If you're shopping around for the best PC controllers in 2025, you have no idea how lucky you are. There are so many excellent choices out there to suit all sorts of gaming genres, playstyles, and even grip types. And while there are premium options that are officially licensed by Sony and Microsoft to work with their platforms, the value brands like GameSir and EasySMX are throwing out gamepads with loads of features for circa $50 price tags. You're truly spoiled for choice at the moment, so allow me to help you narrow your search.
The best PC controller for gaming today doesn't even need to be a traditional gamepad. For the majority of my FPS gaming on PC, I use an Azeron 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. My point is, there are loads of fun ways to play games these days, and a controller doesn't mean limiting your abilities in multiplayer games like it used to.
Today's pro controllers pack a whole host of customization features, including extra mappable buttons, 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 2025.
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.
The EasySMX X10 screams value with its micro-switch buttons, magnetic faceplates, Hall Sensor thumbsticks, ergonomic back buttons, and snappy feel.
If you want the functionality of a keyboard combined with the thumbstick movement of a controller, the Azeron Cyborg 2 is the ultimate way to play games.
The Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra has some amazing feedback for a gamepad without haptic feedback. Its microswitch buttons go a long way too.
If you're on a budget but still want access to lots of features, the Kaleid and Kaleid Flux offer fantastic value with Hall effect thumbsticks and back buttons.
Packed with speedy Esports mouse switches and refined back button placement, the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro is easily the fastest controller you can buy right now.
Load the next 2 products ↓
The PB Tails Crush Defender is easily one of the most distinctive controllers ever created. If you're looking for a collector's item to stand out with, it's this.
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.
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. Outside of the competitive scene, the right controller can add comfort and enhance the feel of your favorite games, so they're a worthwhile investment in my opinion. Let's find the one for you.
Recent updates
Friday, February 7: We've got some changes on this list going into the second month of 2025. First of all, the stock wireless Xbox Core controller has left the building, having previously held the award for "best basic controller for most players". While that is still a great gamepad to buy, you can get pro controllers with better designs and more features for similar, if not cheaper prices today. If that's what you came to this list looking for, I'd recommend either the best budget or best value options instead. Next, I've replaced the Nacon Revolution 5 Pro, leaving the "best for longevity" contender at the mercy of its updated Xbox sibling that should be arriving later this year. The R5P has been replaced by the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro, which has taken the award for "best controller for speed". Last, but certainly not least, the PB Tails Crush Defender has arrived as the "best for collectors". Read more below to hear about a truly one-of-a-kind gamepad.
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
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 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 find keyboards unruly and long for simple thumbstick movement, you need to know about the Azeron Cyborg II.
✅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 II 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 or fighting games: 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: Okay, I'm going to level with you. The Azeron Cyborg II is a fully customizable gaming keypad that admittedly looks like nothing else on the market, let alone this list. Because it is wholly unique, it comes with a learning curve at first, but having come through that now, I promise you that it's worth exploring, because you'll soon find that there are few methods of interacting with video games that feel as intuitive as this.
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 the movement you're familiar with from a controller, but the 30 other inputs that are all a finger's twitch away are totally up to you to assign to the in-game functions that work best for you. Using intuitive software that makes creating controller schemes simple, you can set up personalized maps. You can create a catch-all profile for all your games, store up to six different profiles for individual games on the keypad's internal storage, or even use the community's created profiles to copy someone else's homework.
The updated Cyborg II makes a few vital improvements over the original Cyborg range. These include a Hall Sensor thumbstick to avoid wear and tear, improved top-tower designs, updated Omron switches for a more substantial feel, and the capability for up to a 1000Hz polling rate.
Performance: Comfort here is truly unparalleled because the Cyborg II is so adjustable. You can change the angles, tilt, length, and gaps between each finger's set of keys. You can order the keypad for a right hand, and even opt for different sizes and shapes of the palm rest.
Each key feels so tactile to use, and for me, they add so much more game feel than any keyboard ever has. Since I never need to move my fingers off of their designated positions, I feel so much quicker when using the Cyborg II - and that's actually true when I look at my speedrunning times in Dishonored, which are so much quicker now I've learned the ropes of Azeron's incredible product.
This may have been bred for first-person shooting games, but it's so much more versatile than that, offering great potential in third-person games with loads of inputs. Games like Helldivers 2 feel right at home thanks to the 30 keys that are right at your fingertips. I do sometimes wish the build quality was a bit stronger. With each keypad being 3D printed to order, you do feel customization gets slightly in the way of a robust build. Still, there's no way around the innovation and excellence of this keypad.
Quite simply, it's one of the best gaming peripherals I've ever used.
| 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 GameSir T4 Kaleid is one of the best Nintendo Switch controllers, in my opinion, but it is getting harder to find. In 2024, GameSir expanded its offering to Xbox, launching two officially licensed versions of this gamepad for Xbox and PC. The GameSir Kaleid and Kaleid Flux now hold our awards for best value controllers, because they cram so many features into something that costs well under $100/£100.
✅You want a stylish controller: Transparent designs are great, and added RGB serves it well, highlighting this gamepad's innards beautifully.
✅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 want a wireless controller: Sadly, the Xbox versions of the Kaleid came out right before Xbox's licensing parameters changed, so these are both wired-connected only.
❌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: The Kaleid made a name for itself by sporting a transparent design, giving gamers a nostalgic feel that most people haven't seen since the PS2 days. The Xbox versions of the Kaleid have a slightly darker visage, but it's still easy to peer through and see the Hall Sensor thumbsticks and microswitch buttons within. The Kaleid Flux is slightly more expensive and gives you membrane face buttons as well as some gold trim highlights on the d-pad, bumpers, and triggers.
