The Best Wireless PC Game Controllers
If the PC is your first port of call for gaming, you'll be no stranger to making dextrous mouse maneuvers or dancing around the keyboard. With cross-platform gaming on the rise, many gamers are looking to transfer the console experience to their desktop gaming setup. That's why a wireless controller is a must for anyone looking to push their PC gaming experience to the next level.
What to Look For
While we scoured the market for the best wireless PC game controllers that money can buy, we focused on three important questions: Is it compatible across a wide range of platforms and operating systems? Do the buttons and joysticks allow for sensitive and precise performance? Does the controller have a strong, low latency connection and good battery life? The GameSir T4 pro ticked all the boxes, with wide cross-platform compatibility and great performance across the board. If you’re looking for a more unique shape and design, the Logitech F710 offered an ergonomic design that was incredibly comfortable in the hand. Read on below to discover all of our top picks for the best wireless PC game controllers.
GameSir T4 Pro
Mighty handy
If you’re looking for a versatile controller with an ergonomic response, GameSir has you covered with the T4 Pro. With connection possibilities spanning Bluetooth, wireless 2.4GHz, and wired options, you’ll be sure to find a way to plug in and play right out of the box. Designed with PC gamers in mind, this controller also offers support for Nintendo Switch and Apple Arcade users, making it a great option for cross-platform gamers. Dual vibration motors offer five-speed levels to enhance action and immersion. All these features are packed into a sleek semi-transparent casing with colorful LED backlighting for a classic console look.
Pros:
- The automatic power-off function is a game-changer.
- Than ks to its firm and steady joystick action, this controller can help to improve performance on shooters and driving simulators.
- The 600mAh battery provides a great deal of playtime per charge, so you could use the controller for several hours a day with only one weekly charge.
Cons:
- It doesn’t have a headphone or microphone input jack.
Luna Controller
All in one
Whether or not you’ve been exploring Amazon’s new cloud gaming service Luna, you’d do well to check out the features on this controller. With an impressive latency time of 17 to 30 milliseconds, this handset offers a fluid response, allowing for precise and enveloping control. Powered by two AA batteries, this controller ensures you don’t have to hunt for a cable. Amazon’s Luna service allows you to move seamlessly between devices when playing your favorite games, making this the ultimate in controller portability.
Pros:
- We’re impressed by the ergonomic design of these controllers, which boast a sturdy weight and well-balanced joysticks for smooth accuracy of motion.
- The soft, rubberized material on the grips makes it comfortable to hold this controller for longer periods.
- This controller could be a great choice for Xbox converts, as the dimensions are very similar.
Cons:
- With the added Luna functionality, this controller is a bit pricier than other standalone options.
Forty4 Wireless Gaming Controller
Charge to victory
This gamepad design from Forty4 brings the elegance and functionality of a classic console to your PC gaming experience. Dual motors bring a familiar action with added dynamism, utilizing asymmetrical and vertical vibration patterns to create a wide range of immersive possibilities. Four M buttons tucked beneath the handset allow you to program complex operations into the single press of a button, perfect in helping you get the upper hand on your opponent. Wide compatibility options mean this controller can also stand in for Xbox 360, Xbox One, and PS4 controllers in a moment of need. All in all, this is a solid all-rounder.
Pros:
- This controller is incredibly easy to configure for PC use. It could be up and running in Steam in a matter of seconds.
- The 2.4GHz wireless connection had a great range. There shouldn’t be any lag or dropout when using this controller from the other side of a large bedroom or lounge.
Cons:
- Despite the familiar Xbox-inspired design, the start and back buttons aren’t where we’d expect. This could cause some confusion when first using the controller.
Logitech F710 Wireless Gamepad
Plug and play
A blast from the past, this option from Logitech brings a retro aesthetic at a bargain price and is designed for PC gaming first. The 2.4GHz wireless connection supports will be up and running in minutes with the easy plug-and-play USB receiver. A classic console design boasts a precision gliding D-pad, allowing a responsive and tactile gradient of control between buttons.
Pros:
- The Xinput Dinput switch on the controller’s rear made for easy adjustment when changing between different game requirements, saving you from unnecessary menu diving.
- We love the rubber grips on this handset, making it comfortable and secure in any situation.
- We like glad that a USB extender is included for the wireless receiver, as it helps extend the range. This comes in clutch when establishing a strong connection in otherwise awkward positions.
Cons:
- Some of the buttons produce a plastic clicking sound.
EasySMX Wireless Gamepad
Deja vu
If you feel at home with console controllers, this option from EasySMX could be the one for you. With a familiar shape in the hand to the Xbox 360 design, it doesn’t take much adjustment to get stuck into the action. The medium-resistance joysticks and smooth D-pad design offer comfortable and intuitive control. If you’re looking to get the upper hand with speed, the turbo control will allow you to maximize button presses for top performance. With a 600mAh battery supporting over 8 hours of continuous play, there’s not much this controller can’t do.
Pros:
- The controller pads have a satisfying spring action reminiscent of classic controller designs.
- The ergonomic shape of this controller makes it well-suited to gamers of all ages. We found it was equally comfortable for small and large hands.
Cons:
- With an automatic shutoff after one minute of inactivity, this controller can power off during long pauses and cutscenes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a PC game controller on all of my favorite PC games?
Many PC games offer support for gamepad play, with joystick and D-pad motion naturally standing in for the classic mouse and WASD. Most controllers can support custom key binding through third-party software, allowing you to tailor button alignments to your choice. For games requiring a larger array of key commands, like some RPGs, a combined gamepad and keyboard setup can offer the best of both worlds.
Can I also use wireless game controllers for mobile gaming?
Mobile gaming has been on the rise for years, with Android and Apple Arcade providing rich libraries of some of our favorite new games. For a more immersive gaming experience, many of our favorite mobile games offer gamepad support. Most options with Bluetooth connectivity offer mobile and iOS support, but be sure to check the compatibility specifications before buying to avoid disappointment.
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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.