The perfect Xbox controllers: Microsoft, Scuf, PowerA, and extra

You might not notice it, however we’re dwelling in a golden age of gaming controllers. The gamepads in the marketplace now are increased high quality, extra versatile, and extra customizable than something from only a few console generations in the past. If you happen to’re gaming on an Xbox Collection X or Collection S (or a Home windows PC), you now have a plethora of nice third-party choices from the likes of PowerA, Scuf, Nacon, and Turtle Seaside, in addition to high-quality first-party controllers. The times of a budget “little sibling” controller that appeared cool however barely labored are over.

I’ve spent a ton of time enjoying every kind of video games (first-person shooters, fighters, third-person action-adventure, racing, indie roguelikes, and many others.) to check a large swath of Xbox controllers, and it could be unsurprising that the usual Xbox Wi-fi Controller is the very best Xbox controller for many. It makes an excellent PC controller, too.

However whereas the de facto Xbox gamepad strikes the best steadiness of high quality, consolation, versatility, and value, there are a number of alternate options price cross-shopping in case you have particular wants — starting from high-end choices just like the Xbox Elite Collection 2 and Scuf Intuition Professional to high quality funds picks just like the PowerA Enhanced Wired Controller.

Connectivity: Xbox wi-fi, Bluetooth, wired / Connector kind: USB-C / Mappable rear buttons: No / Software program customization: No / Energy: AA batteries or add-on rechargeable

Okay, I already know what you’re considering. “The perfect controller for Xbox is the one which comes with the Xbox?” That will look like a no brainer, however this “normal” controller really does earn this title as the best choice for many Xbox avid gamers. It might lack a few of the further options that we’ll go over on premium choices, however this controller is the distillation of 4 generations and quite a few first-party controllers earlier than it — and it reveals.

That is the one inexpensive wi-fi Xbox controller on the market, due to Microsoft’s proprietary protocol. Whereas some might hate that it comes with AA batteries as a substitute of a built-in rechargeable cell, that additionally means it’s versatile, permitting for rechargeable AAs or a battery pack. It additionally works as a wired accent with a USB-C cable, and user-replaceable batteries imply you’re not caught with a controller that doesn’t maintain its cost after years of use.

However the standard-issue Xbox pad isn’t simply nice due to its connectivity. The {hardware} itself is great for the controller’s $60 asking value. The sticks, buttons, triggers, and the sunken dish-shaped D-pad all really feel impeccably tight, with the latter having a satisfying clickiness to it. If you happen to’re a hardcore preventing sport fan, you might be higher served by an arcade stick or a controller geared towards that style — one with an impeccable D-pad like Hori’s Horipad Professional — however the Xbox Wi-fi Controller is an distinctive jack-of-all-trades.

The one issues it actually lacks in comparison with pricier choices are further, customizable buttons and software program tuning for issues like stick sensitivity, although Microsoft does supply beauty customization by its Xbox Design Lab, which ranges from $69.99 to $99.94 relying on the configuration. There’s rather a lot to like about these controllers, whether or not you make your personal or pick one from the varied colours Microsoft continues to supply.

Connectivity: Wired / Connector kind: Micro USB / Mappable rear buttons: Two / Software program customization: No / Energy: Wired

If you happen to’re in search of an excellent controller however don’t have some huge cash to spend — and also you don’t thoughts a cable — PowerA’s Enhanced Wired Controller provides an impeccable worth with out sacrificing an excessive amount of. Its full retail value is $37.99, however some colour schemes can dip as little as round $25. Talking of colours, the Enhanced Wired Controller is available in all kinds of hues and designs, together with licensed ones from sport franchises like Mass Impact and Fallout. A few of these designs might make you observed these are low-cost, cringe-inducing knockoffs, however the high quality of the controller might shock you while you use it.

First off, let’s get its greatest draw back out of the way in which: it makes use of a microUSB connection (gross, I do know). You not less than get a prolonged, removable cable with it, however not having a reversible connector is annoying. Fortunately, nothing else about this controller feels so outdated. Its construct high quality is simply tremendous, and it even has two mappable rear buttons constructed into the grips — which is nice to have at such a low value.

