Highlights

  • Console gamers can find great deals on peripherals and alternative gaming consoles, even if the consoles themselves are rarely discounted.
  • The MSI Force GC30V2 wireless controller is a versatile option that can be used on various devices, with customizable features and the ability to be used as a wired controller while charging.
  • Third-party controllers often provide a more affordable option compared to official controllers, but the pricing depends on the features and target audience of the controller.

PC gamers have for a long time appreciated good quality third-party accessories, peripherals, and gaming gear, but console gamers are certainly not far behind in that respect. Entire companies have been built to deliver gamers of all major console platforms a better experience over the first-party offerings or augment them. This might be a better charging solution, added battery, or an entirely improved, innovative controller.

In this article, Game Rant has gathered together some of the best deals on the web for console gamers in terms of peripherals and consoles themselves. While Switch, Xbox, and PlayStation consoles might not be on offer for a significant discount too often, due to the demand being so high, there are always interesting deals to be found in peripherals and alternative gaming consoles.

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MSI Force GC30V2 Wireless Gaming Controller
MSI Force GC30V2 Wireless Gaming Controller

The MSI Force GC30V2 wireless controller is an excellent mid-range option, even more so now that it’s on sale. This MSI controller comes with swappable D-pads, so players can customize their gamepad, plus it can be used as a wired controller while the batteries are recharging. Players can use the MSI Force GC30V2 controller on a number of devices too, from PC to PS4 and more!

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PXN P50L Wireless Switch Pro Controller

The PXN P50L is a Switch Pro controller, which is compatible with Switch, iOS, and PC. The controller supports both wireless and wired connections via Bluetooth and USB cable. It comes with a standard button layout and an ergonomic design that is comfortable to hold. There are two vibration motors, offering feedback on both Switch and PC. The 550 mAh battery gives the controller up to 20 hours of gameplay time.

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PowerA Wired Controller for Xbox

The PowerA Wired Controller for Xbox Series X/S is designed with great ergonomics for a comfortable gaming experience and an intuitive button layout for efficient gameplay. It features a standard 3.5 mm stereo headset jack. The controller also includes immersive dual rumble motors that enhance the tactile feedback during gameplay.

This controller comes with a detachable 10 feet USB cable that provides enough length for a comfortable gaming distance and includes a hook-and-loop closure for storage. The controller also boasts two Advanced Gaming Buttons that are mappable, allowing for customization and a more personalized gaming experience.

8Bitdo Ultimate C Wireless controller
8Bitdo Ultimate C Wireless Controller

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 get up 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.

GameSir G7 SE Wired Controller
GameSir G7 SE Wired Controller For Xbox

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.

GameSir T4 Pro Wireless Controller
GameSir T4 Pro

The GameSir T4 Pro wireless controller is an excellent option for mobile gamers looking for a reliable bluetooth gamepad. Compatible with Android 8.0 or later, iOS 13 or later, Windows 7 or later, Mac OS, Android TV box, this controller is ideal for most mobile and PC games. With standard haptic feedback and dual motors, plus four reprogrammable buttons, players can have a high quality gaming experience at a fairly affordable cost.

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EasySMX Wired Gaming Controller

The EasySMX Wired Gaming Controller, model ESM-9100, is a versatile gamepad that works with Windows, Vista, TV boxes, PS3, and Android 4.0 or higher with OTG function. Note that it doesn't support Xbox 360, Xbox One, Mac, iOS, Amazon Fire TV, or Amazon Fire Stick.

With a 2-meter (6.5-foot) USB cable, the controller is easy to connect and start playing right away. Dual vibrators embedded in the side grips deliver distinct feedback during gameplay, enhancing the immersion and realism of game scenarios. The asymmetrical design of the joysticks is based on ergonomics, ensuring the most comfortable thumb position for extended gaming sessions. Plus, the customizable Turbo button allows players to destroy enemies with a single press.

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Amazon Luna Wireless Controller

The Luna Wireless Controller is specifically designed for Amazon Luna, Amazon's cloud gaming service. It features compatibility with a wide range of devices, from Windows and Mac to Fire TV, Fire tablet, iPhone, iPad, Chromebook, and Android devices.

The controller's seamless screen-switching ability lets you pause a game on one screen and continue on another. For a low-latency gameplay experience, the Luna Controller directly connects to Amazon’s custom game servers using innovative Cloud Direct technology. It also provides the option to function as a game controller on any Bluetooth-compatible device.

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YCCTEAM Wireless Switch Pro Game Controller

This YCCTEAM Pro controller for Nintendo Switch features larger A, B, X, and Y buttons, an improved D-pad, two triggers, and offset analog sticks for optimal controls. It has wireless connectivity, which works with both Switch and Switch Lite. The battery life is up to 10 hours of playtime and requires 2.5 hours to charge. The charging can be done with the included 40-inch reversible Type-C cable. Integrated into the controller are dual-vibration motors for more immersive gameplay.

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EasySMX Wireless Gaming Controller

The EasySMX 9110 is a wireless gaming controller that offers universal compatibility, supporting devices such as PS3, PC, Steam, Steam Deck, Android phones, tablets, and TV boxes. The controller provides both wireless and wired modes, with a connectivity range of 10 meters, approximately 33 feet, making it ideal for both living room and bedroom gaming.

The controller features a dual vibration feedback mechanism, using an asymmetrical linear motor to create an immersive gaming experience. It's designed with non-slip grips, indentations, and a textured surface for optimal finger fit and control during intense gaming sessions. 

FAQ

Q: Can I use the controller while charging?

Usually, game controllers allow use while they are charging. Some game controllers might support wireless charging, which is not usable while playing. It is also worth considering the length of the charging cable since it might not allow much movement.

Q: Are third-party controllers more expensive or cheaper?

Manufacturers of alternative controllers usually price their products cheaper than the official controllers from Nintendo, Sony, and Microsoft. However, this all depends on the feature set that the controller in question has, what type of materials have been used, and who it is meant for.

Q: Do Xbox and PlayStation controllers work on opposing consoles?

Both Microsoft and Sony are not officially supporting controllers from the other manufacturer. That is also the case with third-party controllers, which are usually designed to mimic either PlayStation or Xbox controllers, and only work with that platform.

MORE: The Best Controllers for PS4 in 2023