The Best PlayStation 5 Controllers

The Playstation 5 connects millions to online communities and exhilarating solo campaigns. And with the PS5's wide breadth of controllers, now gamers can enjoy a level of versatility never seen before. In particular, these devices will help you navigate the competition more efficiently without breaking the bank. There are some winners and some stinkers, so we decided to find the cream of the crop.

What to Look For

In our search for the best, we considered four main qualities: responsiveness, durability, battery life, and price value. Our favorite controller is the original DualSense from PlayStation itself since it offers cutting-edge technology, such as haptic feedback and long battery life. But if you want a steering wheel and pedals for immersive racing, Logitech G reigns supreme with their wickedly responsive Driving Force G29. There’s a lot to discuss when it comes to PS5 controllers, so let’s dive in to our reviews of the best options on the market.

PlayStation DualSense Wireless Controller

Game with glory

This original design is jam-packed with high-tech features that gamers depend on to scorch the competition.
Best Overall

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The Playstation 5 is best enjoyed among friends with a full set of DualSense wireless controllers. In line with previous designs, the DualSense has a smooth, ergonomic grip with all buttons comfortably placed for maximum response times. The controller features a built-in microphone for convenience and can perform micro-adjustments to sound levels and vibration. In addition to a powerful battery that can last all night, this beastly device can still perform while plugged in, giving users a huge advantage during marathon gaming nights.

Pros:

  • Everything about this controller is tuned to perfection, from the joysticks to the buttons. We especially love the “adaptive triggers” which are essential for keeping your edge in first-person shooters.
  • Between the super comfortable handles and the long-lasting battery, this controller is ideal for gamers of all walks of life, from beginners to pros.
  • Not all games take full advantage of the haptic feedback, but for the ones that do, the experience is astoundingly immersive.

Cons:

  • The USB-C charging cable is not included.

Logitech G Dual-Motor G29 Gaming Wheel with Pedals

Cruise with control

Racing games are more precise and responsive with this top-of-the-line driving controller system.
Best Racing Bundle

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Whether you’re taking scenic drives in the virtual countryside or speeding through city streets, Logitech’s Driving Force will revolutionize your gaming experience behind the wheel. The steering wheel features a perforated leather finish for an enhanced grip, while the stainless steel petals remain responsive even after countless hours on the road. While the G29’s realistic clutch, brake, and gas pedals are a huge selling point, we’re equally blown away by its versatility in including a full complement of standard PlayStation controller buttons. Overall, when it comes to driving simulators, the Driving Force’s convenience and handling are incredibly tough to beat.

Pros:

  • If you have multiple racing games across different platforms, don’t worry: this one also works on PS3, PS4, and even PCs.
  • We especially love the smooth paddle shifters, which are responsive and precise.
  • The wheel has excellent handling and feel to it, thanks in part to the leather wrapping and top-tier Logitech hardware.

Cons:

  • It’s a premium piece of technology for a premium price, so those with tight budgets may need to look elsewhere.

Playstation Media Remote

Smooth surfing

This controller makes scrolling through menus and media channels effortless.
Best Remote Control

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Playstation’s media remote lets you speed up your device outside of battlegrounds and vast landscapes. To start, the user-friendly buttons are highly responsive and allow you to quickly navigate files, making it ideal for streaming, data transfer, and so much more. As soon as you turn on your console, the remote springs into action with barely any lag. In addition to voice control and buttons for popular streaming services, this device can control the power and volume of compatible televisions.

Pros:

  • Because it can control the PlayStation and the television, it’s a great way to consolidate your multiple remotes into one.
  • There’s no detectable input lag when you press the buttons, so you can navigate menus quickly and efficiently.

Cons:

  • We wish that the buttons were backlit to help us see them in the dark, though you may memorize the different buttons fairly quickly.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep my PlayStation controllers working properly?

PS5 controllers are quite durable but still need occasional care to remain responsive. The two most important factors to consider are your controller’s battery and buttons. First, you can limit your battery usage by setting auto-shutoff timers, cutting vibration and sound intensity, and dimming the button backlighting. Second, resist the urge to keep the controllers plugged in nonstop because this can wear out the battery in the long run. As far as buttons and joysticks go, a regular cleaning with a microfiber cloth will ensure that dust doesn’t reduce responsiveness.

Does a Playstation console need regular maintenance?

Setting up a cleaning schedule for your gaming console can make the difference between extended life expectancy and unexpected hardware failure. PlayStations are complex devices that need, above all else, proper ventilation and air exchange to work properly. While less cluttered environments will reduce buildup, we highly recommend giving your console a full touch-up once a month. The best way to do this is to blow dust accumulation away from the ports and the exhaust fan with a compressed air canister. You can also make your job easier by keeping your device on an elevated surface away from carpeting or cramped entertainment consoles.

About the Author

Before becoming a writer, Evan worked as a senior data analyst in advertising and consumer retail. His goal is to help tech experts and amateurs alike make informed decisions about a wide range of electronics. Evan's hobbies include gaming, building computers, coding, and enjoying the great outdoors.

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