best modular PS4 controller

Fully compatible with the PS4, the Victrix Pro BFG is our go to choice if you want the customizability of a modular design.

The best PS4 controller for Xbox converts

Coming over from Xbox, but not a fan of the DualShock's symmetrical sticks? Nacon's fantastic asymmetrical pad was designed with you in mind.

The best PS4 controller for kids

If you've got a little one or two running around, then the Hori Mini is perfectly suited for smaller hands.

Best PS4 controllers in 2024

Why you can trust TechRadar We spend hours testing every product or service we review, so you can be sure you’re buying the best. Find out more about how we test.

The best PS4 controller overall

1. Sony DualShock 4 Wireless Controller

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

✅ You want a high-quality, official gamepad: The DualShock 4 isn't exactly premium, but does everything you'd want from a pack-in controller.

❌ You want extra battery life: Lasting no longer than 8-10 hours on a full charge, the DualShock 4's battery life is quite poor.

It shouldn't be a surprise that Sony's official DualShock 4 tops our list of the best PS4 controllers. The DualShock 4 is one of Sony's best controllers to date. It's sleeker and more ergonomic than its previous pads. And on top of that, excellent features like the touchpad, lighting, and built-in speakers give the controller a lovely premium touch.

The DualShock 4 is pretty middle-of-the-road in terms of price. In 2024, expect to pay  $59.99 / £54.99 for a brand new controller. While that does sound a touch pricey for a decade-old pad, it's one of the most reliable PS4 controllers around, and has some top-notch features you won't find on competing units.

Those include the brilliant touchpad - great for ancillary inputs and navigation - as well as the convenient share button and those gorgeous, reactive side lights. The one area where the DualShock 4 is let down, though, much like the PS5's DualSense wireless controller, is in its pretty meager battery life.

• Read more: DualShock 4 controller review

2. Nacon Revolution 5 Pro

✅ You want an 'as good as it gets' PS4 controller: Nacon's latest controller builds upon its history to provide a truly premium controller for both PS5 and PS4 with plenty of additional features.

❌ You want something cheaper: As one of the pricier PS4 controllers around, Nacon's premium offering may turn the budget-conscious among you elsewhere.

Nacon's back at it again with another superb premium controller that's excellent on both PS4 and the current-gen PS5. Sporting superb build quality and excellent features, it's a highly customizable gamepad that's well worth the price of admission.

Developed in tandem with Nathan 'Mister Crimson' Massol, a professional Street Fighter 6 player, the Revolution 5 Pro was created with high-end play and online multiplayer in mind. To that end, expect fantastic build quality and a range of ancillary features you won't find on other gamepads.

The full premium works are here, from a set of remappable back buttons and trigger stops to on-board mic control and profile switching. A customizable LED that circles around the right analog stick is a lovely extra touch, too. And if you're going wireless, there's even battery indicator LEDs situated just under the touchpad.

• Read more: Nacon Revolution 5 Pro controller review

3. Victrix Pro BFG

✅ You want unparalleled customization: The modular design of the Victrix Pro BFG gives you a level of customization that you simply won't find on other PS4 controllers.

❌ You don't want to break the bank: The Victrix Pro BFG is a modern controller bursting with high-end features, meaning that it comes at a pretty premium price.

The Victrix Pro BFG is easily the most versatile PS4 controller on this list thanks to its unique modular design. Almost everything about the controller can be tweaked, swapping out the buttons and thumbsticks for various alternate modules. This includes a tactile fighting game pad, which is perfect for those eager to dive into the likes of Street Fighter 6 . The positions of each module can also be tweaked to your liking, including the option to play using an asymmetrical layout.

Aside from the modularity, we also appreciate the eye-catching design that blends more traditional black plastic with purple highlights. Considering its features, the controller is surprisingly lightweight too which helps keep it comfortable in the hands throughout lengthy gaming sessions.

Although this controller was made primarily for the more recent PS5, it is fully compatible with the PS4. It can also be used with a PC, giving it plenty of versatility. Such a varied set of features does mean that the Victrix Pro BFG costs more than most, however, and you can currently get your hands on it for $179.99 / £179.99 / AU$269.

• Read more: Victrix Pro BFG review

4. Nacon Asymmetric Wireless Controller

✅ You prefer an asymmetrical stick layout: Nacon's asymmetrical controller is a fantastic fit for players used to Xbox's controller layout.

❌ You're more used to symmetrical sticks: If you're primarily a PlayStation gamer, those asymmetrical analog sticks may prove irksome.

Nacon's at it again with the Asymmetric Wireless Controller. A comfortable gamepad that brings the Xbox One controller experience to PS4 (and PC) players. It's robust and well-made, with a chunkier design than the DualShock 4, which makes it more comfortable to hold across longer gaming sessions.

At £49.99 (around $59.99) the controller's price is just about on par with the DualShock 4, meaning you won't be spending an arm and a leg for an alternative stick setup. However, its availability is spotty in the US, meaning those of you buying there may have better luck with other third-party controllers.

Its name clues you in on the USP: the Nacon Asymmetric Wireless Controller has offset analog sticks, just like Xbox's controllers. We found this to be a better choice for those who have dexterity issues or those who simply prefer the offset design as opposed to Sony's tradition of applying symmetrical sticks to its official pads. However, there are a few performance issues to take into account. 

We noticed some grating lag during testing, and there are no motion-sensing features. The light bar and speaker are missing, too, an important feature for some games. It's a good choice if you want a second pad to use for some specific dual-stick titles, but it likely won't replace your DualShock 4 unless you greatly prefer the asymmetry of its analog sticks.

• Read more: Nacon Asymmetric Wireless Controller review

5. Hori Mini Wired Gamepad

✅ You need spare pads for the kids: If you have particularly young children in your household, Hori's pad is perfect for smaller hands.

❌ You're not a child: It's hard to recommend this controller to adults, unless you really like the petite form factor.

The Hori Mini Wired Gamepad is a good fit for smaller hands. Whether you find regular PS4 gamepads too big or want an option for your kids, this controller will do the trick nicely. The Hori Mini Wired has a pleasingly retro look and feel. The wired pad has a 10ft cable and it’s roughly 40 percent smaller than the DualShock 4. The grip is minimal as a result but makes it great for portability. It's also well suited to simple arcade titles.

At $29.99 / £28.99, it's an affordable option if you need a cheap and cheerful controller for a child, making it an ideal gift for the youngsters in your family.

Because this PS4 pad is so small, though, you're lacking a light bar, stereo headset jack, speaker, dual motors, and a motion sensor. Think of it as a streamlined alternative to the DualShock 4. As such, a few games won't work with this controller, but more arcade-like titles or fighting games could benefit from its use.

Best PS4 controller - FAQs

Is the dualshock 4 the best ps4 controller.

Although the DualShock 4 is one of the best controllers available for the console, that doesn't mean it's the only high-quality controller worth having in your setup. There are a number of notable companies creating products for the console so whatever budget you're working with you're guaranteed a decent product outside of exclusively the DualShock. 

Can you connect a PS4 controller to a PS5?

The DualShock 4 controller will connect to a PS5, but you'll be limited to playing PS4 games exclusively. Since the DualSense controller for the PS5 offers new features that the DualShock lacks, you'll need to use the accompanying accessory to enjoy games on the PS5. As for third-party PS4 controllers, you won't be able to connect them to the PS5.

Are third-party PS4 controllers worth it?

If you're operating with a smaller budget when shopping for PS4 accessories, third-party alternatives are always cheaper than official offerings, and that doesn't mean they are any lower quality than your standard DualShock. There's a lot to love about third-party controllers, especially since there's more space to tailor your product to any preferences you might have in a gamepad, making them worth considering whenever you're shopping. 

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Rhys is TRG's Hardware Editor, and has been part of the TechRadar team for more than two years. Particularly passionate about high-quality third-party controllers and headsets, as well as the latest and greatest in fight sticks and VR, Rhys strives to provide easy-to-read, informative coverage on gaming hardware of all kinds. As for the games themselves, Rhys is especially keen on fighting and racing games, as well as soulslikes and RPGs.

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Best Xbox Controller 2024

Get the best Xbox controller and have a good time.

The Xbox Series X|S ushered in a new generation of Xbox gaming and they deserve the best Xbox controller to go with them. Both consoles are excellently designed and feature powerful hardware with enhanced features, but raw processing prowess doesn't mean a lot without the best controller you can get. 

The standard Xbox controller design has been the best of any platform for a number of years now, but there are many more options out there to enhance your gaming. Whether on a budget or looking for something packed with additional buttons, triggers, and features, there's a controller for everyone.

These are the best controllers to use with your Xbox Series X and S, no matter what kinds of games you play or how your budget is looking. And since Xbox accessories work seamlessly with PC, too, you can use any of these on Windows for native or cloud gaming. 

Best Xbox controller: Xbox Wireless Controller

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Xbox Wireless Controller (Xbox, PC, & mobile)

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

The standard controller that Microsoft bundles with every Xbox Series X|S console is rock solid. The Xbox Wireless Controller is comfortable, ergonomic, and features a universally improved design compared to its Xbox One counterpart. The clicky buttons and resilient dpad provide satisfying tactile responses to all your presses. Xbox Wireless Controllers also feature both Xbox Wireless and Bluetooth support, meaning they can switch seamlessly between Xbox consoles and other devices like phones, tablets, and PCs.

