Best PC controller 2023 | PCGamesN

What’s the greatest PC controller? These pads actually push our buttons in a great way, every providing an excellent various to the basic clicker and clacker. We’ve spent hours testing all these buttons, triggers, pedals, and extra, and simply as lengthy writing up critiques on all these peripherals that will help you discover the right gamepad match.

Keyboard and mouse purists might scoff on the notion {that a} controller ought to be a part of any gaming PC setup, nevertheless it’s onerous to disclaim the comfort and ergonomic advantages provided by these perky pads. Following the discharge of the Xbox Sequence and PlayStation 5 consoles, a brand new era of gamepads have arrived they usually’re higher than ever. After all, should you’re after one thing a bit extra specialist, like a wheel or yoke, we’ve acquired you coated too.

Listed below are the perfect PC controllers in 2023:

1. Xbox Wi-fi Controller

The greatest PC controller is the Xbox Wi-fi Controller.
Anticipate to pay $59.99 / £59.99.

Execs

• Hybrid D-pad
• Bluetooth help/plug-and-play
• Textured Triggers

Cons

• Requires AA batteries/play and cost equipment
• Not customisable

The Xbox Wi-fi Controller is Microsoft’s newest try and excellent the default gamepad that ships with the Xbox Sequence X and Sequence S. Whereas it won’t look all that totally different from its predecessors, apart from dropping the console-specific branding from its title, there’s been loads of adjustments 4 iterations on from the unique Xbox One version that makes this the go-to gamepad for gaming PCs. Plus, it appears nice sitting subsequent to you on the perfect gaming desk.

The textured grip on the rear has been prolonged to cowl the triggers for further grip and precision, and there’s now a hybrid domed D-pad which we’ve beforehand solely seen on the high-end Xbox Elite controller.

Moreover, the pad’s iconic form has been tweaked in comparison with the unique Xbox One pad, that means it suits a wider vary of hand sizes and styles. Nonetheless, the slight adjustments might hinder compatibility with attachments, so preserve that in thoughts

Because it’s Microsoft, there’s native compatibility with Home windows 10 so there’s no fiddling round with drivers – all you want is a Bluetooth or USB-C connection to plug and play.

2. Thrustmaster eSwap X PRO

The greatest thumbstick controller is the Thrustmaster eSwap X PRO.
Anticipate to pay $149.99 / £149.99.

Execs

• Modular analogue sticks
• Microswitch buttons
• Thrustmapper software program

Cons

• Costly
• No wi-fi choice

Thrustmaster’s Eswap Professional X is a premium gamepad by way of and thru, however its modular design makes it some of the versatile units on this listing. It’s additionally an excellent choice for gamers preferring PlayStation’s parallel controller format, as you possibly can simply swap across the d-pad and thumbstick.

Not solely are these magnetic modules top quality, but when they do ever put on down,  you’ll be capable to change them with out turning into a gamepad surgeon. You can even stability substance and magnificence by including totally different colors utilizing one among Thrustmaster’s elective kits.

The Eswap Professional X additionally comes with a formidable 22-button format, 4 of which reside on the again of the dangerous. If you happen to’re a fan of all issues clicky, you’ll be happy to know that the d-pad and face buttons use microswitches, which make all of the distinction in comparison with rubber dome membranes.

As for compatibility, the Eswap Professional X’s PC drivers include Thrustmapper, a configuration suite that lets you remap the pad and fine-tune sensitivity. In different phrases, should you’re searching for a thumbstick expertise that comes near the accuracy of a gaming mouse, this gamepad might be what you’re searching for.

3. PlayStation DualSense Wi-fi Controller

The greatest PC controller for immersion is the PlayStation Dualsense Wi-fi Controller.
Anticipate to pay $69.99 / £54.99.

Execs

• Distinctive Dualsense options
• Excessive-quality really feel

Cons

• Dear
• Restricted help on PC

Sony’s successor to the Dualshock 4 is a newcomer to the gamepad fold, nevertheless it’s already a promising PC controller. It’ll improve bodily immersion in large hits like Name of Responsibility: Chilly Conflict, Far Cry 6, Metro Exodus, and Deathloop, all of which boast adaptive set off help.

The DualSense can be simply a wonderful gamepad, and it elevates every thing that made its predecessor nice. Its thumbsticks are nonetheless fantastically snug, and it’s nonetheless snug to make use of after hours of use.

Sony is slowly branching out on the PC, however help for the platform is missing. Official DualSense drivers aren’t a factor but, and also you’ll have to stay with particular video games to learn from the pad’s immersive options.

Utilizing the DualSense wirelessly on PC additionally comes with a further cord-cutting caveat. For no matter motive, haptic suggestions gained’t work on the pad over Bluetooth, that means you’ll must tether it to your rig utilizing a USB-C cable.

That stated, should you’re a fan of parallel sticks, or simply Sony shenanigans generally, the DualSense is a killer pad with spectacular capabilities. It’s dear, however when you think about what it provides, it’s probably a clever funding.

