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The best PC controller is a vital part of any PC gamer’s toolkit. And while the best gaming mouse (opens in new tab)<\/span>, when combined with the best gaming keyboard (opens in new tab)<\/span> will see you through most situations, there are a host of genres that really benefit from one of the best game controllers for PC.\u00a0<\/p>\nGames with certain control schemes are just better suited to a controller. And Elden Ring’s half-assed mouse and keyboard controls (opens in new tab)<\/span> could certainly tempt you toward a controller. It’s also true that some games that have been ported from console to PC end up with a monumentally confusing control system when using a mouse and keyboard.\u00a0And while we hate to be forced to use a controller, sometimes it’s simply the best tool for the job.<\/p>\n\nThis is true even for games held to be PC classics. The Witcher 3 (opens in new tab)<\/span>, for example, actually has a far more straightforward control system when played with the best PC controller.\u00a0<\/p>\nAnd just think, with the best PC controller in hand, you can sit back, relax, and get into a chilled gaming session, rather than staying hunched over the keyboard. We’ve tested today’s top console controllers and PC controllers to find out which ones are worth cheating on your trusty keyboard and mouse with.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Best PC controller<\/h2>\n\n
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The best wireless gaming controller<\/p>\n
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Specifications<\/h4>\n\n
Weight: <\/span>0.76lbs (345g) (+\/-15g)<\/span><\/p>\nConnectivity: <\/span>USB Type-C, Bluetooth, 2.4GHz<\/span><\/p>\nFeatures: <\/span>3-step trigger modes, replaceable thumbsticks, paddle switches<\/span><\/p>\nBattery: <\/span>Internal Rechargable Battery (40 Hours)<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n
Reasons to buy<\/h4>\n+<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0Lots of customization options<\/p>\n
<\/span>+<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0Detachable Charging Dock via USB-C\u00a0<\/p>\n
<\/span>+<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0Bluetooth-enabled (finally) \u00a0<\/p>\n
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Reasons to avoid<\/h4>\n–<\/span><\/p>\nHeavy compared to most controllers<\/p>\n
<\/span>–<\/span><\/p>\nSeriously expensive<\/p>\n
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If you use the Microsoft Elite Series 2 controller for more than ten minutes, you’ll understand why we have it at the number one spot. Everything about the Series 2 screams luxury. The near-endless customization options give you an unparalleled level of control (pun intended) over your gameplay. Being able to tweak all aspects of the controller, like d-pads, shift paddles, and joystick tension, is an absolute godsend.<\/p>\n
The most significant changes in the Series 2 over the Series 1 (which we also loved) include a neat little carrying case that doubles as a charging station for the controller’s new rechargeable battery with 40 hours of juice. Finally, with project Xcloud and Apple Arcade bringing some great games to mobile devices, you can easily pair the Series 2 controller via Bluetooth.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Spending $160 for a controller is a tough sell for most people, that’s near four times the price of an Xbox One controller, but if you’re a serious gamer who values performance and extreme levels of customization, the Series 2 is a no brainer and worth every penny.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Read the full Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 review (opens in new tab)<\/span>.<\/p>\n\n
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Best budget PC controller<\/p>\n
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Specifications<\/h4>\n\n
Weight: <\/span>0.99lbs (447g)<\/span><\/p>\nConnectivity: <\/span>micro USB<\/span><\/p>\nFeatures: <\/span>LED edge-lighting, 3-way trigger locks<\/span><\/p>\nBattery: <\/span>N\/A<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n
Reasons to buy<\/h4>\n+<\/span><\/p>\nGreat button feel\u00a0<\/p>\n
<\/span>+<\/span><\/p>\nMatches Xbox Series X|S controller<\/p>\n
<\/span>+<\/span><\/p>\nGood price\u00a0<\/p>\n
<\/span>+<\/span><\/p>\nImproved lighting over previous model<\/p>\n
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Reasons to avoid<\/h4>\n–<\/span><\/p>\nNo wireless support<\/p>\n
<\/span>–<\/span><\/p>\nTrigger locks are sub-par<\/p>\n
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PowerA’s Spectra Infinity Enhanced wired controller is a step up over the Spectra Enhanced we used to rate in this guide. The latest version has more similarities to the Xbox Series X|S controller, with notably more bright lights. It’s a pretty swanky controller nowadays, considering its budget price.<\/p>\n
The edge lighting gives the Spectra some personality, and the 3-way trigger locks are great for competitive shooters, too.\u00a0The Spectra would have scored higher, but the lack of any wireless connectivity is a big let down in the days of untethered gaming.<\/p>\n
A worthy sacrifice for a cheaper price, though. No doubt about that.<\/p>\n
Read the full PowerA Spectra Enhanced (non-Infinity) review (opens in new tab)<\/span>.<\/p>\n\n
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3. Xbox Wireless Controller<\/h3>\n <\/span> <\/span> <\/span> <\/span>The most reliable game pad<\/p>\n
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Specifications<\/h4>\n\n
Weight: <\/span>0.62lbs (281g)<\/span><\/p>\nConnectivity: <\/span>Xbox Wireless; Bluetooth<\/span><\/p>\nFeatures: <\/span>Hybrid D-pad, Textured Grip, Share button<\/span><\/p>\nBattery: <\/span>2x AA<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n
\nToday’s Best Deals<\/p>\n