For players looking to add some additional flair and truly customize their favorite controller, Xbox Design Lab allows customers to craft the Xbox Wireless Controller of their dreams. While noticeably more expensive, especially if you opt for the custom labeling, this still serves as a fantastic supplemental option for the best all-around Xbox controller. 

The Xbox Wireless Controller is definitely one of the best controllers in gaming. However, some players may find the incorporation of AA batteries with the Xbox Wireless Controller disappointing. This means utilizing rechargeable capabilities requires an extra purchase.

Best premium: Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2

Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 (Xbox, PC, & mobile)

The default Xbox Wireless Controller is a perfectly suitable gaming peripheral for almost any player, thanks to its award-winning design and comfort. However, competitive players may lament its general lack of additional features and versatility. The Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 takes what fans love about the Xbox Wireless Controller and massively improves upon them with new features, customizability, and much more. If you can afford to shell out a serious premium, there's no better controller than the Elite Wireless Series 2.

At a glance, the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 looks very similar to its more standard counterpart, but upon further inspection, the refinements become markedly apparent. This premium controller features a durable design with improved grips, a denser metal-reinforced chassis, and a foundational focus on customization. Players can swap out the joysticks and D-pad for alternative covers, and take advantage of rear paddles and full button mapping (complete with a dedicated button for switching between modes) to get the most out of every single game.

The Series 2 also incorporates Bluetooth support in addition to Xbox Wireless, meaning it can seamlessly switch between multiple devices like phones, tablets, and Windows PCs. The Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 bests its little sibling once again by featuring a rechargeable battery via USB Type-C or the included dock, rather than relying on AA batteries, without an optional purchase. Unfortunately, these upgrades mean the Elite Controller Series 2 is far more expensive than most other controllers.

As an alternative, the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 Core delivers the same premium controller at a slightly more approachable price. Unfortunately, the extra necessities included with the standard variant, like extra joysticks, a charging dock, and the carrying case, aren't included. If you're fine with charging via USB-C and using the default d-pad, this is a worthwhile option to consider. 

Best wired: Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma

Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma (Xbox & PC)

The Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 may firmly take the top spot as the "best premium" Xbox controller, but the Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma gives the former peripheral some hefty competition in the space. The latest offering from Razer incorporates the company's infamous customizable Chroma RGB lighting alongside great build quality and a surprising number of features.

Like with other "pro" controllers, Razer's Wolverine V2 Chroma features back paddles, customizable button mapping, and generally fantastic action and feedback across its triggers, joysticks, and buttons. There's also the unique "sensitivity clutch" feature, which lets you manually slow down the joysticks with the press of a paddle in any game. Overall, the Wolverine V2 takes some of the best elements of a standard Xbox controller's design and injects a healthy blend of Razer goodness.

The only serious downside about the Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma versus other options is how it is wired-only. This limits the device to input on Xbox and PC, and means you'll always be limited by the length of the cable you're using. The Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma is also expensive, a downside further accentuated by the fact the completely wireless Xbox Elite Controller Series 2 has been seen on sale multiple times for less than the Wolverine V2 Chroma.

Best budget: PowerA Enhanced

PowerA Enhanced (Xbox)

PowerA is well known for making affordable and surprisingly high-quality gaming accessories, and the PowerA Enhanced Controller for Xbox Series X|S is no different. An updated design from earlier PowerA Xbox One controllers, the Enhanced comes with a metallic D-Pad, a scrollable volume wheel for a plugged-in headset, two programmable buttons on the rear, and a Share button for capturing screenshots and video clips.

The PowerA Enhanced is at its best when you consider its shockingly low price. The features you get for your money are highly competitive, making this a fantastic option if you want to get the most out of your purchases. This controller doesn't slack on the extras, either, with a detachable cable and a wide variety of beautiful colors from which to choose.

If you're looking for a wireless controller, however, you won't find it here. The PowerA Enhanced comes only in a wired version. On top of that, the PowerA Enhanced suffers from the same problem as the previous PowerA Spectra: a soft-touch coating on the top plate. While this looks and feels great, it can get quite grubby over time.

Best alternative pro controller: PowerA Fusion Pro 2

PowerA Fusion Pro 2 (Xbox)

Both the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 and Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma are amazing controllers, but they're also quite expensive. Those interested in enjoying some of those high-end features, but without the high-end price tag, would be remiss not to consider the PowerA Fusion Pro 2 . This offering from PowerA is significantly more affordable than the aforementioned solutions, but still includes a number of premium features.

The Fusion Pro 2 boasts of removable rear paddles, customizable joysticks, trigger stops, replaceable (and customizable) faceplates, software-free button mapping, integrated headset controls, and more. There really is a lot to love about the PowerA Fusion Pro 2 controller, especially when you're paying less than half the retail price of the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2.

Of course, there are compromises to get so many features at this price point. The Fusion Pro 2 becomes dirty quickly thanks to its soft-touch grips, it has a limited number of trigger replacements, and the rear paddles are too easy to knock away on accident. Of course, this controller is also wired-only, like many affordable options, meaning there's no Bluetooth support for use on other devices.

Best Xbox Cloud Gaming: Razer Kishi V2

Razer Kishi V2 (Android)

Mobile gaming continues to be a juggernaut. It's impossible to argue with the convenience of picking up your phone and playing great games. Not only does the Razer Kishi V2 improve upon its predecessor in every conceivable way, but it also elevates mobile gaming in commendable ways. Step aside touch controls, there's a better way to play.

The upgraded Razer Kishi V2 incorporates better-feeling joysticks and buttons that align more closely with console competitors. This excellent mobile gaming device quickly and easily connects to essentially any Android phone with a USB-C port, making setup a breeze. Additionally, the overall ergonomic feel of the Razer Kishi V2 is smooth and seamless. With a sprinkle of Joycon and a splash of Xbox, Razer borrowed from its counterparts to deliver a great experience.

When it comes to feel and form factor, there isn't much to fault with the Razer Kishi V2. However, the clamp on the back of the unit doesn't feel the sturdiest, leaving some questions about its long-term durability. The newly implemented capture features for screenshots and videos could also be improved a bit. All in all though, this is the best way to play games on your phone. 

Best accessibility: Xbox Adaptive Controller

Xbox Adaptive Controller (Xbox & PC)

The Xbox Adaptive Controller isn't going to be the best controller for everyone, but its incredible customization and wide range of compatible accessories make this peripheral the best possible controller for accessibility. Microsoft carefully designed the Adaptive Controller to fit the needs of millions of gamers with limited mobility in a package that's easy to use and tailor to your specific needs.

The Xbox Adaptive Controller features large, programmable buttons and switches, and has a ton of additional ports to allow additional accessories and peripherals to be connected. Using the Adaptive Controller, you can make your gaming setup exactly what you need.

There's an unfortunately limited number of options for players who can take advantage of controllers like this, and the Xbox Adaptive Controller is absolutely among the best of them. Built with Xbox consoles and PC in mind, it's 100% compatible with Xbox Series X|S. It can become expensive to purchase optional accessories, however, and it may be time-consuming to set up the Adaptive Controller for your specific needs.

Best wheel: Logitech G923

Logitech G923 (Xbox & PC)

For the budding virtual racer on Xbox Series X and Series S, you can't do better right now than this wheel. Thanks to a partnership with many of the best Xbox racing games , the G923 and its included Trueforce system allows for feedback and feel like never before seen on a console.

The actual design is almost identical to Logitech's previous wheels, an added benefit that maintains comfort in familiarity without moving away from an already almost-perfect design. The latest incarnation has some neat features new to Xbox, including a double-clutch system, a dial, and integrated LED shift lights. The wheel is compact and trimmed in leather, while the whole unit is small, light, and easy to mount to either a desk or a dedicated racing rig.

The G923 also features upgraded pedals that are less spongy and more responsive than previous models, albeit still without a load cell. The Logitech G923 was originally designed for Xbox One, but it fully supports use on Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. Keep in mind that high demand for racing wheels has led to stock shortages, meaning the Logitech G923 can sometimes be difficult to find.

The bottom line

There are so many excellent Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S controllers out there right now. No matter your playstyle, favorite genre, or budget, there's bound to be the perfect controller out there for you. More and more manufacturers have updated their best products with new features from the Xbox Series X|S, like the incredibly handy Share button.

Whether you're into racing games, shooters, action-adventure, or anything else. The PowerA Enhanced Wired Controller for Xbox Series X|S, for example, still delivers great features at an incredibly appealing price. If you want to get the most for your money and you're on a budget, it's a great option. If you want something more, the Xbox Elite Series 2 is packed with features, but it comes at a price. 

The regular Xbox controller is still the best for most people, though. It's an iconic design, comfortable to hold, affordable, and available in an almost ridiculous amount of different colors. When you see a third-party controller with a shape very similar to Microsoft's there's only one reason for that. It's perfection. 

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Miles Dompier is a Freelance Video Producer for Windows Central, focusing on video content for Windows Central Gaming. In addition to writing or producing news, reviews, and gaming guides, Miles delivers fun, community-focused videos for the Windows Central Gaming YouTube channel. Miles also hosts Xbox Chaturdays every Saturday, which serves as the Windows Central Gaming weekly podcast.

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The 7 Best Xbox Gaming Controllers We've Tested and Recommend

These gamepads offers more customization, sometimes for less than the standard controller.

