If you're shopping around for the best PC controllers for gaming, you're honestly spoiled for choice at the moment. There's now a plethora of brilliant pro gamepads on the market that will give you all the functionality you could want, including back buttons and software to help you customize every tiny detail of how they work. If you just want something simple and comfortable for those chilled-out games you want to kick back with, we've found the best options for you as well.
The best PC controller for gaming doesn't need to be a typical gamepad. For the majority of my FPS gaming on PC, I use an ergonomic keypad that gives me the thumbstick movement from a traditional controller, but the speed and functionality of a keyboard - which goes to show how versatile PC controllers can be these days. Then, for more relaxed third-person games I'll probably use one of the best PS5 controllers or one of the best Xbox Series X controllers. For platformers, I always tend to use a gamepad, and a retro option can provide a lot of nostalgia. The point is, there are loads of fun ways to play games these days, and a controller doesn't mean limiting your abilities like it used to.
Today's pro controllers pack a whole host of customization features, including extra mappable paddles, and even the ability to swap out whole components thanks to modular designs. Along with your purchase, you'll usually get conclusive software that lets you control the essential parts of your gamepad, with some letting you set custom dead zones for the analog sticks. In short, there are so many ways to stay competitive if you prefer playing with a controller, so let's dive into the options I'd recommend in 2024.
Quick PSA: Black Friday always presents an opportunity to get our favorite controllers for less than usual. We'll be keeping a close eye on Black Friday Xbox controller deals, as well as Black Friday gaming PC deals in general, so head over to those pages if you fancy looking for a deal.
The quick list
Best overall
With excellent customization options and a competitive price point, the Victrix Pro BFG is the gamepad to beat right now - its new Xbox version may even be an improvement.
Best budget
If you're working with a smaller budget, the T4 Kaleid offers fantastic value in its Hall effect thumbsticks, extra back buttons and responsive performance.
Best keyboard alternative
If you want the functionality of a keyboard combined with the thumbstick movement of a controller, the Azeron Cyborg is the ultimate way to play games.
Best for game feel
The Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra has some amazing feedback for a gamepad without haptic feedback. Its microswitch buttons go a long way too.
Best value
The EasySMX X10 screams value with its micro-switch buttons, magnetic faceplates, Hall Sensor thumbsticks, ergonomic back buttons, and snappy feel.
Best for longevity
Hall Sensor sticks that are immune to stick drift make this the best gamepad if you want something long-lasting. It's great for Esports and multiplayer too.
Load the next 2 products ↓
Best for most
It's a classic, but it's stood the test of time. The Xbox Wireless controller packs a flexible feature set while also offering an improved overall feel.
Best for Xbox fans
The Elite Series 2 has reigned supreme in the premium PC controller space for a while now, but it still impresses today with its customization options and flexibility.
Best for PS5 fans
If you're after something that will remind you of younger days on PlayStation consoles, the DualSense Edge packs in an excellent feature set and has nice customization too.
Controllers were probably the first piece of gaming hardware that I got properly nerdy about, so I take great pleasure in testing the latest ones out. I've had the privilege of testing all of the biggest and best controller releases in the last two years, and I have plenty of experience with models that came before that too. I'm sick of hearing that a controller can't keep up with a keyboard and mouse, so I'm on a mission to find ones that can.
Disclaimer
Friday, November 15: I've given this page one last update as we head into Black Friday. Below, you'll find renewed ratings boxes below each entry on the list to give you a better breakdown of each controller's strengths and weaknesses. Right at the bottom of the page, you'll find a renewed section on how we test gamepads, in case you're wondering how we come to a verdict on each one.
The best PC controller overall
The original Victrix Pro BFG launched at the beginning of 2023 for PS5, PS4, and PC, but it's since made its way to Xbox with a version that might even be superior if you aren't looking for a controller to use with Sony's console as well as your computer. Since this has been on the shelves, it's been our clear favorite for anyone who wants the maximum performance out of a gamepad.
✅You want a controller you can change depending on the game: with a modular design, anything is possible, and you can literally change the face of this product depending on your needs, and the game you're playing with it.
✅You plan to get competitive: While you can absolutely use this gamepad for more relaxed sessions, this is perfect for anyone who wants to maximise their own performance.
