The best Xbox controllers: Microsoft, Scuf, PowerA, and more

You could not notice it, however we’re dwelling in a golden age of gaming controllers. The gamepads in the marketplace now are increased high quality, more versatile, and more customizable than something from only a few console generations in the past. If you’re gaming on an Xbox Series X or Series S (or a Windows PC), you now have a plethora of nice third-party choices from the likes of PowerA, Scuf, Nacon, and Turtle Beach, in addition to high-quality first-party controllers. The days of a budget “little sibling” controller that regarded cool however barely labored are over.

I’ve spent a ton of time enjoying all types of video games (first-person shooters, fighters, third-person action-adventure, racing, indie roguelikes, and so on.) to check a large swath of Xbox controllers, and it might be unsurprising that the usual Xbox Wireless Controller is the best Xbox controller for many. It makes an awesome PC controller, too.

But whereas the de facto Xbox gamepad strikes the appropriate stability of high quality, consolation, versatility, and value, there are a number of alternate options value cross-shopping in case you have particular wants — starting from high-end choices just like the Xbox Elite Series 2 and Scuf Instinct Pro to high quality funds picks just like the PowerA Enhanced Wired Controller.

Connectivity: Xbox wi-fi, Bluetooth, wired / Connector kind: USB-C / Mappable rear buttons: No / Software customization: No / Power: AA batteries or add-on rechargeable

Okay, I already know what you’re considering. “The best controller for Xbox is the one that comes with the Xbox?” That could appear to be a no brainer, however this “standard” controller actually does earn this title because the best choice for many Xbox players. It could lack a number of the additional options that we’ll go over on premium choices, however this controller is the distillation of 4 generations and quite a few first-party fashions earlier than it — and it reveals.

This is the one reasonably priced wi-fi Xbox controller on the market, due to Microsoft’s proprietary protocol. While some could hate that it comes with AA batteries as a substitute of a built-in rechargeable cell, that additionally means it’s versatile, permitting for rechargeable AAs or a battery pack. It additionally works as a wired accent with a USB-C cable, and user-replaceable batteries imply you’re not caught with a controller that doesn’t maintain its cost after years of use.

But the standard-issue Xbox pad isn’t simply nice due to its connectivity. The {hardware} itself is great for the controller’s $60 asking value. The sticks, buttons, triggers, and the sunken dish-shaped D-pad all really feel impeccably tight, with the latter having a satisfying clickiness to it. If you’re a hardcore preventing recreation fan, you might be higher served by an arcade stick or a controller geared towards that style — one with an impeccable D-pad like Hori’s Horipad Pro — however the Xbox Wireless Controller is an distinctive jack-of-all-trades.

The solely issues it actually lacks in comparison with pricier choices are additional, customizable buttons and software program tuning for issues like stick sensitivity, although Microsoft does provide beauty customization by means of its Xbox Design Lab, which ranges from $69.99 to $99.94 relying on the configuration. There’s lots to like about these controllers, whether or not you make your individual or select one from the varied colours Microsoft continues to supply.

Connectivity: Wired / Connector kind: Micro USB / Mappable rear buttons: Two / Software customization: No / Power: Wired

If you’re on the lookout for an awesome controller however don’t have some huge cash to spend — and you don’t thoughts a cable — PowerA’s Enhanced Wired Controller presents an impeccable worth with out sacrificing an excessive amount of. Its full retail value is $37.99, however some shade schemes can dip as little as round $25. Speaking of colours, the Enhanced Wired Controller is available in all kinds of hues and designs, together with licensed ones from recreation franchises like Mass Effect and Fallout. Some of those designs could make you observed these are low cost, cringe-inducing knockoffs, however the high quality of the controller could shock you while you use it.

First off, let’s get its greatest draw back out of the best way: it makes use of a microUSB connection (gross, I do know). You at the very least get a prolonged, removable cable with it, however not having a reversible connector is annoying. Thankfully, nothing else about this controller feels so outdated. Its construct high quality is simply nice, and it even has two mappable rear buttons constructed into the grips — which is nice to have at such a low value.