The remainder of the PowerA Enhanced Wired Controller is a complete lot of desk stakes, however it executes every part fairly properly for a ridiculously inexpensive value. There’s no impulse set off rumble, but when there’s any function to low-cost out on, I’d say that’s the best selection. On the flip aspect, the Enhanced Wired Controller comes with a two-year guarantee, which is twice so long as dear choices like Microsoft’s Elite Collection 2 supply.

PowerA provides a complete lot of bang in your buck with the Enhanced Wired Controller for those who’re on a decent funds. It additionally sells the Benefit Wired Controller, which is basically a more moderen model of the Enhanced Wired Controller with USB-C and hair-trigger lockouts. The Benefit could possibly be a shoo-in to dethrone the Enhanced Wired as the very best funds controller, however at $37.99, it could actually’t but match the Enhanced Wired’s near-perpetually discounted value of round $25.

If in case you have Elite controller tastes however a normal controller funds, the PowerA Fusion Professional 3 is a tremendous various for those who don’t thoughts that it’s wired. It appears to be like a bit just like the Microsoft Elite Collection 2, full with 4 rear buttons, set off lockouts, and rubberized grips, however prices a lot much less. The Fusion Professional 3 is considerably lighter than its predecessor, plus it has a extra compact case and is $10 cheaper — providing fairly the worth for $79.99 (particularly if it begins occurring sale). The older Fusion Professional 2 continues to be tremendous, particularly for those who desire removable rear paddles to built-in buttons, however at this level, it’s solely price it for that desire or if it’s closely discounted.

Connectivity: Xbox wi-fi, Bluetooth, wired / Connector kind: USB-C / Mappable rear buttons: As much as 4 / Software program customization: Sure / Energy: Constructed-in rechargeable

The Xbox Elite Wi-fi Controller Collection 2 is Microsoft’s fancied-up, premium model of the inventory controller. It’s additionally older, having been launched a yr earlier than the Xbox Collection X / S consoles arrived. So whereas it does sport a USB-C port and wi-fi assist, it lacks the handy Share button discovered on the most recent Xbox Wi-fi Controller. Nonetheless, it makes up for that in droves with distinctive construct high quality, further buttons, user-swappable sticks and D-pad, and plenty of customization.

If you happen to decide up an Xbox Elite controller, you immediately acknowledge the standard of supplies put into it. The place the usual controller makes use of an unassuming plastic construct, the Elite mixes higher-quality plastic with rubberized grips and bits of steel. Mix this with its built-in rechargeable battery, and the Elite is noticeably heavier than its cheaper brethren. It additionally comes with a charging dock and zip-up case with passthrough charging.

As glorious because the match and end are, the important thing elements which will offer you a aggressive edge are the hair-trigger locks and rear paddle buttons. In concept, the hair set off will get pictures off sooner when enjoying shooters, and the rear paddles help you soar, crouch, reload, and many others., with out taking your thumb off the best stick for aiming. Nonetheless, utilizing that many buttons on the again of the controller positively takes some adjustment. It’s a must to practice new muscle reminiscence, and because it requires dexterity with extra fingers, they’re not for everybody.

These premium options come at a steep price, too. The Elite Collection 2 is generally priced at $179.99, and despite the fact that it sometimes drops as little as $139.99, it’s nonetheless greater than twice as costly as an everyday Xbox controller. It’s a must to actually need its further options and person customization, and for those who’re not utilizing its rear paddles or the software program changes for stick sensitivity, you’re not getting your cash’s price. (And if you wish to customise the colours, you’re $209.99 for the Design Lab “Elite Bundle.”)

Microsoft additionally has a stripped-down Elite Collection 2 “Core” model with an MSRP of $129.99, which is identical controller in white-and-black, red-and-black, or blue-and-black finishes with out the rear paddles, accent charging case, or further stick toppers and D-pad. You will get all of these in a $30 equipment pack, which turns the Elite Collection 2 Core again into a normal Elite Collection 2 and truly makes it a barely higher deal if the total bundle isn’t on sale.

