What’s the greatest PC controller? These gamepads push our buttons – in a great way – as they every supply an incredible various to the traditional clicking and clacking of the mouse and keyboard. We at PCGamesN spent hours testing all these buttons, triggers, pedals, and extra, to make sure we’re providing you with one of the best recommendation on which controller to make use of in your PC video games.
Keyboard and mouse purists might scoff on the notion {that a} controller must be a part of any gaming PC setup, however it’s laborious to disclaim the comfort and ergonomic advantages these perky pads supply. On this record, we’ve included choices for the greatest PC steering wheels, the greatest PC joysticks, and way more, protecting each sort of controller for each sort of gamer.
Why you’ll be able to belief our recommendation ✔ At PCGamesN, our specialists spend hours testing {hardware}, video games, and VPNs. We share sincere, unbiased opinions that will help you purchase one of the best. Discover out how we check.
Listed below are one of the best PC controllers in 2024:
The very best PC controller total
Xbox Wi-fi Controller specs:
Connection |
Bluetooth / USB |
Energy |
2 x AA batteries |
Buttons |
18 |
Format |
Xbox |
Causes to purchase
- Hybrid D-pad
- Bluetooth help/plug-and-play
- Textured Triggers
Causes to keep away from
- Requires AA batteries/play and cost equipment
- Not customizable
That is the most recent iteration of the much-applauded Xbox controller, designed by Microsoft for console and PC gaming alike. Its comfy and intuitive design lends itself simply as nicely to the massive library of video games to play on PC because it does to the library on Xbox. It’s simple to grasp why that is the go-to controller for therefore many players and as a Microsoft product, there’s simple plug-and-play compatibility with Home windows.
In comparison with earlier Xbox controllers, the textured grip on the rear has been prolonged to cowl the triggers for additional grip and precision, and there’s now a hybrid domed D-pad which we’ve beforehand solely seen on the high-end Xbox Elite controller.
Moreover, the pad’s iconic form has been tweaked in comparison with the unique Xbox One pad, that means it suits a wider vary of hand styles and sizes. Nonetheless, the slight adjustments might hinder compatibility with attachments, so preserve that in thoughts.
Learn our Xbox Wi-fi Controller evaluation
The very best controller for gaming on the go
PowerA Moga XP-Extremely specs:
Connection |
Bluetooth / USB-C |
Energy |
Recharge 2000 mAh battery |
Platforms |
PC, Android, Xbox One, Xbox Collection X|S |
Format |
Xbox |
Causes to purchase
- Multi-platform versatility
- Mappable gaming buttons
- Battery degree indicator
Causes to keep away from
- Buttons lack journey
- Barely awkward structure
- Sluggish to begin after waking
Do you ever end up enjoying one thing with Sport Go Final, then going out and streaming the sport in your cell as you do? With the PowerA Moga XP-Extremely, you’ll be able to proceed enjoying with the identical controller, because it has a MOBA gaming clip that permits you to connect your Android telephone (although sadly not iPhones). It additionally provides full compatibility with Xbox Collection X|S and plenty of sensible TVs that you just may wish to stream by too.
The Extremely-XP is a Bluetooth controller constructed for all eventualities, then – one thing echoed by its modular design. Within the field, you get an attachable telephone mount to show your handset right into a handheld, and it additionally options removable grips, decreasing the footprint for enjoying on the go or providing you with an choice for those who desire the scale of old-school controllers.
We actually just like the modularity provided by the XP-Extremely. Taking part in retro video games with the mini-pad is a blast, and having a sturdy option to mount a telephone for cloud gaming is good. The battery lifetime of 40 hours in Bluetooth mode is immense, and, for some video games, we love the D-Pad. Essentially the most adaptable and versatile controller we’ve ever used, the PowerA Moga XP-Extremely actually is a jack of all trades – however you understand how that saying ends.
Learn our PowerA Moga XP-Extremely evaluation.
Thrustmaster eSwap X PRO
The very best PC controller for mouse-like accuracy
Thrustmaster eSwap X PRO specs:
Connection |
USB |
Energy |
N/A |
Platforms |
22 |
Format |
Xbox |
Causes to purchase
- Modular analog sticks
- Microswitch buttons
- Thrustmapper software program
Thrustmaster’s Eswap Professional X is a premium gamepad by and thru, however its modular design makes it one of the versatile units on this record. It’s additionally an incredible choice for gamers preferring PlayStation’s parallel controller structure, as you’ll be able to simply swap across the d-pad and thumbstick.
