Featured in this article
Best for PC and Xbox OwnersPowerA Fusion Pro Wireless for Xbox Series X|SRead more$170 $139 (18% off)Amazon
Best Dedicated PS5 ControllerSony DualSense ControllerRead more$74Amazon
Best Dedicated PC ControllerGameSir G7 ProRead more$80Amazon
Best PS5 Controller UpgradeSony PS5 DualSense Edge Wireless ControllerRead more$195Walmart
Games Are Only as good as the controller you use to play them. As anyone who's ever struggled with stick drift or connectivity issues knows, a bad controller can make the best games feel awful. Fortunately, we're living in a golden age of controller designs. Comfort is a priority even for first-party controllers, and third parties are bringing new features like magnetic sensors and fancy lighting to the party. We've tried a bunch over the years, and these are the best game controllers we've come across, official and unofficial, for the Nintendo Switch and Switch 2, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC.
Almost all of our picks have PC support, but because the console makers don't always play nice with each other, you'll need to choose compatibility with one or the other based on what system you have under your TV. We also have picks that are specifically compatible with Android and Nintendo Switch, as well as a few oddities like racing wheels and mobile-specific controllers.
Check out our other gaming guides, including Best Gaming Headsets, Best Keyboards, Best Gaming Mice, Best Mobile Game Controllers, Best Gaming Laptops, and Best Handheld Gaming Consoles.
Updated April 2026: We've added the GameSir G7 SE and G7 Pro, Raizer Raiju V3 Pro, PowerA Fusion Pro, Switch Pro Controller 2, updated additional information about choosing a controller, and removed some picks that are no longer available.
Connectivity and Platform Limitations
AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevronWhile most modern controllers operate wirelessly, there are some caveats to ditching the cables. The most common connection type found on devices is Bluetooth, but that can cause latency issues, so systems like Xbox Series X|S get around this by leveraging a proprietary 2.4GHz wireless connection. Controllers wanting to use that same connection either need to get permission from Xbox and pay for licensing, or have you plug a USB dongle into your console to connect directly to the controller.
Similarly, Nintendo, Sony, and Microsoft don't usually allow companies to officially license controllers that are also licensed for other consoles, and will usually require button layouts specific to the console. While this historically meant multiple versions of the same controller with slightly different buttons and connections, now manufacturers make individual models with different shapes and feature sets that are more recognizable to that console's users.
The exception to this rule is the humble gaming computer. Most modern controllers have some way to work with Windows 10 and 11, even if it requires being plugged in via USB. I have some dedicated picks that work best with gaming PCs, but if you have a console in addition to a desktop, you should pick the controller that works with the console you have as well.
Some controllers support Android and iOS via Bluetooth as well, but we have a roundup for mobile controllers specifically that will give you more options.
Joystick Drift
AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevronIn recent years you may have heard about something called “stick drift” effecting controllers. Traditional analog joysticks use a physical connection between the joystick and the potentiometer to measure its location. Over time that connection can wear down, which causes the system to think the joystick is being tilted when it's in the center. Once stick drift has started, there's no turning back without replacing the sensor, or the whole controller.
Newer controllers have begun switch to two new sensor types, Hall Effect and TMR, which use magnets instead of a physical connection, preventing stick drift in the first place. It's a feature that you're actually more likely to find on third-party controllers at this point, and while they do sometimes carry a premium, there are budget-friendly controllers with magnetic joysticks. If you're spending more and want a product that lasts, it's worth looking for these upgraded options.
Best for PC and Xbox Owners
Courtesy of PowerASave to wishlistSave to wishlistPowerA
Fusion Pro Wireless for Xbox Series X|S
$170 $139 (18% off)Amazon
As someone who mostly plays on PC, but also owns an Xbox Series X, this is the controller I reach for 90% of the time. It has a lightweight but sturdy feel, with satisfying buttons and adjustable triggers. Like an increasing number of controllers on our list, it sports drift-resistant Hall Effect joysticks that have a stiff snap and excellent smoothness. With an included carrying case, USB dongle, and magnetic charging cradle, this feels like a much more premium product than the cost would imply.