You will need to additionally remember that the Elite has a little bit of a fame for lackluster high quality management, with horror tales from customers about going by a number of replacements underneath guarantee. Microsoft prolonged the controller’s guarantee from 90 days to a yr in late 2020 to assist tackle issues, however shopping for an Elite Collection 2 should really feel like a barely dangerous proposition. Nonetheless, while you nail that excellent sequence — switching to your pistol and touchdown a headshot with a fast pop-pop of the hair set off whereas your thumbs keep firmly planted on the sticks — it could actually really feel price it.

Learn our Xbox Elite Wi-fi Controller Collection 2 evaluate.

Connectivity: Xbox wi-fi, Bluetooth, wired / Connector kind: USB-C / Mappable rear buttons: 4 / Software program customization: No / Energy: AA batteries or add-on rechargeable

The Scuf Intuition Professional finds itself in a little bit of a bizarre spot. It’s one of many solely wi-fi choices at the moment out there from a 3rd occasion — Razer’s new Wolverine V3 Professional is one other — however it’s additionally one of the vital costly Xbox controllers round (it begins at $199.99). The one I examined clocked in at $263.91 with a particular faceplate and added colour accents. That’s greater than the Xbox Collection S sometimes sells for, which is a complete console. Nonetheless, you’re in for a deal with for those who’re okay with spending that sort of cash, because the Intuition Professional is arguably higher than Microsoft’s Elite in some very particular methods — primarily, its consolation and implementation of rear buttons and hair triggers.

The Intuition Professional has very distinctive rear buttons, and I truly desire them. As an alternative of paddles, there are 4 rocker-like buttons constructed into the controller’s physique that you simply push towards or away out of your hand with a center finger. It nonetheless requires coaching your mind a bit to get accustomed to it, however I discovered them extra intuitive.

Rear buttons apart, the Scuf’s different massive function is its hair triggers, which have the quickest response of all of the controllers examined right here. Simply flick a swap on the again, and the left and proper triggers really feel such as you’re clicking a mouse — it’s extremely satisfying. The hair triggers, rear buttons, and the wonderful textured grip materials on the controller’s underside make this controller a pleasure to make use of.

The Intuition Professional appears like Scuf primarily hot-rodded a inventory Xbox controller, however like every boutique merchandise, it comes with an enormous price. In the meantime, it nonetheless makes use of AA batteries and lacks software program customization, in order a lot as I take pleasure in utilizing it, I’d solely advise getting one for those who’re tremendous enthusiastic about its very particular qualities otherwise you completely love the colourful accents and magnetically swappable faceplates on Scuf’s configurator.

Connectivity: Wired / Connector kind: USB-C / Mappable rear buttons: 4 / Software program customization: Sure / Energy: Wired

RIG’s Nacon Revolution X could also be worthy of an award for awful naming, however its actual strengths are in its deep customization. If you happen to’re the kind that likes to endlessly tinker with plenty of detailed settings, that is the controller for you. Usually priced at $99.99, the wired Revolution X and its added options don’t come low-cost, however the value is somewhat fairer when you think about the competitors it squares up towards.

While you first decide up the Revolution X, it appears very unassuming — and borderline low-cost. Whereas it’s not a looker, it’s a form-follows-function kind of controller. It’s comfortable to make use of, and its 4 rear buttons constructed into the grips are giant and properly contoured. The true stars of this present, nevertheless, are the analog sticks and their software program customizations, in addition to the expansive customized choices for different internal workings of the controller.

Whereas different user-customizable controllers have three person profiles you’ll be able to swap between on the fly, the Revolution X has 4 — plus a “traditional” mode with fundamental settings and a hoop of RGB gentle round the best keep on with remind you what mode you’re in. The software program app will not be probably the most user-friendly, however the controls go very in-depth. Fortunately, there are useful beginning factors with presets for arcade preventing video games, racing, FPS video games, and even sniping, which makes the choices a lot simpler to grasp. Add the power to customise and remap each button on the controller, in addition to a Dolby Atmos for Headphones app license, and also you’ve received numerous customization choices.

The customization doesn’t cease with software program, audio, or lighting, nevertheless. The Revolution X comes with ring spacers to regulate the vary of the analog sticks, too, in addition to a sequence of small weights starting from 10g to 16g, which you’ll insert into its grips to provide them an extra quantity of heft.