✅You want near-perfect back buttons: Without going for magnetic back paddles found on official controllers, these are some of the most ergonomic and best-feeling back buttons ever designed.
❌You don't need back buttons: If you don't need all the pro features and swappable features the BFG gives you, you'll probably find more comfort in a different controller.
❌You value style: This controller certainly looks pretty enough, but again, if you want a more conventional design that's easy on the eye, look elsewhere.
❌You won't ever swap the parts around: One of the best parts about this controller is its adjustability, and if you're not the sort of player who's up for experimenting with different layouts to find the best feel, you might as well spend elsewhere.
Design & Features: This controller is designed with elite performance in mind, and thanks to its amazing modular design, you can tailor it to your exact preferences thanks to the suite of attachments that come in its case. Among them are a taller analog stick for precision aiming, multiple D-pad choices, stick gates, and a fightpad module that gives you six face buttons. The facial modules can also be flipped around so the sticks are symmetrical if that's your thing.
Performance: The PS5 version can feel pretty lightweight in the hands and has absolutely no rumble or haptic feedback. It's a controller that's bred to get the best performances out of you in whatever game you play, not providing luxurious feedback as you play. The Xbox version, on the other hand, has rumble, which gives it a previously missing feeling of heft in the hands, as well as a real quality of life bonus. Either can be used wirelessly - even the Xbox version, which is still rare for gamepads that are officially licensed for Microsoft's console.
The BFG has four back buttons that are as comfortable as they are useful, as well as a clever "Tournament Lock" mode that stops you from pressing the system buttons during competition, which could result in disqualification. During tests, there wasn't a single game we could throw it at and not have a good time with.
In terms of value for money, this is absolutely one of the best controllers to hit the shelves in recent years, especially when you consider that it's cheaper than its competition in the PS5 controller arena.
Read more: Victrix Pro BFG for Xbox review
| Comfort | ★★★★ |
| Ergonomics | ★★★★★ |
| Pro features | ★★★★★ |
| Longevity | ★★★★★ |
| Battery life | ★★★ |
| Add-ons | ★★★★★ |
| Multiplayer potential | ★★★★★ |
| Singleplayer potential | ★★★★ |
The best budget PC controller
A transparent controller design isn't seen all too often these days, especially among the best Nintendo Switch controllers. The GameSir T4 Kaleid is the latest multi-platform controller from GameSir, and it's available for use on PC, Android TV, and Nintendo Switch. It asks an important question: how expensive should a pro controller be in this day and age? Because despite the number of features on offer here, it might be one of the cheapest controllers worth buying right now.
✅You want a stylish controller: Transparent designs are great, and give you an almost nostalgic feel if you ever played with one of the see-through PS2 controllers. All the while, some RGB lighting adds some modern flare.
✅You're on a tight budget: The price of this controller is great for the features it gives you. If you're trying to save money, this is your stop.
✅You still want pro features: Despite the price, GameSir still allows you to customize a lot of the parts of this controller.
❌Textured grips get under your skin: If you get that uncomfortable itch from textured plastic grips, maybe look elsewhere.
❌You play on Xbox: There's also a new Xbox version of this controller - just make sure you get the right one.
❌You can afford something else on this list: Depending on your preference, and your budget, you might be able to afford something better than this.
Design & Features: Somewhat most notably, the offset or asymmetrical sticks are Hall Sensor ones, meaning you won't encounter stick drift with this controller. This pad was really at the forefront of the Hall Sensor "generation", and almost everything that's released since has struggled to meet its price. Now, it has variants available for Xbox as well, and I'd argue any of them would make an excellent controller on a budget.
On the textured grips of the T4 Kaleid, you'll find two back buttons. In true GameSir fashion, these are excellently placed where your middle fingers wrap around the controller and take absolutely no displacement of to use. That transparent design allows for some lovely lighting to shine through the casing too, which is surprisingly bright. The face buttons you get here are microswitches which make that satisfying clicky noise whenever you press them. For speed, these are great, and GameSir has managed to beat Razer's quite spongy-feeling buttons while catering to the microswitch crowd.
