The game controller you use is either a straightforward decision or a far more complicated process of eliminating candidates. To gain a competitive advantage, esports pros constantly search for the best gaming controller for PC or console that is reliable and can adapt to their preferences. While many console gamers rely on the official Xbox Wireless Controller or PlayStation DualSense, the customization of these peripherals is lacking for more demanding users.

Game Rant's Best Gaming Controllers in 2024

Our choice for the overall best game controller needed to satisfy a wide range of criteria. Fortunately, Microsoft's official Xbox Wireless Controller is one of the most versatile gaming peripherals on the market. Not only is this device the standard controller for Xbox Series X/S consoles, but it's also among the best PC gaming controller options. Unlike the earliest versions of Xbox One controllers, the latest Xbox Wireless Controller supports Bluetooth connectivity, allowing it to work with mobile devices and media players. Microsoft's stock controller is the obvious choice if you're looking to move seamlessly between platforms.

The most recent Xbox Wireless Controller is not dramatically different from previous Microsoft offerings but is slightly smaller and easier to grip. The controller also features Dynamic Latency Input for more responsive button presses as well as an enhanced wireless range. The peripheral is available in a wide range of colors to suit most gamers' tastes. The only notable downsides of Microsoft's controller are rechargeable battery packs requiring separate purchases and Bluetooth connections, introducing some additional lag.

Not only is it the best game controller for Xbox, the Xbox Wireless Controller is the best overall controller because of its proven durability and compatibility with numerous platforms.

The Envision Pro, our pick for the best PC gaming controller in 2024, is an interesting blend of standard Xbox and PlayStation controllers, with XYAB face buttons and symmetrically arranged thumbsticks. With a rubbery coating, the entire controller is easy to grip and feels like it can withstand abuse. The material becomes more textured on the back of the handles and features Scuf's thick, non-slip grips. As far as buttons, there are plenty to choose from, including four back paddles and, more uniquely, two buttons toward the top of the controller's sides. While the back buttons are strategically placed to avoid accidental inputs, certain controller grips will interfere with the side buttons.

With five buttons toward the bottom of the PC controller set above an RGB strip, You can launch programs or switch active windows easily. Integration with the Corsair iCue software unlocks powerful customization beyond remapping buttons or adjusting the thumbstick and trigger sensitivity.

Many buyers will compare the Envision Pro to the similarly priced Microsoft Xbox Elite Series 2. Microsoft's controller ships with more modular parts but can't match the pre-purchase physical customization on Scuf's website. Also, much of the Elite Series 2 focuses on Xbox consoles and doesn't have the in-depth customization possible in iCue. For gamers who have been anxiously awaiting a no-compromise PC controller, the Envision Pro is a welcome addition to any setup.

The PDP Victrix Pro BFG is our choice for the best wireless game controller in 2024. It's not a casual PlayStation controller or an alternative to the DualSense. It's for gamers looking for bleeding-edge customization who are unafraid to break the bank to get the best. The Victrix Pro BFG is one of only a handful of controllers directly competing with the hot-selling DualSense Edge. Even though it sacrifices haptics and adaptive triggers for the ability to customize its button layout completely, it also clocks in a respectable $20 cheaper than Sony's own offering; with an included USB Wireless RF dongle, the Victrix Pro functions as one of the best PC gaming controllers as well.

The PDP Victrix Pro BFG gaming controller scores high marks for its battery life, with the company touting as much as 20 hours of gameplay on a single charge versus the DualSense Edge, which dies after only 5-10 hours. It also must be noted that many competitive gamers are not bothered by the controller's lack of haptics or adaptive triggers. FPS users, in particular, turn these down to gain an edge in multiplayer games since they can be considered an active hindrance to gameplay.

Overall, the PDP Victrix Pro BFG is a solid controller, able to improve further thanks to firmware updates via the included Victrix Control Hub. Further revisions may just put the controller ahead of the DualSense Edge for the best premium wireless controller.

Our choice for the best wired gaming controller is the Turtle Beach Recon. Turtle Beach, celebrated for its excellent headsets and microphones, introduces some interesting audio enhancement features with the Turtle Beach Recon Wired Controller. The controller is especially attractive if you game with a wired headset, with buttons on the device to control volume and chat mixes. Superhuman Hearing enhances footsteps and other sound effects that are normally difficult to discern during gameplay. It is more than just a gimmick and can give players a competitive advantage.