Not solely are these magnetic modules top quality, but when they do ever put on down, you’ll be capable to substitute them with out turning into a gamepad surgeon. You may even steadiness substance and elegance by including completely different colours utilizing considered one of Thrustmaster’s elective kits.
The Eswap Professional X additionally comes with a formidable 22-button structure, 4 of which reside on the again of the dangerous. In the event you’re a fan of all issues clicky, you’ll be happy to know that the d-pad and face buttons use microswitches, which make all of the distinction in comparison with rubber dome membranes.
As for compatibility, the Eswap Professional X’s PC drivers include Thrustmapper, a configuration suite that permits you to remap the pad and fine-tune sensitivity. In different phrases, for those who’re on the lookout for a thumbstick expertise that comes near the accuracy of a gaming mouse, this gamepad may very well be what you’re on the lookout for.
PlayStation DualSense Wi-fi Controller
The very best PC controller for adaptive triggers
PlayStation DualSense Wi-fi Controller specs:
Connection |
Bluetooth / USB |
Energy |
Li-ion |
Button |
18 |
Format |
PlayStation |
Causes to purchase
- Distinctive DualSense options
- Excessive-quality really feel
Causes to keep away from
- Expensive
- Restricted help on PC
Sony’s successor to the Dualshock 4 is a newcomer to the gamepad fold, however it’s already a promising PC controller. It’ll improve bodily immersion in huge hits like Name of Responsibility: Chilly Conflict, Far Cry 6, Metro Exodus, and Deathloop, all of which boast adaptive set off help.
The DualSense can be simply a wonderful gamepad, and it elevates every part that made its predecessor nice. Its thumbsticks are nonetheless beautifully comfy, and it’s nonetheless comfy to make use of after hours of use.
Sony is slowly branching out on the PC, however help for the platform is missing. Official DualSense drivers aren’t a factor but, and also you’ll have to stay with particular video games to profit from the pad’s immersive options.
Utilizing the DualSense wirelessly on PC additionally comes with an extra cord-cutting caveat. For no matter motive, haptic suggestions received’t work on the pad over Bluetooth, that means you’ll should tether it to your rig utilizing a USB-C cable.
That stated, for those who’re a fan of parallel sticks, or simply Sony shenanigans normally, the DualSense is a killer pad with spectacular capabilities. It’s dear, however when you think about what it provides, it’s doubtlessly a smart funding.
Nintendo Swap Professional Controller
The very best PC controller for retro video games
Nintendo Swap Professional Controller specs:
Connection |
Bluetooth / USB |
Energy |
Li-ion |
Buttons |
18 |
Format |
Nintendo |
Causes to purchase
- Wonderful D-Pad
- Stellar battery life
- Higher than Pleasure-Cons in mainly each means
Causes to keep away from
- Shallow triggers
- Not obtainable in a variety of colours
Lots of the classics in gaming historical past had been initially on Nintendo consoles and for those who’ve acquired a big assortment of retro titles, then that is in all probability one of the best controller to play them with. Nintendo pioneered the d-pad again in 1982, so it’s no shock that the Swap Professional controller upholds its gamepad legacy
Although made particularly for Swap, the controller has been given its personal Steam profile and may be linked to your gaming PC with both a wi-fi Bluetooth connection or, if you wish to get configured in Steam, through a USB-C cable. With a configuration that’s similar to many historic Nintendo controllers, it’s superb for revisiting traditional video games, whereas remaining well-equipped to deal with fashionable releases too.
There’s one thing charming concerning the Swap Professional Controller’s construct high quality, significantly when it comes to its plastics. Within the hand, it nearly seems like a gamepad from the early 2000s, one thing that differentiates it from different premium pads available on the market. Though some might discover the buttons and triggers a bit too chunky (particularly for those who’re used to Xbox controllers), it’s one thing that’s simple to get used to.
Whereas the pad lacks fancy options like analog triggers, its tactile buttons and cozy really feel make it a winner with regards to precision-based platformers. It’s additionally acquired a whopping 40-hour battery life through Bluetooth, making it probably the greatest wi-fi choices available on the market.
The very best high-end controller for PC
Xbox Elite Wi-fi Controller Collection 2 specs:
Connection |
Bluetooth / USB |
Energy |
Li-ion |
Buttons |
21 |
Format |
Xbox |
Causes to purchase
- All of the paddles
- Constructed-in battery
- Excessive construct high quality
Causes to keep away from
- Premium worth level
- Black aesthetic isn’t as thrilling
Spending nicely over $100 on a joypad may appear a bit extreme, however the Elite Collection 2 is one severely lovely controller. Nearly every part about it has been designed to simply scream ‘QUALITY!’ in your face. It’s an evolution over the earlier model reasonably than a revolution, however it’s acquired every part we beloved concerning the unique Elite, plus every part the competitors has added to their high-end pads to attempt to compete.
