If you're shopping around for the best PC controllers for gaming, you're honestly spoiled for choice at the moment. There's now a plethora of brilliant pro gamepads on the market that will give you all the functionality you could want, including back buttons and software to help you customize every tiny detail of how they work. If you just want something simple and comfortable for those chilled-out games you want to kick back with, we've found the best options for you as well.
The best PC controller for gaming doesn't need to be a typical gamepad. For the majority of my FPS gaming on PC, I use an ergonomic keypad that gives me the thumbstick movement from a traditional controller, but the speed and functionality of a keyboard - which goes to show how versatile PC controllers can be these days. Then, for more relaxed third-person games I'll probably use one of the best PS5 controllers or one of the best Xbox Series X controllers. For platformers, I always tend to use a gamepad, and a retro option can provide a lot of nostalgia. The point is, there are loads of fun ways to play games these days, and a controller doesn't mean limiting your abilities like it used to.
Today's pro controllers pack a whole host of customization features, including extra mappable 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. In short, there are so many ways to stay competitive if you prefer playing with a controller, so let's dive into the options I'd recommend in 2024.
Quick PSA: Black Friday always presents an opportunity to get our favorite controllers for less than usual. We'll be keeping a close eye on Black Friday Xbox controller deals, as well as Black Friday gaming PC deals in general, so head over to those pages if you fancy looking for a deal.
The quick list
Best overall
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.
Best budget
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.
Best for game feel
The Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra has some amazing feedback for a gamepad without haptic feedback. Its microswitch buttons go a long way too.
Best value
The EasySMX X10 screams value with its micro-switch buttons, magnetic faceplates, Hall Sensor thumbsticks, ergonomic back buttons, and snappy feel.
Best for longevity
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 ↓
Best for most
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.
Best for Xbox fans
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.
Best for PS5 fans
If you're after something that will remind you of younger days on PlayStation consoles, the DualSense Edge packs in an excellent feature set and has nice customization too.
Controllers were probably the first piece of gaming hardware that I got properly nerdy about, so I take great pleasure in testing the latest ones out. I've had the privilege of testing all of the biggest and best controller releases in the last two years, and I have plenty of experience with models that came before that too. I'm sick of hearing that a controller can't keep up with a keyboard and mouse, so I'm on a mission to find ones that can.
Disclaimer
Friday, November 15: I've given this page one last update as we head into Black Friday. Below, you'll find renewed ratings boxes below each entry on the list to give you a better breakdown of each controller's strengths and weaknesses. Right at the bottom of the page, you'll find a renewed section on how we test gamepads, in case you're wondering how we come to a verdict on each one.
The best PC controller overall
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. Since this has been on the shelves, it's been our clear favorite for anyone who wants the maximum performance out of a gamepad.
✅You want a controller you can change depending on the game: with a modular design, anything is possible, and you can literally change the face of this product depending on your needs, and the game you're playing with it.
✅You plan to get competitive: While you can absolutely use this gamepad for more relaxed sessions, this is perfect for anyone who wants to maximise their own performance.
✅You want near-perfect back buttons: Without going for magnetic back paddles found on official controllers, these are some of the most ergonomic and best-feeling back buttons ever designed.
❌You don't need back buttons: If you don't need all the pro features and swappable features the BFG gives you, you'll probably find more comfort in a different controller.
❌You value style: This controller certainly looks pretty enough, but again, if you want a more conventional design that's easy on the eye, look elsewhere.
❌You won't ever swap the parts around: One of the best parts about this controller is its adjustability, and if you're not the sort of player who's up for experimenting with different layouts to find the best feel, you might as well spend elsewhere.
Design & Features: 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.
Performance: 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
| Comfort | ★★★★ |
| Ergonomics | ★★★★★ |
| Pro features | ★★★★★ |
| Longevity | ★★★★★ |
| Battery life | ★★★ |
| Add-ons | ★★★★★ |
| Multiplayer potential | ★★★★★ |
| Singleplayer potential | ★★★★ |
The best budget PC controller
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.
✅You want a stylish controller: Transparent designs are great, and give you an almost nostalgic feel if you ever played with one of the see-through PS2 controllers. All the while, some RGB lighting adds some modern flare.
✅You're on a tight budget: The price of this controller is great for the features it gives you. If you're trying to save money, this is your stop.
✅You still want pro features: Despite the price, GameSir still allows you to customize a lot of the parts of this controller.
❌Textured grips get under your skin: If you get that uncomfortable itch from textured plastic grips, maybe look elsewhere.
❌You play on Xbox: There's also a new Xbox version of this controller - just make sure you get the right one.