The remainder of the PowerA Enhanced Wired Controller is an entire lot of desk stakes, however it executes the whole lot fairly nicely for a ridiculously reasonably priced value. There’s no impulse set off rumble, but when there’s any function to low cost out on, I’d say that’s the appropriate alternative. On the flip facet, the Enhanced Wired Controller comes with a two-year guarantee, which is twice so long as expensive choices like Microsoft’s Elite Series 2 provide.

PowerA presents an entire lot of bang to your buck with the Enhanced Wired Controller in the event you’re on a good funds. It additionally sells the Advantage Wired Controller, which is basically a more recent model of the Enhanced Wired Controller with USB-C and hair-trigger lockouts. The Advantage might be a shoo-in to dethrone the Enhanced Wired because the best funds controller, however at $37.99, it doesn’t match the Enhanced Wired frequently-discounted value of round $25.

If you’ve got Elite controller tastes however a normal controller funds, the PowerA Fusion Pro 3 is a nice various in the event you don’t thoughts that it’s wired. It appears a bit just like the Microsoft Elite Series 2, full with 4 rear buttons, set off lockouts, and rubberized grips, however prices a lot much less. The Fusion Pro 3 is considerably lighter than its predecessor, plus it has a more compact case and is $10 cheaper — providing fairly the worth for $79.99 (particularly if it begins occurring sale). The older Fusion Pro 2 remains to be nice, particularly in the event you desire removable rear paddles to built-in buttons, however at this level, it’s solely value it for that desire or if it’s closely discounted.

Connectivity: Xbox wi-fi, Bluetooth, wired / Connector kind: USB-C / Mappable rear buttons: Up to 4 / Software customization: Yes / Power: Built-in rechargeable

The Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 is Microsoft’s fancied-up, premium model of the inventory controller. It’s additionally older, having been launched a 12 months earlier than the Xbox Series X / S consoles arrived. So whereas it does sport a USB-C port and wi-fi help, it lacks the handy Share button discovered on the most recent Xbox Wireless Controller. However, it makes up for that in droves with distinctive construct high quality, additional buttons, user-swappable sticks and D-pad, and a lot of customization.

If you decide up an Xbox Elite controller, you immediately acknowledge the standard of supplies put into it. Where the usual controller makes use of an unassuming plastic construct, the Elite mixes higher-quality plastic with rubberized grips and bits of metallic. Combine this with its built-in rechargeable battery, and the Elite is noticeably heavier than its cheaper brethren. It additionally comes with a charging dock and zip-up case with passthrough charging.

As glorious because the match and end are, the important thing elements that will provide you with a aggressive edge are the hair-trigger locks and rear paddle buttons. In concept, the hair set off will get photographs off sooner when enjoying shooters, and the rear paddles help you soar, crouch, reload, and so on., with out taking your thumb off the appropriate stick for aiming. However, utilizing that many buttons on the again of the controller undoubtedly takes some adjustment. You have to coach new muscle reminiscence, and because it requires dexterity with more fingers, they’re not for everybody.

These premium options come at a steep value, too. The Elite Series 2 is often priced at $179.99, and although it’s dropped as little as $139.99, it’s nonetheless more than twice as costly as an everyday Xbox controller. You have to actually need its additional options and person customization, and in the event you’re not utilizing its rear paddles or the software program changes for stick sensitivity, you’re not getting your cash’s value. (And if you wish to customise the colours, you’re $209.99 for the Design Lab “Elite Package.”)

Microsoft additionally has a stripped-down Elite Series 2 “Core” model with an MSRP of $129.99, which is identical controller in white-and-black, red-and-black, or blue-and-black finishes with out the rear paddles, accent charging case, or additional stick toppers and D-pad. You can get all of these in a $59.99 equipment pack, which turns the Elite Series 2 Core again into a normal Elite Series 2 for a slight premium in comparison with shopping for the total bundle outright.

