Nowadays, you can play most games on your PC using your keyboard and mouse, but some games like Elder Ring or Spider-Man just don’t feel right without a controller. But, finding a good controller can be quite hard.
What you need for certain games won’t be needed for others. For instance, looking at the 32red review, you’ll see you won’t need a controller, just a mouse. Yet for first-person shooters like Call of Duty, you’ll want extra paddles on your controller that make movement and shooting easier.
That’s why we’ve rounded up some of the best PC game controllers.
Xbox Wireless Controller
We couldn’t start this list without mentioning the Xbox Wireless Controller, the latest model of the standard Xbox controllers. This controller is included in the Xbox Series X/S, and you can plug it into your PC using a USB port or play wireless using a Bluetooth connection.
Being an Xbox controller, this model is compatible with most PC games. Unfortunately, unlike other wireless controllers, the Xbox standard model uses double AA batteries, which you will need to replace from time to time.
Dualsense Wireless Controller
Now, Suppose you’re a PlayStation fan who wants to experience God of War, or the upcoming The Last of Us release on your PC, just like in the original console. In that case, you might want to try the Dualsense controller.
This controller was launched alongside the PS5. Since then, it has become one of the best gaming controllers on the market. You can connect the dual sense to your PC with a USB or play with it as if it were a regular wireless controller. Unlike the Xbox controller, the dualsense uses a rechargeable internal battery.
One of the main features of the Dualsense controller is its haptic feedback technology, which makes the control response to what’s happening in the game. The controller also has adaptive triggers and a built-in microphone allowing you to speak while playing.
The only disadvantage of the Dual Sense is that older PC games might not recognize it. So you might need to use third-party software like Reward or Steam Controller to make it work. You also have to consider the price as it is a bit more expensive than the standard Xbox Controller.
Xbox Elite Series 2
Now, if you just want a better Xbox controller, then the Xbox Elite Series 2 is the perfect option. The Xbox Elite Series has replaceable thumbstick toppers and tension adjusters, allowing you to adjust the precision of your movements.
You can also customize the controller’s buttons and switch between profiles while playing, making it one of the most efficient gaming controllers on the market.
Just like the standard version, the Elite Series 2 is compatible with virtually any PC game, so you won’t need any third-party programs. Unlike its predecessor, the Elite Series 2 has a rechargeable internal battery, so you won’t have to buy new batteries to play wirelessly.
The only downside of this controller is its price. While the standard version costs £54.99, the Xbox Elite Series costs £139.99. But, if you can afford it, then we recommend it as it’s easily the best choice for gaming.