The Best Controllers for Playing PC Games in 2025 and Beyond

For PC gamers, the keyboard and mouse reign supreme, but controllers offer a compelling alternative. The wireless Xbox controller, for example, provides unparalleled flexibility with mappable buttons and ergonomic design, perfect for extended play sessions. If you're seeking the best PC controller in 2025, look no further than our expert recommendations below.

TL;DR – Top PC Controllers:

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Making the switch from console to PC gaming? A controller can ease the transition, offering familiar comfort while exploring new platforms. Whether you're a racing enthusiast, enjoy couch co-op, or simply prefer the feel of a controller, the following options are ideal for modern PC gaming.

Xbox Series X Controller: 6 New Images

1. Xbox Core Controller

Enjoy the familiar Xbox layout on an ergonomic controller with remappable buttons, a tactile D-pad, and ample connectivity options. See it at Amazon, Target.

Product Specifications
Connectivity: Wireless, Bluetooth
Weight: 15.2 ounces
Features: D-pad, Share button, textured grip, custom button mapping
Battery: 2x AA

PROS: Feels good in your hands, Impulse trigger
CONS: Requires add-on for rechargeable batteries

While not revolutionary, the Xbox Core Controller offers valuable updates for PC gamers. The refined design, matte finish, textured grip, and dedicated Share button enhance the experience. Remappable buttons and multiple profile saving via the Xbox Accessories app add further customization.

2. PowerA Enhanced Wired Controller for Xbox Series X/S

A budget-friendly wired gamepad offering all essential inputs, vibration motors, and mappable buttons. See it at Amazon.

Product Specifications
Connectivity: Wired
Weight: 7.2 ounces
Features: Dual rumble motors, mappable buttons, metallic D-pad, headset dial
Battery: N/A

PROS: Affordable, Wide choice of colors
CONS: It’s wired

The PowerA Enhanced Wired Controller sacrifices wireless connectivity for affordability. Its familiar Xbox-like design, vibration motors, and mappable buttons provide a solid gaming experience without breaking the bank. The wired connection eliminates battery concerns.

3. Logitech F310

An ultra-affordable wired controller with dual joysticks, D-pad, bumpers, triggers, and programmable buttons. See it at Amazon, Dell, Best Buy.

Product Specifications
Connectivity: Wired
Weight: 6.4 ounces
Features: Programmable buttons, programmable D-pad
Battery: N/A

PROS: Really cheap, Comfortable
CONS: Software installation required for customization

The Logitech F310 is perfect for occasional controller use. While not ideal for extended play due to its basic ergonomics, its low price and essential functionality make it a worthwhile option for budget-conscious gamers.

4. Turtle Beach Recon Controller

A feature-rich wired gamepad with audio customization, on-the-fly button remapping, and textured grips. See it at Amazon, Best Buy, Target.

Product Specifications
Connectivity: Wired
Weight: 0.66 pounds
Features: Ergonomic cooling grips, mappable buttons, vibration feedback, microphone monitoring
Battery: N/A

PROS: Solid build quality, Good value for money
CONS: Crowded audio buttons layout

The Turtle Beach Recon Controller's plug-and-play functionality, detachable USB-A cable, integrated headset port, and Super Human Hearing audio enhancement make it a strong contender. On-the-fly button remapping and textured grips further enhance its appeal.

5. Sony DualSense Controller

A comfortable controller with impressive haptics and adaptive triggers for immersive gameplay. See it at Amazon, Best Buy, Target.

Product Specifications
Connectivity: Wireless, Bluetooth
Weight: 1.76 ounces
Features: Haptic feedback, adaptive triggers, built-in microphone
Battery: Up to 12 hours

PROS: Haptic feedback is insanely good, Sturdy
CONS: Mic quality isn’t the best

The Sony DualSense Controller's simple Bluetooth connectivity, rechargeable battery (though with limited battery life), and advanced haptics and adaptive triggers make it a top choice. Steam support ensures compatibility with a wide range of PC games.