You should additionally bear in mind that the Elite has a little bit of a popularity for lackluster high quality management, with horror tales from customers about going by means of a number of replacements below guarantee. Microsoft prolonged the controller’s guarantee from 90 days to a 12 months in late 2020 to assist handle issues, however shopping for an Elite Series 2 should really feel like a barely dangerous proposition. However, while you nail that good sequence — switching to your pistol and touchdown a headshot with a fast pop-pop of the hair set off whereas your thumbs keep firmly planted on the sticks — it might probably really feel value it.

Read our Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 evaluate.

Connectivity: Xbox wi-fi, Bluetooth, wired / Connector kind: USB-C / Mappable rear buttons: Four / Software customization: No / Power: AA batteries or add-on rechargeable

The Scuf Instinct Pro finds itself in a little bit of a bizarre spot. It’s one of many solely wi-fi choices at present out there from a 3rd get together — Razer’s new Wolverine V3 Pro is one other — however it’s additionally some of the costly Xbox controllers round (it begins at $199.99). The one I examined clocked in at $263.91 with a particular faceplate and added shade accents. That’s more than the Xbox Series S often sells for, which is a whole console. Still, you’re in for a deal with in the event you’re okay with spending that sort of cash, because the Instinct Pro is arguably higher than Microsoft’s Elite in some very particular methods — primarily, its consolation and implementation of rear buttons and hair triggers.

The Instinct Pro has very distinctive rear buttons, and I truly desire them. Instead of paddles, there are 4 rocker-like buttons constructed into the controller’s physique that you simply push towards or away out of your hand with a center finger. It nonetheless requires coaching your mind a bit to get accustomed to it, however I discovered them more intuitive.

Rear buttons apart, the Scuf’s different large function is its hair triggers, which have the quickest response of all of the controllers examined right here. Just flick a change on the again, and the left and proper triggers really feel such as you’re clicking a mouse — it’s extremely satisfying. The hair triggers, rear buttons, and the superb textured grip materials on the controller’s underside make this controller a pleasure to make use of.

The Instinct Pro seems like Scuf primarily hot-rodded a inventory Xbox controller, however like all boutique merchandise, it comes with a large value. Meanwhile, it nonetheless makes use of AA batteries and lacks software program customization, in order a lot as I take pleasure in utilizing it, I’d solely advise getting one in the event you’re tremendous obsessed with its very particular qualities otherwise you completely love the colourful accents and magnetically swappable faceplates on Scuf’s configurator.

Connectivity: Wired / Connector kind: USB-C / Mappable rear buttons: Four / Software customization: Yes / Power: Wired

RIG’s Nacon Revolution X could also be worthy of an award for awful naming, however its actual strengths are in its deep customization. If you’re the kind that likes to endlessly tinker with a lot of detailed settings, that is the controller for you. Normally priced at $99.99, the wired Revolution X and its added options don’t come low cost, however the value is just a little fairer when you think about the competitors it squares up in opposition to.

When you first decide up the Revolution X, it appears very unassuming — and borderline low cost. While it’s not a looker, it’s a form-follows-function kind of controller. It’s comfortable to make use of, and its 4 rear buttons constructed into the grips are massive and properly contoured. The actual stars of this present, nevertheless, are the analog sticks and their software program customizations, in addition to the expansive customized choices for different interior workings of the controller.

While different user-customizable controllers have three person profiles you possibly can swap between on the fly, the Revolution X has 4 — plus a “classic” mode with fundamental settings and a hoop of RGB gentle round the appropriate keep on with remind you what mode you’re in. The software program app isn’t essentially the most user-friendly, however the controls go very in-depth. Thankfully, there are useful beginning factors with presets for arcade preventing video games, racing, FPS video games, and even sniping, which makes the choices a lot simpler to know. Add the power to customise and remap each button on the controller, in addition to a Dolby Atmos for Headphones app license, and you’ve obtained loads of customization choices.

The customization doesn’t cease with software program, audio, or lighting, nevertheless. The Revolution X comes with ring spacers to regulate the vary of the analog sticks, too, in addition to a sequence of small weights starting from 10g to 16g, which you’ll insert into its grips to provide them an extra quantity of heft.