❌You can afford something else on this list: Depending on your preference, and your budget, you might be able to afford something better than this.
Design & Features: Somewhat most notably, the offset or asymmetrical sticks are Hall Sensor ones, meaning you won't encounter stick drift with this controller. This pad was really at the forefront of the Hall Sensor "generation", and almost everything that's released since has struggled to meet its price. Now, it has variants available for Xbox as well, and I'd argue any of them would make an excellent controller on a budget.
On the textured grips of the T4 Kaleid, you'll find two back buttons. In true GameSir fashion, these are excellently placed where your middle fingers wrap around the controller and take absolutely no displacement of to use. That transparent design allows for some lovely lighting to shine through the casing too, which is surprisingly bright. The face buttons you get here are microswitches which make that satisfying clicky noise whenever you press them. For speed, these are great, and GameSir has managed to beat Razer's quite spongy-feeling buttons while catering to the microswitch crowd.
Performance: This is really one of the best controllers on the market because it caters to both performance players, and those who just want a comfortable-feeling gamepad to use for more relaxed, third-person games. Particularly if you have larger hands, this is a comfortable controller, and the textured grips aren't too sharp that they itch at your hands when they get a little clammy.
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 for what you get.
| Comfort | ★★★★ |
| Ergonomics | ★★★★ |
| Pro features | ★★★★ |
| Longevity | ★★★★ |
| Battery life | NA |
| Add-ons | ★★ |
| Multiplayer potential | ★★★★ |
| Singleplayer potential | ★★★★ |
The best keyboard alternative
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.
✅You're up for something a bit different: There's no denying that re-learning and creating custom profiles can be a bit of a faff - more than with any of the other controllers on this list that can be used out of the box. If you're up for re-learning, and adjusting the heights and angles of each tower, then this is for you.
✅You want a personalized look: There are loads of ways to customize the look of your keypad, so if you want something fully designed by you, it doesn't get much better than this.
✅You want the best of both worlds: The Cyborg combines the thumbstick movement of a controller with the speed and functionality of a keyboard. Not to mention, you'll be using a mouse with it too. This really is the best hybrid of a controller and a traditional PC setup.
❌Relearning and creating profiles is a faff: If you're not a fan of creating custom profiles and learning a new way to play, then this may not be the controller for you.
❌You only play 2D platformers: There's so much functionality to be had here, so if you only play platformers with four of five player actions, this might be overkill.
❌You can't stand using a mouse, and don't want to learn: If you're used to using a controller to aim, and you've never liked using a mouse, then this may not be your best option.
Design & Features: This is a fully customizable gaming keypad that's endlessly comfortable and, once you get used to it, 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.
The idea is that with one hand, you rest your hand in this ergonomic robot claw and use a mouse with your other. The thumbstick on the keypad will give you player movement you're familiar with from a controller, but the nearly 30 other inputs that are all a finger's twitch away are totally up to you. Using intuitive software that makes creating controller schemes fun, you can create personalized maps based on what works for you and your brain. Changing them on the fly is easy as well, and the original Cyborg is capable of storing up to two profiles onboard the hardware. In the software, you can create countless profiles and swap them out when needed.
Performance: The best part is that Azeron understands that ergonomics change depending on the individual, so the Cyborg keypad is 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. That means that if you're up for faffing around with it for a while to get the perfect fit, this really is the most ergonomic controller on this list.
One you do get past the re-learning phase, the Cyborg opens up a whole new level of fluency if you've never typically liked playing games with a mouse and keyboard. There isn't another option on this list that offers the best of both worlds between a controller and mouse and keyboard setup. I think what might surprise people is just how versatile this thing is. I use it for playing Hunt: Showdown, but can boot up a game of Baldur's Gate 3 and still benefit from the same kind of functionality. That said, maybe don't buy it if all you play is 2D platformers.
| Comfort | ★★★★★ |
| Ergonomics | ★★★★★ |
| Pro features | ★★★★★ |
| Longevity | ★★★★ |
| Battery life | NA |
| Add-ons | ★★★★ |
| Multiplayer potential | ★★★★★ |
| Singleplayer potential | ★★★★★ |
The best PC controller for game feel
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.
✅You want great tactility: The accurate rumble here creates a beautiful layer of feedback when gaming, which can really help to immerse you in your games.
✅You don't typically like back buttons: The back buttons here are laid out a little differently than usual, and thanks to their microswitch mechanics, I'm inclined to say these might win you over.
✅You like the controller's look: There's a really distinct look about this pad, so if you're a fan of swanky RGB designs and an ob-board display, look no further.