Performance: This is really one of the best controllers on the market because it caters to both performance players, and those who just want a comfortable-feeling gamepad to use for more relaxed, third-person games. Particularly if you have larger hands, this is a comfortable controller, and the textured grips aren't too sharp that they itch at your hands when they get a little clammy.
If you're a PC player looking for a semi-decent controller to use in third-person games, shopping can be tough. You want a cheaper brand, but you want quality, and you want something that will last you. The T4 Kaleid is that controller, and its price is insanely affordable for what you get.
| Comfort | ★★★★ |
| Ergonomics | ★★★★ |
| Pro features | ★★★★ |
| Longevity | ★★★★ |
| Battery life | NA |
| Add-ons | ★★ |
| Multiplayer potential | ★★★★ |
| Singleplayer potential | ★★★★ |
The best keyboard alternative
For a lot of PC gamers, the need for a decent pro controller comes from the fact they've never felt at home using the WASD inputs of a traditional gaming keyboard. If you also struggle to bring your fingers back to the "home" position when you're using a keyboard, the Azeron Cyborg is designed for you.
✅You're up for something a bit different: There's no denying that re-learning and creating custom profiles can be a bit of a faff - more than with any of the other controllers on this list that can be used out of the box. If you're up for re-learning, and adjusting the heights and angles of each tower, then this is for you.
✅You want a personalized look: There are loads of ways to customize the look of your keypad, so if you want something fully designed by you, it doesn't get much better than this.
✅You want the best of both worlds: The Cyborg combines the thumbstick movement of a controller with the speed and functionality of a keyboard. Not to mention, you'll be using a mouse with it too. This really is the best hybrid of a controller and a traditional PC setup.
❌Relearning and creating profiles is a faff: If you're not a fan of creating custom profiles and learning a new way to play, then this may not be the controller for you.
❌You only play 2D platformers: There's so much functionality to be had here, so if you only play platformers with four of five player actions, this might be overkill.
❌You can't stand using a mouse, and don't want to learn: If you're used to using a controller to aim, and you've never liked using a mouse, then this may not be your best option.
Design & Features: This is a fully customizable gaming keypad that's endlessly comfortable and, once you get used to it, utterly brilliant to use. Since it's vastly different from the shape of a gamepad and combines elements from a keyboard, it does take a lot of re-learning and setting up.
The idea is that with one hand, you rest your hand in this ergonomic robot claw and use a mouse with your other. The thumbstick on the keypad will give you player movement you're familiar with from a controller, but the nearly 30 other inputs that are all a finger's twitch away are totally up to you. Using intuitive software that makes creating controller schemes fun, you can create personalized maps based on what works for you and your brain. Changing them on the fly is easy as well, and the original Cyborg is capable of storing up to two profiles onboard the hardware. In the software, you can create countless profiles and swap them out when needed.
Performance: The best part is that Azeron understands that ergonomics change depending on the individual, so the Cyborg keypad is so adjustable to your hand shape and what's comfortable for you. All of the finger towers have multiple joints that you can bring closer or further away. You can change their angles, the heights they sit at, and their distance from one another. That means that if you're up for faffing around with it for a while to get the perfect fit, this really is the most ergonomic controller on this list.
One you do get past the re-learning phase, the Cyborg opens up a whole new level of fluency if you've never typically liked playing games with a mouse and keyboard. There isn't another option on this list that offers the best of both worlds between a controller and mouse and keyboard setup. I think what might surprise people is just how versatile this thing is. I use it for playing Hunt: Showdown, but can boot up a game of Baldur's Gate 3 and still benefit from the same kind of functionality. That said, maybe don't buy it if all you play is 2D platformers.
| Comfort | ★★★★★ |
| Ergonomics | ★★★★★ |
| Pro features | ★★★★★ |
| Longevity | ★★★★ |
| Battery life | NA |
| Add-ons | ★★★★ |
| Multiplayer potential | ★★★★★ |
| Singleplayer potential | ★★★★★ |
The best PC controller for game feel
The Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra Wireless controller has so much tactility for a controller that doesn't officially feature haptic feedback. Microswitch buttons and really precise vibration make it exceptional for immersing you in the games you like to play. If you really want to get lost in the feeling of controlling your in-game avatars, then this is one to consider.
