Best PC controller 2024: the Digital Foundry buyer’s guide to gamepads

Gamepads have long been a preferred choice for many PC gamers due to their ergonomic design, analog inputs, and extensive support from game developers. With a wide variety of options available—from first-party controllers by Microsoft, Sony, and Nintendo to third-party alternatives from Turtle Beach, Nacon, and Scuf—finding the right controller can be daunting, especially for dedicated PC gamers who aren’t tied to a specific console brand. To assist you in making the best choice, we’ve rigorously tested numerous gamepads and compiled a selection of the top options for various budgets and gaming styles.

Best PC Controller 2024

• Best PC Controller: Xbox Wireless Controller
• Runner-up: Sony DualSense (PS5) Controller
• Best Premium PC Controller: Xbox Elite Series 2 / Elite Series 2 Core
• Best Cheap PC Controller: Turtle Beach React-R
• Best Hall Effect Controller: Razer Wolverine V3 Pro
• Best Cheap Hall Effect Controller: GameSir G7 SE
• Best Third-Party PC Controller: Asus ROG Raikiri Pro
• Most Customizable PC Controller: Scuf Envision / Envision Pro
• Runner-up Customizable Controller: Victrix Pro BFG
• Bonus – Best Android/iOS Controller: Gamesir G8 Galileo
• Best of the Rest: Other Controllers We Tested

Best PC Controller: Xbox Wireless Controller

The Xbox Wireless Controller is widely regarded as the best choice for most PC gamers, priced at approximately £45 or $49. This controller is compatible with a broad range of PC titles out of the box and offers various connection methods, including wired, Bluetooth, and 2.4GHz wireless. Available in multiple colors, it boasts a solid build quality, responsive triggers, and a comfortable grip.

However, there are some drawbacks. The Xbox Series controller runs on AA batteries by default, meaning you’ll need to purchase a Play and Charge Kit for USB recharging. Additionally, many PCs do not support the low-latency 2.4GHz wireless connection natively, requiring a separate adapter to use this feature.

Pros

• Exceptional compatibility with PC games without third-party software
• Low-latency wireless options available
• Wide variety of colors and styles

Cons

• Requires AA batteries, with a rechargeable option sold separately
• Finding the Xbox Wireless Adapter can be challenging

Runner-up: Sony DualSense (PS5) Controller

The Sony DualSense PS5 Controller is another solid option, priced around £59 or $69. This controller features excellent triggers and a design that accommodates larger hands. Unlike the Xbox controller, it can be recharged via USB-C, eliminating the need for batteries. However, to use it effectively on Windows, third-party software must be installed, though there are several user-friendly options available.

Pros

• High-quality build with comfortable ergonomics
• No batteries required for wireless use
• Trackpad adds convenience for certain applications

Cons

• Installation of third-party drivers is necessary
• Button prompts may not accurately reflect the controller layout

Best Premium PC Controller: Xbox Elite Series 2 / Elite Series 2 Core

If you’re looking to invest in a premium controller, the Xbox Elite Series 2 is the best we’ve tested, priced at around £159 or $141. It features customizable controls, responsive buttons, and a comfortable grip. Users can add paddles, swap sticks, and adjust trigger sensitivity for a personalized experience. The Series 2 also supports Bluetooth and USB-C charging, making it a modernized option.

Pros

• High levels of customization with hardware and software options
• Exceptional tactile feedback and comfort
• Includes modern features like Bluetooth connectivity

Cons

• Rechargeable battery is not user-replaceable

Best Cheap PC Controller: Turtle Beach React-R

The Turtle Beach React-R offers great value at approximately £25 or $30. This wired controller provides programmable rear buttons and audio controls tailored for FPS gaming. While it lacks wireless capabilities, it is lightweight and eliminates the need for batteries.

