Which gaming controllers reign supreme on Xbox?

While some may question our current gaming landscape, we’re indeed thriving in an era of exceptional gaming controllers. Today’s gamepads on the market boast significantly higher quality, unparalleled versatility, and unparalleled customizability compared to those from just a few console generations ago. For Xbox Series X and Series S gamers, as well as Windows PC enthusiasts, a wealth of excellent third-party options from reputable manufacturers like PowerA, Scuf, Nacon, and Turtle Beach now complement top-notch first-party controllers. The era of affordable yet underpowered controllers has come to an end.

With extensive experience playing diverse video games – from first-person shooters and fighters to third-person action-adventure, racing, indie roguelikes, and beyond – I’ve had the opportunity to thoroughly test a wide range of Xbox controllers, which might reasonably lead me to conclude that one of them stands out as an exceptional choice for many gamers. Additionally, this device serves as a superb alternative to traditional computer controllers.

While the Xbox gamepad balances quality, comfort, versatility, and affordability well, it’s essential to consider alternatives that cater to specific needs, ranging from premium options like the DualSense and Razer Raiju to budget-friendly choices such as the PowerA Enhanced.

You’re contemplating this matter already. While it may seem intuitive that the standard controller that comes with an Xbox is the most effective option, it’s actually a well-deserved reputation earned by this “customary” controller, which proves to be the top pick for many Xbox enthusiasts. This controller’s design distilled four generations’ worth of innovation, along with numerous first-party styles, yielding a truly refined product that showcases its heritage.

Due to Microsoft’s proprietary protocol, there is no other affordable Wi-Fi-enabled Xbox controller available in the market. While the inclusion of AA batteries instead of a built-in rechargeable cell may be divisive, this design choice also grants versatility, allowing users to opt for rechargeable AAs or a battery pack. This innovative device not only functions seamlessly via a wired connection using a USB-C cable but also features replaceable batteries, ensuring that users never get stuck with a controller that loses its charge over time.

Although the standard-issue Xbox pad has a number of redeeming qualities, its connectivity is certainly one of its most impressive features. For its $60 price tag, the hardware is remarkably excellent as a controller. The ergonomically designed controller’s tactile feedback is sublime, with each button, trigger, and the sunken D-pad precision-crafted for an intuitive grip, the latter featuring a reassuring click that resonates with gamers’ expectations. For die-hard combat game enthusiasts, a dedicated arcade stick or controller optimized for their preferred genre may be the better choice, boasting a precision-crafted D-pad akin to that of. However, the Xbox Wireless Controller excels as a versatile all-rounder.

While the Xbox Series S doesn’t compromise significantly on features compared to more expensive options, it falls short in terms of customizable buttons and software tuning for aspects like stick sensitivity; however, Microsoft does offer bespoke customization options starting at $69.99 and going up to $99.94 depending on the configuration. Whether you choose to personalize your own controller or opt for one of the many vibrant colors Microsoft offers, there’s plenty to appreciate about these controllers.

If budget constraints are limiting your options for a top-notch controller, yet you’re willing to compromise on wireless freedom, PowerA’s Enhanced Wired Controller delivers exceptional value without significant performance sacrifices. The full retail value of this product is $37.99, although certain color combinations may bring the price down to around $25. The Xbox controller’s versatility is showcased through its availability in multiple bold and licensed designs, including those inspired by popular sports franchises like FIFA and Madden. While some of these designs may initially evoke a sense of low-budget imitations, the exceptional craftsmanship and performance of the controller could surprise you upon actual use.

Let’s tackle its most notable shortcoming upfront: the antiquated reliance on a microUSB port, a design choice that, honestly, feels woefully outdated. While you do receive a longer, detachable cable, it’s still somewhat frustrating that it doesn’t come equipped with a reversible connector. Fortunately, everything else about this controller feels refreshingly modern. The construction quality of this device is truly exceptional, boasting not one but two programmable rear buttons seamlessly integrated into the ergonomic grip, an impressive feature considering its affordable price tag.