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To be clear, the official Xbox Wireless Controller that comes bundled with every console is stellar and comes in a wide array of colors, including fully customizable finishes . Microsoft also makes a pair of feature-rich Elite wireless controllers for demanding gamers with deeper pockets. Like Sony’s DualSense controllers for the PlayStation 5, the standard Xbox controllers are excellent, and you'd never go wrong using one.

However, there's also a whole universe of high-quality Xbox controllers from various gaming hardware brands, giving you more options that you might not immediately consider, whether you need a second controller for when a friend comes over, want an extra backup gamepad to swap in if you're out of batteries or charging up, or want additional features you can't get on the standard Xbox controller, like remappable rear paddles. To determine the best alternatives to Microsoft’s own controllers, we spent a few weeks researching and playing the top-rated Xbox controllers from PowerA, Razer, Turtle Beach, and other brands.

The Best Third-Party Xbox Controllers

• Best Wireless Controller: Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra
• Best Wired Controller: Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma
• Best Budget: HyperX Clutch Gladiate
• Best Value: PowerA Fusion Pro 3
• Best for Mobile Cloud Gameplay: Razer Kishi V2 Pro

What to Consider

Wired versus wireless.

Most of today’s best third-party Xbox gaming controllers are wired. Dealing with a cable guarantees that you or another player won’t ever have to worry about swapping or recharging batteries. For this reason, the wireless controllers we do review also work in wired mode.

A wired USB connection brings more instant input responses than a Bluetooth link. Of course, the tradeoff is that you might have to sit a little closer to the TV.

Customizable Controls

For an aftermarket controller to be worth the extra expense, it needs to have something the standard Xbox controller doesn't. The good news is that even budget-friendly options have features like additional customizable buttons. These handy add-on buttons are typically integrated into the grips, allowing you to press them while operating the thumbsticks.

Triggers with adjustable sensitivity via a dedicated button are another handy feature to keep an eye out for. If the controller is mostly for action-packed single- or multiplayer games, you’ll want the triggers to have a fast response. Racing simulators, on the other hand, require trigger buttons with longer travel for enhanced throttle and brake controls.

Depending on your budget and gameplay style, look for controllers with additional face buttons or swappable paddles. The button customization process usually requires installing a companion app (which is a quick and easy process).

Additional Features and Compatibility

Some of the best third-party Xbox gaming controllers have cool additional features like onboard RGB lighting and more elaborate audio controls. Other customization features, like swappable thumb sticks and faceplates, are also worth considering.

Save for the mobile-only Razer Kishi, the controllers here are compatible with the latest Xbox Series S and Series X consoles and the older Xbox One . They’re also great for PC gaming .

How We Selected The Best Xbox Controllers

Having spent hundreds of hours gaming with the current lineup of original Xbox controllers, I focused my research on third-party wired and wireless gamepads that offer strong alternatives to the standard set by Microsoft. Every controller I looked into has a standard button and thumb stick layout, ensuring you don’t waste time getting used to it.

I scrutinized budget-friendly models that cost less than the replacement price for those that came with your console that don't skimp on performance. I also evaluated pricier high-end gamepads that offer unique designs and additional features worth spending on. They included designs with swappable plates, customizable lighting, and additional buttons for tailoring the layout to your exact preference, to name a few significant bits.

After selecting the most promising controllers, I spent hours gaming with each pick, taking note of their feel in my hands, button tactility, responsiveness to my inputs, and haptic feedback.

Find the best Xbox controller for your gameplay style and budget among the thoroughly evaluated offerings below.

Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra Wireless Xbox Controller

The Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra is the third-party best wireless controller for Xbox consoles. It delivers a perfect mixture of high-tech design with a built-in color display and customizable RGB lighting, an extensive set of customizable buttons with exceptional tactility, textured grip handles, immersive haptics, excellent battery life, and a rich retail package with plenty of bundled accessories.

Overall, the product is a fantastic alternative to the original Xbox Elite Series 2 controller that’s worthy of its epic name and hefty price tag.

Over weeks of testing, I really liked the controller’s clicky buttons and RGB lighting. The keys have a nicer feel than the standard Xbox controller buttons, while the lighting treated me to a nice sense of occasion during my gaming sessions. Impressively, the accessory’s lighting is customizable locally without the need for a software suite.

Available for Xbox and PC, the Turtle Beach Control Center makes customizing the controller’s buttons and lighting easy. An Android app is also available, and it includes the option to add instant messaging and social notifications to the controller’s display. I wouldn’t recommend this, as the setup process is cumbersome and the notifications potentially distracting.

Like other Xbox controllers from the brand, the Stealth Ultra packs a wide array of audio controls, ranging from boosting the bass and treble to activating Superhuman hearing . The last-mentioned bit is essential for competitive gameplay because it will allow you or the giftee to detect footsteps and other difficult-to-discern sounds reliably. The sonic experience is easy to tune directly on the device, just like the lighting.

The controller’s retail package includes a charging dock, a storage case with a cable slot for charging, a wireless connectivity adapter, and swappable thumbstick covers.

Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma Wired Xbox Controller

Razer’s Wolverine V2 Chroma is the best wired third-party Xbox gaming controller. It has everything a great one should: an ergonomic design, tons of customizable buttons, and adjustable triggers. As its name suggests, the controller also rocks the gaming giant’s signature Chroma RGB lighting.

Sitting alongside its triggers and bumpers, the additional duo of buttons sets the controller apart from all rivals. The feature made a huge difference during fighting games by allowing me to access special moves by tapping the buttons instead of simultaneously pressing the X and Y keys.

I also really like the mech-tactile buttons and D-pad. The controls are not only super precise but also nicer to interact with than the standard Xbox controller buttons. You can order it with an Xbox-matching black or white housing. A cheaper version sans RGB lighting is also available.

Scuf Instinct Pro Wireless Xbox Controller

The Instinct Pro is another solid alternative to the Microsoft Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2. It has swappable faceplates for quick and easy customization. Though naturally, with that comes a higher cost. The product is the priciest on this list.

In addition, it has more robust grips and an extensive set of controls you can re-map. You can save and switch between up to three control configurations for different gaming titles.

A six-month warranty used to be an Instinct Pro downside, but not anymore. According to the manufacturer, the controller is now backed by a one-year warranty , which is more fitting for a product in its price range.

The retail package includes an extra set of thumb sticks, but replaceable faceplates cost $25 each . Scuff also offers a stylish storage case for an extra $15 . Given the product's price category, I feel that it could use a bundled storage case and a rechargeable battery like other premium Xbox controllers, rather than the AA batteries currently required.

PowerA Fusion Pro 3 Wired Xbox Controller

The Fusion Pro 3 controller offers a set of customizable controls that rival those of the wireless Xbox Elite Series 2, just in a wired form with a much lower price tag. The officially licensed accessory also has comfy rubber grips and a convenient volume dial, to name a few extra features. It's hands-down the most feature-packed Xbox gaming controller under $100.

I was particularly impressed by the highly adjustable trigger buttons of the Fusion Pro 3. Rather than offering only two sensitivity settings like most rivals, the accessory has three, just like the original Xbox Elite Series 2 gamepad that costs more than twice as much. The accessory's mappable buttons are also comfier and more precise than the removable paddles of the previous iteration .

I also tip my hat to PowerA for treating the Fusion Pro 3 to a retail package that belies its agreeable sticker. It includes additional thumb sticks, removable paddle buttons, an extra faceplate, and a premium storage case.

HyperX Clutch Gladiate Xbox Controller

Priced around $35 before additional deals and discounts, the HyperX Clutch Gladiate wired controller is the best for high-performance gameplay on a tight budget. The accessory has comfy grips, customizable buttons, and adjustable triggers. The last-mentioned feature is particularly impressive for a product in this price range, making the HyperX offering an exciting, much cheaper alternative to the original Xbox controller.

Having adjustable triggers made me reach for the Clutch Gladiate more frequently than for a standard Xbox controller. I liked being able to switch the essential buttons for optimal performance during first-person action games like Doom Eternal or racing simulators like Forza Motorsport . Having longer travel during the latter allowed me to get precise throttle and brake responses while racing.

The Clutch Gladiate also features strong rumble motors for tactile in-game feedback and a futureproof USB-C connector. Customizing the additional duo of buttons in its grips is super easy — there's no need for additional apps for this task.

For an extra $10, you can snag an even more gift-worthy version of the controller with transparent housing and customizable RGB lighting. I tested it and liked its high-tech looks and reliable performance. That said, the fully transparent controller isn't as grippy as the standard version.

PowerA Moga XP-Ultra Xbox Controller

The all-new Moga XP-Ultra touts a high level of versatility. Unlike its rivals, the controller can transform from a compact to a full-size gamepad by snapping into a grip with two mappable buttons. Also nice: Such a dramatic transformation doesn’t compromise on vibrating feedback or audio jack access.

Playing Sega Genesis classics on Xbox with the Moga XP-Ultra without its grip took me back decades, reminding me of switching from the original three-button controller to the much smaller six-button version. I believe this small controller will be a great option for up-and-coming gamers who are learning the ropes, as well as longtime players with smaller hands.

Believe it or not, the Moga controller also comes bundled with an excellent phone clip. The add-on accessory has a sturdy amount and adjustable clamp. It's great for local and cloud-based gaming on Android phones .