Adding up all these options, you see why the Nacon is such an awesome controller for tinkering. It took me time to heat as much as it, however upon setting it up the best way I most well-liked, it made for a really compelling controller in quite a lot of recreation varieties.

Connectivity: Wired / Connector kind: USB-C / Mappable rear buttons: Two / Software customization: No / Power: Wired

Turtle Beach is understood for its headsets, so it is sensible that its Recon wired controller options some sturdy audio controls. Its strengths actually come into focus when enjoying first-person shooters, the place its Superhuman Hearing mode tweaks the audio of any wired headset to attract out footsteps and distant gunfire within the combine. At its common value of round $60, and as soon as promoting as little as $39.95, the Recon is a reasonably reasonably priced option to acquire a slight aggressive edge in multiplayer video games with out spending nicely over $100 on a controller.

This pad isn’t going to win any magnificence contests due to all these awkward buttons situated smack-dab in the course of its brow, however every one has a sound function. There are 4 ranges of microphone monitoring, general recreation quantity controls, recreation chat quantity combine, 4 EQ presets, 4 programmable modes for mapping the 2 rear buttons, and 4 ranges of non-compulsory right-stick sensitivity changes. That final function, dubbed Pro Aim by Turtle Beach, lowers the sensitivity of the appropriate analog stick when you maintain the right-hand rear button, permitting for very small actions like sniping, although it’s a bit clumsy to make use of.

Learning to make use of all these controls could sound daunting, however the controller’s quick-start information makes it simpler. Superhuman Hearing may be very useful for shooters and value utilizing extensively for video games like Halo Infinite — simply bear in mind that it’s going to muddy up the soundtrack just a little, so you might wish to depart it off throughout story-driven, single-player video games.

Audio controls apart, the Recon lacks fancy options like hair triggers and swappable thumbsticks, and the D-pad appears like the usual Xbox Wireless Controller however pales as compared. The controller’s plastic construct feels low cost, however the rubbery grips redeem it with a pleasant and comfortable really feel. As for the sticks, triggers, and extra rear buttons, all of them really feel tight and snappy. Combine that with Superhuman Hearing, and you’ve obtained an awesome recipe for shooters. The Recon has a little bit of a studying curve, however in the event you play ranked matches and worth a reasonably priced wired controller with additional buttons and useful audio capabilities, you possibly can’t go fallacious right here.

Read our Turtle Beach Recon evaluate.

• The GameSir G7 is a terrific wired controller with a textured grip that feels a tiny bit like a Scuf, clicky face buttons like a Razer, and two programmable rear buttons. Its D-pad is just a little too stiff, however what makes this gamepad distinctive is it comes with two magnetic face plates — one black, one white — which might be primed for personalization with spray paint or markers.
• The more attention-grabbing GameSir controller is the G7 SE, which is sort of the identical because the G7 however with drift-free Hall impact thumbsticks. If you’ve ever been jilted by stick drift on any of your Xbox controllers earlier than, the GameSir G7 SE is nicely value its $49.99 asking value to ease your issues.
• 8BitDo’s Ultimate Wired Controller for Xbox and PC is a top quality, reasonably priced gamepad with two rear buttons and software program customization, although the prolonged USB cable isn’t removable. It prices $44.99 however is commonly discounted to as little as $35.99. We as soon as noticed it dip to $24.99, and if that began occurring with regularity, it might dethrone the PowerA Enhanced Wired because the best funds choice.
• Turtle Beach’s React-R is a stripped-down Recon that maintains Superhuman Hearing and rear buttons however omits EQ presets, mic monitoring, and Pro-Aim for a decrease $39.99 value. It’s a superb worth, particularly in the event you discover it on sale for as little as $29.99, sustaining a number of the best options of the Recon for cheaper.
• Razer’s Wolverine V2 Chroma is a feast for the ears and eyes, due to very clicky buttons and a strip of RGB lighting alongside the grips. It has more customizable buttons than every other controller (six whole), although their positioning requires reaching, and it’s a bit expensive.
• Razer additionally just lately launched the $199.99 Wolverine V3 Pro, which is the corporate’s first totally wi-fi controller for Xbox consoles and the primary Razer gamepad to sport drift-free Hall impact sticks. The premium controller additionally options hair-trigger lockouts, RGB accent lighting, and six remappable buttons (together with 4 customizable paddles and two additional shoulder buttons). It stays to be seen whether or not it might probably go toe-to-toe with the Xbox Elite Series 2 and Scuf Instinct Pro, however we’ll be sharing our impressions quickly.
• Briefly talked about above, the Horipad Pro has one of many best D-pads round. It additionally presents loads of software program customization at an reasonably priced value, however its shoulder buttons are a bit stiff.
• PowerA’s Nano Enhanced Wired Controller is an adorably small man for folks with tinier fingers or youngsters. Unlike most kid-centric gamepads, it appears similar to a full-size mannequin, and in contrast to our funds decide from PowerA above, it ditches microUSB for USB-C (hallelujah!).
• The Nacon Pro Compact Controller has a number of the Revolution X’s glorious software program customization at a a lot lower cost. It’s additionally one of many smaller choices round, although the ergonomics could really feel hit and miss relying in your hand measurement.
• One of the dumbest but most adorable controllers is the Hyperkin Duke. This reissue of the unique Xbox pad is a love letter to the salad days of 2001. It’s simply not nice to make use of for contemporary video games. Thankfully it comes with a show stand, because it’s more of a collector piece.
• Unlike the Duke, the Hyperkin Xenon is a reissued gamepad that’s truly value utilizing, particularly in case you have an affinity for the mid-aughts Xbox 360 design. The unique 360 controller’s greatest innovation was its intuitive wi-fi system, which is unfortunately absent from this wired reincarnation. But hey, at the very least Hyperkin improved on the Xbox 360 controller’s terrible D-pad and included some cool color-matched USB-C cables.
• I additionally examined the Turtle Beach Recon Cloud and PowerA MOGA XP-Ultra. While the latter is noteworthy for being the primary third-party wi-fi Xbox controller, neither made the minimize attributable to excessive prices and area of interest use instances. The suggestions above current higher alternate options except you actually wish to use a controller with an Android telephone — which, frankly, you are able to do with a normal Xbox controller and an inexpensive telephone clip.
• The Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra is an attention-grabbing controller. It has a 1.5-inch show for adjusting audio settings (and checking social media, apparently), swappable Hall impact sticks, microswitches, hair triggers, remappable rear buttons, and customizable RGB lighting. It’s the model’s first totally wi-fi Xbox controller, too, and comes with Bluetooth to permit compatibility with different platforms. All of those options contribute to the controller’s $199.99 price ticket, which places it within the ultra-premium territory that Turtle Beach hasn’t dabbled in till now.
• Modular controllers are getting just a little funkier with the discharge of Thrustmaster’s eSwap X2 Pro. We haven’t examined it and thus can’t suggest the wired Xbox / PC gamepad, however we’re placing it on the radar for individuals who would possibly respect having hot-swappable analog sticks, triggers, grips, and D-pad. It’s one of many solely customizable controllers we’ve seen that allows you to rearrange the positioning of D-pads and sticks nevertheless you need, and you possibly can even purchase a racing module that’s meant to simulate a steering wheel. Unfortunately, not one of the analog stick modules function Hall impact sensors, and there are fairly a couple of studies that the usual mini-stock modules are susceptible to degrading after a short while.
• PDP’s Victrix Pro BFG (wi-fi) and Victrix Gambit Prime (wired) are one other pair of modular controllers getting respectable reception proper now, although we haven’t examined them but. Both help you take away modules and swap in others, together with alternate D-pad designs, taller thumb sticks, hexagonal gates for the analog sticks, and even a preventing pad that offers you six frontal face buttons. The controllers even have programmable rear buttons and customizable hair triggers (the Gambit Prime uniquely enables you to customise the again paddle to provide you entry to 2 or 4 additional buttons), however their lack of rumble could also be a nonstarter for some.

Photography by Antonio G. Di Benedetto / The Verge

Update, October twenty fourth: Adjusted pricing and availability for a number of controllers.