Pros

• Affordable with solid build quality
• Wired design negates battery concerns
• Available in various appealing colors

Cons

• No wireless connectivity
• Less precise controls compared to premium options

Best Hall Effect Controller: Razer Wolverine V3 Pro

For those seeking advanced technology, the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro, priced at around £200 or $199, is the best Hall Effect controller available. Its magnetic sensors provide exceptional precision and durability, making it a top choice for serious gamers. The controller also features customizable buttons, low-latency wireless options, and a robust build quality.

Pros

• High durability and precision with Hall Effect sensors
• Comfortable and well-built
• Wired and wireless connectivity options

Cons

• Pricey compared to standard controllers

Best Cheap Hall Effect Controller: GameSir G7 SE

The GameSir G7 SE is an affordable option at around £50 or $42, featuring Hall Effect thumbsticks and triggers for enhanced precision and longevity. It includes programmable rear buttons and is designed for comfort, making it an excellent alternative to more expensive options.

Pros

• Hall Effect technology for better responsiveness
• Wired design for lightweight use
• Programmable buttons add functionality

Cons

• No wireless connectivity

Best Third-Party PC Controller: Asus ROG Raikiri Pro

The Asus ROG Raikiri Pro is a high-quality third-party option priced at around £110 or $140. It features customizable buttons, a built-in OLED screen, RGB lighting, and multiple connection options. This controller is comfortable for extended gaming sessions and offers a premium feel.

Pros

• Impressive build quality and aesthetics
• Wide range of features for customization
• Tri-mode connectivity options

Cons

• Higher price point compared to standard controllers
• Eight-way d-pad may not suit all game genres

Most Customizable PC Controller: Scuf Envision Pro

The Scuf Envision Pro allows for extensive customization, priced at approximately £180 or $180. It features adjustable triggers, mechanical buttons, and a variety of design options. However, it lacks Hall Effect sensors, which could be a consideration for some gamers.

Pros

• Highly customizable appearance and functionality
• Great performance with mechanical buttons
• Unique extras like RGB lighting

Cons

• Expensive, especially when fully customized
• No console compatibility

Runner-up Customizable Controller: PDP Victrix Pro BFG

The PDP Victrix Pro BFG is another solid choice for customizable control, pricing around £139 or $149. Its modular design allows users to swap out components, making it ideal for fighting game enthusiasts, while also providing a robust build quality.

Pros

• Excellent build quality with customizable components
• Good for a variety of gaming styles
• Wireless and wired options available

Cons

• Can be costly if you don’t utilize all features
• A battery life of 20 hours is average

Bonus – Best iOS/Android Controller: Gamesir G8 Galileo

The Gamesir G8 Galileo is a top choice for mobile gamers, priced at around £80 or $80. This controller is compatible with both Android and iOS devices, featuring Hall Effect technology and a comfortable design that enhances the mobile gaming experience.

Pros

• Long-lasting and precise controls
• Comfortable and adaptable for various phone sizes
• Functional for both gaming and navigation

Cons

• More expensive than many traditional controllers
• Wired support can be inconsistent with some games

Best of the Rest: Other Controllers We Tested

In addition to our top recommendations, we also evaluated several other controllers worth mentioning:

• Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra Wireless: This premium controller boasts Hall Effect sticks and an intuitive built-in screen, but its build quality raises some concerns for its price.
• Thrustmaster Eswap X2: Known for its modular design, this controller offers plenty of customization but is currently only wired.
• PowerA Spectra Infinity Enhanced Wired Controller: A budget-friendly option with fun lighting effects and programmable buttons.
• Nintendo Switch Pro Controller: Offers great battery life and build quality but may not stand out among PC-specific controllers.
• Razer Raiju Mobile: Good ergonomics and features, but requires manual remapping for PC use.
• Microsoft Elite Controller (Series 1): Older model that lacks some features found in newer iterations.
• Nacon Pro Controller 3: Has a unique button layout but struggles with build quality and functionality.

We will continue to assess new gamepads and keep our recommendations up to date, so stay tuned for the latest in gaming controllers.