The gadget’s beefy battery can deliver up to 60 hours of Xbox wireless gameplay between charges or up to 40 hours in Bluetooth mode. That's an impressive feat for a wireless controller.

Razer Kishi V2 Pro Mobile Gaming Controller

The Razer Kishi V2 Pro mobile controller is the best for cloud-based Xbox gameplay with an Android phone. The USB-C accessory is compatible with all Androids that have the same connector, including in scenarios when phones have a thin case. It has a dedicated Xbox button and a USB-C port for charging the phone while gaming.

Testing the Razer Kishi V2 Pro treated me to a similar, thoroughly excellent experience as the wired Wolverine V2 controller mentioned above. The mobile version has buttons with the same great tactility, including two additional keys embedded alongside its triggers and bumpers. The additional buttons will give serious gamers more customization options via a companion app.

An onboard audio jack is another feature that left me with a great impression of the Razer Kishi V2 Pro controller. Notably missing in the previous version of the product , the feature allowed me to enjoy not only game soundtracks but also an occasional podcast and video clip with my go-to wired earbuds.

In addition to providing stellar Xbox cloud gameplay, the Razer Kishi V2 Pro is also ideal for standard Android gameplay. Thanks to a virtual controller mode, it will allow you or the giftee to map a game’s touch controls to its clickable buttons. A version of the controller in black that lacks an Xbox button, but still works perfectly for cloud gameplay is also available.

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The Best Controllers for Steam Deck in 2024

Steam Deck is one of the most popular handheld consoles . Launched in 2021, the console sold like hotcakes. According to Valve, it sold several million units in just two years. With the OLED display now being offered, gamers can enjoy higher visual quality than ever before, but this is not the only feature that makes it stand out in the handheld category.

Full access to users' library of games and an easy-to-operate OS allows them to get started without any hassles, unlike other handhelds that have a more complex OS and interface. That said, the default controller is also excellent for longer gaming sessions, but many users want to try the games on a bigger gaming monitor . This makes using the default controller feel unusual due to the large space between the two sections. Hence, a dedicated controller is perhaps the best choice in this scenario.

PlayStation DualSense Wireless Controller

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The Steam Deck can be docked like a Switch; here's how to connect it to a TV and Monitor.

From the plethora of controllers available on the market, it can be frustrating to choose the best one, particularly for the Steam Deck, which has excellent and responsive controls. The Game Rant team took the task of searching for controllers that provide unparalleled functions and features for fair prices. This guide features the top controllers to use with Steam Deck.

Updated on May 28th, 2024 by Marc Storch: The Steam Deck game library is steadily growing; it is now 29% larger than the game library for the Nintendo Switch, and the need for alternative ways to play games is growing as well. Adding a controller to your setup is a great way to make the Steam Deck much more versatile for both playing games at home and on the go.

Game Rant's Picks of the Best Controllers for Steam Deck in 2024

The DualSense wireless controller for PS5 offers immersive haptic feedback, adaptive triggers, and a built-in microphone. In addition, the built battery should get gamers through the longest gaming sessions at 1560 mAH.

This controller is built with high performance and personalization in mind while retaining all the immersive features of the DualSense wireless controller. The built-in microphone and headphone jack make it simple to connect headsets for multiplayer chatting or headphones for more immersive audio.

Number of Colors 6

Wireless? Yes

Compatible Systems PS5, PC, Mobile

Battery 8 hours

• Good design for better grip and comfort
• Built-in speaker for voice chats
• Responsive Adaptive triggers
• Haptic feedback for more immersion
• Battery life is not impressive
• Doesn't feature any additional buttons

The PlayStation 5 controller is simply amazing for any game, any player, and any compatible platform. The revised controller design provides much better grip and comfort compared to the PS4 controller and adds various enhancements including a built-in microphone that is a clever addition. The build quality as well as the buttons are now firmer, which makes it feel sturdier. It stands out due to its haptic feedback that creates precise vibrations according to the gameplay. This provides a more immersive experience compared to the traditional rumble motors.

The built-in microphone is another noteworthy feature that comes in handy for various uses, like chatting with friends in-game to win matches. However, the 3.5mm audio jack is always available for connecting to a dedicated headset. The great thing is that now the micro-USB cable is replaced by the more relevant USB Type C connector. The Dualsense controller does lack a good battery life, but it is still sufficient for a couple of long gaming sessions. The adaptive triggers are also amazing in feel and response and users also get a small touchpad that can be used as a mouse for various purposes.

The Xbox Elite Series 2 Core controller is a middle-ground approach from Microsoft as it attempts to cater to users who would like access to built-in charging and a premium controller without all the extras that the pricier Elite Series 2 includes out of the box.

Brand Microsoft Xbox

Platform Xbox, PC

Battery Up to 40 hours

Connectivity 2.4 Ghz, Bluetooth, USB-C

Headset Support Yes

Programmable Yes

Extra Buttons Optional

• Four remappable back paddles
• Comfortable grip for longer usage
• Customizable triggers for more responsiveness
• Swappable thumbsticks and D-pad
• More expensive than a PS5 controller

Xbox Elite Series 2 is not only the best controller for Xbox consoles but also unmatched when it comes to overall functionality. High price aside, the controller provides remappable back paddles for various purposes and is highly customizable. Microsoft didn't design the controller from scratch but enhanced the original Elite Wireless controller through minor adjustments that make the difference. The Elite Series 2 offers better rubber grips and limitless customization through the Xbox Accessories app.

The controller provides adjustable triggers that have three-way lock switches to shorten the trigger response. This can be ideal in competitive gaming where every millisecond counts. Not only are the functions of buttons and triggers customizable, but the components are interchangeable too. Users can swap the thumbsticks, D-pads, and even the back paddles according to their gameplay styles. It works flawlessly with various Xbox consoles, PCs, Steam Deck, and various other platforms.

This wireless Bluetooth controller from 8BitDo represents the height of wireless gaming. Compatible with Switch and Steam Deck via the Bluetooth/2.4g adapter/USB Cable, the controller comes with top-tier hardware such as hall effect sensing joysticks and two programmable paddle buttons on the back. The controller also comes with a charging dock, though with a 22-hour battery life, it may not be needed often.

Compatible Systems Switch, PC Windows 10 and Steam Deck

Battery 22 play hours

Connectivity Bluetooth/2.4g adapter

Programmable Buttons Yes

Extra Buttons 2 Pro back paddle buttons

• Lightweight and comfortable design
• Hall-effect thumbsticks
• Full remapping control
• Works with a ton of various platforms
• Includes charging dock with 2.4GHz adapter

8BitDo is known for making incredibly affordable controllers and offering stellar performance that punches easily above its weight class. Gamers looking for a perfect middle-ground controller for the Steam Deck look no further than the 8BitDo Ultimate Bluetooth controller.

Thanks to its compact shape and low weight, this controller is easily one of the most comfortable controllers in this guide. This controller comes in at 228 grams compared to the Xbox controller, which weighs 300 grams with batteries. The Ultimate Bluetooth controller is a perfect option for sore hands. However, gamers with larger hands might feel a bit cramped using this controller, as it is a similar size to the Switch Pro Controller.

Using this controller on the Steam Deck is a breeze with a Bluetooth connection that works out of the box. However, the Steam Deck does not have the most consistent Bluetooth performance, so the included wire will yield the best results for gamers who need a steady connection at all times.

8Bitdo's Ultimate C wireless gamepad is a simplified version of their standard Ultimate Controller, offering most of the same functions and all the same quality construction. The wireless 2.4G and USB connectivity is compatible with PC, Android, Raspberry Pi, and Steam Deck. The included wireless dongle allows for plug-and-play on PC, while also offering fast, reliable, and low-latency gameplay. Players getup to 25 hours of playtime on a single charge alongside expected features such as analog triggers, rumble vibration, turbo function, and an anti-slip texture.

Brand 8Bitdo

Platform PC, Android, Raspberry Pi, Steam Deck

Battery Up to 25 hours

Connectivity 2.4G and USB

Headset Support No

Programmable No

Colors Lilac Purple, Field Green

Weight 10.9 ounces

• Affordable controller with wireless connectivity
• Long battery life of up to 25 hours
• Pretty lightweight for long gaming sessions
• Works with a couple of platforms
• No customizations
• Incompatible with PlayStation and Xbox consoles

Looking for a dirt cheap controller with good compatibility with the Steam Deck? 8Bitdo has the answer. The Ultimate C controller is not only affordable but also provides wireless connectivity to get rid of the wiring hassle. It's compatible with Windows, Steam Deck , and Android out of the box and has a reliable 2.4 connection for low latency. Just like the KingKong 2 Pro, it can work up to 25 hours on a single charge, which is impressive for a price tag of only $30. Although it is cheap, it doesn't compromise on the buttons, triggers, or thumbsticks.

It's also pretty lightweight, weighing only 200g, which can help with comfort for longer playtime, but the grip is pretty standard, as expected. Users should also keep in mind that the Ultimate C doesn't come with back buttons and the customizations aren't its strength. Still, for $30, the controller brings responsive triggers, great comfort, long battery life, and support for a handful of platforms that matter the most.