The Turtle Beach Recon is an game controller that appeals to audiophiles. However, the manufacturer realizes that not every gamer will buy the Recon for its audio features. The Pro-Aim Focus Mode enables users to fine-tune how sensitive the right analog stick is to movements, which is ideal for the rapid inputs required in FPS titles. Pro-Aim is modifiable on the fly with one of the two rear buttons, and these paddles are also reprogrammable.

Weighing 300 grams, the Turtle Beach Recon is a heftier peripheral than the official Xbox Wireless Controller, even without batteries. Thanks to substantial ergonomic cooling grips wrapped around its handles, you should have no issues holding onto the Recon. Priced very competitively, buyers are sacrificing wireless connectivity for an impressive list of customization and audio enhancements that most Xbox controllers lack.

The DualSense Edge is the obvious choice for the best game controller for the PS5, and it is also Sony's answer to the Xbox Elite controller lineup that had previously gone unchecked. It's a complete overhaul of everything that makes the DualSense such a versatile gaming controller and a fan-favorite with plenty of improvements as well. It sacrifices battery life, but it's one trade-off that Game Rant is comfortable with, given all the advantages of this pro-grade controller.

There is a lot to experiment with as the DualSense Edge allows you to add back buttons and three different tiers of caps to adjustable controller sticks – many firsts for a first-party PlayStation controller. Given the sheer amount of new technology mixed with improvements poured into the Edge, it's an understandable design decision to use a smaller battery to maintain the DualSense form factor. This allows it to be compatible with official Sony accessories such as the DualSense charging station.

The DualSense Edge is Sony's most premium controller and one of the priciest options, at nearly 40% of the console's cost. Still, it tops other PlayStation controllers with its feature set and is an excellent controller for multi-platform gaming, even if it's slightly more expensive than its competition.

The Nintendo Switch Pro is a great place to start when considering a new gaming controller. It works with all Nintendo Switch systems, including the Lite and the OLED. Surprisingly, it's also one of the best PC controllers gamers when using Steam. Any Switch gamer out there who has not tried out a Pro Controller will be quite surprised at how nice it feels not to use Joy-Cons for every game. Marathon sessions of The Legend of Zelda: Tears of The Kingdom and Super Mario Bros. Wonder have never been more comfortable.

While the Switch Pro Controller is not breaking the mold or making pioneering steps for gaming controllers, it does offer a very pleasant gaming experience, especially for fans of the asymmetrical joy-stick layout. This controller feels similar to an Xbox 360 controller but is more rounded in some areas and has a rechargeable battery. The Pro controller is recharged via USB-C, making it possible to travel with just one cable to keep both the Switch and Pro Controller charged.

For gamers who consistently play their Switch at home or even in tabletop mode, the Pro Controller is a great way to upgrade an already excellent gaming. There are more budget options, but it's hard not to recommend it as the essential Nintendo Switch controller at this reasonable price point.

If you're looking for the best budget gaming controller, look no further than the GameSir G7 SE. Pro-grade controllers offer extensive customization and the ability to adjust how buttons and sticks look, feel, and perform. Still, these high-end peripherals usually demand a rather extreme price tag, making them less desirable for the average gamer. The wired GameSir G7 SE is an excellent budget controller that offers many of the same features as the most expensive alternatives.

Perhaps the most appealing aspect of this gaming controller is its Hall Effect analog sticks, found in few other Xbox-style controllers. Unlike traditional analog thumbsticks, the sticks on the G7 SE utilize magnets and electrical conduction to measure how far they move. Since most controllers rely on components making physical contact, they are more prone to wear and tear and dreaded controller drift. The Hall Effect technology on the G7 SE speaks to its incredible value, as this is a feature a buyer would expect to find on the most premium controllers.

When in the hands of gamers, the GameSir G7 SE feels like anything but a budget game controller. GameSir has a well-deserved reputation for building affordable and long-lasting gaming peripherals, and the exterior of the G7 SE can take some serious abuse. If gamers grow tired of its appearance, the magnetic faceplate is easily swapped for an alternative, although only black and white are currently available.

