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10 Best PC controllers 2026 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Xbox Wireless Gaming Controller (2025) – Pulse Red – Play on Xbox, Windows, Android, iOS, FireTV Sticks, Smart TVs, VR Headsets

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,216
Ergonomics
Button Layout
Connectivity

Most important from
24456 reviews

Ergonomics
Its solid build quality and sleek design stand out, providing a comfortable and well-balanced feel during extended play.
Button Layout
Customizable button mappings through the Xbox Accessories app allow personalization to suit individual preferences.
Connectivity
Seamless connectivity across Xbox, Windows, Android, and iOS platforms makes switching devices effortless and enhances versatility.
Compatibility
Seamless connectivity across Xbox, Windows, Android, and iOS platforms makes switching devices effortless and enhances versatility.
Build Quality
The controller delivers reliable performance every time, making it a dependable choice for both casual and long gaming sessions.
Additional Features
The dedicated Share button simplifies capturing and sharing gameplay moments, adding convenience for content creators.

The Xbox Wireless Gaming Controller (2025) is designed with comfort in mind, featuring sculpted surfaces and a refined shape that makes long gaming sessions more enjoyable. Its button layout includes a new hybrid D-pad and textured grips on triggers and bumpers, which help with precise control and reduce slipping. Connectivity is strong, supporting both Xbox Wireless and Bluetooth, allowing smooth switching between various devices like Xbox consoles, Windows PCs, Android and iOS phones, Fire TV sticks, smart TVs, and even VR headsets. This wide compatibility makes it a versatile choice for gamers who play across multiple platforms.

Build quality feels solid and durable, typical of Microsoft’s controllers, with the added convenience of a USB-C port for wired connections and a 3.5mm headset jack for audio. Extra features like the dedicated Share button simplify capturing gameplay moments, and the Xbox Accessories app lets you customize button mappings to suit your preferences. On the downside, it runs on two AA batteries, which may require frequent replacement or recharge packs if you play heavily. While the controller is slightly on the heavier side at around 16 ounces, most users find it well-balanced.

This controller is well-suited for casual to serious gamers looking for reliable performance, comfort, and broad device compatibility without complicated setup.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,216
Ergonomics
Button Layout
Connectivity

Most important from
24456 reviews

Ergonomics
Its solid build quality and sleek design stand out, providing a comfortable and well-balanced feel during extended play.
Button Layout
Customizable button mappings through the Xbox Accessories app allow personalization to suit individual preferences.
Connectivity
Seamless connectivity across Xbox, Windows, Android, and iOS platforms makes switching devices effortless and enhances versatility.
Compatibility
Seamless connectivity across Xbox, Windows, Android, and iOS platforms makes switching devices effortless and enhances versatility.
Build Quality
The controller delivers reliable performance every time, making it a dependable choice for both casual and long gaming sessions.
Additional Features
The dedicated Share button simplifies capturing and sharing gameplay moments, adding convenience for content creators.
#2

Microsoft Xbox Wireless Controller Storm Breaker Special Edition - Wireless & Bluetooth Connectivity - New Hybrid D-Pad - New Share Button - Featuring Textured Grip

Rating
9.4
Ergonomics
Button Layout
Connectivity

Most important from
24456 reviews

Ergonomics
The design feels solid and comfortable, with smooth buttons and responsive triggers that enhance gameplay precision.
Button Layout
One trigger button requires noticeably more force to press than the other, affecting the tactile experience slightly but not functionality.
Connectivity
Its versatile connectivity works seamlessly across Xbox, Windows, Android, and iOS devices, allowing effortless switching between platforms.
Compatibility
Its versatile connectivity works seamlessly across Xbox, Windows, Android, and iOS devices, allowing effortless switching between platforms.
Build Quality
Despite the overall solid build, there is a slight creaking in the grip area when squeezed, which can make the controller feel less durable.
Additional Features
Battery life is impressive, supporting long play sessions without frequent interruptions.

The Microsoft Xbox Wireless Controller Storm Breaker Special Edition offers a solid option for gamers looking for comfort and versatility. Its ergonomic design includes textured triggers and rubberized grips, which help keep your hands steady during long gaming sessions. The button layout is familiar to Xbox users, enhanced by a new hybrid D-pad that improves control, and a convenient Share button for capturing and sharing gameplay moments easily.

Connectivity is a strong point here, with both Xbox Wireless and Bluetooth technology allowing quick pairing and smooth switching between Xbox consoles, PCs, and cloud gaming. This makes it a flexible choice across multiple devices. The controller’s build quality feels robust and premium, combining classic gray and black tones with white accents for a stylish appearance. Customization is also supported through the Xbox Accessories app, enabling you to remap buttons to suit your play style.

One downside is that it requires two AA batteries, which might mean more frequent replacements compared to rechargeable options. Additionally, while it's rated for everyone, it may be less comfortable for players with very small hands due to its standard Xbox controller size. For those seeking a dependable, well-built controller with modern features and cross-device compatibility, the Storm Breaker Special Edition is a strong pick, especially for Xbox and PC gamers.