Both controllers have two back buttons placed ergonomically into their grips. These can be mapped really easily using GameSir's classic "M" button, or can be mapped alternatively with the brand's PC app. This software is as conclusive as you'll find for a gaming peripheral, allowing you to adjust deadzones for the triggers and thumbsticks, and customize RGB and polling rates. This is where a lot of value will come for most users on PC, and gives this controller a whole lot of pro allowance not usually found at this price range.
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 more comfortable option than GameSir's G7 SE. The dotted texture on the grips is great for keeping your hands locked into position, although I can imagine this irritating the hands of some gamers. Luckily, the back buttons are expertly placed where your middle fingers grip the back of the controller, and they add so much to what is a really ergonomic peripheral.
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 for the money you spend, and you want something that will last you. The Kaleid is that controller, and its price is insanely affordable for the features it provides.
| Comfort | ★★★★ |
| Ergonomics | ★★★★ |
| Pro features | ★★★★ |
| Longevity | ★★★★ |
| Battery life | NA |
| Add-ons | ★★ |
| Multiplayer potential | ★★★ |
| Singleplayer potential | ★★★ |
The best PC controller for speed
Do you constantly feel as though you're a step behind other players in your lobby? If so, the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro was designed to give you the boost you desire. This is the latest and greatest iteration of Razer's Wolverine controller family, and it's blown the previous versions out of the water with excellent refinements and a focus on speed.
✅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 Wolverine V3 fixes one of my biggest issues with the V2 Pro for PS5, and that was its back button placement. The V3 packs the same four back buttons and two extra bumpers as the Sony licensed model, offering more functionality than almost any other gamepad on the market. However, it integrates the back buttons into the controller's grips, making them so much more usable. Their switches taken directly from one of Razer's gaming mice give them so much responsiveness too.
Elsewhere you'll find a mix of membrane and microswitch buttons, all of which feel so quick to actuate with their signature clicky sounds. This is the first controller from Razer to ship with swappable thumbstick tops and a carry case as well. Joining the current trend of Xbox controllers, it also has wireless support which is a big win. When using a wired connection on a PC, you can make the most of a 1,000Hz polling rate too.
Performance: There isn't a faster controller than this. Playing twitch-shooters it feels so responsive, and thanks to a taller thumbstick attachment on top of a Hall Sensor module, it feels like you can be much more accurate than with previous Wolverine models. It is a shame that the deadzones are quite large out of the box, but at least you can customize these. In fighting games that require speedy actuation like Dragon Ball: Sparking Zero, combos and button-mashing quick-time events were easy to pull off.
At the same time, platforming in Celeste was easy with all the extra utility. It is a shame that for all the refinements Razer's product designers made, they didn't increase the length of the grips at all. It has a traditional Wolverine feel to it, but the V3 does lack some comfort as a result. More, the wireless connectivity is a solid quality-of-life bonus, but the dongle isn't the strongest, and frequently stutters on me if something blocks the signal.
| Comfort | ★★★★ |
| Ergonomics | ★★★★ |
| Pro features | ★★★★ |
| Longevity | ★★★★ |
| Battery life | ★★★★ |
| Add-ons | ★★★ |
| Multiplayer potential | ★★★★★ |
| Singleplayer potential | ★★★ |
The best PC controller for collectors
This is one for the hardcore controller collector who wants to add a crown jewel to their setup. The PB Tails Crush Defender will go down in history as the first gamepad available with TMR thumbstick technology, which is an advancement over Hall Sensor tech. But it also happens to be a beautifully, hand-crafted work of metallic art that feels exquisite to play video games with.
✅You only need something basic: This doesn't have back buttons, nor a lot of Esports potential, so keep that in mind.
✅You want something for cozy games or walking sims: This is a super comfortable controller, but it's not exactly speedy. For that reason, it's better suited to the slower games that focus on narrative.
✅You want a collector's item: Each one of these pads is hand-finished with unique metalwork. Throw in the historic first-time use of TMR thumbsticks and you've got yourself a piece of gaming history.
❌You want more features for the money: For the money you pay for one of these Defenders, you could get a GameSir controller with so much more utility.
❌You have clammy hands: Because of the metal bodywork, you'll experience slippy thumbsticks during play.
❌You need symmetrical thumbsticks: As you'll see, there isn't much allowance for a symmetrical layout here, and there's no way to switch things around, even if you can swap the faceplate and thumbstick tops.
Design & Features: Admittedly, this isn't a pro controller in the sense that a lot of others on this list are. While it features some clever software and lighting, there aren't any back buttons, additional bumpers, or any Esports design elements. This is a fairly basic controller that really scales back to a nostalgic level of functionality. But that isn't a bad thing, because not everybody wants a top-level pro controller.
The real emphasis here is on comfort and looks. Comfort has absolutely been nailed here, and with a heftier weight thanks to metal bodywork, there are few controllers that offer as much feel as this. The grooves of the grips go all the way up the Defender's back, meaning you get lots of feel throughout the entire hold, as opposed to most controllers which have grips that end as soon as they meet their spine.
The metal faceplate and shiny thumbsticks are a true standout here. Every single Crush Defender controller has its own hand-finished faceplate with rusted imperfections etched and put into place. That's one of the reasons this makes for such a great collector's item - each one is truly one of a kind. Not to mention those TMR thumbsticks, which make for something that's really futureproofed.
Performance: Just be warned that compared to a lot of the competition on this list, the Defender isn't the best performer. Those shiny thumbsticks feel totally unique and add so much aesthetically to the product, but they get very slippy the moment gameplay kicks up a gear. What's more, the gamepad as a whole misses the speed of the microswitch options on this list. This really is a great controller, but it's one that's better suited to cozy games, walking simulators, or more nostalgic games that you want a classic gamepad feel for.
| 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.