While the price tag may be higher than some other options, the Nintendo Switch Pro Wireless Controller is the best overall controller for the Nintendo Switch. It's perfectly sized, has a massive 40-hour battery life, and has seamless connectivity.It features motion controls, HD rumble, built-in Amiibo functionality, and much more.

Platform Nintendo Switch, PC

Battery 40 Hours

Connectivity Wireless (BT), USB-C

Headset Support Requires add-on

Extra Buttons No

• Excellent D-Pad
• Incredible battery life
• USB-C charging
• Comfortable design

While the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller is most at home on a Switch, it is also an excellent companion for Steam Deck users who prefer the layout of a Switch controller. This controller is affordable compared to the other pro controllers from Microsoft and Sony. However, it still has a fantastic build quality, incredible battery life, and performance that can make gamers feel like pros.

While the Switch Pro controller is not as simple as connecting to an Xbox or PlayStation controller, it is still a reasonably quick process. After connecting the controller to the Steam Deck via Bluetooth, flip the settings to use the Nintendo button layout, and it is time to game.

Steam Deck: How To Switch To Nintendo Controls

The Steam Deck has built-in Nintendo controls: Here's how to set them up and connect a controller.

Despite not breaking the mold too much compared to other pro controllers, the Switch Pro Controller has wiggled its way into the hearts of many gamers, and for good reason. Across the board, this controller feels amazing to game with. The face buttons are clicky and responsive, the joysticks offer a good amount of resistance, and the D-Pad is easily one of the best on the market.

The8BitDo Pro 2 retro controller is the latest version of the company's most popular model. Featuring advanced functions such as rumble, hall effect, and motion controls, this controller is the best of both retro and modern gaming. The Bluetooth connectivity is compatible withApple, Switch, PC, Android, Steam Deck, and Raspberry Pi. With a 20-hour battery, players can keep gaming on the go without worrying about recharging.

Brand 8BitDo

Platform Apple, Switch, PC, Android, Steam Deck, Raspberry Pi

Battery 20 Hours

Connectivity Bluetooth

Extra Buttons 2

Colors Black, White, Gray

Weight 8 ounces

• Works with multiple platforms
• Excellent D-Pad and Gyro
• Highly customizable
• Remappable back paddles
• Gyro only works with Switch

8BitDo Pro 2 looks like a retro controller but features the functions of a modern one. From great rumble vibration to motion controls, there is everything a Deck user might need. The controller connects through Bluetooth and can easily last up to 20 hours on a single charge. The controller also comes with a gyro that assists in aiming , but it's something that will only work with the Nintendo Switch. Users must keep in mind that certain functions won't work with every platform, but most features will be ready to use with the Steam Deck.

Best Retro Gaming Controllers in 2024

Old-school gaming is even more fun with a retro controller, but which ones are worth ditching more modern options for?

The retro-style design on this controller makes it look slick and takes users back to the early 2000s gaming era. However, despite this traditional design, it comes with programmable buttons that are quite useful in numerous games. The two pro back paddles are available for executing various moves in games and the adjustable hair triggers allow users to quicken the response time. Customizing the controller is pretty easy as 8Bitdo Ultimate software provides users with plenty of options to tweak the controls.

The PowerA Advantage wired controller with Lumectra offers players multi-zone RGB lighting that can be customized across four lighting zones with three lighting modes for thousands of color combinations. Players can additionally control any compatible Lumectra Zone RGB lighting accessories from the gamepad. The PowerA Advantage controller additionally features two mappable buttons and three-way trigger locks to take gaming experiences to the next level.

Connectivity USB

Wireless? No

Compatible Systems Xbox, PC

Color Options Black, White

Headset Support 3.5mm

• Stunning RGB lighting
• Plug-and-play experience
• Feels similar to the Xbox Core Wireless controller
• Quality assurance inconsistencies

Wired controllers might seem strange for a portable console like the Steam Deck. However, for gamers who don't want to worry about dealing with wireless inconsistencies but still want to use a separate controller for a more comfortable experience, a wired controller is the way to go. One of the best options for Steam Deck users currently is the PowerA Advantage with Lumectra.

This is the newest controller from PowerA, which is relatively well-known for making affordable controllers, but if the hype is to be believed, this controller is aiming to knock that reputation to the next level. In Game Rant's PowerA Advantage review , we found those claims to be valid, with impressive RGB lighting, snappy buttons, and responsive triggers. While it may not be competitive against higher-end controllers, this Advantage controller comes at a fraction of the cost and will serve most gamers well enough.

The Best RGB Gaming Controllers for 2024

Gaming accessories with lights are awesome to look at, but which RGB gaming controllers can perform better than the rest?

The RGB lighting on this controller is a whole step above most RGB controllers currently available. With four lighting zones that can all be precisely controlled, gamers can get some really cool-looking lighting effects with this controller. However, Game Rant recommends using the app to control these lighting effects for the best results. The on-controller editing is confusing and doesn't always stick after getting the perfect look set up.

GameSir T4 Cyclone Pro is a multi-platform controller that works flawlessly with PC, macOS, Steam Deck, and various other devices/OS out of the box. Its Hall Effect joysticks and fast trigger mode make it pretty responsive for fast-paced games. The two macro buttons at the back allow users to remap them for more in-game functions while having great positioning of every button and hall effect analog triggers provide unmatched performance in fps games.

Brand GameSir

Platform PC, macOS, Steam Deck, Android, iOS

Battery 25 hours

Connectivity 2.4G receiver, Bluetooth, USB-C

Colors White, Black, Pink

• Hall Effect sensors for thumbsticks
• Highly accurate triggers
• Multi-function button for changing the settings at go
• Dual macro buttons at the back
• Motion control not compatible with Steam Deck
• Doesn't work with Xbox consoles

GameSir is a popular controller manufacturer that produces a variety of gaming controllers on a budget. The T4 Cyclone Pro is a wonderful controller for the Steam Deck, but it can also work with Windows, iOS, Android, and Nintendo Switch out of the box. The controller comes with a multi-function button to customize the control settings in a second. See it like the FN button on a keyboard. By pressing this button, the controller's mode of operation changes. Through this button, users can switch between the Linear and Hair triggers or change the vibration intensity and other such functions.

The thumbsticks boast a Hall Effect sensor for high responsiveness and durability. This ensures millions of cycles and an anti-drift operation that feels smooth and is perfect for FPS games. Similarly, the triggers are made highly sensitive through the hall effect sensors and have an excellent accuracy of 0.1mm. Moreover, the motion control allows users to immerse themselves in gaming, but it is going to work only with the Switch . Apart from this feature, the controller is not limited to any device and is compatible with a variety of consoles and OS.

Things to Consider When Buying a Controller for Steam Deck

The amount of controllers available can be quite overwhelming especially if you are not sure if it works with the Steam Deck or not. To help narrow down the results and make the process a bit easier, be sure to follow these four key factors.

Compatibility: While most PC controllers are compatible with Steam Deck, not every controller provides full compatibility. A controller may be limited in its features and functionality when connected to the Deck. Because the Steam Deck has been out for a few years at this point, more controllers are adding the compatibility directly to the specs list, but a quick search, if you are unsure, is always a good idea before picking up a new controller.

Wired/Wireless: Wired controllers are input-lag-free but can be a nuisance due to either too little or too much cable length, especially if you are playing on the go. Finding the perfect way to wrap a cable around the Steam Deck can be a bit of a process. On the other hand, wireless controllers eliminate the need to figure out what to do with the cable, but they can introduce some input lag if the connection is not perfect.

Controls: The positioning of controls, such as joysticks, buttons, triggers, etc., should be appropriate for your fingers and what kind of games you enjoy playing. If you are a fan of FPS games, the perfect controller will probably be a bit different if you prefer to play racing games.

Features: These days, controllers come with a variety of features, such as gyros, hall effects, trigger locks, paddles, and more. Always look for additional features that improve the gaming experience.

Q: Are the Steam Deck controls good?

The Steam Deck controller is flawless in gaming and provides responsive feedback. The buttons can be remapped according to users' needs and its features can be customized, including the trackpad behaviour and Gyro.

Q: Can I use the PS5 controller on Steam Deck?

Absolutely, the PS5 controller is compatible with PS5, PC, as well as SteamOS.

Q: How do I customize my Steam Deck controller?

Users can find the Controller Settings by pressing the Steam button on the Deck. Here they can find the options to customize the behavior of their controller.

The Best Toddler Travel Beds To Help Littles Sleep Sweetly Anywhere

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Traveling with young kids is a journey, and figuring out where they’ll sleep—and stay asleep—is a major part of that adventure. Seasoned parents know that the right travel accessories, like a toddler-sized travel bed, helps make everyone’s night easier. The best toddler travel beds are portable, comfortable, safe and easy to set up. These easy-to-pack beds help little ones feel snug and safe, just like they do at home, wherever they may be sleeping.

These toddler travel beds are portable, comfortable and parent-approved.

“When traveling with toddlers, everyone sleeps so much better when they have their own dedicated sleep space,” says Sara Huff, a product expert at the kids travel rental service Babyquip . “Travel toddler beds are designed with little kids in mind and offer some features that keep them safe and comfortable all night.” These are the best toddler travel beds to help kids (and parents) get the best sleep that they can while on-the-go.