❌You're looking to get competitive: The Victrix Pro BFG has more customization for the same price as this, so it's probably better for those players who are looking to top the online leaderboards.
❌You prefer traditional back buttons: Back buttons with a vertical layout are what's used most of the time, so if you prefer that, maybe look elsewhere.
❌RGB isn't your thing: The look of this pad isn't for everyone. If you prefer a more plain approach to gamepad design, there are other options.
Design & Features: The design of this gamepad is beautiful. It's got 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.
Performance: What I love about this controller is that it does everything well. It isn't quite as good performance-wise as something from Victrix if you're looking to get competitive, 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.
The thing that really separates this controller from others is the intuitive back buttons, which have a horizontal layout. Normally, playing around with back button positioning can be a detriment, but they're placed really effectively here so you can access those extra in-game actions much easier.
| Comfort | ★★★★ |
| Ergonomics | ★★★ |
| Pro features | ★★★★ |
| Longevity | ★★★★ |
| Battery life | ★★★★ |
| Add-ons | ★★★ |
| Multiplayer potential | ★★★★ |
| Singleplayer potential | ★★★★★ |
The best value PC controller
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.
✅You want microswitch buttons: This controller has some of the best-feeling microswitch buttons on the market, and that means a glorious mix of speed and feel.
✅You like an Xbox feel: There's a traditional Xbox shape and feel to this pad, which will suit some players more than others.
✅You have smaller hands: Players with bigger hands will be able to use this as well, but the tighter feel of this product lends itself to folks with smaller ones.
❌You want accessories: There's no thumbstick tops to change, or a carry case here. The EasySMX X10 offers a different type of value.
❌GameSir's controllers appeal to you more: There's no denying that this brand feels like a direct competitor to GameSir, which makes similar controllers that are even cheaper than this.
❌Your budget goes higher than this: Bigger brands offer more if you're willing to spend a bit more, even if this is great for its price point.
Design & Features: 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 that brand uses have a spongy quality that doesn't exactly match the tactile speed gamers are looking for. The GameSir T4 Kalied is another option, but if you want extra aesthetic options, wireless capability, or Bluetooth, the X10 wins out in terms of value. You also get two back buttons here, as well as some swappable faceplates and grips.
Performance: 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.
That traditional Xbox feel fits a smaller pair of hands really nicely with this pad, and that helps to make this feel like a controller you can take on the go. Sadly, there aren't as many accessories and add-ons in this controller's box compared to other pro controllers on this list. You get Hall Sensor thumbsticks out of the box, but you won't be able to adjust their heights or topper shapes. Customization is something that will hopefully improve over time since when we tested the X10 EasySMX's PC app was still in Beta. Either way, the value for money you get here for a premium feel and microswitch speed is up there with the best.
| Comfort | ★★★ |
| Ergonomics | ★★★ |
| Pro features | ★★ |
| Longevity | ★★★★ |
| Battery life | ★★★★★ |
| Add-ons | ★★ |
| Multiplayer potential | ★★★ |
| Singleplayer potential | ★★★ |
The best PC controller for longevity
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. It takes the robust build and comfortable design of that controller and makes it even sturdier. Not only do you have a controller that will last you years, but there is so much great functionality to be had as well.
✅You want something that will stand the test of time: The build quality here is hard to match on this list, and the lengths Nacon has gone to to ensure a long lifespan is commendable.
✅Back buttons aren't the main feature you're buying for: The back buttons on the R5P aren't positioned brilliantly, and take a lot of force to push in. They aren't the best ones out there.
✅You also play on PS5: This controller is also designed for PS5 gaming, so if you split your time between the platforms, this is a solid option.
❌You're on a budget: The R5P is a bit pricier than some of the other officially licensed console controllers on this list, so keep that in mind while you're browsing.
❌You need good back buttons: If you want back buttons that are easy to press and simple to find, maybe look at the Victrix Pro BFG instead.
❌You hate loose thumbstick tension: If you need tighter thumbstick tension, look elsewhere - seriously.
Design & Features: The features list of the Revolution 5 Pro (R5P) is as exhaustive as you'll find these days: wired and wireless connectivity, 10 hours of battery life, companion software for customizing deadzones and back button assignments, and an extensive audio settings list and profile modes. Alongside asymmetrical Hall Sensor thumbsticks, the R5P gives you four back buttons, and varying stick tops and gates that come in the box let you tailor the feel of them to you. In a fan-favorite return from the Revolution Unlimited, you can even put some weights in handles to give the R5P more heft. The grips sports a matted rubberized surface that feels cool in the hands, resisting those gruesome sweat smudges.