Including up all these options, you see why the Nacon is such an excellent controller for tinkering. It took me time to heat as much as it, however upon setting it up the way in which I most well-liked, it made for a really compelling controller in quite a lot of sport sorts.

Connectivity: Wired / Connector kind: USB-C / Mappable rear buttons: Two / Software program customization: No / Energy: Wired

Turtle Seaside is understood for its headsets, so it is smart that its Recon wired controller options some sturdy audio controls. Its strengths actually come into focus when enjoying first-person shooters, the place its Superhuman Listening to mode tweaks the audio of any wired headset to attract out footsteps and distant gunfire within the combine. At its common value of round $60, and as soon as promoting as little as $39.95, the Recon is a reasonably inexpensive strategy to acquire a slight aggressive edge in multiplayer video games with out spending properly over $100 on a controller.

This pad isn’t going to win any magnificence contests due to all these awkward buttons situated smack-dab in the midst of its brow, however every one has a sound function. There are 4 ranges of microphone monitoring, total sport quantity controls, sport chat quantity combine, 4 EQ presets, 4 programmable modes for mapping the 2 rear buttons, and 4 ranges of non-obligatory right-stick sensitivity changes. That final function, dubbed Professional Purpose by Turtle Seaside, lowers the sensitivity of the best analog stick when you maintain the right-hand rear button, permitting for very small actions like sniping, although it’s a bit clumsy to make use of.

Studying to make use of all these controls might sound daunting, however the controller’s quick-start information makes it simpler. Superhuman Listening to could be very useful for shooters and value utilizing extensively for video games like Halo Infinite — simply remember that it’s going to muddy up the soundtrack somewhat, so you might need to depart it off throughout story-driven, single-player video games.

Audio controls apart, the Recon lacks fancy options like hair triggers and swappable thumbsticks, and the D-pad appears to be like like the usual Xbox Wi-fi Controller however pales compared. The controller’s plastic construct feels low-cost, however the rubbery grips redeem it with a pleasant and cozy really feel. As for the sticks, triggers, and extra rear buttons, all of them really feel tight and snappy. Mix that with Superhuman Listening to, and also you’ve received an excellent recipe for shooters. The Recon has a little bit of a studying curve, however for those who play ranked matches and worth a reasonably priced wired controller with further buttons and useful audio capabilities, you’ll be able to’t go fallacious right here.

Learn our Turtle Seaside Recon evaluate.