• Best Toddler Travel Bed Overall: Hiccapop Inflatable Toddler Travel Bed
• Best Budget Toddler Travel Bed: Intex Kids Travel Air Mattress
• Best Inflatable Toddler Travel Bed: Jetkids By Stokke Cloudsleeper
• Best Toddler Travel Bed With Pump: The Shrunks Inflatable Toddler Travel Bed
• Best Folding Toddler Travel Bed: BabyBjörn Travel Crib Light
• Best Toddler Travel Bed For Camping: Soundasleep Dream Series Kids Air Mattress
• Best Splurge Toddler Travel Bed: Slumberpod + Slumbertot Bundle
• Best Toddler Travel Cot: Regalo My Cot Portable Toddler Bed
• Best Inflatable Bed Rail For Toddlers: Shrunks Inflatable Bed Rail (2-Pack)

Best Toddler Travel Bed Overall

Popular travel bed with a super high weight limit, hiccapop inflatable toddler travel bed.

Type: Inflatable | Weight limit: 310 pounds | Size: 62 x 39 x 12 inches | Weight: 8 pounds | Warranty: 2 years

A tricky part of traveling with toddlers is that they’re not used the high beds you find at hotels, and parents have to worry about them rolling off. The Hiccapop Inflatable Toddler Travel Bed alleviates that concern by being close to the ground and having oversized inflatable bumpers on all four sides of the bed. Families with super active sleepers like that the bumpers on the Hiccapop are noticeably taller than other brands. It comes with a removable inner mattress that fits any standard crib sheet, but if you forget to pack one, the soft flocking on the mattress is comfortable enough for a child to sleep on even sans sheets. The impressive 310 pound weight capacity means an adult can snuggle with their child without worrying about popping the bed.

It inflates and deflates quickly and gets small enough to fit into luggage, making it ideal for long-distance travel—or even just as an extra bed for a sleepover. For added convenience, the bed includes an extra-large carry bag and patches in case of a tear. It even has handles on both ends for easy moving around. Cleaning the bed is super easy—it’s simply a matter of wiping down the waterproof vinyl exterior with a wipe or kid-safe cleaning product of your choice.

What the parents say: Several of our travel experts use—and love—the Hiccapop as well. “I’ve used the Hiccapop Inflatable Toddler Travel bed and loved it because it didn’t leak or lose air overnight,” says Whitney Casares, pediatrician and founder of Modern Mommy Doc . Debbie Gerken, pediatric sleep coach and founder of Sleep Like a Baby Consulting concurs. “It’s portable, safe, and inflates within seconds,” she says.

Best Budget Toddler Travel Bed

Affordable toddler air mattress with bumpers, intex kids travel air mattress.

Type: Inflatable | Weight limit: 50 pounds | Size: 66 x 42 x 10 inches | Weight: 8.4 pounds | Warranty: 90-days

The Intex Kidz Starry Night Air Mattress does what it needs to do, without breaking the bank. The sweet star-themed inflatable bed is almost a cross between a travel crib and a toddler mattress thanks to the bumpers that goes around the entire inner mattress, making kids feel extra cozy and secure. Putting sheets on is a breeze thanks to the removable inner mattress that’s covered in a soft flocked material.

Parents should note that the bed comes with a hand pump, and requires significantly more time and manual labor than an electric pump. Alternatively, you could use an electric pump you already have on hand. Deflating it will take a little bit of time since the air valve needs to be pinched continuously to let the air out. The bed comes with a bag that everything can be stored in, and fits easily into traditional luggage if needed.

The bed itself is a good size to accommodate taller kids, but it doesn’t have a very high weight limit (only 50 pounds), so it’s not a fit for older kids. Nonetheless, it’s a great value for the price.

Best Inflatable Toddler Travel Bed

Versatile and roomy toddler bed with built-in pump, jetkids by stokke cloudsleeper.

Type: Inflatable | Weight limit: 149.9 pounds | Size: 59.1 x 29.5 x 6.7 inches inflated | Weight: 3.1 pounds | Warranty: 2 years

Stokke is a baby brand that’s known for its minimal and functional designs, and this toddler travel bed is no exception. The Cloudsleeper, designed for kids ages 3 and up, is as fuss-free as they come thanks to an innovative integrated pump that parents can just use their hand or foot on. While it’s a manual pump, reviewers note that it took them less than five minutes to fully inflate the bed and that deflating was quick as well. It doesn’t require electricity, making this an ideal choice for anywhere that may not have easy access to an outlet. 

The mattress has full-length side bumpers to keep little ones safe and cozy, while the temperature-regulating mesh cover keeps them cool. Instead of wiping down the surface like other travel beds, the cover can actually be fully removed and tossed in the washing machine. The sturdy water-repellent bottom is made of the same material that as many camping mattresses, making this a versatile travel bed for everything from hotel stays to tent camping.

While many of the other inflatable toddler beds deflate then get rolled and squeezed into some type of pouch (“squeezed” being the operative word), this is the only one that folds down efficiently into the included packing cube, which is small enough to fit into a backpack. We also love that the bed supports up to 150 pounds, making this a toddler travel bed that can be used for years (and kids) to come.

Best Toddler Travel Bed With Pump

Bed with bumpers that inflates (and deflates) quickly, the shrunks inflatable toddler travel bed.

Type: Inflatable | Weight limit: 149.9 pounds | Size: 59.1 x 29.5 x 6.7 inches | Weight: 3.1 pounds | Warranty: 2 years

As someone who travels extensively with my three kids, this Shrunks Inflatable Bed is the one I toss in every suitcase or car trunk. I’ve traveled with this portable inflatable bed in cars, trains and planes, used it through two toddlers—and it’s still getting used to this day for my now 5-year-old. First recommended to be by a fellow family travel writer, it’s one purchase I now also recommend over and over again. Set up is incredibly simple: it inflates in less than a minute with the included electric air pump. It’s a generously sized air mattress with bumpers, so you don’t have to worry about your toddler rolling onto the floor. The pump is on the loud side, but considering how quickly the process goes, it doesn’t bother us to deal with it for a minute.

The mattress itself is super soft and covered in a velvety material, which has been nice for the couple times we forgot to pack a sheet with us (any standard crib sheet fits.) Speaking of sheets, even if you’re using a blanket as a sheet alternative, it’s easy to tuck it in under the inner mattress (which is attached to the outer shell) so little legs aren’t tangled in loose sheets all night. The bed deflates as quickly as it blows up by opening up the air valves, and rolls up easily into a small bag that fits into our carry-on luggage.

I also appreciate its durability. We’ve owned and used it many times over the past six years—at hotels, in tents when camping and other people’s houses—and even though its endured some raucous kid bouncing, thanks to its very high weight limit (almost 150 pounds), it still works as well as the day we bought it. But perhaps the very best part? No squeaking noises.

Best Folding Toddler Travel Bed

Large travel crib that folds down compactly, babybjörn travel crib light.

Type: Crib | Weight limit: N one | Size: 44 x 25 x 32 inches | Weight: 11 pounds | Warranty: 2 years

This super popular travel crib is a functional and visually appealing choice for young toddlers (1-3 years old) who need a safe place to sleep but aren’t quite ready for an open mattress or bed. It tops the Forbes Vetted list of the best travel cribs , and I personally used this as the primary travel bed for one of my kids until she was well past 3 years old.

While some other portable crib-type products can be cumbersome to open and close, I found the BabyBjorn Travel Crib super easy to set up solo, partly thanks to how light it is—just 11 pounds—and to the ingenious opening mechanism. The comfy crib-size mattress sits on the floor, and the mesh sides are extremely breathable and give kids a sense of security as they can see their caregivers on the other side. I also love how quick it is to fold it back down into the compact carry bag. I often tossed it in my trunk to have it ready to go to grandparents’ houses, hotels and camping.

What the parents say: Fellow family travel writer Keri Baugh of Bon Voyage with Kids is also a fan. “I always preferred the tall sides of a portable crib like this for my toddlers to the inflatable beds because it kept them safe in the middle of the night when we were traveling…and the mattress is comfortable,” she shares. As an added bonus, she says that when the Travel Crib Light is folded down, it can actually fit inside of a checkable suitcase, “although it comes with its own case, and typically—for many airlines—you can check baby gear for no extra baggage fees.”

Best Toddler Travel Bed For Camping

Durable and comfortable with built-in cupholder, soundasleep dream series kids air mattress.

Type: Inflatable | Weight limit: 200 pounds | Size: 64  x 44  x 14 inches | Weight: 10.89 pounds | Warranty: 1 year

Much like adults, many toddlers are sensitive to the feeling of hard ground or rocks under their backs, so a cushy inflatable mattress like this one can be a godsend while camping. It’s toddler-sized, comfortable thanks to extra coils in the mattress, has bumpers all around to help tots stay in, and even has an extra grippy bottom to ensure it doesn’t slip around.

There are so many thoughtful features built into the Soundasleep Dream Mattress, like flocking on one end to keep sheets from sliding. There is a built-in cupholder, so kids can have their water bottle within reach for when middle-of-the-night thirst hits. It’s made of heavy-duty and extra thick material to withstand pokes from sticks and all sorts of other things a toddler may find. Standard crib sheets and blankets fit this mattress and can tuck in underneath the inner mattress to ensure a snug fit. 