Most controllers either opt for totally subdued looks, or try to be as gamer-coded as possible, but PowerA found a way to appeal to both crowds. With the lights on, the Fusion Pro Wireless is covered in sinewy, bone-ridden RGB gamer bait, but when you turn them off, the patterns are completely invisible, and it just looks like a plain black controller.
SpecsSupported SystemsXbox Series X|S, Xbox One, WindowsConnectivity2.4GHzJoysticksHall EffectBest Dedicated PS5 Controller
Photograph: Simon HillSave to wishlistSave to wishlistSony
DualSense Controller
$74Amazon
$75 $58 (23% off)Walmart
$75Best Buy
$75Target
It might be tempting to look for a third-party controller for your PS5, but there just isn’t one that beats Sony’s own DualSense. On top of its slick design that matches the eye-catching console, its packed with some of the most innovative features of any controller on the market.
The three-dimensional rumble gives you haptic feedback in different places on the controller based on what’s going on in your game. The adaptive triggers have adjustable tension, which developers can use to make it a little tougher to pull the triggers for moments that require more effort from your characters. This is an immersion-maker at moments like when Aloy in Horizon Forbidden West pries open ancient, rusted chests, or when Spider-Man rips rocks apart with his bare hands. –Simon Hill
SpecsSupported SystemsPlayStation 5, Windows, MacOS, Android, iOSConnectivityBluetoothJoysticksAnalog
Best Dedicated PC Controller
Save to wishlistSave to wishlistGameSir
G7 Pro
$80Amazon
GameSir may not be a household name, but the brand has been slowly claiming more spots on this list, thanks to feature-packed and high quality controllers at excellent price points. The G7 Pro is no different, with an attractive white and semi-translucent look, sky-high polling rate, and magnetic TMR joysticks. It feels a little heavy in hand, but makes up for it with every feature you could imagine, from adjustable trigger locks to customizable rear buttons.
The G7 Pro includes a charging dock, USB dongle, swappable D-pads, and a cable guard at the top in case you need to plug in. While the USB wireless connection for Windows work excellently, you'll have to use the wired connection for Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One, and Bluetooth for Android. That makes this a particularly good choice for desktop PC gamers who want a wireless option without sacrificing on performance.
SpecsSupported SystemsWired (Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One), Wireless (Windows, Android)ConnectivityWired, 2.4GHz, BluetoothJoysticksHall EffectBest PS5 Controller Upgrade
-Reviewer-Photo-SOURCE-Matt-Kamen.jpg)
Photograph: Matt KamenSave to wishlistSave to wishlistSony
PS5 DualSense Edge Wireless Controller
$195Walmart
$199Amazon
$200Best Buy
The standard PS5 controller is already a beast, but the DualSense Edge takes it up several notches. It comes with a set of alternate control sticks of varying heights, which allow you to get more precision when accuracy is important. The L2 and R2 triggers have physical switches that adjust their actuation point so you can activate the button with less pressure.
On the rear, there's space for two additional paddles, which you can customize with any button you prefer. I find this particularly useful for playing games like Overwatch 2, where minimizing how much I have to move my fingers between buttons matters more. You can even set up custom profiles for different games. A pair of Function buttons just below the control sticks are used for shortcuts to swap profiles without digging through settings. The only thing to dislike is its price tag, but you get a lot for your money. –Simon Hill
SpecsSupported SystemsPlayStation 5, Windows, MacOS, Android, iOSConnectivityBluetoothJoysticksAnalog
Upgrade Pick for PS5 and PC Owners
Courtesy of RazerSave to wishlistSave to wishlistRazer
Raiju V3 Pro
$220Amazon
For the most serious PlayStation 5 owners who also play on their computer, I recommend checking out the Razer Raiju V3 Pro. It has a super premium feel in hand, with the latest in magnetic TMR joysticks. It has everything you'd want for tuning into a competitive mindset, like adjustable triggers, back buttons with the same switches as Razer mice, and a low latency 2.4GHz connection.
