Top Controller for PC: Scuf Reflex
If you’re a PlayStation 5 owner, the official DualSense controller (covered below) is undoubtedly the best choice for your console. While it technically works with Windows, iOS, and Android, pairing it with non-PS5 devices can be a hassle. Enter the Scuf Reflex—a controller designed in the PS5’s silhouette that delivers a seamless experience across multiple platforms without the pairing frustrations.
The Reflex retains everything that makes the DualSense exceptional, including three-dimensional rumble and adjustable triggers. Additionally, it features four removable, re-mappable paddles on the back, perfectly positioned under your fingertips so you can use them without shifting your grip. With three onboard configuration profiles, you can easily switch between button setups without constant reconfiguration.
The controller is a joy to use. Its soft-touch plastic coating offers a comfortable grip that’s neither slippery nor sticky. The triggers are impressively responsive, and the thumb sticks can be swapped for taller ones, providing precise control for those who demand extra accuracy. These features make it ideal for competitive online gamers.
Compatibility: Works seamlessly with PS5, PC, MacOS, iOS, and Android.
Top PS5 Controller: Sony DualSense
While it might be tempting to explore third-party options for your PS5, nothing beats the Sony DualSense. Beyond its sleek design that perfectly complements the console’s aesthetics, it’s packed with groundbreaking features that set it apart from any other controller on the market.
The three-dimensional haptic feedback delivers localized sensations depending on the in-game action, adding a new layer of immersion. The adaptive triggers, with adjustable tension, offer a tactile experience that enhances gameplay moments—whether it’s prying open ancient chests in Horizon Forbidden West or feeling the strain as Spider-Man pulls apart debris with his bare hands.
Compatibility: Fully supports PS5, PC, MacOS, Android, and iOS.
Best PS5 Controller Upgrade: Sony PS5 DualSense Edge Wireless Controller
The standard PS5 DualSense is already an impressive controller, but the DualSense Edge takes it to the next level. This premium option includes interchangeable control sticks of varying heights, providing enhanced precision for games where accuracy is critical. The L2 and R2 triggers feature physical switches to adjust the actuation point, allowing for quicker activation with less pressure.
On the back, you’ll find two customizable paddle slots, perfect for mapping additional buttons. This is especially useful in fast-paced games like Overwatch 2, where keeping your fingers on the controls is key to performance. Custom profiles add even more versatility, enabling you to tailor settings for different games. With dedicated Function buttons just below the sticks, you can seamlessly switch profiles without navigating through menus.
The only downside? The price. But considering the features and customization options, it’s a worthwhile investment for serious gamers.
Compatibility: Officially supports PS5, PC, MacOS, Android, and iOS.
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One great feature of PC gamepads is their compatibility with the Xbox Series X/S, and the Scuf Instinct Pro fits right in. This controller boasts a premium build, featuring a matte black finish and a grippy underside that feels comfortable and high-quality. It also includes standout features that elevate it above the competition.
The highlight is its rear paddles—four mappable to 16 different functions. These paddle-style triggers rest naturally beneath your fingers, allowing you to use them without shifting your grip. They’re particularly useful in games like Destiny 2 and Overwatch 2, where quick access to class abilities can give you a competitive edge.
While the Xbox silhouette isn’t quite as optimized for PC games as it used to be, this controller still offers solid performance across platforms. And for PC players, there’s another great option in this guide.
Compatibility: Fully supports PC, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, MacOS, iOS, and Android.
Best Xbox Upgrade Controller: Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2
Microsoft’s Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 is the Xbox equivalent of Sony’s DualSense Edge, offering a wealth of customization options for dedicated gamers. The swappable control sticks come in different heights, allowing for greater precision. You can even adjust the tension of the sticks—a fantastic feature if you, like me, tend to apply more pressure than necessary during intense gameplay. The D-pad comes with a sleek, metal dish-style cover, but if you prefer a classic design, you can swap it out for a traditional four-way cover.