Identical to the Eswap Professional X, the Elite Collection 2 is supplied with customizable buttons that’ll aid you completely dial in your palm expertise. It’s not fairly as hot-swappable as Thurstmaster’s method, however it provides a special array of choices, like changeable stick heights and paddle-style triggers.
It’s a small factor, however the reality Microsoft features a laborious case with the Elite Collection 2 speaks volumes. Not solely does it provide you with someplace to maintain your fine details, however it’ll additionally defend the pad and assist it serve your gaming wants lengthy into the longer term.
In the event you’re not into extra equipment, you would go for the Collection 2 Core, a less expensive bundle that solely contains the pad and an adjustment instrument.
Learn the Xbox Elite Wi-fi Controller Collection 2 evaluation.
The very best hybrid PC controller
Nacon Revolution Limitless specs:
Connection |
Bluetooth / USB |
Energy |
Li-Polymer 1300mAh |
Buttons |
21 |
Format |
Xbox |
Causes to purchase
- Combines better of Xbox and PlayStation
- Nice construct high quality
- Wonderful thumbsticks
Causes to keep away from
- D-pad isn’t one of the best
- Software program is finicky
Many corporations have tried to match the standard of Microsoft’s Xbox One Elite controller, however only a few have managed to nail its combine of significant construct high quality and extremely customization. However Nacon’s pad succeeds in each and likewise manages to combine each the wonderful PlayStation thumbsticks and touchpad with the Xbox asymmetrical structure.
The one concern is the software program. It refuses to attach except you’re wired in and a few of its wordless icons are borderline impenetrable. However there are a complete host of customization choices buried in there for those who actually wish to go deep.
Learn the Nacon Revolution Limitless evaluation.
Razer Wolverine Event Version Chroma
The very best RGB PC controller
Razer Wolverine Event Version Chroma specs:
Connection |
USB |
Energy |
N/A |
Buttons |
20 |
Format |
Xbox |
Causes to purchase
- Clicky as heck
- Tasteful RGB
- Loads of added performance
Causes to keep away from
- Not one of the best D-pad
- Costly
The Razer Wolverine Event Version Chroma might be the flashiest gamepad on this record. Signature Chroma RGB lighting helps the controller stand out from the gang, and it’ll look nice each at LAN and in your desk
The Wolverine Event Version Chroma is undeniably a looker, however it balances each model and substance. Microswitches assist the pad’s buttons really feel responsive and satisfying, whereas adjustable hair triggers will aid you land pictures in one of the best FPS video games.
Identical to different PC gamepads on this record, Razer’s mild present controller comes with a premium price ticket hooked up. In the event you’re on the lookout for tournament-grade high quality and further visible aptitude, you may wish to make investments on this pad. Nonetheless, if less-than-stellar D-pads are likely to upset you, we’d counsel trying elsewhere.
Thrustmaster Warthog
The very best flight stick
Thrustmaster Warthog specs:
HOTAS |
Sure |
Programmable buttons |
22 |
Hat switches |
4x 8-way, 2x 4-way |
Causes to purchase
- Satisfying clicky switches
- Chunky (it’s an excellent factor)
- Implausible throttle motion
Causes to keep away from
- Tremendous costly
- No stick twist help
Thrustmaster’s Warthog flight stick is a duplicate of the controllers within the traditional A-10 Tankbuster, seemingly hewn from the identical military-grade supplies, and possibly solely barely cheaper than a second-hand airplane.
Sure, the Warthog is frighteningly costly, however for those who’re already trying to decide up a controller for one of the best flying video games then you definately’ve in all probability acquired fairly area of interest tastes – and that is one of the simplest ways to fulfill them.
The Warthog has been round for some time now, however it’s nonetheless one of the best joystick for PC. It’s dear however nonetheless manages to really feel price it if you’re hurtling by an asteroid belt, flipping on a pirate, and decreasing their ship to tiny bits of melty scrap.
That stated, we’re nonetheless eager to see what Logitech does with the Saitek model sooner or later and whether or not it’ll supply some severe competitors to the Warthog.