The big miss here is that you don't get the haptic feedback or vibration of any kind, which is great for both weight and serious performance, but means casual gamers miss out on the very cool integration only found on the DualSense controllers. –Simon Hill
SpecsSupported SystemsPlayStation 5, WindowsConnectivity2.4GHzJoysticksTMRBest Xbox Controller Upgrade
-Reviewer-Photo-SOURCE-Eric-Ravenscraft.png)
Photograph: Eric RavenscraftSave to wishlistSave to wishlistXbox/Microsoft
Elite Wireless Controller Series 2
$110Amazon
$150Walmart
$140Best Buy
$200 $158 (21% off)Microsoft
Microsoft's Elite Wireless Series 2 controller fills a similar role to Sony's DualSense Edge. It provides a ton more customizability for the discerning gamer. It has swappable control sticks with different heights for better precision. You can also adjust the tension of the control sticks if you, like me, tend to use way more force on your sticks than necessary. The D-pad has a slick, metal dish-style cover, but you can also swap it for a more traditional four-way D-pad cover if you prefer the old ways.
On the rear, you'll find tension switches for the two triggers. I usually prefer a longer actuation point, to prevent accidental button presses, but you can make it much shorter if you'd rather fire faster with less effort. There are also four slots for rear paddles, each of which can be customized to whichever button you prefer. It's also one of the few official Xbox controllers with a rechargeable battery. Microsoft still prefers using AA batteries, but for a controller this expensive, it's nice not to need a separate accessory to recharge. –Simon Hill
SpecsSupported SystemsXbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Windows, Android, iOSConnectivityBluetooth, 2.4GHz, USB-CJoysticksAnalog
Best for Nintendo Switch and Switch 2
Photograph: Julian ChokkattuSave to wishlistSave to wishlistNintendo
Switch 2 Pro Controller
$89Amazon
$89Walmart
$90Target
$90Best Buy
First-party controllers are often quite good. They're usually well-built, feel comfortable, and do everything a controller should do. Still, it's rare for a first-party controller to feel as great as the Switch Pro Controller. It's responsive enough for long Donkey Kong Banana sessions, and sturdy enough that I'm happy to hand it off to a niece or nephew for some Mario Kart.
Nintendo made just a few small changes to the formula with the release of the Pro Controller 2 alongside the Switch 2, enough to make it worth picking these up if you're buying new. If you already have the original pro controller, and it isn't suffering from stick drift, there isn't any reason to upgrade. It does work with some other systems, but I wouldn't recommend it for dedicated play on just a PC.
Budget-Friendly Alternative: Given how minor the updates are, you can often find the original Pro Controller heavily discounted, which is great if you're just trying to fill out your set of four and won't be using them all the time. –Simon Hill
SpecsSupported SystemsNintendo Switch and Switch 2, PC, iOS, AndroidConnectivityBluetoothJoysticksAnalogAn Excellent Wired Controller
Courtesy of GameSirSave to wishlistSave to wishlistGameSir
G7 SE
$50 $45 (10% off)Amazon
The GameSir G7 SE sports sensitive and drift-resistant hall effect sticks, customizable rear buttons, and swappable faceplates. With few frills and a focus on performance, this wallet-friendly controller has an audience of devout followers online for good reason.
The only real downside here is that the G7 SE doesn't sport any kind of wireless support, so you'll have to stay within wire's distance of anything you're plugged into. That makes this an excellent choice for desk-locked PC gamers looking for a simple, superb controller.
SpecsSupported SystemsXbox Series X|S, Xbox One, WindowsConnectivityWired (USB-A)JoysticksHall Effect
Best Mobile Controller
Photograph: Eric RavenscraftSave to wishlistSave to wishlistBackbone One PS5 Edition
$100 $80 (20% off)Amazon
$99 $69 (30% off)Walmart
$100 $70 (30% off)Best Buy
$100 $70 (30% off)Backbone
If you want to play games on your phone—either locally or via a streaming subscription—you're gonna need way more buttons than your phone has. That's where the Backbone One comes into play. This sliding controller expands to fit (almost) any phone, even some still in their phone case. It plugs in via USB-C or Lightning connector (make sure you get the right model for your phone!), so there's no frustrating input lag or connectivity issues. There's a standard version that has a basic button layout, but you can also grab a PlayStation model that uses the platform's classic shape keys. There's no functional or price difference between the two, but the PlayStation model is objectively a little cooler. –Simon Hill
SpecsSupported SystemsAndroid, iOSConnectivityBluetoothJoysticksAnalogBest Accessible Controller for Xbox and PC
Courtesy of MicrosoftSave to wishlistSave to wishlistMicrosoft
Xbox Adaptive Controller
$100Best Buy
$100Microsoft
The Xbox Adaptive Controller is designed to offer a wide variety of options for gamers who may not be able to comfortably use a traditional gamepad. It essentially deconstructs all the inputs in a gamepad and lays them out in a way so anyone can create a controller layout that works for them.