The triggers feature tension switches on the back, letting you customize their actuation points. I personally prefer a longer actuation point to avoid accidental presses, but if rapid-fire action is your priority, you can shorten them for quicker response times. Additionally, there are four rear paddle slots, each fully customizable to your preferred button configurations.
Unlike most official Xbox controllers, this one includes a built-in rechargeable battery—a significant advantage considering Microsoft’s standard reliance on AA batteries. For a premium controller, not needing a separate charging accessory is a welcome bonus.
Compatibility: Works seamlessly with PC, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, iOS, and Android.
Best Budget Controller: GameSir Cyclone 2
The GameSir Cyclone 2 delivers impressive performance at a budget-friendly price. Its layout mimics an Xbox controller but adds several standout features. It includes two customizable rear paddle buttons and hair triggers with a physical switch for toggling between short and long actuation points. Additionally, it’s preloaded with shortcuts for adjusting settings like vibration intensity, button layout, and control stick dead zones on the fly. The semi-transparent casing, paired with RGB LEDs, gives it a stylish yet subtle aesthetic.
One of its best features is the optional charging stand, which is well worth the extra $5. Made from sturdy aluminum, the stand not only displays the controller elegantly but also features a clever design. It has a USB-C port at the back and a USB-A port in the front, allowing you to plug the wireless adapter directly into the stand while running a USB-C cable to your PC. This setup makes it easy to switch devices without reaching under your desk to fiddle with connections.
Considering the price, the GameSir Cyclone 2 is a fantastic deal. Its only drawback is its lack of compatibility with the PS5, but it works flawlessly with all other major platforms.
Compatibility: Officially supports Xbox, PC, MacOS, iOS, and Android.
Best for Nintendo Switch: Nintendo Switch Pro Controller
First-party controllers are often reliable, and the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller is no exception. Built with quality, comfort, and functionality in mind, it goes beyond the usual expectations for a first-party gamepad. In fact, it’s so well-designed that if it were as easily compatible with Xbox and PS5 as it is with the Switch, it might dominate every controller category.
The Pro Controller stands out for its exceptional comfort and responsiveness, earning its reputation as one of the best controllers available. For anyone who primarily uses their Switch in docked mode, this controller is a must-have. Once you experience its performance, other controllers may never feel the same.
Compatibility: Officially supports Nintendo Switch, PC, iOS, and Android.
For more recommendations, check out our Nintendo Switch Accessories Guide.
Another Great Controller for PC (and Nintendo Switch): 8BitDo Ultimate Bluetooth Wireless Controller
The 8BitDo Ultimate Bluetooth Wireless Controller is a feature-rich gamepad that offers excellent value for its price. While it resembles an Xbox controller, it includes five central buttons and two rear paddles for added functionality. This controller is highly customizable to fit your gaming preferences. Using 8BitDo’s software, you can remap buttons, adjust stick and trigger sensitivity, assign macros, and fine-tune vibration intensity.
It’s a compact, comfortable controller with grippy handles, responsive triggers, and a solid D-pad. The Bluetooth connectivity works seamlessly with the Nintendo Switch, making it a great alternative to the Switch Pro Controller. It also comes with a 2.4GHz dongle in the charging dock for PC gaming. With a battery life of over 20 hours, the included charging dock ensures it stays powered up.
Compatibility: Officially supports Nintendo Switch, Windows, and SteamOS.
Best Wired Controller: GameSir G7 Controller
The GameSir G7 Controller may look like a standard Xbox controller at first, but it packs in premium features like Hall Effect analog triggers, customizable back paddles, a hair trigger mode, four rumble motors, and swappable faceplates (a white spare is included for customization). It boasts a 256-Hz polling rate and 0.004-second input latency, ensuring fast, responsive gameplay.
In terms of performance, this controller shines. The joysticks glide effortlessly, the buttons offer a satisfying mechanical click, and it feels highly responsive. While I have a few minor critiques—it’s lightweight, the 4-way D-pad could be better, and the USB-C port is oddly deep—the build quality is impressive for the price. Plus, you can further customize the controller through the GameSir Nexus app (available on Xbox and Windows).
