What is the best gaming controller to buy?

18. Februar 2025

The best gaming controller to buy largely depends on your gaming preferences, the platform you play on, and your budget. But in general, there are a few standout controllers that cater to various gaming needs, from competitive esports players to casual gamers. Here are some of the top options for different uses:

1. Xbox Elite Series 2 Controller

Best for: Customization, Pro-Level Gaming, and Comfort

Platform Compatibility: Xbox, PC (Windows 10+)
Connectivity: Wired and wireless (Bluetooth)
Key Features:
- Adjustable thumbstick tension and paddle remapping for customizable gameplay
- Shortened trigger stops for faster shooting response
- High-quality materials, ergonomic design for long sessions
- Rechargeable battery with 40+ hours of battery life
- Profile switch for up to 3 customizable profiles
Why it’s the best: The Xbox Elite Series 2 is designed for competitive players who want maximum customization and precision. It’s highly durable and provides a premium feel. The ability to adjust the tension of the thumbsticks and trigger stops gives players a substantial advantage in speed and control, making it the best option for competitive gamers.

2. Sony DualSense Wireless Controller (PS5)

Best for: Next-Gen Immersion and Innovation

Platform Compatibility: PS5, PC (via Bluetooth or USB)
Connectivity: Wired and wireless (Bluetooth)
Key Features:
- Adaptive triggers with adjustable resistance for a more immersive experience
- Haptic feedback that gives nuanced sensations for different in-game events (e.g., rain, gunfire)
- Built-in microphone and speaker
- USB-C charging
- Integrated light bar and touchpad
Why it’s the best: The DualSense is a game-changer for next-gen gaming, offering cutting-edge features like adaptive triggers and haptic feedback that make you feel more immersed in the game. It's perfect for those looking for an innovative experience on the PS5 and even works well on PC for compatible games.

3. Razer Wolverine V2

Best for: Performance and Responsiveness in Competitive Gaming

Platform Compatibility: Xbox, PC
Connectivity: Wired (USB-C)
Key Features:
- Mecha-Tactile action buttons for quick and responsive inputs
- Trigger stops for faster firing in shooters
- Razer Chroma RGB lighting for personalized aesthetics
- 6 programmable multi-function buttons for custom commands
Why it’s the best: The Razer Wolverine V2 is built for serious gamers looking for the best performance. With its responsive mecha-tactile buttons and wired connectivity, it delivers low-latency input and a competitive advantage. Its customizable features allow for a personalized gaming experience, making it perfect for esports players.

4. Scuf Reflex Pro

Best for: Customizable Controllers with Pro Features

Platform Compatibility: PS5, PC
Connectivity: Wired and wireless (Bluetooth)
Key Features:
- Customizable thumbsticks, D-pads, and faceplates
- Rear paddles to keep thumbs on the analog sticks for faster response
- Trigger stops for reduced travel distance
- Fully remappable buttons
Why it’s the best: The Scuf Reflex Pro is designed for those who want a fully customizable controller. It’s particularly popular among competitive FPS and action game players because of the rear paddles that allow you to perform key actions without removing your thumbs from the analog sticks. It’s perfect for professional or hardcore gamers looking for elite-level performance.

5. Xbox Series X|S Controller

Best for: Standard Gaming and Reliable Performance

Platform Compatibility: Xbox, PC, Android, iOS
Connectivity: Wired and wireless (Bluetooth)
Key Features:
- Textured grip for better control
- Hybrid D-pad for more precise input
- Low-latency wireless connection via Xbox Wireless technology
- Share button for quick media sharing
Why it’s the best: The Xbox Series X|S controller is a great all-around option. It’s comfortable, easy to use, and responsive. With an ergonomic design and a D-pad that’s perfect for precision, it’s perfect for players looking for a reliable, high-quality controller without needing premium features.

6. Nintendo Switch Pro Controller

Best for: Switch Gamers Seeking Comfort and Performance

Platform Compatibility: Nintendo Switch, PC
Connectivity: Wired and wireless (Bluetooth)
Key Features:
- Comfortable, ergonomic design for long sessions
- Motion controls for certain games
- Amiibo functionality
- USB-C charging
Why it’s the best: The Switch Pro Controller is the best way to play most games on the Nintendo Switch if you want something more comfortable than Joy-Cons. It has a good build quality, ergonomic design, and the best experience for playing AAA games on the Switch, especially for titles like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild or Super Smash Bros. Ultimate.