The mattress comes with an electric pump which is cleverly embedded within the mattress itself, with cord storage so you don’t have to worry about losing it or dealing with lose cables. Reviewers share that they were able to inflate the mattress straight out of the box in under five minutes. Many reviewers also rave about how great the brand’s customer service was if they encountered any issues. While it does come with a carry bag, note that it doesn’t get as small as other inflatable beds. However, we think that’s a worthy trade-off for a mattress that’s more durable and can standup up to a more challenging outdoor environment.

Best Splurge Toddler Travel Bed

Travel bed with privacy canopy, slumberpod + slumbertot bundle.

Type: Inflatable | Weight limit: 200 pounds | Size: 50.5 x 36.5 x 10.5 inches | Weight: Slumbertot: 6 pounds; Slumberpod: 5.5 pounds | Warranty: 90 days from the date of delivery

One of the most challenging parts about staying at someone else’s house or a hotel with a toddler is when that bright morning sun comes streaming in and wakes everyone up (speaking from personal experience here). So a toddler travel bed that actually blocks out light and helps them feel like they’re in their own space? Yes, please. The Slumberpod’s Slumbertot set includes an inflatable toddler bed—the Slumbertot—the popular Slumberpod canopy and a mini fan.

The Slumberpod canopy is a bottomless tent-like structure made of breathable fabric that, according to the brand, blocks out 95% of light. It has four adjustable panels that can be closed or left open, two interior pockets to hold the mini fan to allow for extra ventilation, and even a separate pocket for a monitor. It fits over pack and plays, mini cribs and other types of beds.

“I love Slumberpod’s new Slumbertot,” says Huff. “It works with the SlumberPod to have a full black out and covered bed. It’s super easy to blow up and has bumpers built in.” The Slumbertot inflates in under two minutes with the included electric pump, and thanks to the generous 200 pound weight limit, is designed to accommodate tots well into their big kid years. This two-piece bed has a super soft inner mattress and is designed to fit perfectly inside the Slumberpod, although it can certainly be used separately as well. The set comes with a bag that conveniently fits all of the pieces, to make for easy traveling. 

What the parents say: “The Slumberpod creates a dark, private space for a little one, which allows for sharing a hotel room more relaxing for parents,” says Gerken. “Most toddlers sleep better in this than they do at home.” 

Best Toddler Travel Cot

Affordable toddler bed that folds in seconds, regalo my cot portable toddler bed.

Type: Foldable cot | Weight limit: 75 pounds | Size: 48 x 24.5 x 9 inches | Weight: 6.3 pounds | Warranty: 90 day limited

Whether it’s for camping, or just to have an easy-to-set up extra kid bed on hand, a toddler cot can be a simple and super affordable option. The popular Regalo My Cot is easy to setup (literally just unfold it), under $25 and lightweight. Just because it’s compact, doesn’t mean it’s not sturdy—the durable steel frame can support up to 75 pounds of weight. It also comes with a fitted sheet that goes on top of the canvas-like liner (which is also washable), to make cleaning a breeze.

If you’re concerned about a little one rolling off since there are no side rails, just know it sits only 9 inches from the ground. The cot doesn’t come with a its own bag, but that’s less of an issue since it’s just one piece and there’s no pump. Some parents say they were able to fit the cot into a checked luggage bag while others just stowed it under their kid’s permanent bed when not in use. 

What the parents say: “We usually get hotels with one bed and use this for our toddler and she has no issues sleeping on it as is. It's super easy to fold up and take with us and it's as compact as a camping chair,” shares one online reviewer. The cots “literally fold up with one finger in less than two seconds,” says another. “It’s easy to tote, easy to fold and easy to sleep on.” Just keep the size and weight limits in mind, since the bed is recommended for kids ages 2 to 5.

Best Inflatable Bed Rail For Toddlers

Turn any bed into a spot that's safer for toddlers, shrunks inflatable bed rail (2-pack).

Type: Inflatable rail | Weight limit: 300 pounds | Size: 7 x 48 x 4 inches | Weight: 0.6 pounds (each) | Warranty: 30 day return window

If you’re worried that you won’t have the extra floor space for a blow-up bed or fold-out cot, these rails make it safer for tots to sleep in the grown-up bed. Forbes Vetted deputy editor Rose Gordon Sala , a mom of three, recommends this type of inflatable rail for kids that sleep in a toddler bed at home and aren’t used to being high off the ground.

These rails from Shrunks can be inflated using your mouth or a pump—but the pump isn’t included. They take up very little space in your luggage and weigh less than a pound each. To use the rails, inflate them and place them under the bottom sheet at the edge of the bed, and then tuck the sheet under the mattress to hold it in place. You can also buy just one rail, if you happen to know the bed where you’ll need it has one side pushed up to the wall.

The Most Comfortable Wedding Shoes, According To Brides And Guests

The best wireless headphones, based on weeks of rigorous testing, why trust forbes vetted.

At Forbes Vetted, our parenting editors and writers have spent thousands of hours researching and testing the baby and kids products —including the best travel gear, like travel strollers and the best kids luggage .

• The author of this story, Esther Carlstone, is a longtime parenting editor and family travel writer who has spent years testing baby and kid products. She travels extensively with her three kids, and has used many toddler travel beds along the way.
• Forbes Vetted commerce editor Margaret Badore edited this story. She’s a toddler mom and has over 15 years of experience covering health and science topics.
• We reached out to several experts for this story including BabyQuip product expert Sarah Huff, pediatrician Dr. Whitney Casares , family travel blogger Keri Baugh of Bon Voyage with Kids, and certified pediatric gentle sleep coach and founder of Sleep Like a Baby Consulting , Debbie Gerkin.

How We Chose The Best Toddler Travel Crib

To find the best toddler travel beds, we looked at a wide selection of highly-rated products, beds recommended by parents who travel frequently with their kids (including the author of this story) and travel beds made by trusted name brands in baby gear. We then compared the features of each, taking special care to note size, longevity, easy of setup, safety and other standout details that may be beneficial for traveling families.

• We researched popular products in the category and also considered toddler travel beds from reputable baby and kid product brands.
• We interviewed a variety of experts including a pediatrician, baby gear expert and family travel experts to get both their personal recommendations and insights into how to pick the best toddler travel bed for each family.
• We evaluated specs and features on each toddler travel bed for things like size, weight limit, ease of set-up, how portable the bed actually was, and other special features that may be considered an added bonus for traveling families.
• We deliberately selected a variety of types of toddler beds (mattresses, crib, cot), because different trips and different families have different requirements.
• We took online customer reviews into account when making our picks, and only selected toddler travel beds with an average of 4 stars out of 5 and higher.

What To Look For In The Best Toddler Travel Bed

When shopping a for a toddler travel bed there are several essential factors to consider:

Size matters. Consider your child’s current height and weight, and take careful note of each option’s dimensions (you don’t want feet hanging off the end), and maximum weight limits—especially if your little one is one that may require some parental snuggling to fall asleep. Most brands also give a recommended age guideline to make shopping even easier.

“First and foremost, travel beds should adhere to the Consumer Product Safety Commission safety standards,” says Huff. You’ll also want to check to make sure the product hasn’t been part of any recalls.

If your toddler is a roller or wild sleeper, you’ll want to consider travel beds that have built-in bumpers and side rails to keep them from rolling off onto the ground. “Having features like bed rails or bumpers will not only keep the toddler safe from rolling out, but it also serves as a source of security for the child as they feel enclosed,” says Gerken.

Convenience

Consider what purpose you’d mostly be using this travel bed for. Is it for traveling? To have an extra bed at the grandparent’s house or for sleepovers? If this bed will primarily be used on the go, parents will want to consider how quickly and compactly the bed folds up and whether it comes with its own bag or not. Some inflatable beds use a manual pump, while others blow up significantly faster with an included electric pump.

You’ll also likely want a bed that’s easy to clean in case of any nighttime accidents. Look for beds with a removeable inner mattress, washable covers, or ones that can fit a standard crib or bed sheet. Certain toddler travel beds also have beneficial extras like a handle on one end of the bed to make it easy to move around or extra grip on the bottom to prevent slippage.

“Ultimately, knowing their toddler best, parents can choose a toddler travel bed that aligns with their child's needs and guarantees a cozy and secure sleeping environment during travel,” says Gerken.

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The 3 best travel backpacks for men (also good for work).

Explore the top hands-free travel bag options for every type of journey.

The Best Travel Backpacks for Men

Courtesy of Peak Design

The Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L is the top backpack choice for men.

Whether you're into rugged adventures in the wilderness or getting lost in bustling cities, a backpack may be the most essential piece of travel gear there is. If you choose your pack right, it doesn't need to be something you only use for your vacation: Some of the best options out there are ideal for both leisure and business travelers, and they're so stylish and professional that you can easily take them with you to work. No matter what kind of traveler you are, this trio of the best backpack options – compiled with the help of travel experts and consumer reviews – has got you covered.

Read on to discover the top travel backpacks for men from U.S. News.

The Top 3 Travel Backpacks for Men

• Best Overall: Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L
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Best Overall, Budget Pick: Inateck 40L 17-Inch Carry On Travel Backpack

Best small: zomake ultra lightweight packable backpack 25l.

For more information on how to choose a backpack for travel – and how to pack it – check out the FAQ section at the bottom of this page.

(Note: Prices were accurate at the time of publication; they may fluctuate due to various factors. We update this article quarterly to ensure the bags we're recommending are in stock and continue to have great overall reviews from consumers, while also considering new product launches. Dimensions are listed in order of length by height by width.)