Compatibility: Officially supports PC, Xbox Series X/S, and Xbox One.
Best Controller for Retro Play: 8BitDo SN30 Pro Controller
No, you’re not imagining it. The 8BitDo SN30 Pro Controller combines the classic SNES design with modern features like joysticks, Bluetooth, and compatibility with both the Nintendo Switch and PC. Functionally, it’s similar to a PS5 controller, with thumbsticks at the bottom, flanked by buttons and a D-pad, but it offers a unique feel. The familiar, flat profile of the SNES controller makes it ideal for retro gaming, while still being fully functional for contemporary games. If you’re after a gamepad that evokes nostalgia while also handling modern titles, this is the one to get.
For those who prefer handles, the 8BitDo Pro 2 ($45) is a great upgrade, offering additional grips and programmable back buttons. It’s currently our top pick for Best Mobile Game Controller. Both controllers also work with retro consoles, like the SNES Classic.
Compatibility: Officially supports Nintendo Switch, PC, MacOS, iOS, and Android.
Best for Combatting Stick Drift: PB Tails Metal Crush Defender
Stick drift has been a persistent issue since the Nintendo 64 days. Small, plastic control sticks moving tiny potentiometers inside a module, while enduring heavy use, often leads to wear and tear. Over time, components like springs lose their tension, plastic becomes brittle, and eventually, your controller thinks you’re moving in a direction even when you’re not touching it.
Enter the PB Tails Metal Crush Defender, a controller designed to tackle this problem. It features K-Silver TMR sticks with contactless, magnetic sensors, which eliminate the need for physical touch to register an input (similar to Hall effect technology). This drastically reduces the wear on the sticks, extending their lifespan and preventing stick drift.
Compatibility: Officially works with Nintendo Switch, PC, SteamOS, MacOS, and Android.
Best Mobile Controller: Backbone One PS5 Edition
For mobile gaming—whether locally or through a streaming subscription—you’ll quickly realize that your phone’s built-in controls won’t cut it. That’s where the Backbone One comes in. This expandable controller slides to fit nearly any phone, even when it’s in its case. Connecting via USB-C or Lightning (make sure you choose the correct model for your phone), it ensures a seamless experience with no input lag or connectivity issues. While the standard version features a basic button layout, the PlayStation Edition offers the iconic PlayStation shape buttons for a more familiar feel. There’s no difference in functionality or price between the two, but the PlayStation model definitely has a bit more flair.
Compatibility: Officially works with iOS and Android phones.
Best Accessible Controller for Xbox and PC: Microsoft Xbox Adaptive Controller
The Xbox Adaptive Controller is designed to provide a range of customizable options for gamers who may have difficulty using a traditional gamepad. It simplifies the controller layout by breaking down all the inputs, allowing users to create a personalized setup that suits their needs.
This controller makes gaming accessible to everyone, offering a more inclusive way to play Xbox and PC games. While the Adaptive Controller serves as the base station, users can connect a variety of external buttons, switches, or foot pedals to tailor the setup even further.
Compatibility: Officially works with PC, Xbox Series X/S, and Xbox One.
Best Accessible Controller for PlayStation: Sony Access Controller
Sony’s compact, turtle-shaped Access Controller (8/10, WIRED Recommends) is a great addition to the world of adaptive gaming. This versatile controller features customizable buttons, adjustable stick lengths and caps, and four 3.5mm ports for adding compatible accessories.
The Access Controller can be used on a flat surface, on your lap, or mounted with an AMPS pattern mount. It allows you to create up to 30 custom control profiles on your PS5 and save three directly on the controller, with a dedicated button for easy switching between them. While it doesn’t support Remote Play, haptics, or the touchpad, our reviewer praised it for its innovative design, saying, “The Access Controller’s ingenuity solved my issues and opened gaming back up for me.”