7. 8BitDo Pro 2

Best for: Customizable Retro and Multi-Platform Use

Platform Compatibility: Switch, PC, Android, macOS, Steam, Raspberry Pi
Connectivity: Wired and wireless (Bluetooth)
Key Features:
- Adjustable triggers and sticks
- Back buttons that you can remap
- Extensive compatibility with multiple platforms
- Long-lasting battery life
- Retro design with modern controls
Why it’s the best: If you want a high-quality, customizable controller that works on multiple platforms, the 8BitDo Pro 2 is a fantastic option. It combines retro design with modern features, and you can remap the buttons and adjust the triggers for better gameplay. It’s perfect for those who want an all-in-one controller for different devices.

8. Astro C40 TR

Best for: Modular Customization & Precision

Platform Compatibility: PS4, PC
Connectivity: Wired and wireless (Bluetooth)
Key Features:
- Modular design for interchangeable thumbsticks and D-pads
- Fully customizable rear paddles and trigger stops
- Low latency with wired connection
- Excellent build quality and design
Why it’s the best: The Astro C40 TR is a premium modular controller that offers maximum customization. If you want precision control with the ability to adjust every element of the controller, this is a top pick. It's built for pro players and those who want ultimate control over their gameplay experience.

How to Choose the Best Controller for You:

Platform: Make sure the controller is compatible with the system you use (Xbox, PlayStation, PC, Nintendo, etc.).
Connectivity: Decide between wired or wireless. Wired controllers generally have less input lag, but wireless controllers offer more freedom.
Comfort and Ergonomics: Choose a controller that fits comfortably in your hands for long gaming sessions.
Customization: If you play competitively or want extra control, look for controllers with remappable buttons, trigger stops, and paddles.
Budget: Higher-end controllers like the Xbox Elite Series 2 or Scuf Reflex Pro come with premium features and a higher price tag, but for casual gamers, the standard Xbox or DualSense controllers offer excellent performance at a more affordable price.

Conclusion

The best gaming controller for you depends on what you're looking for—whether it's pro-level customization, next-gen features, ergonomics, or multi-platform support. If you want the absolute best for competitive gaming, the Xbox Elite Series 2 and Scuf Reflex Pro stand out. For a great all-around experience, the Xbox Series X|S Controller and Sony DualSense are excellent options, while the 8BitDo Pro 2 is perfect for retro gaming and multi-platform use.

Let's dive deeper into the details of a few popular controllers to help you decide which one best suits your needs. Here’s a breakdown of the Xbox Elite Series 2, Sony DualSense, and Razer Wolverine V2, with more in-depth features and advantages.

1. Xbox Elite Series 2 Controller

Overview:
The Xbox Elite Series 2 is the top-tier controller for competitive and pro-level gamers, offering unmatched customization, comfort, and performance. It's designed to be durable and precise, with premium features that let you adjust almost every aspect of the controller for a tailored gaming experience.

Key Features:

Adjustable Thumbsticks:
- Tension adjustment: You can fine-tune the thumbstick tension, allowing you to make it tighter or looser depending on your preference for aiming precision or movement control.
- Interchangeable thumbsticks: You can swap out the thumbsticks for different shapes and sizes, allowing for a custom feel.
Paddle Remapping:
- Four rear paddles can be remapped to any button, allowing for quicker access to commands without removing your thumbs from the analog sticks. This is crucial for fast-paced games, especially in shooters and battle royales.
Trigger Stops:
- The Elite Series 2 comes with trigger stops that shorten the travel distance of the triggers. This makes it perfect for games that require fast shooting, as it reduces the time between pressing the trigger and firing.
Profile Switching:
- You can create and store up to three different profiles directly on the controller, letting you easily switch between customized setups without needing to adjust settings in the game or software.
Battery & Charging:
- The rechargeable battery lasts for over 40 hours of gaming on a single charge, and the controller comes with a charging dock for convenient recharging.
Build Quality:
- Made with premium materials, the controller feels very solid and durable. The rubberized grip ensures that it stays comfortable during long gaming sessions.