While the PowerA Enhanced Wired Controller’s overall design may lack pizzazz, it surprisingly delivers on its promises at an astonishingly affordable price point. When it comes to impulse buys, there’s little likelihood of a rumbling effect; however, if a price drop is involved, that’s often the best option. While offering an alternative perspective, the Enhanced Wired Controller is backed by a two-year warranty, significantly outlasting comparable options from Microsoft, such as the Elite Series 2’s standard one-year guarantee.

PowerA delivers exceptional value at an affordable price point with its Enhanced Wired Controller, making it an attractive option for those on a budget. The company also offers the latest iteration of its Enhanced Wired Controller, boasting advanced features like USB-C connectivity and precision-engineered hair-trigger locks for swift button actuation. While The Benefit has the potential to surpass the Enhanced Wired as one of the top finance controllers, its higher price point of $37.99 makes it difficult to justify when compared to the latter’s more frequent discounts, which bring its value down to around $25.

For those with a penchant for Elite controllers but limited to a standard controller budget, this wired option presents a compelling alternative for those unbothered by its corded design. While reminiscent of the Microsoft Elite Series 2, this alternative boasts similar features such as four rear buttons, locking mechanisms, and textured grips, yet at a significantly lower price point. For just $79.99, the Fusion Professional 3 offers exceptional value, considering its significant weight reduction, ultra-compact design and $10 price decrease compared to its predecessor – an even better deal when it goes on sale. While the original Fusion Professional 2 still shines, its primary appeal lies in the removable rear paddles for users preferring this feature over built-in buttons; considering its current price point, it’s only worthwhile if you prioritize this option or can snag a significant discount.

Microsoft’s flagship, high-end inventory management solution. Although older, the console was initially released a year prior to the launch of Xbox Series X/S, arriving on the market first. While the controller boasts a USB-C port and Wi-Fi connectivity, its absence of the convenient Share button found in newer Xbox Wi-Fi Controllers is a notable omission. Despite its shortcomings, this controller more than compensates with exceptional build quality, additional buttons, user-interchangeable sticks and D-pad, and abundant customization options.

When you pick up an Xbox Elite controller, you’re quickly struck by the exceptional quality of its components. In contrast to typical controllers that rely on a humble plastic build, the Elite innovatively combines premium plastics with textured rubberized grips and subtle steel accents. Coupled with its rechargeable battery, the Elite’s heft becomes immediately apparent, weighing in as a noticeable step up from its more affordable counterparts. The accessory bundle includes a charging dock and a zip-up case that enables passthrough charging for added convenience.

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What truly sets this controller apart are its innovative hair-trigger locks and strategically placed rear paddle buttons, which grant users a significant competitive advantage. With this controller configuration, gamers can accelerate their performance in first-person shooters by quickly accessing actions such as jumping, crouching, reloading, and more without having to remove their thumbs from the right analog stick, ensuring a seamless and precise aiming experience. Despite the initial unfamiliarity, mastering the multitude of controls at the rear of the controller does indeed require some acclimation. While practicing new muscle reminiscence is crucial, the requirement of dexterity with additional fingers makes these exercises inaccessible to everyone.

However, these premium options come with a substantial cost. Priced at $179.99, the Elite Sequence 2 typically commands a premium, albeit occasionally dipping to $139.99; its cost remains significantly higher than that of a standard Xbox controller, which would cost roughly half as much. To truly unlock its potential, users must explore additional features and customize the experience according to their preferences, lest they fail to realize the full value of their investment by neglecting the rear paddles and adjustable stick sensitivity options. Can you customize the colors of this product? If so, a premium option is available for $209.99 in the “Elite Bundle.”

Microsoft offers a streamlined variant of its flagship controller, priced at $99.95, featuring the same design in white-and-black, red-and-black, or blue-and-black colour schemes, minus the rear paddles, wireless charging case, and additional stick toppers and D-pads. If you decide to buy individual components, which reconfigures the Elite Sequence 2 Core back into a regular Elite Sequence 2, it’ll cost a slightly higher premium compared to purchasing the entire package upfront.