Games are for everyone, and this controller offers an easier way for anyone to play Xbox and PC games. The Adaptive Controller is just the base station, though. You can also plug in buttons, switches, or foot pedals to customize your setup. –Simon Hill
SpecsSupported SystemsXbox Series X|S, Xbox One, WindowsConnectivityBluetooth, 2.4GHz, BluetoothJoysticksOther
Best Accessible Controller for PlayStation
Courtesy of PlaystationSave to wishlistSave to wishlistSony
Access Controller
$88Amazon
$90Best Buy
$90PlayStation Store
Sony’s palm-sized, turtle-shaped Access controller (8/10, WIRED Recommends) is a welcome addition to adaptive gaming. This customizable kit has swappable buttons, adjustable stick length and caps, and expandable inputs (four 3.5-mm ports), so folks can add compatible accessories.
The Access controller can be used flat on a table or tray, in your lap, or attached to an AMPS pattern mount. You can create up to 30 custom control profiles on your PS5 and store three on the Access controller itself (there’s a dedicated button for switching). It lacks Remote Play support, a touchpad, and haptics, but our reviewer mostly liked it, saying, “The Access Controller’s ingenuity solved my issues and opened gaming back up for me.” –Simon Hill
SpecsSupported SystemsPlayStation 5ConnectivityBluetoothJoysticksOther
Other Game Controllers to Consider
There are so many game controllers out there, but not all of them are good enough to make the list above. These are the other controllers we have tested recently.
Photograph: Simon HillNacon Revolution 5 Pro: This highly customizable PS5 controller boasts Hall Effect sticks and triggers, programmable back paddles, and a great D-pad. You can tweak the weight, stick length and grips, and even the trigger actuation. It boasts a 10-hour battery life, and you can connect your headset via Bluetooth or plug-in. Unfortunately, it's expensive, and you don't get the haptic feedback or adaptive triggers that you'll find in Sony's excellent DualSense controllers.
Courtesy of LogitechLogitech G Pro Racing Wheel: WIRED editor Parker Hall raved about Logitech’s racing wheel accessory, and racing game fans with deep pockets will love it. It adds a layer of reality to your in-game driving with force feedback and vibrations that help you feel every surface. The gear shift paddles have Hall Effect sensors. There is also an OLED display that enables you to tweak settings without opening the app.
Nacon Revolution X Pro: This wired Xbox and PC controller comes with a long (around 10 feet), detachable, braided USB-C cable. Nacon offers an impressive level of customization, including interchangeable thumbsticks, programmable back buttons, and weights to help you get the feel you want. The Profile button lets you cycle through four presets, a switch toggles configurations, and it has a 3.5-mm headphone jack. You can tweak everything in the flaky Revolution X app for Xbox or PC. While it works well, I don’t love the cheap feel (even with adjusted weight), and the rear triggers are awkward. At full price, the Revolution X Pro is too expensive for a wired controller, but discounts are frequent.
GameSir Cyclone 2: The GameSir Cyclone 2 is super impressive for its price. Its layout is styled like an Xbox controller but with a few extra bells and whistles. It has two rear paddle buttons that can be customized, and hair triggers with a physical switch inside each to swap between short and long actuation points. It also comes programmed with a ton of shortcuts to tweak things like vibration intensity, button layout, and control stick dead zones on the fly. For most gamers, the newer, upgraded G7 Pro will be worth the $25 price difference.
8BitDo Ultimate: This feature-packed controller from 8BitDo has lots to offer at a reasonable price. At first glance, it looks like an Xbox controller, but it has five central buttons on the front and a pair of rear paddles. It boasts a host of customization options to suit your play style. Using 8BitDo’s software, you can remap buttons, tweak the stick and trigger sensitivity, assign macros, and tune the vibration intensity. There's an updated version of this controller available and we'll update here when we get a chance to test it.
