The Best PS4 Controllers

  • Dave Sepulveda

The Playstation 4, also known as the PS4, is still as relevant as ever after years since its release. With its entry came the DualShock 4, an upgraded version of their DualShock 3. It includes motion sensors, a touchpad, better wireless connectivity, and highly sensitive inputs. Other companies have made their own versions, too, so there are plenty of options available. This list of the best Playstation 4 controllers on the market will help you narrow down your choices. Read on to discover these top-class and best PS4 controllers.

What to Look For

To find the best PS4 controllers on the market, we looked at the following: ergonomics, build quality, price value, and style. For example, we’d say the most ergonomic controller with premium build quality is Nacon’s Revolution, Unlimited Pro controller for PS4. It costs a pretty penny, but it’s worth it for the advanced ergonomics, construction, and customization options.

For a more affordable, stylish controller that works like a charm, we recommend Playstation’s own DualShock 4. It comes in colors like Midnight Blue, Black, and Red, and they all look fantastic. But even more impressive is the performance — this controller is practically flawless when it comes to its ergonomic design and build quality. Keep reading because there’s a lot more we want to share.

Playstation DualShock 4 Wireless Controller for PS4

Often imitated, never duplicated

The original PS4 controller still ranks among many gamers' favorites for its sleek, dependable design.
Best Overall

Find on Amazon

The DualShock 4 remains one of the best gaming controllers available. With lightning-fast wireless technology, it not only works beautifully with the PS4 but also with PCs and other Bluetooth devices. The sticks are slightly textured, making them incredibly grippy. Like the previous two DualShock controllers, this one has pressure-sensitive buttons and analog sticks with triggers. The touchpad, gyro controls, and built-in speaker are new features, though. And if you upgrade to a PS5, you can still play all of your favorite PS4 games with this controller (although it won’t work for PS5 games, only PS4).

Pros:

  • Motion controls can be used on other devices besides the PS4.
  • The touchpad can function as a mouse when used on a PC.

Cons:

  • It still uses micro-USB, a minor gripe, but we prefer USB-C.

Tianhoo Wireless Controller Compatible with PS4

Gaming gone wild

This controller works just as well as the official one but with a cool design and a more affordable price.
Runner Up

Find on Amazon

What’s better than a great PS4 controller? One with a sick design like this one from Tianhoo. It’s modeled after the DualShock 4, so the ergonomics are spot on. Instead of a solid color design, however, this one has a graffiti print that makes this controller stand out. In terms of build quality, it’s practically indistinguishable from Sony’s official model. So at this low price, it’s hard to pass up such a well-made controller.

Pros:

  • There’s no input lag when playing games, whether on PS4 or PC.
  • The touchpad has multi-touch.

Cons:

  • The face buttons have no symbols, so brand-new Playstation gamers may have trouble learning which buttons to press.

Playstation DualShock 4 Wireless Controller in Midnight Blue

Keep it trendy

With a beautiful soft blue shell, this official PS4 controller looks as great as it plays.
Best Style

Find on Amazon

There’s something about the bold color palette of the DualShock 4 controllers that’s soothing and invigorating all at once. This midnight blue model might be our favorite since it has such a gorgeous shade. As with any DualShock 4, it has all the amenities: a responsive touchpad, sensitive controls, motion sensors, and an LED light strip. And as with most PS4 controllers, you can pair this to Bluetooth devices. Even though the PS5 is all the rage, this controller will remain the king of wireless controllers for a long while.

Pros:

  • The headphone jack supports any 3.5mm headphones, microphone, or combination.
  • You can map the accelerometer to controls via Steam on PCs, and they also innately work with some PS4 games.

Cons:

  • We wish it had a built-in microphone, although PS4s come with a headset to plug into the official controllers anyway.

Nacon Revolution Unlimited Pro V3 PS4 Controller

Noobs need not apply

This professional-grade controller is made with hardcore gamers in mind.
Best Advanced

Find on Amazon

If you want ultimate control over your gaming, this could be your new favorite controller. The extended side handles allow for more comfortable, longer gaming sessions. The thumbstick caps can be replaced to be either convex or concave. And the very depth of the joysticks themselves can be customized to your liking. This is definitely a controller for gamers looking to get any edge they can to play at the top levels.

Pros:

  • The back paddles are programmable to any input, including the D-pad. This makes it possible to use the right joysticks and hit the face buttons at the same time.
  • Since it uses a Bluetooth USB module, the latency is practically non-existent.
  • The cable is braided, so it doesn’t kink but lies evenly. Plus, it looks and feels nicer.

Cons:

  • This is definitely a bit pricey for a controller, but since it’s for high-end gaming, we think it’s worth it.

Hori PS4 Mini Wired Gamepad

Old-school charm, modern functions

This wired PS4 controller harkens back to controllers from an older era of gaming.
Best Retro Design

Find on Amazon

While the DualShock 4 is certainly great, some gamers might prefer something a bit more retro. This wired controller from Hori is just the ticket for those lovers of the golden era of gaming (in our opinion, at least). If you’re into sprite-based games, for example, this is the perfect controller since you can use the D-pad more easily. And if you want to use it on a PC, just plug it into a USB port.

Pros:

  • This controller is great for kids or those with smaller hands.
  • Even though it’s smaller and with a simpler shape, this is still a super ergonomic controller. It sits comfortably in the hands.

Cons:

  • We wish it were possible to be wireless as well, although the cable is at least plenty long.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you pair a PS4 controller with a PC?

Connecting your PS4 controller to your PC, tablet, or phone is very easy. First, hold down the Share and PS buttons to put the controller in pairing mode. Then, look for the device named “wireless controller” on your device’s Bluetooth settings and click on it to pair the controller.

How long do PS4 controller batteries last?

Generally, a fully charged PS4 controller can last around four to eight hours, depending on the use. Games with a lot of rumble effects, for example, will definitely drain the batteries quicker.

About the Author

Dave is a proud self-proclaimed computer geek and enjoys modding video game consoles. When he's not voiding warranties, he plays piano and video games on stream. In fact, he built his own home studio, so his expertise spans a wide range of areas. If you're looking for a tech-head for advice, Dave is your guy.

Why Trust Us

With the constantly shifting landscape in the world of technology, GameRevolution seeks to provide gamers and tech-enthusiasts with the information they need to select the right products for their needs. Since 1996, our experts have used their knowledge on all the latest gadgets – everything from headphones to standing desks – to help millions of people navigate specs and answer common questions.