6. Xbox Elite Wireless Series 2 Controller

A highly customizable high-end controller with swappable components, tunable triggers, rear paddles, and fully remappable buttons. See it at Amazon, Target, Newegg.

Product Specifications
Connectivity: Wireless, Bluetooth
Weight: 12.16 ounces
Features: Adjustable tension thumbsticks, rubberized grip, custom profiles, custom button mapping
Battery: Up to 40 hours

PROS: Highly customizable, Wireless charging
CONS: Might be too heavy for some

The Xbox Elite Series 2 Controller offers extensive customization options, including swappable components, tunable triggers, rear paddles, and remappable buttons. Its long battery life and wireless charging further enhance its premium appeal.

7. 8Bitdo Pro 2

A controller blending retro aesthetics with modern functionality, offering customizable profiles and on-the-fly swapping. See it at Amazon.

Product Specifications
Connectivity: Wireless, Wired
Weight: 8.04 ounces
Features: Paddle buttons, custom profiles, mode switch, enhanced grip
Battery: Up to 20 hours

PROS: Multiple profiles, Works with lots of devices
CONS: Programmable macros are somewhat limited

The 8Bitdo Pro 2 combines classic SNES-inspired design with modern features like customizable profiles, button remapping, and vibration. Its wireless and wired connectivity options offer versatility.

8. Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra

A standout controller with a display for adjustments and notifications, hall effect sticks, tactile switches, and extra mappable buttons. See it at Amazon, Turtle Beach, Best Buy.

Product Specifications
Connectivity: Wireless, Bluetooth
Weight: 0.54 pounds
Features: Charging dock, tactile microswitches, AntiDrift thumbsticks, customizable buttons and triggers
Battery: Up to 30 hours

PROS: Excellent mechanical buttons, RGB lights
CONS: No swappable thumbsticks

The Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra's unique Connected Command Display allows on-the-fly setting adjustments and phone notification viewing. Its tactile microswitches, hall-effect thumbsticks, trigger locks, and mappable buttons provide a premium gaming experience.

9. Razer Kitsune

A leverless fight stick with responsive buttons for precise inputs in fighting games. See it at Amazon, Razer.

Product Specifications
Connectivity: Wired
Weight: 1.7 pounds
Features: Low-profile Linear Optical switches, RGB lighting, Quad Movement button layout
Battery: N/A

PROS: Fast input speed, Highly accurate
CONS: Takes some getting used to

The Razer Kitsune's leverless design and responsive optical switches offer fast and accurate inputs ideal for competitive fighting games. Its compact size and durable build make it suitable for tournaments.

10. Fanatec Gran Turismo DD Pro

A direct drive racing wheel offering powerful force feedback, familiar controls, and a steel two-pedal set. See it at Fanatec.

Product Specifications
Connectivity: Wired
Weight: 22.26 pounds
Features: Custom motor, force feedback, 5 Nm of torque, OLED display, adjustable and upgradeable
Battery: N/A

PROS: Highly customizable, Profile switching
CONS: Some games required compatibility mode

The Fanatec Gran Turismo DD Pro delivers immersive simulation racing with its powerful direct drive motor, providing realistic force feedback. Its adjustable settings and upgradeable components cater to both casual and serious sim racers.

How to Choose the Best PC Controller

Selecting the best PC controller depends on individual preferences, gaming style, and device compatibility. Consider factors like ergonomics, game genre, compatibility, wired vs. wireless connectivity, and additional features like programmable buttons or vibration feedback.

FAQs

Is PC Gaming Better With a Controller? It's a matter of personal preference. Controllers are more versatile and portable.

Do All Xbox Controllers Work on PC? Xbox 360, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X|S controllers work via USB cable or Bluetooth.

Can I Use a PS5 Controller on PC? Yes, wirelessly (with Bluetooth) or wired.

Can you play any PC game with a controller? Not all games offer controller support. Check the game's store page or online resources for compatibility information.

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