The very best entry-level flight controller
Thrustmaster HOTAS One specs:
HOTAS |
Sure |
Programmable buttons |
15 |
Hat switches |
1 |
Causes to purchase
- First rate worth
- Nice for flight simulators
- Ergonomic design
Causes to keep away from
- Y button a bit awkward
- Not many buttons
- Cable may very well be longer
The Thrustmaster T.Flight HOTAS One flight stick recreates piloting for gaming lovers. The stick’s ergonomic design effortlessly accommodates a variety of flight eventualities, together with aerial fight, house exploration, and civilian flights. It’s geared up with a handrest on the joystick and a weighted base to make sure consolation and stability throughout gameplay. It provides plug-and-play performance and button remapping choices on PC.
The T.Flight Hostas One excels in efficiency. The controller’s twin rudder mechanism permits for exact management. Its versatility extends past flight simulators, although compatibility with sure video games might differ. The joystick has clean actions. You’ll be able to even improve your setup with different {hardware} from the vary.
Learn our Thrustmaster T.Flight HOTAS One flight stick evaluation.
Nacon Daija Arcade Stick specs:
Connection |
USB-A to USB-C cable |
Programmable buttons |
8 |
Customization |
Two stick heads, changeable profiles |
Headset jack |
Sure |
Causes to purchase
- Premium and refined construct high quality
- Has each characteristic any combating recreation participant wants
Some gamers say you shouldn’t carry a gamepad to a avenue struggle, and the Nacon Daija Arcade Stick might aid you land the ending blow in all one of the best combating video games. Developed alongside French esports participant Marie-Laure ‘Kayane’ Norindr, precision and performance are weaved into this stick’s DNA, two qualities that elevate it above different contenders.
Coming in at round $279, the Nacon Daija is much from being the most cost effective arcade stick available on the market. Weighing 3.4kg, you’ll wrestle to overlook it’s stowed away in your backpack.
Whether or not you’re new to tinkering with arcade sticks, or simply on the lookout for a neater time, the Nacon Daija has you lined. Its toolless design means you’ll be capable to swap out buttons and switches with out battle, and useful diagrams will preserve you proper for those who get in a tangle. On the surface, the Daija boasts a delicate aesthetic, however you’ll be able to jazz issues up by including customized paintings beneath the stick’s plexiglass overlay.
Take a look at our Nacon Daija Arcade Stick evaluation.
Turtle Seashore VelocityOne
The very best flight yoke
Turtle Seashore VelocityOne specs:
HOTAS |
Sure |
Programmable buttons |
10 |
Hat switches |
2x 4-way |
Causes to purchase
- Simple to arrange
- Genuine
- Limitless profiles
Causes to keep away from
- Temperamental menu controls
- Excessive worth
- Barely cheaper really feel
Turtle Seashore constructed its Velocity One flight controller with Xbox in thoughts, however it nonetheless provides super worth for PC gamers. At this worth, you’d anticipate so much, and also you do certainly get so much in your cash.
The Velocityone options an genuine 180-degree yoke deal with rotation that pushes and pulls for ascending and descending respectively, ten programmable buttons, swappable lever handles, and a built-in show you should use to customise nearly every part about this machine.
It’s designed particularly for Microsoft Flight Simulator and provides extra performance than most, however nonetheless works high-quality with loads of different flight video games like Star Wars Squadrons and Elite Harmful.
Like most yokes, it’s fairly a bit bigger than a joystick and you will have to clear house in your gaming desk to piece it collectively, however it’s simple to arrange, makes gaming really feel like an occasion, and involves life when the RGB lighting begins to shine.
The very best Corridor Impact controller for PC
Nacon Revolution 5 Professional specs:
Connection |
Bluetooth or Wired |
Energy |
Li-ion |
Buttons |
22 |
Format |
Asymmetrical PlayStation |
Causes to purchase
- Customization choices are plentiful
- Nice response instances when wired
- Corridor Impact joysticks and triggers
Causes to keep away from
- Premium worth doesn’t repay initially
- Battery life may very well be higher
In contrast to typical fashions, the components inside a Corridor Impact controller by no means robust The Nacon Revolution 5 Professional brings the primary ever Corridor Impact triggers to the market and it’s a welcome sight. Constructed for efficiency and longevity, the Rev 5 Professional ought to see you dominate your opponents for years to come back, however the preliminary price ticket could also be laborious to swallow.
Like all of one of the best PC controllers ought to, the Nacon Revolution 5 Professional provides each wired and wi-fi connections, and an app to utterly customise any facet of the controller, from the set off sensitivity all the way down to the LED lighting. If you would like a controller that adapts to you, reasonably than the opposite means round, the Rev 5 Professional is definitely that controller, and its Corridor Impact implementation places it forward of many opponents.