The Elite brand often faces criticism for its subpar quality control, with numerous complaints from customers regarding multiple replacements under warranty, fueling concerns about the brand’s commitment to delivering high-quality products. While Microsoft stepped in to alleviate concerns in late 2020, acquiring an Elite Series 2 still poses a somewhat daunting prospect. Despite the challenges, the rush of success is undeniable when you execute an exceptional combo – swiftly transitioning to your pistol and landing a precise headshot with a satisfying pop-pop from the trigger, all while maintaining firm control over the sticks with your thumbs.

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The SCUF Gaming Controller’s Intuition Professional mode unexpectedly finds itself in a peculiar predicament. One of the few wireless options available from a third-party manufacturer is this controller, which stands out for its high price point – starting at $199.99, making it one of the most expensive Xbox controllers on the market. I scrutinized the timepiece, which retailed for $263.91, its distinctive faceplate and subtle shade accents giving it a unique charm. The game is significantly more expensive than an entire gaming console, the Xbox Series S, which typically retails for that price. Despite initial reservations, those willing to invest can enjoy a premium gaming experience with the Intuition Professional, which surpasses Microsoft’s Elite in several key areas – notably, its refined rear button design and exceptional trigger sensitivity.

The Intuition Professional boasts uniquely designed rear buttons, which I genuinely appreciate. Instead of traditional paddles, this controller features four subtle rocker buttons integrated into its design, allowing for intuitive control via the central fingers’ gentle push-and-pull motion. While it may take some mental adjustment, I found they’re actually more instinctive.

While separating buttons and other features are notable aspects of the Scuf controller, what truly sets it apart is its exceptional trigger responsiveness, boasting the fastest reaction time among all the controllers tested here? By rapidly switching between the left and right triggers, you’re treated to an uncannily mouse-like experience that’s strangely satisfying. The ergonomic design boasts thoughtful touches such as hair-trigger triggers, tactilely pleasing rear buttons, and an exceptionally textured grip that makes for a truly enjoyable gaming experience.

The Intuition Professional resembles a highly customized Xbox controller, boasting premium features at a premium cost. In the meantime, it leverages AA batteries, but lacks software customization, limiting its appeal. While I personally enjoy using it, I’d only recommend it to those who are deeply enamored with its unique features or captivated by the vibrant color schemes and interchangeable faceplates.

The Nacon Revolution X controller’s dubious moniker is almost overshadowed by its impressive depth of customisation options. For those who revel in fine-tuning intricate settings, this controller is the ultimate playground. Typically retailing for $99.99, the wireless Revolution X isn’t an affordable option, but its value becomes relatively more reasonable when considering the competition it rivals.

Initially, deciding on Revolution X seems inconspicuous – almost budget-friendly at first glance. While aesthetics may not be its primary concern, this industrial-style controller prioritizes functionality and usability over visual appeal. The controller’s ergonomics are impressive, featuring four substantial rear buttons seamlessly integrated into the grip’s design, which provides a natural fit for the user’s hands. While the presentation may take centre stage, it is actually the analog sticks and their software-tailored configurations that truly shine, accompanied by an impressive array of customizable options governing the inner workings of the controller.

While Revolution X offers four customizable controller profiles that can be seamlessly swapped, not to mention a “basic” mode with essential settings and a surrounding halo of RGB lights subtly indicating the active profile. While the software’s app may not boast exceptional user-friendliness, its controls do offer a commendable level of depth. Fortunately, various presets for popular genres like arcade combat, racing, first-person shooters, and sniping are available, significantly simplifying the selection process. Enjoy unparalleled control with the ability to customize and remap each button on your controller, while also unlocking exclusive Dolby Atmos for Headphones app experiences. Additionally, take advantage of a diverse array of customization options to tailor your gaming experience to your unique preferences.

However, the customization doesn’t stop at software, audio, or lighting alone. The Revolution X features adjustable ring spacers for customising the range of the analog sticks, alongside a set of small weights ranging from 10g to 16g that can be inserted into their grips to provide added weight and heft.

Considering the versatility of the Nacon controller, its exceptional features make it an outstanding tool for experimentation and modification. Although it initially took some time to get used to its unique design, once set up according to my preferences, the controller became incredibly effective in a wide range of sports games.