Performance: When it comes to competitive gaming, the Nacon Revolution 5 Pro is one of the closest rivals to the Victrix Pro BFG. Its larger size and increased build quality might even make it more appealing to many a gamer. Annoyingly, looser stick tension and less ergonomic back buttons make it fall short. The best PC controllers today are all about the finest margins, and while they might suit some people, the loose thumbsticks of the R5P could be a deal breaker depending on how you use them. For aiming in first-person shooters, for example, they can take some serious getting used to, and in some ways, actually hamper your speed.
Still, this is one of the best controllers we tested in 2023, and it worked great across a wide range of genres. Its immunity to stick drift isn't exactly unique on this list, but the longevity we'd recommend it for comes from the build quality overall, as well as Nacon's use of sustainable materials and packaging. During the pre-release review phase, they even asked for our opinion about which attachments might need to be replaced so that they could sell those separately to give the gamepad a longer lifespan.
Annoyingly, one of my biggest issues with the Revolution Unlimited returns here. If you use a wired headset plugged straight into the controller, Nacon's noise canceling software means your microphone audio will be accompanied by a grating white noise. That isn't the best, but anyone who uses a wireless headset won't need to worry.
| Comfort | ★★★★ |
| Ergonomics | ★★★ |
| Pro features | ★★★★ |
| Longevity | ★★★★★ |
| Battery life | ★★★★ |
| Add-ons | ★★★★ |
| Multiplayer potential | ★★★★ |
| Singleplayer potential | ★★★ |
The best PC controller for most
There's a reason the Xbox controller feel has mutated into every corner of the gamepad market, and it's because the core controller for the platform is comfortable, easy to use, and makes you capable of some great performances. Keep in mind that you won't get much for your money here, this really is a basic option.
✅You only need something basic: The traditional Xbox controller won't offer you much in the way of customization, but if you only need a basic pad, there's no point spending more money.
✅You'd like colors to choose from: There are so many ways to personalize your controller's look, with loads of colorways available.
✅You like offset thumbsticks: The famous debate continues - do you like asymmetrical thumbsticks? If so, this is on-brand for you.
❌You can afford more: If you have the money for more, other controllers can offer a lot of cool features and design elements you may not have thought of if you've only ever used stock controllers.
❌You want back buttons: This is just the standard Xbox controller, so pro features are missing here.
❌You've always played on PlayStation and prefer those controllers: Nothing wrong with symmetrical thumbsticks, and PlayStation offers those in abundance for a similar cost.
Design & Features: There are colorways a-plenty for this controller, which is nice for anyone who wants a bit of personality for their money. There are also some distinct additions this time around, like the inclusion of USB-C charging - much faster than Micro-USB (if you use a rechargeable pack at least). There's also the 'hybrid' D-pad which takes its cues from the Elite Series 2. There's also a share button - as was found on PlayStation's 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.
Performance: There's a reason why not a lot about the Xbox controller has changed in eight years and it's because it was already so good. 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.
Once again, on this list, the Xbox Core controller will feel a bit basic. You don't get back buttons, and pro features are going to be locked behind the extra price of the Elite Series 2 variants. Then again, not everyone needs a controller that can do it all - we survived for years with more basic options, and when it comes to the Xbox controller, that's no bad thing.
| Comfort | ★★★ |
| Ergonomics | ★★★ |
| Pro features | ★★ |
| Longevity | ★★★ |
| Battery life | ★★★ |
| Add-ons | ★★★ |
| Multiplayer potential | ★★★ |
| Singleplayer potential | ★★★ |
The best PC controller for Xbox fans
The Elite Series 2 has become a veteran of the controller market, and for a long time, it's what all other video game controllers were aspiring to be. I'd argue the field has now caught up, but that doesn't mean this experienced and battle-hardened controller isn't worth buying these days. On the contrary, it's still one of the best PC controllers out there.
✅You want a premium controller: The Elite Series 2 is an amazing gamepad with such a great feel to it. Can a controller feel like sitting in a brand new sports ar If so, this is what that would feel like.
✅You want pro features: The ability to completely remap this controller's button assignments is a big draw.
✅You want magnetic back paddles: There's a difference between back buttons and back paddles, and this has the latter. If you want the most satisfying and comfortable ones on the market, you get four here.
❌You want something newer: Other controllers have caught up, and this isn't the be-all, end-all it once was. If you'd rather spend the money on something newer, it might suit you better.
❌The Xbox feel isn't for you: The Xbox shape isn't for everyone, so if you'd rather go for something a bit more distinct, there's no shame in it.