✅You want great tactility: The accurate rumble here creates a beautiful layer of feedback when gaming, which can really help to immerse you in your games.
✅You don't typically like back buttons: The back buttons here are laid out a little differently than usual, and thanks to their microswitch mechanics, I'm inclined to say these might win you over.
✅You like the controller's look: There's a really distinct look about this pad, so if you're a fan of swanky RGB designs and an ob-board display, look no further.
❌You're looking to get competitive: The Victrix Pro BFG has more customization for the same price as this, so it's probably better for those players who are looking to top the online leaderboards.
❌You prefer traditional back buttons: Back buttons with a vertical layout are what's used most of the time, so if you prefer that, maybe look elsewhere.
❌RGB isn't your thing: The look of this pad isn't for everyone. If you prefer a more plain approach to gamepad design, there are other options.
Design & Features: The design of this gamepad is beautiful. It's got RGB lines striking through its grips and framing its face, and some classy bronze panels that pair nicely with its black grips.
What may be most appealing from a glance is this controller's facial display that helps you to control and customize its various settings. This is indeed a standout feature since it can make assigning the four truly innovative back buttons an absolute breeze. It'll also help you switch between the 10 savable profiles this controller can store. All of the Stealth Ultra's buttons are microswitch ones, and its triggers and thumbsticks have Hall Sensor tech inside them for extra longevity.
You get the usual connectivity of a pro controller here; a 3.5mm headphone jack and USB-C charging, but in your case, you get a small USB dongle and a small magnetic charging stand too. While you might not get the kind of assortments and attachments as some more Esports-specific controllers do, you do get some thumbstick toppers for your money, and these go a long way to correct the sub-par designs of the regular sticks.
Performance: What I love about this controller is that it does everything well. It isn't quite as good performance-wise as something from Victrix if you're looking to get competitive, but it isn't far off. Besides the BFG with its fully modular design, you'd be hard-pressed to find a controller that outperforms this. What's more, its 30-hour quoted battery life is accurate, and thanks to the charging stand, I never have to worry about it running out of charge.
The thing that really separates this controller from others is the intuitive back buttons, which have a horizontal layout. Normally, playing around with back button positioning can be a detriment, but they're placed really effectively here so you can access those extra in-game actions much easier.
| Comfort | ★★★★ |
| Ergonomics | ★★★ |
| Pro features | ★★★★ |
| Longevity | ★★★★ |
| Battery life | ★★★★ |
| Add-ons | ★★★ |
| Multiplayer potential | ★★★★ |
| Singleplayer potential | ★★★★★ |
The best value PC controller
The EasySMX certainly doesn't have an easy job. It's in a super competitive price bracket that's stocked full of budget options, but it has to stick out from the crowd and still come across as a premium option that's worth buying. That's exactly what it does, and the online reviews as well as our own experience attests to that.
✅You want microswitch buttons: This controller has some of the best-feeling microswitch buttons on the market, and that means a glorious mix of speed and feel.
✅You like an Xbox feel: There's a traditional Xbox shape and feel to this pad, which will suit some players more than others.
✅You have smaller hands: Players with bigger hands will be able to use this as well, but the tighter feel of this product lends itself to folks with smaller ones.
❌You want accessories: There's no thumbstick tops to change, or a carry case here. The EasySMX X10 offers a different type of value.
❌GameSir's controllers appeal to you more: There's no denying that this brand feels like a direct competitor to GameSir, which makes similar controllers that are even cheaper than this.
❌Your budget goes higher than this: Bigger brands offer more if you're willing to spend a bit more, even if this is great for its price point.
Design & Features: If you're in the market for micro-switch buttons, your options are limited in the controller world. Sure, Razer has plenty of choices for you, but the buttons that brand uses have a spongy quality that doesn't exactly match the tactile speed gamers are looking for. The GameSir T4 Kalied is another option, but if you want extra aesthetic options, wireless capability, or Bluetooth, the X10 wins out in terms of value. You also get two back buttons here, as well as some swappable faceplates and grips.
Performance: When we tested it out, we were amazed at the brilliant feel and overall value this gamepad had to offer. The EasySMX X10 is one of those rare controllers that makes the biggest brands look bad. It offers a premium feel for a fraction of the price the big names charge. Particularly if you like micro-switch buttons and an Xbox controller shape, don't overlook this.