4. Nintendo Swap Professional Controller

The greatest various PC controller is the Nintendo Swap Professional.
Anticipate to pay $69.99 / £49.99.

Execs:

• Superb D-Pad
• Stellar battery life
• Higher than Pleasure Cons in mainly each means

Cons:

• Shallow triggers
• Not out there in a variety of colors

The Nintendo Swap Professional has been made particularly for the diminutive console, however has been given its personal Steam profile and could be related to your gaming PC with both a wi-fi Bluetooth connection or, if you wish to get configured in Steam, through a USB-C cable.

There’s one thing charming in regards to the Swap Professional Controller’s construct high quality, notably when it comes to its plastics. Within the fingers, it virtually appears like a gamepad from the early 2000s, one thing that differentiates it from different premium pads available on the market.

Its chonky method to buttons and triggers takes some time to get used to, particularly should you’re used to Microsoft controllers. Nonetheless, when you’ve spent a while with the Nintendo pad, you’ll wish to preserve it close to your PC setup.

Nintendo pioneered the d-pad again in 1985, so it’s no shock that the Swap Professional controller upholds its gamepad legacy. Whereas the pad lacks fancy options like analogue triggers, its tactile buttons and cozy really feel make it a winner with regards to precision-based platformers. It’s additionally acquired a whopping 40-hour battery life through Bluetooth, making it among the finest wi-fi choices available on the market.

5. Xbox Elite Wi-fi Controller Sequence 2

The greatest high-end controller for PC is the Xbox One Elite Sequence 2.
Anticipate to pay $179.99 / £159.99.

Execs

• All of the paddles
• Constructed-in battery
• Excessive construct high quality

Cons

• Premium value level
• Black aesthetic isn’t as thrilling

Spending nicely over $100 on a joypad may appear fairly loopy, however the Elite Sequence 2 is one severely lovely controller. Virtually every thing about it has been designed to simply scream ‘QUALITY!’ in your face. It’s an evolution over the earlier model moderately than a revolution, nevertheless it’s acquired every thing we liked in regards to the authentic Elite, plus every thing the competitors has added to their high-end pads to try to compete.

Identical to the Eswap Professional X, the Elite Sequence 2 is provided with customizable buttons that’ll assist you to completely dial in your palm expertise. It’s not fairly as hot-swappable as Thurstmaster’s method, nevertheless it provides a unique array of choices, like changeable stick heights and paddle-style triggers.

It’s a small factor, however the reality Microsoft features a hardcase with the Elite Sequence 2 speaks volumes. Not solely does it provide you with someplace to maintain your ins and outs, it’ll shield the pad and assist it serve your gaming wants lengthy into the longer term.

If you happen to’re not into extra equipment, you possibly can go for the Sequence 2 Core, a less expensive bundle that solely consists of the pad and an adjustment instrument.

Learn the PCGamesN Xbox Elite Wi-fi Controller Sequence 2 evaluation for our full verdict and rating.

6. Nacon Revolution Limitless

The greatest hybrid PC controller is the Nacon Revolution Limitless.
Anticipate to pay $78.99 / £79.99.

Execs

• Nice construct high quality
• Asymmetrical format
• Wonderful thumbsticks

Cons

• D-pad isn’t the perfect
• Software program is finicky

Many corporations have tried to match the standard of Microsoft’s Xbox One Elite controller, however only a few have managed to nail its combine of great construct high quality and extremely customisation. However Nacon’s pad succeeds in each and in addition manages to combine each the wonderful PlayStation thumbsticks and touchpad with the Xbox asymmetrical format.

The one difficulty is the software program. It refuses to attach until you’re wired in and a few of its wordless iconry is borderline impenetrable. However there are an entire host of customisation choices buried in there should you actually wish to go deep.

Learn the PCGamesN Nacon Revolution Limitless evaluation for our full verdict and rating.

7. Razer Wolverine Event Version Chroma

The greatest RGB PC controller is the Razer Wolverine Event Version Chroma.
Anticipate to pay $89.99 / £94.99.

Execs

• Clicky as heck
• Tasteful RGB
• Loads of added performance

Cons

• Not the perfect D-pad
• Costly

The Razer Wolverine Event Version Chroma might be the flashiest gamepad on this listing. Signature Chroma RGB lighting helps the controller stand out from the group, and it’ll look nice each at LAN and in your desk

The Wolverine Event Version Chroma is undeniably a looker, nevertheless it balances each type and substance. Microswitches assist the pad’s buttons really feel responsive and satisfying, whereas adjustable hair triggers will assist you to land photographs in the perfect FPS video games.

Identical to different PC gamepads on this listing, Razer’s gentle present controller comes with a premium price ticket hooked up. If you happen to’re searching for tournament-grade high quality and additional visible aptitude, you may wish to make investments on this pad. Nonetheless, if less-than-stellar D-pads are inclined to upset you, we’d recommend wanting elsewhere.