• The GameSir G7 is a terrific wired controller with a textured grip that feels a tiny bit like a Scuf, clicky face buttons like a Razer, and two programmable rear buttons. Its D-pad is somewhat too stiff, however what makes this gamepad distinctive is it comes with two magnetic face plates — one black, one white — which can be primed for personalization with spray paint or markers.
• The extra attention-grabbing GameSir controller is the G7 SE, which is sort of the identical because the G7 however with drift-free Corridor impact thumbsticks. If you happen to’ve ever been jilted by stick drift on any of your Xbox controllers earlier than, the GameSir G7 SE is properly price its $49.99 asking value to ease your issues.
• 8BitDo’s Final Wired Controller for Xbox and PC is a high quality, inexpensive gamepad with two rear buttons and software program customization, although the prolonged USB cable will not be removable. It prices $44.99 however is usually discounted to as little as $35.99. We as soon as noticed it dip to $24.99, and if that began occurring with regularity, it may dethrone the PowerA Enhanced Wired as the very best funds possibility.
• Turtle Seaside’s React-R is a stripped-down Recon that maintains Superhuman Listening to and rear buttons however omits EQ presets, mic monitoring, and Professional-Purpose for a decrease $39 value. It’s a superb worth, particularly for those who discover it on sale for as little as $29.99, sustaining a few of the greatest options of the Recon for cheaper.
• Razer’s Wolverine V2 Chroma is a feast for the ears and eyes, due to very clicky buttons and a strip of RGB lighting alongside the grips. It has extra customizable buttons than another controller (six complete), although their positioning requires reaching, and it’s a bit dear.
• Razer additionally just lately launched the $199.99 Wolverine V3 Professional, which is the corporate’s first totally wi-fi controller for Xbox consoles and the primary Razer gamepad to sport drift-free Corridor impact sticks. The premium controller additionally options hair-trigger lockouts, RGB accent lighting, and 6 remappable buttons (together with 4 customizable paddles and two further shoulder buttons). It stays to be seen whether or not it could actually go toe-to-toe with the Xbox Elite Collection 2 and Scuf Intuition Professional, however we’ll be sharing our impressions quickly.
• Briefly talked about above, the Horipad Professional has among the finest D-pads round. It additionally provides numerous software program customization at an inexpensive value, however its shoulder buttons are a bit stiff.
• PowerA’s Nano Enhanced Wired Controller is an adorably small man for individuals with tinier palms or kids. In contrast to most kid-centric gamepads, it appears to be like similar to a full-size mannequin, and in contrast to our funds decide from PowerA above, it ditches microUSB for USB-C (hallelujah!).
• The Nacon Professional Compact Controller has a few of the Revolution X’s glorious software program customization at a a lot lower cost. It’s additionally one of many smaller choices round, although the ergonomics might really feel hit and miss relying in your hand dimension.
• One of many dumbest but loveliest controllers is the Hyperkin Duke. This reissue of the unique Xbox pad is a love letter to the salad days of 2001. It’s simply not nice to make use of for contemporary video games. Fortunately it comes with a show stand, because it’s extra of a collector piece.
• In contrast to the Duke, the Hyperkin Xenon is a reissued gamepad that’s truly price utilizing, particularly in case you have an affinity for the mid-aughts Xbox 360 design. The unique 360 controller’s greatest innovation was its intuitive wi-fi system, which is unfortunately absent from this wired reincarnation. However hey, not less than Hyperkin improved on the Xbox 360 controller’s terrible D-pad and included some cool color-matched USB-C cables.
• I additionally examined the Turtle Seaside Recon Cloud and PowerA MOGA XP-Extremely. Whereas the latter is noteworthy for being the primary third-party wi-fi Xbox controller, neither made the lower resulting from excessive prices and area of interest use circumstances. The suggestions above current higher alternate options until you actually need to use a controller with an Android telephone — which, frankly, you are able to do with a normal Xbox controller and an inexpensive telephone clip.
• The Turtle Seaside Stealth Extremely is an attention-grabbing controller we haven’t but examined. It has a 1.5-inch show for adjusting audio settings (and checking social media, apparently), swappable Corridor impact sticks, microswitches, hair triggers, remappable rear buttons, and customizable RGB lighting. It’s the model’s first totally wi-fi Xbox controller, too, and comes with Bluetooth to permit compatibility with different platforms. All of those options contribute to the controller’s $199.99 price ticket, which places it within the ultra-premium territory that Turtle Seaside hasn’t dabbled in till now.
• Modular controllers are getting somewhat funkier with the discharge of Thrustmaster’s eSwap X2 Professional. We haven’t examined it and thus can’t advocate the wired Xbox / PC gamepad, however we’re placing it on the radar for many who would possibly recognize having hot-swappable analog sticks, triggers, grips, and D-pad. It’s one of many solely customizable controllers we’ve seen that allows you to rearrange the positioning of D-pads and sticks nevertheless you need, and you’ll even purchase a racing module that’s meant to simulate a steering wheel. Sadly, not one of the analog stick modules function Corridor impact sensors, and there are fairly a number of experiences that the usual mini-stock modules are susceptible to degrading after a short while.
• PDP’s Victrix Professional BFG (wi-fi) and Victrix Gambit Prime (wired) are one other pair of modular controllers getting respectable reception proper now, although we haven’t examined them but. Each help you take away modules and swap in others, together with alternate D-pad designs, taller thumb sticks, hexagonal gates for the analog sticks, and even a preventing pad that provides you six frontal face buttons. The controllers even have programmable rear buttons and customizable hair triggers (the Gambit Prime uniquely allows you to customise the again paddle to provide you entry to 2 or 4 further buttons), however their lack of rumble could also be a nonstarter for some.

Pictures by Antonio G. Di Benedetto / The Verge

Replace, August twenty ninth: Adjusted pricing and particulars relating to a number of controllers, together with Razer’s Wolverine V3 Professional. Brandon Widder additionally contributed to this put up.