Best PC Controllers In 2023

By xsisted78 | March 17, 2023

When it comes to PC gaming, players often have the choice between using a mouse and keyboard or a traditional controller. While some games are best played with a mouse and keyboard, many are designed with a controller in mind. Using a controller can also be more comfortable, allowing players to relax in their gaming chairs and kick back with their favorite games.

Fortunately, in 2023, there is no shortage of controller options for PC gamers. This is largely due to the fact that almost every controller designed for specific consoles also has built-in PC support. This means that PC gamers have access to some of the best controllers across all platforms.

However, with so many options available, choosing the right PC controller can be a daunting task. Of course, if you already own a console or two, you may already have a great controller that will work well on your PC. But if you’re looking for something with more features than the standard Xbox, PlayStation, or Switch controllers, you’ll want to consider a more versatile PC controller.

Thankfully, there are plenty of options to choose from. From pro-style controllers to retro gamepads and modular designs, here are the top 10 PC controllers in 2023. And if you’re looking for more controller recommendations, be sure to check out our roundups of the best PS5 controllers and best Switch controllers.

Best PC Controller

8BitDo Ultimate

The world of gaming is always changing, and with new games and consoles constantly being released, it can be difficult to keep up with the latest trends. One thing that never changes, however, is the importance of having the right gaming controller. Whether you’re a casual gamer or a professional esports player, having a comfortable and customizable controller can make all the difference in your gaming experience.

That’s where the 8BitDo Ultimate comes in. This affordable, customizable, and ergonomic controller is hard to beat. It’s packed with features that you would normally only find on much more expensive controllers, making it a great choice for gamers on a budget.

One of the standout features of the 8BitDo Ultimate is its Ultimate Software. This powerful software gives you total control over your gaming experience. You can save up to three unique profiles, remap the pair of excellent back triggers, adjust stick tension, vibration intensity, and trigger sensitivity. This type of in-depth customization is usually reserved for far pricier controllers, but with the 8BitDo Ultimate, you get it all for just $50.

Another great feature of the 8BitDo Ultimate is its battery life. It runs for an impressive 15 hours on a full charge, so you can enjoy long gaming sessions without worrying about running out of power. And when it does need to be charged, the 8BitDo Ultimate comes with a matching charging dock, making it easy to keep your controller charged and ready to go.

But perhaps the most important feature of the 8BitDo Ultimate is its use of Hall Effect technology in its analog sticks. This advanced technology uses magnets to detect movement, creating a frictionless design that prevents wear and tear and the dreaded stick drift. This means that your controller will stay in top condition for longer, and you won’t have to worry about replacing it anytime soon.

Overall, the 8BitDo Ultimate is a high-performance gaming controller that offers an incredible amount of features for its affordable price point. It’s comfortable to use, customizable to your preferences, and built to last. And if you’re looking for even more functionality, you can pick up the Bluetooth version for just $70, which is compatible with Nintendo Switch and a range of other devices. Whether you’re a casual gamer or a serious esports player, the 8BitDo Ultimate is definitely worth considering.

 

8BitDo Pro 2

The 8BitDo Pro 2 is a game controller that shares many similarities with its sibling, the Ultimate, but lacks the Hall Effect sticks and charging dock that come with the latter. However, that doesn’t take away from the fact that the Pro 2 is a fantastic controller in its own right. It boasts a retro design that is sure to appeal to gamers who enjoy classic games or emulators on their PC.

What sets the Pro 2 apart is its aligned analog sticks, which make it the go-to choice for players who prefer D-pad controls. It’s an ideal controller for fighting games, platformers, and other games that require precise movements. The Pro 2 also features two back buttons that allow for easy customization of controls and custom profile switching, making it a versatile controller that can be tailored to fit your gaming needs.

Another advantage of the Pro 2 is its compatibility with a wide range of gaming systems, including Android, Steam Deck, and Switch. This makes it a versatile controller that you can use with multiple devices. And with a battery life of up to 20 hours, the Pro 2 lasts longer on a single charge than the Ultimate. So you can enjoy extended gaming sessions without worrying about running out of juice.

In conclusion, the 8BitDo Pro 2 is a remarkable game controller that combines a retro design with modern features. It’s perfect for gamers who enjoy classic games, emulators, and games that require precise movements. With its aligned analog sticks, customizable controls, and excellent battery life, the Pro 2 is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a versatile game controller.

Xbox Elite Series 2

Microsoft’s Elite Series 2 controller is considered one of the best gaming controllers available in the market today. Despite its relatively high price tag, the Elite Series 2’s features and build quality justify its cost.

The Elite Series 2’s ergonomic design makes it comfortable to hold and use for long periods, while its premium build quality ensures its durability over time. Its rubberized grips further improve its grip and control during intense gaming sessions. Additionally, the controller’s swappable components, including analog sticks and D-pads, allow users to customize the controller to fit their personal preferences.