Rating
9.4
Ergonomics
Button Layout
Connectivity

Most important from
24456 reviews

Ergonomics
The design feels solid and comfortable, with smooth buttons and responsive triggers that enhance gameplay precision.
Button Layout
One trigger button requires noticeably more force to press than the other, affecting the tactile experience slightly but not functionality.
Connectivity
Its versatile connectivity works seamlessly across Xbox, Windows, Android, and iOS devices, allowing effortless switching between platforms.
Compatibility
Its versatile connectivity works seamlessly across Xbox, Windows, Android, and iOS devices, allowing effortless switching between platforms.
Build Quality
Despite the overall solid build, there is a slight creaking in the grip area when squeezed, which can make the controller feel less durable.
Additional Features
Battery life is impressive, supporting long play sessions without frequent interruptions.
#3

NACON Revolution X Unlimited Advanced Precision Controller Officially Licensed for Xbox Series X | S, Xbox One, Windows 10/11 PC & Android - Wired and Wireless - Charging Station

Rating
8.8
Ergonomics
Button Layout
Compatibility

Most important from
365 reviews

Ergonomics
Quality materials and grips provide comfortable handling for long gaming sessions without feeling gimmicky.
Button Layout
The button presses are clean and precise, delivering satisfyingly crisp clicks with no mushiness.
Compatibility
Some central buttons, including the Xbox button, may not function properly when connected to Xbox consoles, which can be frustrating.
Build Quality
The overall build feels solid and reliable, justifying the premium price for serious gamers.
Additional Features
Multiple pre-loaded profiles make switching feel like using a different controller, showcasing versatile customization.

The NACON Revolution X Unlimited controller is designed to offer a high level of precision and adaptability, making it a strong option for gamers who use Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Windows PCs, and Android devices. Its standout feature is the Hall Effect magnetic technology in the joysticks and triggers, which helps prevent common issues like joystick drift while improving durability. The controller also offers instant-adjustable triggers with micro-switches for quick response and includes four vibration motors that add immersive feedback during gameplay.

Ergonomically, it provides extensive physical customization options, such as multiple D-pads, joystick heads, rings, and weights, allowing users to tailor the feel and control to their preferences. This level of customization is above many standard controllers but may require some initial setup. The button layout includes six mappable shortcut buttons, which can be programmed via PC or Xbox apps for personalized control schemes, adding flexibility especially for PC gamers.

Connectivity wise, this controller supports wired and wireless modes: a 2.4GHz wireless transmitter, Bluetooth for Android, and a wired connection with a long braided cable. It also boasts very low latency (1ms wired, 2ms wireless), which helps reduce input lag in fast-paced games. Compatibility extends broadly across Xbox consoles, Windows 10 and 11 PCs, and Android devices, covering most modern gaming platforms. Build quality seems solid with a weight that gives a premium feel without being too heavy. The inclusion of a charging station and up to 10 hours of battery life is convenient for long gaming sessions. The onboard LCD screen for software customization and audio mixing is a unique feature that simplifies tweaking settings without needing to access a PC. This controller suits gamers wanting high precision, extensive customization, and multi-platform use, especially if you’re willing to invest time in setting it up. Casual users who prefer simplicity might find it more than they need.

Rating
8.8
Ergonomics
Button Layout
Compatibility

Most important from
365 reviews

Ergonomics
Quality materials and grips provide comfortable handling for long gaming sessions without feeling gimmicky.
Button Layout
The button presses are clean and precise, delivering satisfyingly crisp clicks with no mushiness.
Compatibility
Some central buttons, including the Xbox button, may not function properly when connected to Xbox consoles, which can be frustrating.
Build Quality
The overall build feels solid and reliable, justifying the premium price for serious gamers.
Additional Features
Multiple pre-loaded profiles make switching feel like using a different controller, showcasing versatile customization.

Buying Guide for the Best PC controllers

Choosing the right PC controller can significantly enhance your gaming experience. A good controller should feel comfortable in your hands, be responsive, and have the features you need for the types of games you play. Here are some key specifications to consider when selecting a PC controller.
ErgonomicsErgonomics refers to how comfortable and natural the controller feels in your hands. This is important because a well-designed controller can reduce fatigue and improve your gameplay. Controllers come in various shapes and sizes, so it's essential to find one that fits your hand size and grip style. If you have larger hands, look for controllers with a bulkier design. For smaller hands, a more compact controller might be better.
Button LayoutThe button layout includes the arrangement and number of buttons on the controller. This is crucial because it affects how easily you can access and press the buttons during gameplay. Controllers typically have a standard layout with a D-pad, analog sticks, face buttons, shoulder buttons, and triggers. Some controllers offer additional buttons or customizable layouts. If you play games that require complex inputs, consider a controller with extra buttons or programmable options.
ConnectivityConnectivity refers to how the controller connects to your PC. This can be wired or wireless. Wired controllers offer a stable connection and no battery concerns, but they limit your movement. Wireless controllers provide more freedom but require batteries or charging. If you prefer a clutter-free setup and don't mind charging, a wireless controller might be ideal. For uninterrupted gameplay, a wired controller is a better choice.
CompatibilityCompatibility ensures that the controller works with your PC and the games you want to play. Most controllers are compatible with Windows PCs, but some may require additional drivers or software. Check if the controller supports plug-and-play functionality for easy setup. If you play games on multiple platforms, look for a controller that is compatible with other devices like consoles or mobile phones.
Build QualityBuild quality refers to the durability and materials used in the controller. A well-built controller can withstand long hours of gaming and occasional drops. Look for controllers made from high-quality plastic and with sturdy buttons and analog sticks. If you are a heavy gamer, investing in a controller with robust build quality can save you from frequent replacements.
Additional FeaturesAdditional features include extras like vibration feedback, motion sensors, and customizable buttons. These features can enhance your gaming experience by providing more immersive gameplay and personalized control. Vibration feedback can make games feel more realistic, while motion sensors can add a new dimension to gameplay. Customizable buttons allow you to tailor the controller to your preferences. Consider which features are important for the types of games you play.

FAQ