Learn our Nacon Revolution 5 Professional evaluation for extra.
Thrustmaster T818 Ferrari SF1000
The very best racing wheel for PC
Thrustmaster T818 Ferrari SF1000 specs:
Rotation |
1080° |
Buttons |
25 buttons (together with 7 encoders) |
Pedals |
3 (although not at all times bundled with the wheel) |
Adjustable pedals |
3 |
Causes to purchase
- Excessive 10N⋅m torque
- Practical responsive suggestions
- Simple to arrange
Causes to keep away from
- Pedals not bundled by default
- Costly
As probably the greatest PC steering wheels available on the market, the Thrustmaster T818 can present an unequalled expertise when enjoying racing video games like Forza Horizon 5 or Assetto Corsa Competizione. Though, due to its worth, we are able to perceive why some gamers decide to proceed with a traditional controller.
The wheel itself provides as much as 1080° of rotation, and with 10N⋅m of torque behind it, it feels very very similar to turning an actual steering wheel. It typically comes bundled with Thrustmaster’s T-LCM Pedals, however not at all times, so be sure to’re not simply getting the wheel, because it loses so much with out them.
Both means, this incredible wheel comes with 25 buttons and 7 encoders, and with a modular design that you would be able to add additional bits to (for consolation or management), it’s an impressive racing wheel.
How to decide on one of the best PC controllers
There have been a number of concerns we saved in thoughts when deciding which controllers deserved a spot on this record. In the event you’re planning on shopping for one your self, these are necessary issues to remember:
- Pricing: The value of controllers can differ enormously. We needed to incorporate choices that might cater to readers on completely different budgets. We advocate utilizing $70 (£60) as a yardstick – fancier choices will price much more, however that ought to cowl the value for normal controllers.
- Customization: Do you simply want a controller to play your video games with, or would you like one thing that you would be able to tailor to greatest swimsuit your personal model of play? If that’s the case, look out for programmable and swappable buttons, in addition to the choice to avoid wasting profiles, however remember the fact that these premium options push up the value tag.
- Cross-compatibility: In the event you’re additionally a console gamer, chances are you’ll wish to discover one thing that you should use in your Xbox/PlayStation/Swap as nicely. We’ve lined quite a lot of broadly suitable choices right here, however we advocate double-checking earlier than making a choice.
- Specialised controllers: Followers of one of the best simulation video games may desire a specialised controller to assist them really feel extra absolutely immersed and provides them a higher sense of management. Flight yoke and racing wheel controllers can just do that, so we felt that they deserved some illustration on this record, however it’s necessary to do not forget that these items come at a better price.
- Aesthetics: Final however not least, you’re going to wish to select a controller that appears good and can slot in along with your gaming house. Many controllers come solely in a singular model, however we’ve tried to incorporate a couple of which have RGB lighting or that are available numerous colours.
In the event you nonetheless have any questions on how we resolve what to incorporate in these lists, learn our how we check web page. We’ve additionally answered some FAQs under:
Can I take advantage of an Xbox controller with PC?
Sure, you’ll be able to. As these controllers are manufactured by Microsoft, it’s particularly simple to get them to work on PC. In the event you’re planning on shopping for for the primary time, you’ll discover that there are Xbox controllers particularly designed with PC use in thoughts.
Can I take advantage of a PS4 controller with PC?
Sure, you’ll be able to. On Home windows 10 or above, you’ll typically discover that it’ll even configure routinely. Learn our information on the best way to use a PS4 controller with Steam for extra info.
Can you employ any controller with PC?
Whereas we wouldn’t wish to definitively say that you should use actually any controller, it’s a lot simpler to make use of completely different controllers on PC than it’s on consoles. Most wi-fi controllers will be capable to hook up with your PC through dongles, wired ones use USBs very often, and even when they use a extra uncommon sort of plug, yow will discover adapters. In fact, for those who go for a very outdated and obscure alternative, you’ll have loads of work to do in configuring it for new PC video games, however you’ll be able to virtually get something to work on PC, and it’s particularly simple with latest items of {hardware}.
Is it price utilizing a controller on PC?
The road that divides console and PC gaming is far much less outlined than it was as soon as. Most huge console releases come to PC as nicely, and these have typically been designed with the expectation that the participant will likely be utilizing a controller. We advocate having a minimum of one PC controller as a part of your gaming setup.
In the event you’ve been studying this record, chances are you’ll discover our information on the best way to use an exterior controller on Steam Deck useful. For extra methods to regulate your favourite PC video games, learn our information on one of the best gaming mouse for some suggestions.