Best Overall Travel Backpack: Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L

Dimensions: 13 x 22 x 9.5 inches | Weight: 4.5 pounds

What sets it apart: If you're looking for the ultimate in convenience while traveling, Peak Design's 45-liter Travel Backpack is a serious winner. The bag's two main compartments can be accessed from the front, back and sides, so there's no need to stress about accessing those socks or shirts you packed in the deepest part of the bag. It's the kind of bag where everything has its place: There are mesh pockets inside the main compartments, two hidden external pockets for valuables like your passport, and an easy-to-access top pocket on the outside for anything you need to get quickly, from keys to boarding passes. A padded sleeve inside also helps to keep your laptop or tablet safe. There are also straps to attach equipment like a tripod to the outside of the bag.

The Travel Backpack isn't just for weekend trips – if you're not a compulsive overpacker, it's feasible to use this as your main piece of luggage for a weeklong trip or more. The bag can be both expanded and contracted beyond this size, in case you do some shopping along the way or want to use it as a daypack. In its non-expanded form, this carry-on backpack is also within the size limits of many international airlines and some domestic ones. It's only a half-inch too deep for some airlines like United and Delta, so if the bag isn't jam-packed, you may still be able to get it on board – although this is very much at your own risk.

With an industrial-strength nylon-canvas shell that's waterproof, this backpack is also a safe bet for outdoorsy travelers who may be exposed to the elements. You can choose between two colors: classic black, or the muted-green sage option. Travelers looking to save have the option to buy pre-owned backpacks directly from Peak Design's website for substantially reduced prices (although stock and prices for these secondhand items vary).

Travelers appreciate: Owners of this bag praise it for its massive capacity, with several saying it is deceptively small for the amount of clothes, shoes and toiletries the bag can fit.

Price: $299.99 or less Shop now: Peak Design | Best Buy

Dimensions: 21.65 x 13.4 x 7.87 inches | Weight: 3.52 pounds

What sets it apart: This sleek black backpack from German company Inateck checks a lot of boxes. It's both professional and stylish, with plenty of capacity for a weekend trip or longer, and with a price tag under $60. With a rectangular shape and a main compartment that can be zipped open, this 40-liter bag can be packed like a suitcase. That compartment also has mesh pockets with zips so that you can squirrel away smaller items without losing them in the bag's spacious interior.

A smaller zippered compartment that sits next to the wearer's back offers a safe place to stash a 17-inch laptop and a 13-inch tablet, as needed. Security-conscious travelers, take note: Both the laptop compartment and main compartment feature dual zippers that can be locked (although you'll need to provide the lock).

There are two smaller pockets on the front of the bag for easy access to essential items while traveling, and a semi-hidden pocket on the back (which would sit alongside your body) as a safe place for passports and other valuables. If you're not using the bag's full capacity, there are also compression straps to make the pack a little more compact. The company also includes a waterproof cover in case you're traveling through rainy weather.

Given its size, this Inateck pack should be accepted as cabin baggage on a fairly wide range of airlines both domestic and international. Of course, be sure to double-check your airline's baggage rules, as a limited number of airlines draw the line at 21 or 21.5 inches in height, such as Aeroméxico, Air Canada and Canadian carrier Westjet.

Travelers appreciate: Buyers of this bag rave about how much it can fit and its hidden pockets. Many note its lightweight construction makes it comfortable to carry, and that it works well for business travelers.

Price: $58.99 or less Shop now: Inateck | Amazon

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Dimensions: 16 x 10.6 x 7.9 inches | Weight: 0.64 pounds

For a small but mighty bag that's ideal for day trips up to overnight or weekend trips, look no further than this uber-functional option from Chinese company Zomake. Sold in a wide selection of colors from neutral black or gray to light blue or bright orange, this lightweight pack is made with water-resistant nylon for anyone embarking on outdoor activities.

The backpack offers three zippered compartments: The main chamber should comfortably store bulkier items like everyday clothes or a light jacket, as well as a small to midsized laptop up to around 15 inches.. Meanwhile, two front pockets offer easy access to essentials like snacks, important documents, a cell phone, or whatever else you may need to access quickly or repeatedly. There are two mesh pockets on the side for water bottles or other necessities.

For flyers, this backpack could count as your personal item, leaving you free to bring another main piece of carry-on luggage if your airline ticket allows this. Alternatively, the bag can be folded up into a tiny pouch measuring 5.5 by 6.7 inches – so if you're on a bigger trip, you can pack it in your other luggage and grab it out for day-to-day use while traveling.

If you're in need of something bigger or smaller, Zomake has a range of other bags with similar designs, mostly around the $20 mark.

Travelers appreciate: Wearers of this bag like the wide and comfortable straps, along with the amount of items that fit in the bag, and the way it folds and packs easily

Price: $20.99 or less Shop now: Amazon

Frequently Asked Questions

There are many details to consider when it comes to choosing the perfect travel backpack. Whether you want it big or small, stylish or functional, or equipped to protect laptops and other important items, one of the most important features to look for is the bag's organizational layout.

Rudy Maxa, host of the TV series "Rudy Maxa's World" and a convert to travel backpacks, likes options with lots of nooks and crannies to hold everything from earphones to magazines to travel documents. Wendy Perrin, travel expert and founder of travel planning site WendyPerrin.com, agrees, saying she's a fan of compartments when it comes to her travel backpack and likes the ability to get to her items quickly.

Tom Wahlin, travel gear expert and founder of Pack Hacker, says he prefers a backpack that combines spacious sections with smart organization. He recommends using packing cubes to organize items in the backpack's main compartment.

Weight should be a consideration as well. While you may need something more durable for long outdoor adventures or round-the-world trips, a lightweight travel bag can be easier and more comfortable on your back for daytrips, sightseeing or day-to-day travels. Wahlin errs on the side of going lighter, noting a backpack can be both lightweight and durable. (However, if a heavier bag has the appropriate supports, such as chest or hip straps, the bag's weight may be less of an issue.)

Wahlin also suggests choosing a bag with durable zippers. "We typically look for Japanese YKK zippers," he says. "They're tried and tested and are on most of the best bags out there."

There's no one-size-fits-all answer to this question – the perfectly sized backpack might depend on whether you're a heavy packer, whether you need it for multiday trips or quick flights, and various other factors. However, there are still some general guidelines to consider. Take note: Backpacks are usually measured by their volume in liters, even in the United States.

If you only need a smaller backpack – for example, for daylong excursions or to carry on the plane while most of your stuff goes in a separate suitcase – a 20-liter (5.3-gallon) backpack should suffice. If you're using a backpack as your primary baggage, you'll want to choose something a little larger. Bags in the 25- to 30-liter range are usually considered good for shorter trips, from an overnight stay or weekend away up to five nights (at least if you pack wisely). For longer trips where your backpack is your main luggage, you may need a pack with a volume of up to 40 or 45 liters.

But, pay attention: If your travel plans involve flying, make sure that you're bringing a backpack that fits within the carry-on limits of every airline you'll be taking. This is particularly important if you're flying with budget airlines, as they tend to have more restrictive rules on baggage size (and often enforce those rules rather strictly). Backpacks with a volume of 35 liters or less should be accepted on most airlines, and you may be able to take a backpack of up to 45 liters on airlines with a more generous allowance, so check with your carrier before you leave.

Think about two things when preparing your backpack for travel: what to pack and how to pack it. If you're bringing a backpack in addition to other luggage such as a checked suitcase , try to put only the necessities in the backpack. For a long flight, for example, these items could include important travel documents like passports and boarding passes; a few basic toiletries such as your toothbrush, toothpaste and deodorant; a laptop or tablet for work or entertainment (plus headphones); some extra clothing (especially if you're going someplace with a different climate); and snacks and a bottle of water or something to drink.

If you're flying, remember to comply with the Transportation Security Administration's rules for what's allowed in your carry-on : Containers of liquids and the like can't exceed 3.4 ounces each and must fit in a quart-sized bag, so you can't bring drinks through airport security, although an empty water bottle is allowed.

When you're packing your bag, keep the items you'll need more often in the most accessible places. So, consider putting your passport , headphones and lip balm somewhere close, such as the exterior pocket – and definitely not at the bottom of the main compartment underneath all your other possessions.

Once you've put those necessities in easy-to-reach places, you can pack the rest of your belongings and travel accessories . Think about weight distribution here: Ideally, you'll want to put the heaviest items (for example, laptops) close to your body, so your backpack won't weigh so heavily on your shoulders and will be more comfortable. Pay extra attention when packing delicate or breakable items, like sunglasses or electronics. It's best to put these in the exterior pockets of your pack so they can't be crushed by heavy items in the larger main pockets. Protective cases are also a wise purchase for items like glasses. Of course, if you're carrying a laptop or tablet and your backpack has dedicated pockets or sleeves for these items, use them.

Read: Things You Should Always Pack in Your Carry-on Bag

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Tim Forster is a U.S. News & World Report contributor. As someone who mostly travels with carry-on luggage, he's an expert when it comes to backpacks. Forster used his travel experience and research expertise to write this article.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Travel Toiletry Bags
• The Top Fanny Packs
• The Top Travel Neck Pillows
• The Top Sleeping Bags for Backpacking and Camping
• The Top Carry-on Luggage Pieces

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