The Best PlayStation 5 Controllers
Gaming has come a long way since its humble beginnings, and the PlayStation 5 system has taken the industry to new heights. Along with the console, the controllers have accumulated new upgrades that set them apart from the competition. They’re state-of-the-art technology, and they’ve proven to be the new standard. But if you’re looking to buy new controllers, which ones should you get? That’s where we come in. We’ve put together a list of the best PlayStation 5 controllers on the market so that you can spend less time shopping and more time gaming.
What to Look For
When narrowing down the best PlayStation 5 controllers on the market, we considered features, design, price, and style. For example, if you want an affordable controller that has tournament-level specs, the HORI Fighting Commander OCTA is your best bet. If you want top-notch controls with an extra helping of flare, the Victrix wireless controller for PS5 has everything you need and more. Read on to see all our top picks and find the controller that suits your playing style.
PlayStation 5 DualSense Wireless Controller
Simple and sweet
Vanilla ice cream is a classic for a reason, and this controller proves the same point: sometimes simpler is better. This plain white controller may not look like anything special, but it’s the flagship controller for the PS5, boasting technology that’s leaps and bounds above the PS4. Even though it’s the most baseline model, it still comes loaded with haptic feedback and adaptive triggers, which are integral to the PS5 gaming experience. If you’re on the fence about purchasing, you can’t go wrong with this baseline option.
Pros:
- It features headset inputs for online gaming and chatting and is compatible with a wide range of third-party models.
- It comes straight from Sony PlayStation, so you won’t have to deal with any glitches or sub-par specs that can come from third-party sellers.
Cons:
- For some veteran PlayStation fans, these controllers might feel less lightweight compared to previous generations of PlayStation controllers.
HORI PlayStation 5 Fighting Commander OCTA
Don't break the bank
If you’re looking for a tournament-grade controller that comes at an affordable price, look no further. This straightforward controller is officially licensed by Sony and comes with loads of features like adjustable D-Pad sensitivity, headphones/headset input, and built-in audio controls. On top of it all, it’s even cheaper than the official controller sold by PlayStation. For top-notch controls and an affordable price tag, this bargain is hard to beat.
Pros:
- This controller has a short throw analog stick for increased speed and accuracy, two factors that become incredibly important in a high-stakes tournament.
- You can customize your controller settings with the companion app.
Cons:
- It’s a wired controller, so it doesn’t have any options for using a wireless Bluetooth connection.
PlayStation DualSense Wireless Controller – Midnight Black
Match your vibe
If you want all the convenience and power of the standard PS5 controller with an added twist, this midnight black controller may have the subtle style you need to fit your gaming setup. Instead of the traditional white design, this controller has a trendy makeover that comes blacked out for a stylish look even goths would approve of. It has all the same specs but has all the visual appeal you’d expect from the Sony PlayStation. This is for you if you prefer to live on the darker side.
Pros:
- It has an integrated speaker so you can hear close-up even if you’re not using headphones.
- The DualSense upgrades give a more accurate and entertaining gaming experience than the DualShock 4.
Cons:
- The sensitive control sticks can wear in with intense use, leading to a “looser” feel.
Victrix by PDP Pro BFG Wireless Controller for PS5
New and improved
Customization is a crucial part of any great video game, and it should be the same for your controllers as well. Lucky for you, this luxury controller from Victrix comes loaded with some of the best specs in the game, but it also gives you plenty of room to modify your controller to suit your preferences. It has a reversible left module you can rotate to support PlayStation-style gaming as well as offset stick gaming. It also features mappable back paddles with the option to save up to three profiles, making it ultra-programmable. Long story short, this controller is fully customizable, making it perfect for avid gamers and tech-savvy players alike.
Pros:
- It features clutch triggers with multi-position stopping points, so you can set your triggers to react however you want.
- This controller allows you to play wireless or wired for optimal flexibility.
Cons:
- This controller is considerably more expensive than a standard PS5 controller, but it’s worth it for its top-of-the-line specs and adaptability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a Playstation brand controller to play on a PlayStation 5?
Not necessarily. While there aren’t many other brands taking on the PlayStation 5 controller market, there are still other options if you want something a little different. There are companies with different controller shapes, specs, and styles to fit your preferences. It doesn’t need to be the PlayStation brand.
Can I use a Playstation 4 controller on a PlayStation 5?
Yes, but not for every game. The PlayStation 5 supports PlayStation 4 controllers and games, but you can only use a PlayStation 4 controller to play PlayStation 4 games. Though the controllers look similar, they differ in size and ability and are not interchangeable.
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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.