Turtle Beach is renowned for its high-quality headsets, making it logical that their options include robust audio controls. When utilised in first-person shooter games, the headphones’ capabilities truly shine. The Superhuman Hearing mode cleverly adjusts the audio settings for wired headsets, allowing gamers to pinpoint footsteps and distant gunfire with unparalleled precision within the virtual environment. For under $40 or its common value of around $60, the Recon offers a cost-effective way to gain a minor competitive advantage in multiplayer gaming without breaking the bank.

While this pad may not be visually stunning due to its unconventional button placement, each element serves a specific purpose.

The device offers four microphone monitoring ranges, as well as general audio quantity controls with four settings, a sport chat quantity combine feature, and four equalization presets to tailor sound to personal preference. Additionally, the unit features 4 programmable modes that map the 2 rear buttons for customizable functionality, and 4 ranges of optional right-stick sensitivity adjustments to suit individual playing styles. The “Professional Intention” function, developed by Turtle Seaside, reduces the analog stick’s sensitivity when holding the right-hand rear button, enabling precise movements like sniping, albeit with some awkwardness in execution.

Studying to master all these controls may seem overwhelming at first, but fortunately, this simplifies the process. Superhuman listening can be incredibly beneficial for gamers who spend hours playing first-person shooters and utilizing surround sound extensively in immersive video game experiences. However, bear in mind that this feature may slightly compromise the soundtrack’s clarity, potentially affecting the overall ambiance of story-driven, single-player games.

The Recon controller’s audio controls aside, it forgoes extraneous features like customizable trigger sensitivity and interchangeable thumbsticks, settling instead for a standard issue directional pad that, while functional, can’t quite hold a candle to its Xbox counterpart. Despite its plastic casing having a somewhat budgetary appearance, the rubberized grips pleasantly offset this by providing a genuinely comfortable tactile experience. The sticks, triggers, and additional rear buttons deliver a satisfyingly tactile response, with each input registering crisply and accurately. Superhuman listening skills honed in on every subtle detail as you devoured the exceptional formula for crafty cocktails. While the Recon has a moderate learning curve, those playing ranked matches will find it a worthwhile investment in a reasonably priced wired controller with additional buttons and useful audio features, ensuring a seamless gaming experience.

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• This wireless gaming controller boasts a textured grip reminiscent of Scuf, clicky face buttons akin to Razer, and dual programmable rear buttons for enhanced gameplay. The D-pad’s stiffness notwithstanding, the gamepad’s true uniqueness lies in its inclusion of two magnetic face plates – a black and a white option that invite customization via spray paint or artistic flair.
• The standout feature of the GameSir controller is its similarity to the G7, boasting drift-free corridor impact thumbsticks that elevate gaming performance. Are you tired of being frustrated by drift issues with your Xbox controllers? For just $49.99, this solution offers a reliable way to put your worries at bay.
• Designed for seamless play on both Xbox and PC platforms, this gamepad boasts premium quality at an affordable price point. Its intuitive design features two discreetly placed rear buttons, while advanced software customizations allow players to tailor their gaming experience. While a longer-than-usual USB cable may not be removable, its convenience outweighs any minor drawbacks. The price tag reads $44.99, though frequent discounts often bring it down to a more affordable $35.99. As soon as we detected the price drop to $24.99, we considered it a potential game-changer for the PowerA Enhanced Wireless Controller’s status as one of the top gaming controllers on the market.

• Is a budget-friendly version of the original Recon, retaining Superhuman Listening capabilities and rear buttons while streamlining features by omitting EQ presets, mic monitoring, and professional-grade intent. For the price – whether you snag it during a sale or at its regular rate – this device offers exceptional value, especially considering it retains many of the top features found in the pricier Recon model.