Why it’s great:

Ideal for competitive gamers who need precision and customization.
The paddles and adjustable thumbsticks give you an edge in high-stakes gaming, especially for FPS, fighting, and racing games.
If you value customizability and comfort during long gaming sessions, the Elite Series 2 is top-tier.

2. Sony DualSense Wireless Controller (PS5)

Overview:
The DualSense controller is the centerpiece of the PlayStation 5’s innovative design. It offers groundbreaking features like adaptive triggers and haptic feedback that immerse you deeper into games. While it’s built for PS5, it also works great on PC and even mobile devices.

Key Features:

Adaptive Triggers:
- The adaptive triggers change resistance based on in-game actions. For example, when pulling back a bowstring, the trigger will feel more resistant, mimicking the tension of an actual bow. This feature is groundbreaking and adds a new layer of immersion.
Haptic Feedback:
- The haptic feedback provides nuanced sensations, allowing you to feel various textures and sensations, like walking through different surfaces or feeling the impact of a heavy hit. This makes each game experience feel unique.
Built-In Mic and Speaker:
- The DualSense has a built-in microphone, so you don’t need a separate headset for basic voice chat. It also features a speaker that adds immersive sounds directly from the controller (e.g., footsteps, environmental sounds).
USB-C Charging:
- The USB-C port makes charging faster and more reliable compared to older micro-USB controllers. You can also use the charging dock to recharge it when not in use.
Ergonomic Design:
- The controller has a slightly larger and more ergonomic design than previous PlayStation controllers. The grip is comfortable, and the buttons and sticks are designed for smoother movements, making it easier for longer gaming sessions.

Why it’s great:

Perfect for next-gen PS5 experiences, especially with the adaptive triggers and haptic feedback that bring immersion to a new level.
The built-in mic and speaker are awesome for quick voice chats without needing a full headset.
Works well on PC, although some features (like adaptive triggers) are limited to PS5 games.

3. Razer Wolverine V2

Overview:
The Razer Wolverine V2 is a wired controller designed for high-performance gaming. It’s tailored for players who want precision, responsiveness, and customization, making it a great option for esports and competitive gaming on Xbox and PC.

Key Features:

Mecha-Tactile Action Buttons:
- Razer’s mecha-tactile buttons combine the fast response time of mechanical switches with a comfortable feel. These buttons are clicky and responsive, reducing the delay between pressing a button and the action being executed.
Trigger Stops and Sensitivity Clutch:
- The controller comes with trigger stops, which reduce the travel distance, making it great for shooting games where you need rapid response. The sensitivity clutch allows you to adjust the sensitivity of the thumbsticks for precision aiming.
Razer Chroma RGB Lighting:
- The controller features Chroma RGB lighting, which can be customized to show off your unique style. You can sync it with other Razer peripherals to create a consistent gaming setup.
Ergonomic Design:
- The Wolverine V2 has ergonomically designed grips to ensure you’re comfortable during long sessions. It’s lightweight and has a textured surface for better grip.
Audio and Mic Support:
- It supports 3.5mm audio for headphones and has a built-in volume control for on-the-fly adjustments.

Why it’s great:

Great for competitive gamers who want a highly responsive wired controller for precision gameplay.
Razer Chroma RGB lets you express your personal style while gaming.
If you're on Xbox or PC and want customizability, this controller offers great value with high-end features like trigger stops and mecha-tactile buttons.

In Summary:

Xbox Elite Series 2 is the best choice if you need the ultimate level of customization, precise controls, and durability. Perfect for competitive players who want top-tier features and performance.
Sony DualSense is ideal if you’re gaming on the PS5 and want to experience next-gen features like adaptive triggers and haptic feedback. It’s also a good option on PC for those looking to experience PlayStation-like immersion.
Razer Wolverine V2 is the best for competitive Xbox and PC gamers who need fast response times, customizable controls, and ergonomic comfort. It’s built for high-level gaming and offers a more affordable option compared to the Xbox Elite Series 2.