Best PC game controllers
Even if first-person shooter and MOBA enthusiasts swear by the mouse and keyboard, the finest PC gaming controllers can enhance fantastic titles like Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice and Mortal Kombat 11. That's why we put the most popular PC-friendly gamepads to the test to help you choose the one that's right for you.
Because of its ergonomic design, superb build quality, and quick compatibility with virtually every PC game, Microsoft's Xbox Wireless Controller is our top overall selection for the finest PC controller.
However, there are a plethora of other excellent choices. The Xbox One Elite Controller Series 2 has a very comfortable, durable design with a lot of customization possibilities, whilst the 8BitDo SN30 is ideal for vintage gamers.
The $199 Astro C40 TR controller is a good alternative to the Xbox Elite controller, with more tactile customisation and a decent build quality. Thanks to its Steam connection and expanding selection of compatible titles, Sony's DualShock 4 is also becoming a more viable PC controller alternative.
Here are the greatest PC controllers to buy right now, regardless of your demands.
What are the best PC game controllers?
The finest PC gaming controllers range from basic wired controllers to high-end wireless versions with a slew of features. However, for the majority of folks, we recommend a normal Xbox One controller, which is a good compromise.
These controllers typically cost approximately $50 each, and connecting them to a computer is a breeze. Bluetooth is standard on newer devices; older models require a dongle. In either case, you switch them on, pair them up, and most games immediately identify them. They work the same way on a PC as they do on an Xbox One, so many players will already be familiar with how they work.
The Logitech F310 is a comfortable, no-nonsense controller that normally costs $25 or less if you can live without wireless connectivity. This wired controller includes all of the buttons and features you'd expect from a current accessory, but for a fraction of the cost. Because it's from a reputable manufacturer, you can expect it to last for many years. Many other low-cost controllers will eventually fail after a year or two.
The Xbox One Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 is the way to go if you have a lot of money to invest. This ultra-comfortable wireless controller features a highly sensitive D-pad, optional paddles in the rear to replace the shoulder buttons, and a selection of analog sticks so you can pick the one that's right for you.
Read on for more options, including different controller designs, pricing, and feature sets.
The best PC game controllers you can buy today
1. Microsoft Xbox One Controller
2. Logitech F310
3. Xbox One Elite Wireless Controller Series 2
4. Astro C40 TR
5. Sony DualShock 4
6. 8BitDo SN30 Pro
How to choose the best PC game controller for you
When purchasing one of the finest PC gaming controllers, the most crucial factor to consider is the physical configuration. Get an Xbox One controller or a DualShock 4 if you want something that looks and feels like a classic console controller. The Logitech F310 is fine if you want something that looks and feels similar to the Logitech F310 but don't mind dealing with a wired arrangement.
The Xbox One Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 or the Astro C40 TR, on the other hand, are the way to go if you want something more expensive. These controllers resemble typical console controllers in appearance, but they may be customized to a large extent. These possibilities, however, come at a cost.
To be accurate, it costs between $100 and $150 more than a normal controller.
Aspects such as cost are also taken into account. In general, more costly controllers are more expensive, and wireless controllers are more expensive than their cable equivalents.
How we test PC controllers
Every controller we examine is put through its paces with the latest and best PC games from a wide range of genres. We usually test at least one shooter, one fighting game, one action/adventure game, and one driving game to get a solid picture of how a gamepad works in various play scenarios.
For wireless controllers, we additionally consider battery life, and if a device has swappable components or several modes, we evaluate all of them. In our labs and at home, we use all of the controllers we examine for days on end as our primary gamepad.
The major evaluation criterion is how well a controller performs in games, although other variables such as comfort, pricing, and adaptability also come into play. If all else is equal, we prefer controllers that can be used with a wide range of games and platforms, and anything that can be used on both a PC and a console gets a particular mention.
Fight sticks, racing wheels and more
Do you require anything more specialized? Dedicated racing wheels are available for those who want to fully immerse themselves in their favorite driving games. Others, like Logitech's G920 Driving Force ($399), add pedals and stick shifters for the whole experience.
Fighting-game fans searching for a more realistic method to play titles like Tekken 7 and Marvel vs. Capcom: Infinite might check at fight sticks, which include joysticks and extra-large buttons similar to those found on a traditional arcade cabinet. To discover the appropriate match for your style and budget, check out our overview of the best combat sticks for PC, PS4, and Xbox One.