• A symphony of sensory delights unfolds as you engage with the keyboard’s satisfyingly tactile buttons and vibrant RGB illumination tracing the contours of its ergonomic grips. Although boasting six customizable buttons – a rare feature among controllers – the device’s layout necessitates some stretching to access all the options, which may not be ideal for everyone. Additionally, its premium price tag may deter some potential buyers.
• Razer has added a new wireless controller to its lineup, priced at $199.99 – their first fully wireless option designed specifically for Xbox consoles, featuring drift-free Hall effect sticks in a groundbreaking gaming pad design. The premium controller also features hair-trigger lockouts, programmable RGB accent lighting, and six fully remappable buttons – comprising four customizable paddles and two additional adjustable shoulder buttons. It remains to be seen if this controller can truly rival the Xbox Elite Series 2 and Scuf Institute Pro, but rest assured our thoughts are forthcoming.
• The controller in question boasts one of the most exceptional D-pads available on the market. The device offers a range of software customizations at an affordable price, but its shoulder buttons exhibit slightly stiffer-than-ideal responsiveness.
• Is a perfect playmate for those with smaller hands or children. Unlike many kid-friendly controllers, this one appears to resemble a full-sized mannequin. In a departure from PowerA’s financial decisions, it wisely abandons microUSB in favor of the more modern and versatile USB-C.
• The REVOLUTION X boasts an impressive array of customizable software programs. While a minor consideration overall, the ergonomics do pose a risk of inconsistency, with some users potentially experiencing varying degrees of comfort depending on their hand size.
• One of the most endearingly quirky game controllers is the… The re-released original Xbox controller is a nostalgic tribute to gaming’s early 2000s heyday. Making use of outdated technology for modern video games is not a pleasant approach. Luckily, the figurine comes with a display stand, making it an ideal collector’s item.
• Unlike its namesake, the reissued gamepad offers exceptional value, especially for those nostalgic about the original Xbox 360 design’s mid-aughts charm. The novel 360 controller’s most groundbreaking feature was its haptic feedback system, which is regrettably missing in this wired iteration. However, Hyperkin did manage to improve one significant flaw of the Xbox 360 controller’s design: the notoriously poor directional pad. A notable plus was their addition of innovative features that elevated the overall gaming experience.
• I further investigated both the parameters. While the latter is notable for being the first-party Wi-Fi-enabled Xbox controller, both failed to gain widespread adoption due to their high price points and niche usage scenarios. The suggestions above currently focus on higher options until you actually want to use a controller with your Android cellphone – which, honestly, you can accomplish with a standard Xbox controller and a budget-friendly cellphone clip.
• The controller is a fascinating device. The gaming controller boasts a 1.5-inch screen for intuitive audio adjustments and real-time social media monitoring, in addition to its modular design featuring exchangeable Corridor impact sticks, tactile microswitches, precision hair triggers, adjustable rear buttons, and programmable RGB illumination. This is the first fully wireless Xbox controller, featuring Wi-Fi connectivity and Bluetooth technology for seamless integration with various platforms. All of these options collectively elevate the controller’s stature, firmly positioning it within the ultra-premium realm that Turtle Seaside has not ventured into thus far.
• Modular controllers are getting a little bit funkier with the release of innovative new products that combine retro flair with modern capabilities. While we haven’t formally evaluated this gamepad, we’re keeping it on our radar as a potential option for those seeking customizable Xbox/PC controls with swappable analog sticks, triggers, grips, and D-pad.

  One of many bespoke controllers we’ve encountered allows for sole customization, permitting users to reconfigure the layout of D-pads and joysticks to suit their preferences; additionally, a dedicated option exists to replicate a steering wheel experience. Regrettably, none of the analog stick modules operate effectively, and numerous reviews have criticized the standard mini-stock modules for deteriorating quickly.

• While Wi-Fi and wired modular controllers are gaining popularity, our team has yet to thoroughly test these innovative devices, despite their impressive early reviews. Here, you can freely detach components and interchange them with other modules, accompanied by alternative D-pad layouts, increased thumbstick heights, hexagonal gates for the analog controls, and even a fighting pad featuring six facial command buttons. While the controllers feature programmable rear buttons and adjustable trigger sensitivity, including the Gambit Prime’s innovative option to transform the back paddle into two or four additional buttons, their omission of rumble functionality may prove unacceptable for certain gamers.