❌You have no need for the back paddles: The Elite Series 2 Core is a cheaper version of this pad without the add-ons and carry case, so that could save you money.
Design & Features: 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 the recommended battery life from Microsoft largely rang true in our own testing.
We were pleased to find new textured grips covering the legs of the Series 2 version of the Elite controller, offering a 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.
Performance: 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 is the alpha and omega in Xbox controllers, and its various add-ons are a reason why. Magnetic back paddles are seldom seen, but they do add a premium feel that gives the Elite Series 2 a big advantage over the other pro controllers on this list. If are on the lookout for a high-end controller and don't mind spending money on something a bit older, this is the controller for you. At least before we hear literally anything about the Elite Series 3.
| Comfort | ★★★★ |
| Ergonomics | ★★★★ |
| Pro features | ★★★★ |
| Longevity | ★★★★ |
| Battery life | ★★★★★ |
| Add-ons | ★★★★ |
| Multiplayer potential | ★★★★ |
| Singleplayer potential | ★★★★ |
The best PC controller for PS5 fans
The DualSense Edge is the first homemade pro controller from Sony, and wouldn't you know, it works with PC as well. It's a bit of a shame that ever since launch, the brand seems to have completely forgotten about it, not really supporting it with deals or new thumbstick modules, but for those who want the best official PlayStation controller they can get, it's a lovely gamepad to use.
✅You like PlayStation controllers: Symmetrical thumbsticks are great, and there aren't many controller brands that provide products with them in mind.
✅You play a lot of PlayStation games: Want the DualSense's intuitive features on PC? This is your best option.
✅You want magnetic back paddles: This is one of the few back paddle options out there. Annoyingly though, there are only two slots to the Elite Series 2's four.
❌Performance is your main selling point: Getting competitive in the Esports scene will be better served by another controller.
❌Longevity matters to you: The DualSense's thumbstick drift and trigger spring issues don't inspire the most confidence, and the Edge doesn't have the best solutions to those problems.
❌You don't need pro features: If you want the DualSense's haptics and trigger resistance on PC but don't need the extra software advantages, you can always buy a regular DualSense.
Design & Features: Rounded corners at the bottom of the grips, and an extra degree of weight make it so much comfier in the hands than the original DualSense, and smaller details like textured trigger surfaces do make it feel like a next step for PlayStation's flagship controller.
The two slots for magnetic back paddles are and excellent touch, and provide an extremely comfortable experience. In the box you get multiple back paddle attachments, which is a nice touch. Unfortunately, there are only two of them, which means for a similar price you can get a third party controllers that offer more.
Perhaps most importantly, the DualSense Edge has a shorter battery life than the original DualSense, and doesn't truly fix its 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.
Performance: Regardless of the shortcomings of its creator brand, the DualSense Edge is still a great controller for anyone playing on PC who wants a traditional PlayStation feel. If you play a lot of first-party Sony games, the Dualsense Edge will let you enjoy all the DualSense features you'd be getting while playing on PS5. More than that, it's an extremely comfortable controller to use in longer sessions as well.
Added software now allows you to customise a lot of the Edge's features on PC, which took a while to arrive if you bought one at launch. This isn't the last word in the pro controller world, especially for the money you pay, but it is an undeniably good controller that's worth considering.
| Comfort | ★★★★★ |
| Ergonomics | ★★★★ |
| Pro features | ★★★ |
| Longevity | ★★★ |
| Battery life | ★★★ |
| Add-ons | ★★★★ |
| Multiplayer potential | ★★★★ |
| Singleplayer potential | ★★★★★ |
Best PC controller: FAQs
How to use an Xbox controller on PC
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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
Testing controllers actually starts before we play any games with it. Unboxing can be hugely telling because it's during this we learn about how much you get for your money, as well as the ergonomics of the controller. Early comfort tests are big because once you get a gamepad in your hands you can start to see who it's for and where its strengths will lie.
Then, it's testing time in some actual games. The big thing here is to test across a range of genres so we know what the controller is good at and not so good at. For how precise a controller can be, we'll play some Celeste. For FPS feel and accuracy, I'll test with Hunt: Showdown. These are both games I know very well, so testing every controller with them gives me the chance to focus on how the gamepad is helping or hurting my performance.
Beyond those two games in particular, we'll find a driving game, fighting game, and third-person action/adventure title to get a sense of some versatility.
There are always more general features to test too. Battery life, back buttons, the utility of customization software that comes with each controller, the deadzones of the thumbsticks out of the box, and their ability to change. We'll try to test for a few weeks at least to get a sense of a controller's longevity too, since durability is important when it comes to value.
For more on how we test controllers at 12DOVE 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.