Charging Accessories
Courtesy of SonyWireless controllers are great, but you do have to remember to charge them. If you don’t want to mess with cables, a charging dock is the way. After testing several, we have some recommendations.
PS5 Controllers: PlayStation DualSense Charging StationThe official Sony charging station is the best for DualSense controllers. It is compact, charges two controllers, and frees up your PS5's ports. Slotting your controllers into place is a breeze, with successful docking marked by a click.
Xbox Controllers: 8BitDo Dual Charging DockThis stylish charging station is for wireless Xbox Series X|S or Xbox One controllers and comes with battery packs and replacement doors. The molded plastic makes it easy to slide your controllers into, and you can tap the top to change the lighting. The only drawback is that it is bulky.
Nintendo Controllers: PowerA Controller Charging BaseThis charging base can charge a Switch Pro controller and two Joy-Cons. It is simple to use, although you must insert a USB dongle into the Pro controller. I actually slightly prefer Power-A’s charging dock, which is more compact than the base, but it is out of stock at the moment. If you only need Joy-Con charging, try the HyperX Chargeplay Quad ($15).
Comments
Back to topTriangle
Brad Bourque is a contributor for WIRED with a focus on computing hardware and peripherals. He’s a lifelong Oregonian and an avid Portland Thorns and Timbers supporter. On his days off, you can find him riding his ebike around Portland or taking his dog to the park. ... Read MoreContributorTopicsShoppingcontrollersbuying guidesvideo gamesgaming tipsGamingConsole GamesAccessories and PeripheralsLooking for a Massive Screen? Here Are My Favorite Large TVs at Every PriceTVs are bigger and better than ever. These are my favorite screens that come in extra-large sizes, from affordable to ostentatious.Ryan WaniataThese Premium Soundbars and Wireless Speakers Compete With Fancy Wired SetupsSoundbars just keep getting better, but some rise above the rest. These are the best high-end soundbars and wireless A/V speakers I’ve tried.Ryan WaniataThe Best Headphones for Working Out, Traveling, and Putzing AroundRock your inner jock with a pair of sturdy, sweatproof, and tangle-proof headphones. Here are our favorites.Adrienne SoThe Best USB Flash Drives for Easy File Transfer and StorageThese WIRED-tested memory sticks are a virtual filing cabinet in your pocket.Simon HillThe Best E-Readers, As Tested by ReadersThese WIRED-tested ebook readers let you take your library anywhere. Nena Farrell The Best Kindles to Take Your Library AnywhereHere’s how Amazon’s ebook readers stack up—and which one might be right for you. Nena Farrell Death to Dry Skin. These Humidifiers Are Better Than ChapstickFrom models for traveling to humidifiers that double as planters or air purifiers, we've tested a dozen of them.Matthew KorfhageThe Right Mattress Can Erase Your Back PainIf you're struggling with chronic back or shoulder pain, these mattresses could change your life Nena Farrell Which Samsung Galaxy Phone Should You Buy?From flagship and budget to flipping and folding, Samsung’s Galaxy range spans the breadth of the smartphone cosmos. WIRED’s here to help you make your choice.Julian ChokkattuThese Are WIRED's Favorite MIDI Controllers for Recording and BeyondWant to digitally control your favorite instruments? These tools will help.Pete CottellThe Best Portable Chargers for All Your DevicesKeep your phone, laptop, handheld gaming console, and other electronics running with these travel-friendly power banks.Simon HillGive Your Back a Break With Our Favorite Office ChairsSitting at a desk for hours? Upgrade your WFH setup and work in style with these comfy WIRED-tested seats.Julian Chokkattu
Wired Coupons
T-Mobile Promo CodeSamsung Gs25+ Free With T-mobile for Business Supermobile
Squarespace Promo CodeSquarespace Promo Code: 20% Off Annual Acuity Subscriptions
LG Promo CodeLG Promo Code: 20% Off Your First Order
Dell Coupon Code10% Off Dell Coupon Code for New Customers
.png){kind=logo}
Samsung Promo Code30% Samsung Coupon - Offer Program 2026
Canon Promo Code10% Off Canon Promo Code + Up to 30% Off
.jpg)