The Elite Series 2 also boasts four back buttons and trigger locks, features that professional gamers find indispensable. The back buttons provide an extra level of control, enabling gamers to perform actions that would otherwise require them to take their fingers off the thumbsticks. Meanwhile, the trigger locks shorten the distance required for the triggers to activate, allowing for faster and more accurate shooting.

Battery life is another area where the Elite Series 2 excels, offering an impressive 40 hours of continuous gameplay on a single charge. This means gamers can play for extended periods without worrying about running out of battery.

For those who do not require all the features of the Elite Series 2 or who want a more affordable option, the Elite Series 2 Core is available for $130. However, this version lacks back buttons and some of the other customization options available in the Elite Series 2. Users can still purchase third-party components such as back paddles separately to add these features.

Overall, the Microsoft Elite Series 2 controller is the ultimate pro-style controller for PC gaming. Its numerous features, exceptional build quality, and comfortable design make it a top choice for serious gamers.

 

Best Modular PC Controller

Victrix Pro BFG

The Victrix Pro BFG is an impressive controller that boasts a truly unique design. At first glance, it looks incredibly aggressive, with its sharp angles and bold lines. But what sets it apart from other pro-style controllers is its high level of modularity. With just a few quick steps, you can swap out various components to create a custom setup that’s perfectly suited to your needs.

One of the standout features of the Pro BFG is its controller modules, which can be easily removed from each side with the included tool. This allows you to switch between the default offset stick layout and an aligned setting, giving you more control and flexibility. In addition, the controller comes with three different D-pads to choose from: the one shown above, an eight-way pad, and a traditional cross-shaped pad. And if you prefer a different thumbstick height, you can easily swap out the caps for shorter or taller versions.

But the customization options don’t stop there. The Pro BFG also includes a six-button, microswitch fight pad for the right side of the controller, which is perfect for gamers who prefer a more arcade-style experience. And with five different pull distances for the triggers, you can fine-tune your gameplay to your exact specifications. Plus, the four well-placed back triggers give you even more control options.

Remapping inputs on the fly is a breeze, and you can store up to three control profiles for even more customization options. While the Pro BFG may not feel quite as premium as the Elite Series 2, it’s still the best pro-style controller on the market when it comes to customization. While it’s technically designed for the PS5 (and PS4), it’s also compatible with PCs, both wirelessly and wired, giving you even more versatility in how you use it.

In summary, the Victrix Pro BFG is a top-of-the-line controller that offers unparalleled customization options for serious gamers. With its inventive design, modular components, and ability to work with multiple platforms, it’s a great choice for anyone looking to take their gaming experience to the next level.

 

Best for first-party PlayStation games

Sony DualSense

When it comes to PC gaming, having the right controller can make all the difference. While there are plenty of options out there, the DualSense controller from Sony is undoubtedly one of the best. This controller was originally designed for the PlayStation 5, but it works just as well when connected to a PC.

One of the major advantages of using the DualSense controller with a PC is that it offers support for advanced features like haptic feedback and adaptive triggers. This means that when you’re playing a game that has been ported from the PlayStation platform, you’ll get a more immersive experience than you would with a standard controller.

However, even if you’re not playing a PlayStation port, the DualSense’s ergonomic design and premium materials make it a joy to use. The controller fits comfortably in your hands, and the buttons and triggers are responsive and easy to use.

Another great feature of the DualSense controller is its built-in microphone and 3.5mm jack. This allows you to easily communicate with other players while you’re gaming without having to invest in a separate headset.

It’s worth noting that the DualSense controller is a bit pricey compared to some other options on the market, coming in at around $70. However, if you’re looking for a high-quality controller that will provide you with a premium gaming experience, it’s definitely worth the investment.

Overall, if you’re a PC gamer who wants the best possible controller for your gaming setup, the DualSense controller from Sony is definitely worth considering. With its advanced features, ergonomic design, and high-quality build, it’s a controller that’s hard to beat.

 

Best buttons and triggers

Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma

Are you in the market for a high-quality gaming controller with a luxurious, tactile feel? Look no further than the Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma. This gamepad offers a host of impressive features, including a sleek design, back buttons, and hyper-responsive mecha-tactile action buttons and microswitch D-pad that produce a satisfying “click” with each press. These features make it an excellent choice for gamers who demand the very best in precision and control.

One of the standout features of the Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma is its Hair Trigger Mode. This mode allows you to activate the triggers more quickly, giving you a competitive edge in fast-paced multiplayer games. With this feature, you can be sure that your inputs are lightning-fast and accurate, giving you the best chance of coming out on top in intense gaming sessions.

It’s also worth noting that this particular Wolverine controller only supports a wired connection. While some gamers may prefer the convenience of a wireless controller, the wired connection ensures that you’ll always have a reliable and stable connection to your console or PC. This is particularly important for competitive gamers who demand consistency and precision in their inputs.

Overall, if you’re looking for a top-of-the-line gaming controller with a luxurious feel and hyper-responsive inputs, the Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma is an excellent choice. Its mecha-tactile action buttons and microswitch D-pad are sure to impress, and the Hair Trigger Mode is a game-changer for competitive gamers. So why wait? Upgrade your gaming setup today with the Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma!