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10 Best PC controllers 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Xbox Elite Series 2 Core Wireless Gaming Controller – Black – Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Windows PC, Android, and iOS

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,333
Ergonomics
Button Layout
Connectivity

Most important from
45768 reviews

Ergonomics
Despite being slightly smaller and lighter than version 1, the controller maintains a satisfying weightiness and ergonomic feel.
Button Layout
Users find the satellite D-pad easier to navigate compared to traditional designs, enhancing gameplay precision.
Connectivity
The braided USB-C cable is noted for its stability and high quality, offering a reliable wired connection.
Build Quality
The controller is praised for its high-quality metal construction, particularly in the thumbstick shafts and paddles, which prevent issues like drift and breakage.
Additional Features
Adjustable hair triggers provide flexibility for gamers who prefer different levels of responsiveness in their gameplay.

The Xbox Elite Series 2 Core Wireless Gaming Controller is designed with high-end ergonomics, offering a comfortable grip even during long gaming sessions. The button layout is customizable with interchangeable thumbstick toppers, D-pads, and paddles, allowing gamers to tailor the controller to their preferred style. This flexibility is a significant plus for those who like to have precise control over their gaming experience. Connectivity is versatile, supporting Xbox Wireless, Bluetooth, and USB-C, making it easy to use across Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Windows, Android, and iOS devices. This broad compatibility is great for gamers who use multiple platforms.

Build quality is robust, with refined components that promise durability and up to 40 hours of rechargeable battery life, which is excellent for extended play. Additional features like the ability to save up to 3 custom profiles and utilize the Xbox Accessories app for button mapping and voice commands add a layer of personalization that advanced gamers will appreciate. However, the controller is relatively heavy at 1 pound, which might be a drawback for some users. Additionally, it comes with a higher price tag, which might not be suitable for casual gamers or those on a budget.

Despite these minor drawbacks, the Xbox Elite Series 2 Core Wireless Gaming Controller stands out as a premium choice for serious gamers looking for customization, comfort, and compatibility across multiple devices.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,333
Ergonomics
Button Layout
Connectivity

Most important from
45768 reviews

Ergonomics
Despite being slightly smaller and lighter than version 1, the controller maintains a satisfying weightiness and ergonomic feel.
Button Layout
Users find the satellite D-pad easier to navigate compared to traditional designs, enhancing gameplay precision.
Connectivity
The braided USB-C cable is noted for its stability and high quality, offering a reliable wired connection.
Build Quality
The controller is praised for its high-quality metal construction, particularly in the thumbstick shafts and paddles, which prevent issues like drift and breakage.
Additional Features
Adjustable hair triggers provide flexibility for gamers who prefer different levels of responsiveness in their gameplay.
#2

Razer Wolverine V3 Pro 8K PC Wireless Gaming Controller: 8000 Hz Polling Rate - TMR Thumbsticks with Swappable Caps - Up to 36 Hr Battery - 6 Remappable Buttons - Fast Triggers - Carrying Case - Black

Rating
8.5
Ergonomics
Button Layout
Connectivity

Most important from
130 reviews

Ergonomics
The controller’s lightweight design and absence of rumble motors make it comfortable for long sessions without hand fatigue.
Button Layout
Magnetic TMR thumbsticks provide buttery smooth, precise control that outshines previous Hall Effect sticks and rivals any pro controller.
Connectivity
The upgraded USB-C port fixes loose connection issues, adding to the controller's reliability and durability.
Compatibility
Seamless integration with Razer Synapse allows deep customization, including remapping buttons for personalized control setups.
Build Quality
Premium build quality combines mechanical hybrid switches with durable PBT plastic buttons for a satisfying and responsive feel.
Additional Features
The ultra-fast 8000 Hz polling rate delivers insanely responsive gameplay, noticeably improving performance in competitive shooters.

The Razer Wolverine V3 Pro 8K is a high-end wireless gaming controller designed especially for PC gamers who want speed and precision. Its standout feature is the ultra-fast 8000 Hz polling rate, which means the controller sends inputs to the PC extremely quickly, helping you react faster in games. The magnetic TMR thumbsticks with swappable caps offer precise control and reduce drift, which is great for accuracy in shooting or competitive games. The controller’s design is lightweight and shaped to prevent hand fatigue, making it comfortable for long gaming sessions.

It has 6 programmable buttons, including 4 back buttons and 2 claw grip bumpers, allowing you to customize controls to fit your play style, which is handy for complex games. The buttons themselves use durable PBT plastic and hybrid microswitches, giving a satisfying, responsive feel. Connectivity-wise, the controller works both wired and wirelessly, offering flexibility while gaming. It also includes a carrying case and a long braided cable, which is thoughtful for portability and durability.

The controller weighs about 1.85 pounds, which might feel a bit heavy compared to simpler controllers, and its price is on the higher side, reflecting its premium features. Compatibility is focused mainly on PC, so it may not be the best choice if you want a multipurpose controller for consoles. For those who value top-tier responsiveness, customization, and build quality and are ready to invest in a pro-level PC controller, the Wolverine V3 Pro is a strong contender.

Rating
8.5
Ergonomics
Button Layout
Connectivity

Most important from
130 reviews

Ergonomics
The controller’s lightweight design and absence of rumble motors make it comfortable for long sessions without hand fatigue.
Button Layout
Magnetic TMR thumbsticks provide buttery smooth, precise control that outshines previous Hall Effect sticks and rivals any pro controller.
Connectivity
The upgraded USB-C port fixes loose connection issues, adding to the controller's reliability and durability.
Compatibility
Seamless integration with Razer Synapse allows deep customization, including remapping buttons for personalized control setups.
Build Quality
Premium build quality combines mechanical hybrid switches with durable PBT plastic buttons for a satisfying and responsive feel.
Additional Features
The ultra-fast 8000 Hz polling rate delivers insanely responsive gameplay, noticeably improving performance in competitive shooters.
#3

Dinosoo RGB Wireless Controller for PS5/PlayStation 5 PC, Bluetooth Controller with Turbo, Macro, Dynamic Vibration, 6-Axis Motion Control, 3.5mm Audio Jack, 1000mAh Battery, Speaker - Blue

Rating
8.5
Ergonomics
Button Layout
Connectivity

Most important from
482 reviews

Ergonomics
Build quality strikes a solid balance, feeling comfortable and sturdy without being heavy during long sessions.
Button Layout
Buttons are responsive with smooth triggers, delivering quick and accurate input for an immersive gaming experience.
Connectivity
Bluetooth connection is seamless and stable on both PS5 and PC, providing reliable wireless gameplay without lag.
Compatibility
Setup is straightforward, with the controller working perfectly right out of the box for both PS5 and PC.
Additional Features
The RGB lighting around the joysticks adds a stylish, customizable flair that enhances the controller's modern aesthetic.

The Dinosoo RGB Wireless Controller is designed primarily for PS5 users and PC gamers looking for a versatile and stylish option. Its ergonomic design should feel comfortable during long gaming sessions, and the button layout follows the familiar PlayStation style, which helps with ease of use. Connectivity is flexible, supporting both Bluetooth wireless and wired USB connections, although initial setup on PS5 requires a wired connection. The controller is compatible with PS5 and Windows PCs but does not work with PS4, so it's best suited for those using the latest console or PC gaming.

Build quality seems solid for its price, with a weight that balances sturdiness without feeling heavy. Additional features include dual vibration motors and a 6-axis motion sensor, which can add immersive feedback and improve control in supported games. The built-in speaker enhances game sounds, though it lacks a microphone, so voice chat requires headphones with a mic. The RGB lighting with seven color options adds a fun, customizable touch but is purely aesthetic.

Standout perks include the turbo function, which helps in fast-paced games, and a share button for easy capturing of gameplay moments. The controller also includes a 3.5mm audio jack for headphones, though it doesn’t support Apple’s 3.5mm headphones. Its 1000mAh battery promises decent playtime between charges. While needing a wired connection to first pair with the PS5 might be a minor inconvenience, and the absence of a built-in microphone could limit some online multiplayer experiences, this controller is a strong choice for PS5 and PC users seeking a feature-rich, wireless controller with customizable lighting and solid compatibility, especially if vibration and motion controls are important.

Rating
8.5
Ergonomics
Button Layout
Connectivity

Most important from
482 reviews

Ergonomics
Build quality strikes a solid balance, feeling comfortable and sturdy without being heavy during long sessions.
Button Layout
Buttons are responsive with smooth triggers, delivering quick and accurate input for an immersive gaming experience.
Connectivity
Bluetooth connection is seamless and stable on both PS5 and PC, providing reliable wireless gameplay without lag.
Compatibility
Setup is straightforward, with the controller working perfectly right out of the box for both PS5 and PC.
Additional Features
The RGB lighting around the joysticks adds a stylish, customizable flair that enhances the controller's modern aesthetic.

Buying Guide for the Best PC controllers

Choosing the right PC controller can significantly enhance your gaming experience. A good controller should feel comfortable in your hands, be responsive, and have the features you need for the types of games you play. Here are some key specifications to consider when selecting a PC controller.
ErgonomicsErgonomics refers to how comfortable and natural the controller feels in your hands. This is important because a well-designed controller can reduce fatigue and improve your gameplay. Controllers come in various shapes and sizes, so it's essential to find one that fits your hand size and grip style. If you have larger hands, look for controllers with a bulkier design. For smaller hands, a more compact controller might be better.
Button LayoutThe button layout includes the arrangement and number of buttons on the controller. This is crucial because it affects how easily you can access and press the buttons during gameplay. Controllers typically have a standard layout with a D-pad, analog sticks, face buttons, shoulder buttons, and triggers. Some controllers offer additional buttons or customizable layouts. If you play games that require complex inputs, consider a controller with extra buttons or programmable options.
ConnectivityConnectivity refers to how the controller connects to your PC. This can be wired or wireless. Wired controllers offer a stable connection and no battery concerns, but they limit your movement. Wireless controllers provide more freedom but require batteries or charging. If you prefer a clutter-free setup and don't mind charging, a wireless controller might be ideal. For uninterrupted gameplay, a wired controller is a better choice.
CompatibilityCompatibility ensures that the controller works with your PC and the games you want to play. Most controllers are compatible with Windows PCs, but some may require additional drivers or software. Check if the controller supports plug-and-play functionality for easy setup. If you play games on multiple platforms, look for a controller that is compatible with other devices like consoles or mobile phones.
Build QualityBuild quality refers to the durability and materials used in the controller. A well-built controller can withstand long hours of gaming and occasional drops. Look for controllers made from high-quality plastic and with sturdy buttons and analog sticks. If you are a heavy gamer, investing in a controller with robust build quality can save you from frequent replacements.
Additional FeaturesAdditional features include extras like vibration feedback, motion sensors, and customizable buttons. These features can enhance your gaming experience by providing more immersive gameplay and personalized control. Vibration feedback can make games feel more realistic, while motion sensors can add a new dimension to gameplay. Customizable buttons allow you to tailor the controller to your preferences. Consider which features are important for the types of games you play.

FAQ