One disappointment with the G7 SE compared to the original G7 is the decision to ditch its micro-switch face buttons. In Game Rant's GameSir G7 SE review, we found that these buttons now feel more mushy but are responsive enough for gamers not to notice any input delays. Also, the nearly 10-foot cord may come in handy when gaming in rooms with large TVs. Otherwise, it can become a nuisance.

How to Choose the Best Gaming Controller

Regardless of whether a gamer needs a new controller for the PC, Xbox, PlayStation, or Nintendo Switch, possibilities are abundant. So many choices aren't necessarily advantageous, with some of these controllers offering similar features in the same price range. The easiest way to eliminate potential purchases is by focusing on these priorities:

Platform

A game controller is only useful if it works on the platforms a buyer games on. The Xbox Elite Series 2 is a feature-loaded peripheral compatible with not only Xbox consoles but also PCs and popular VR systems. Unfortunately, PlayStation gamers have a more limited controller selection, but the DualSense Edge offers nearly completely remappable buttons. Besides stellar build quality, the DualSense Edge also works with Steam and a growing number of PC titles.

Android and iPhone controllers are also in more demand with the rising popularity of mobile gaming. The Backbone One gives these gamers an excellent scaled-down version of a full-sized PS5 or Xbox controller.

Build Quality

Pro-grade controllers like the wireless SCUF Reflex Pro have an intimidating asking price. Still, buyers receive a rock-solid device with mechanical buttons that can survive years of abuse. In addition, buyers can select everything from the faceplate's color to the analog sticks' shape and size. The result is a controller ideal for a gamer's play style and design preferences.

Fighting game fanatics put added strain on any controller, so many turn to large pads like the Mayflash F500. The F500 is reinforced with heavy-duty components that give gamers the impression that they are playing on an arcade console.

Wired vs Wireless

The wireless vs. wired argument is not as consequential as it first seems. The SCUF Reflex Pro is a wireless controller for the PS5 and PC that uses the Bluetooth wireless protocol, but most controllers also can be used wired. Unfortunately, wireless connectivity does add a premium to a price tag, and corded-only controllers such as the Turtle Beach Recon offer additional buttons and customization potential without causing pain to the wallet.

If a gamer wants to preserve a clean setup, then the wireless PDP Victrix Pro BFG compromises nothing in terms of performance. This PS4/PS5 controller registers inputs without delays and has the battery life to ease the transition from wired gaming gear.

Customization

Many of the most competitive gamers love to mold gear into the perfect devices for their play styles and preferences. The Nacon Revolution 5 Pro is one of the most modifiable controllers, shipping with adjustable weights and a nearly infinite selection of alternate analog sticks and thumbstick covers.

Even budget game controllers such as the GameSir G7 SE can offer more than adequate customization potential. The wired G7 SE makes it possible for gamers to remap most of its buttons and replace its magnetic faceplate with different colored options.

Ultimately, the official Microsoft Xbox Controller or Sony DualSense are well-made gear that will satisfy many gamers for years. However, if a buyer is looking for a more unique device that allows a gamer to excel competitively, it's hard to go wrong with any of the controllers discussed above.

FAQ

Q: Are wireless or wired controllers better for gaming?

Both wireless and wired controllers are good for gaming. Power users and eSports professionals do favor wired controllers for better input latency, but for casual use, wireless controllers are more than good enough. With time, wireless controllers continue to get better and use low-latency tech to get a polling rate of as much as 1000Hz, making them extremely accurate and lag-free.

Q: Is it better to have a wireless controller that charges or one that uses batteries?

Most wireless controllers available today are rechargeable. There are exceptions, such as the Xbox Wireless Controller. They do have the significant advantage of not being affected by shorter battery life, being cheaper to manufacture (and therefore sell), and having the ability to remain persistently wireless (provided you have a cache of batteries to go with them). Otherwise, in most cases, rechargeable controllers are the order of the day for a very good reason. They are simply more convenient.

Q: What controller do most PC gamers use?

The Xbox Wireless Controller is a top choice among PC gamers because it supports a wide range of PC games and is comfortable to hold for long periods. Its high build quality coupled with support for wired and wireless gameplay make it an amazing controller.

Q: Does a PS4 controller work with a PC?

Yes, it's possible. To do this, simply connect a DualShock 4 controller to the PC using either a USB wireless adapter or Bluetooth.