8. Thrustmaster Warthog

The greatest flight stick is the Thrustmaster Warthog.
Anticipate to pay $549.99 / £429.99.

Execs

• Satisfying clicky switches
• Chunky (it’s factor)
• Implausible throttle motion

Cons

• Tremendous costly
• No stick twist help

Thrustmaster’s Warthog flight stick is a duplicate of the controllers within the basic A-10 Tankbuster, seemingly hewn from the identical military-grade supplies, and doubtless solely barely cheaper than a second-hand aircraft.

Sure, the Warthog is frighteningly costly, however should you’re already trying to decide up among the finest PC flight sticks then you definitely’ve in all probability acquired fairly area of interest tastes – and that is one of the simplest ways to fulfill them.

The Warthog has been round for some time now, nevertheless it’s nonetheless the perfect joystick for PC. It’s dear, however nonetheless manages to really feel value it if you’re hurtling by way of an asteroid belt, flipping on a pirate, and decreasing their ship to tiny bits of melty scrap.

That stated, we’re nonetheless eager to see what Logitech does with the Saitek model sooner or later and whether or not it’s going to provide some critical competitors to the Warthog.

9. Nacon Daija Arcade Stick

The greatest battle stick is the Nacon Daija Arcade Stick.
Anticipate to pay $279 / £279.

Execs:

• Premium and refined construct high quality
• Has each characteristic any combating sport participant wants

Cons:

Some gamers say you shouldn’t deliver a gamepad to a road battle, and the Nacon Daija Arcade Stick might assist you to land the ending blow in all the perfect combating video games. Developed alongside French esports participant Marie-Laure ‘Kayane’ Norindr, precision and performance are weaved into this stick’s DNA, two qualities that elevate it above different contenders.

Coming in at round $279, the Nacon Daija is much from being the most cost effective arcade stick available on the market. Weighing 3.4kg, you’ll additionally battle to overlook it’s stowed away in your backpack, however its hefty stature contributes to this chonky champion’s premium vibe.

Whether or not you’re new to tinkering with arcade sticks, or simply searching for a better time, the Nacon Daija has you coated. Its toolless design means you’ll be capable to swap out buttons and switches with out battle,  and useful diagrams will preserve you proper should you get in a tangle. On the skin, the Daija boasts a refined aesthetic, however you possibly can jazz issues up by including customized art work beneath the stick’s plexiglass overlay.

Sadly, the Nacon Daija Arcade Stick isn’t out there within the US in the intervening time, however you possibly can import one should you’re itching to improve your combating sport weaponry forward of Avenue Fighter 6.

Take a look at our Nacon Daija Arcade Stick evaluation for an in-depth take a look at our favorite battle stick.

10. Turtle Seaside VelocityOne

The greatest flight yoke is the Turtle Seaside VelocityOne.
Anticipate to pay $379.99 / £299.99.

Execs

• Simple to arrange
• Genuine
• Limitless profiles

Cons

• Temperamental menu controls
• Excessive value
• Barely cheaper really feel

Turtle Seaside constructed its Velocity One flight controller with Xbox in thoughts, nevertheless it nonetheless provides super worth for PC gamers. At this value, you’d anticipate loads, and also you do certainly get loads to your cash.

The Velocityone options an genuine 180-degree yoke deal with rotation that pushes and pulls for ascending and descending respectively, ten programmable buttons, swappable lever handles, and a built-in show you should use to customize just about every thing about this gadget.

It’s designed particularly for Microsoft Flight Simulator and provides extra performance than most, however nonetheless works wonderful with loads of different flight video games like Star Wars Squadrons and Elite Harmful.

Like most yokes, it’s fairly a bit bigger than a joystick and you have to to clear house in your gaming desk to piece it collectively, nevertheless it’s straightforward to arrange, makes gaming really feel like an occasion, and involves life when the RGB lighting begins to shine.

11. Fanatec Clubsport

The greatest PC racing wheel is the Fanatec Clubsport.
Anticipate to pay $799 / £700.

Execs

• Unimaginable pressure suggestions
• Modular
• Precision engineered

Cons

• Prices as a lot as a gaming PC
• Wheel and pedals are bought individually

The Fanatec Clubsport setup prices as a lot as a robust gaming PC, nevertheless it’s additionally the stuff of gaming peripheral goals – and it’s all down to simply how fantastically designed, created, and completed the Clubsport equipment is. If you happen to don’t go for one of many preconfigured bundles you’ll must create your individual, choosing and selecting from a really lengthy listing of goodies.

The primary wheelbase is similar throughout the board, however then you possibly can match totally different steering wheels, gearshifts, and pedals into the combo. They usually’re all constructed out of strong lumps of steel and precision-engineered elements. The Fanatec system has hands-down the perfect pressure suggestions system we’ve ever used, even all the way down to suggestions from the pedals, too.