That traditional Xbox feel fits a smaller pair of hands really nicely with this pad, and that helps to make this feel like a controller you can take on the go. Sadly, there aren't as many accessories and add-ons in this controller's box compared to other pro controllers on this list. You get Hall Sensor thumbsticks out of the box, but you won't be able to adjust their heights or topper shapes. Customization is something that will hopefully improve over time since when we tested the X10 EasySMX's PC app was still in Beta. Either way, the value for money you get here for a premium feel and microswitch speed is up there with the best.
| Comfort | ★★★ |
| Ergonomics | ★★★ |
| Pro features | ★★ |
| Longevity | ★★★★ |
| Battery life | ★★★★★ |
| Add-ons | ★★ |
| Multiplayer potential | ★★★ |
| Singleplayer potential | ★★★ |
The best PC controller for longevity
The Nacon Revolution 5 Pro is the spiritual successor to the Nacon Revolution Unlimited, which was one of the best officially licensed pro controllers for PS4. It takes the robust build and comfortable design of that controller and makes it even sturdier. Not only do you have a controller that will last you years, but there is so much great functionality to be had as well.
✅You want something that will stand the test of time: The build quality here is hard to match on this list, and the lengths Nacon has gone to to ensure a long lifespan is commendable.
✅Back buttons aren't the main feature you're buying for: The back buttons on the R5P aren't positioned brilliantly, and take a lot of force to push in. They aren't the best ones out there.
✅You also play on PS5: This controller is also designed for PS5 gaming, so if you split your time between the platforms, this is a solid option.
❌You're on a budget: The R5P is a bit pricier than some of the other officially licensed console controllers on this list, so keep that in mind while you're browsing.
❌You need good back buttons: If you want back buttons that are easy to press and simple to find, maybe look at the Victrix Pro BFG instead.
❌You hate loose thumbstick tension: If you need tighter thumbstick tension, look elsewhere - seriously.
Design & Features: The features list of the Revolution 5 Pro (R5P) is as exhaustive as you'll find these days: wired and wireless connectivity, 10 hours of battery life, companion software for customizing deadzones and back button assignments, and an extensive audio settings list and profile modes. Alongside asymmetrical Hall Sensor thumbsticks, the R5P gives you four back buttons, and varying stick tops and gates that come in the box let you tailor the feel of them to you. In a fan-favorite return from the Revolution Unlimited, you can even put some weights in handles to give the R5P more heft. The grips sports a matted rubberized surface that feels cool in the hands, resisting those gruesome sweat smudges.
Performance: When it comes to competitive gaming, the Nacon Revolution 5 Pro is one of the closest rivals to the Victrix Pro BFG. Its larger size and increased build quality might even make it more appealing to many a gamer. Annoyingly, looser stick tension and less ergonomic back buttons make it fall short. The best PC controllers today are all about the finest margins, and while they might suit some people, the loose thumbsticks of the R5P could be a deal breaker depending on how you use them. For aiming in first-person shooters, for example, they can take some serious getting used to, and in some ways, actually hamper your speed.
Still, this is one of the best controllers we tested in 2023, and it worked great across a wide range of genres. Its immunity to stick drift isn't exactly unique on this list, but the longevity we'd recommend it for comes from the build quality overall, as well as Nacon's use of sustainable materials and packaging. During the pre-release review phase, they even asked for our opinion about which attachments might need to be replaced so that they could sell those separately to give the gamepad a longer lifespan.
Annoyingly, one of my biggest issues with the Revolution Unlimited returns here. If you use a wired headset plugged straight into the controller, Nacon's noise canceling software means your microphone audio will be accompanied by a grating white noise. That isn't the best, but anyone who uses a wireless headset won't need to worry.
| Comfort | ★★★★ |
| Ergonomics | ★★★ |
| Pro features | ★★★★ |
| Longevity | ★★★★★ |
| Battery life | ★★★★ |
| Add-ons | ★★★★ |
| Multiplayer potential | ★★★★ |
| Singleplayer potential | ★★★ |
The best PC controller for most
