The Best PC Controllers
PC gaming is usually associated with mouse-and-keyboard controls, but there are tons of excellent handheld controllers that you can use to play your favorite PC games. Many are even compatible with consoles as well, while others offer wireless connectivity to keep your cables to a minimum. Here, we've assembled a list of our favorite controllers for PC gaming so that you can save time in your search.
What to Look For
We take our PC gaming gear seriously, so we scoured the market for the best PC controllers with five key questions to guide us: Are the joysticks and buttons responsive and sensitive? Does it have a comfortable shape that’s easy to grip? Is the construction durable and long-lasting? Is the price fair for the quality? Our favorite is the Turtle Beach Recon controller since it has all the durability, responsiveness, and customizability we look for. But if you prefer a wireless option, we recommend going with EasySMX’s controller. We review these and more below, so let’s dive in and find you the best PC controller for your gaming marathons.
Turtle Beach Recon Controller for Xbox & Windows PCs
Ready for duty
Turtle Beach is a renowned name in the realm of gaming gear, and this wired controller keeps their legacy alive. With extremely fine responsiveness and remappable buttons, it’s a dependable choice for competitive games like Call of Duty and an adaptable option for single-player games like Elden Ring. We also love how it has a shape similar to an Xbox controller since it feels solid in the hand. In fact, you can use this controller with consoles as well, so it offers the best versatility for an excellent price.
Pros:
- Excellent firmware with an interface for customizing audio and inputs
- Standard 3.5mm audio jack for headsets with microphones
- Includes a button for enabling the “Superhuman Hearing” setting on the fly
- Feels solid in the hand and proves durable after many hours of use
- Relatively affordable price for a top-level piece of hardware
Cons:
- The joysticks may feel somewhat stiff at first, though they loosen up a bit after a while
Logitech F310 Wired Gamepad PC Controller
Don't break the bank
At first glance, this controller may not seem all that special. But for those on a tight budget, Logitech’s F310 is a fantastic choice that offers all the inputs you need for almost any PC game. Indeed, we were surprised to discover that it has both left-and-right triggers and buttons, so it works nicely for emulators and other classic games. We also appreciate the plug-and-play compatibility, which gets you right into the action without any lengthy setup. Of course, at this price, it’s basically the bare minimum.
Pros:
- Super affordable
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Well-positioned buttons with a familiar placement
- The buttons have a satisfying click, and the control sticks don’t drift
Cons:
- No haptic feedback
- Certain operating systems won’t support the plug-and-play, so you may have to search for the drivers manually
EasySMX Wireless Gaming Controller for Windows PC
Cable-free connections
With so many cables and inputs, PC gaming rigs can get pretty messy. That’s why we love this wireless controller from EasySMX since it delivers the same responsiveness as many top-tier wired controllers without the wire. And because it uses a USB wireless receiver instead of Bluetooth, it can maintain a strong connection with essentially lag-free inputs. We’ve never noticed any latency, which makes this a worthy controller for competitive games that require fast response times. Best of all, even though this is a budget-friendly option, it still comes with premium features like vibration and customizable buttons.
Pros:
- Long range maxes out at 10 meters
- The rechargeable battery lasts as long as 14 hours
- The comfortable shape is similar to the Xbox controller
- Compatible with the Nintendo Switch (though the necessary adapter isn’t included)
Cons:
- The USB receiver is pretty bulky
Razer Wolverine V2 Wired Gaming Controller for Xbox & PC
Play like a pro
For the best performance, you’ll have to pay up. The Razer Wolverine V2 gaming controller is a powerful piece of hardware with extremely tactile buttons and unmatched responsiveness. It even feels high-end as soon as you pick it up, thanks largely to the slightly grippy sides and ergonomic shape. But where this beauty really shines is in the hair-trigger precision of the triggers and joysticks. For first-person shooters and other fast-paced games, this level of tactility and precision can give you the upper hand.
Pros:
- Non-slip grip
- Extremely durable
- Perfect medium-level weight
- Satisfying button presses ensure registered inputs
- The 3.5mm audio port can transmit both game audio and mic output
Cons:
- Fairly expensive
EasySMX Wired PC Game Controller
Bang for your buck
This gaming controller from EasySMX is our top choice for those that want to stretch their dollar. There are certainly cheaper options out there, but this affordable option delivers unbelievably precise inputs and reliability for an unbelievable price. It has all the best features, including dual vibration, responsive trigger buttons, and top-tier comfort. It feels really solid in the hand, and the textured grips ensure you don’t slip during a firefight. If you need a replacement controller that will serve you well for years, this one is worth checking out.
Pros:
- Plug-and-play for most systems
- The joysticks have an intuitive, medium-level resistance
- A great choice for emulators since the D-pad works nicely
Cons:
- The vibration is relatively weak and not very advanced
Frequently Asked Questions
What does plug-and-play mean?
When a controller is described as “plug-and-play,” it can be plugged into a computer and used right away without the need to download the necessary drivers manually. However, most controllers described as “plug-and-play” may still require some adjustments on certain operating systems. For example, if the controller was released a couple of years ago and your operating system is much newer, you may still need to download the drivers. Fortunately, this is usually easy since most manufacturers host download links to the necessary drivers on their websites.
Can I use a PC controller on a gaming console?
This depends entirely on the controller. Some controllers are incompatible with gaming consoles, while others require a special adapter or driver to function. You should check the product listing to find out with which consoles your controller of choice will work.
What type of controller is best for PC?
To be honest, the best type of controller for PC gaming is often a matter of personal preference. However, the Xbox Series X/S controller is widely recommended due to its compatibility, performance, and ergonomic design. The Xbox One controller is also a great choice due to its durability and ergonomic feel.
It’s always essential to consider factors like comfort, button layout, and connectivity options when choosing the right controller for your needs.
What percentage of PC gamers use a controller?
Only around 10% of gaming sessions on the platform are played with a controller. So, this tells us that the majority of PC gamers still prefer using a keyboard and mouse for their gaming experience.
Can all controllers be used with a PC?
Game controllers featuring two analog sticks, two shoulder buttons, two trigger buttons, and the ability to connect to your computer via USB can generally be used with PC games. However, the level of configuration required may vary depending on the specific controller, so do your research to get clued up.
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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.