The best Xbox controllers for 2023: Microsoft, Scuf, PowerA, and more

You could not understand it, however we’re dwelling in a golden age of gaming controllers. The gamepads available on the market now are greater high quality, extra versatile, and extra customizable than something from only a few console generations in the past. In case you’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 Seashore, in addition to high-quality first-party controllers. The times of a budget, “little sibling” controller that seemed cool however barely labored are over.

I’ve spent a ton of time taking part in all types of video games (first-person shooters, fighters, third-person action-adventure, racing, indie roguelikes, and so forth.) to check a large swath of Xbox controllers, and it might be unsurprising that the usual Xbox Wi-fi Controller is the perfect Xbox controller for many. It makes an amazing PC controller, too.

However whereas the de facto Xbox gamepad strikes the correct steadiness of high quality, consolation, versatility, and worth, there are a number of options price cross-shopping you probably 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. “One of the best 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 most suitable choice for many Xbox avid gamers. It could 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 exhibits.

That is the one reasonably priced wi-fi Xbox controller on the market, due to Microsoft’s proprietary protocol. Whereas some could 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 worth. 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. In case you’re a hardcore combating recreation fan, it’s possible you’ll 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 provide beauty customization by its Xbox Design Lab, which ranges from $69.99 to $99.94 relying on the configuration. There’s loads to like about these controllers, whether or not you make your personal or select one from the assorted colours Microsoft continues to supply.

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

In case you’re searching for an amazing controller however you 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 worth is $37.99, however some colorways 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 recreation franchises like Mass Impact and Fallout. A few of these designs could make you observed these are low-cost, cringe-inducing knockoffs, however the high quality of the controller could shock you once you use it.

First off, let’s get its largest draw back out of the way in which: it makes use of a Micro USB connection (gross, I do know). You no 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 superb, and it even has two mappable rear buttons constructed into the grips — which is nice to have at such a low worth.

The remainder of the PowerA Enhanced Wired Controller is an entire lot of desk stakes, nevertheless it executes every thing fairly effectively for a ridiculously reasonably priced worth. There’s no impulse set off rumble, but when there’s any function to low-cost out on, I’d say that’s the correct 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 provide.

PowerA provides an entire lot of bang on your buck with the Enhanced Wired Controller should you’re on a decent funds. If in case you have Elite controller tastes however normal controller funds, the PowerA Fusion Professional 2 is one other nice possibility. It appears to be like just like the Microsoft Elite Collection 2, full with 4 rear paddles and rubberized grips, however its full worth of $89.99 normally drops as little as $62.99.

Microsoft Xbox Elite Collection 2

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 Collection 2 controller is Microsoft’s fancied-up, premium model of the inventory controller. It’s additionally older, having been launched a 12 months earlier than the Xbox Collection X / S consoles arrived. So whereas it does sport a USB-C port and wi-fi help, it lacks the handy Share button discovered on the newest Xbox Wi-fi Controller. Nevertheless, it makes up for that in droves with distinctive construct high quality, further buttons, user-swappable sticks and D-pad, and many customization.

In case you choose 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 metallic. 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 parts that will provide you with a aggressive edge are the hair-trigger locks and rear paddle buttons. In principle, the hair set off will get pictures off sooner when taking part in shooters, and the rear paddles mean you can leap, crouch, reload, and so forth., with out taking your thumb off the correct stick for aiming. Nevertheless, utilizing that many buttons on the again of the controller undoubtedly takes some adjustment. You must 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 though it sometimes drops to $139.99, it’s nonetheless greater than twice as costly as an everyday Xbox controller. You must really need its further options and consumer customization, and should you’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 for $129.99, which is similar controller in a white-and-black end with out the rear paddles, accent charging case, or further stick toppers and D-pad. You will get all of these in a $59.99 equipment pack, which turns the Elite Collection 2 Core again into a regular Elite Collection 2, however that units you again $10 extra than simply going for the Elite Collection 2 to start out with.

You need to additionally bear in mind that the Elite has a little bit of a repute for lackluster high quality management, with horror tales from customers about going by a number of replacements below guarantee. Microsoft prolonged the controller’s guarantee from 90 days to a 12 months in late 2020 to assist deal with issues, however shopping for an Elite Collection 2 should really feel like a barely dangerous proposition. Nevertheless, once you nail that good 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 will possibly really feel price it.

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, because it’s the one wi-fi possibility from a 3rd occasion, nevertheless it’s by far the costliest Xbox controller round (it begins at $199.99). The one I examined clocked in at $263.91 with a particular faceplate and added shade accents. That’s greater than the Xbox Collection S sometimes sells for, which is a whole console. Nonetheless, you’re in for a deal with should you’re okay with spending that type 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 favor 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 change 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 superb 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 should you’re tremendous captivated with 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. In case you’re the kind that likes to endlessly tinker with numerous 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 worth is a bit fairer when you think about the competitors it squares up in opposition to.

If you first choose 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 cozy 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 interior workings of the controller.

Whereas different user-customizable controllers have three consumer profiles you possibly can swap between on the fly, the Revolution X has 4 — plus a “traditional” mode with fundamental settings and a hoop of RGB mild round the correct keep on with remind you what mode you’re in. The software program app isn’t probably the most user-friendly, however the controls go very in-depth. Fortunately, there are useful beginning factors with presets for arcade combating video games, racing, FPS video games, and even sniping, which makes the choices a lot simpler to know. Add the flexibility to customise and remap each button on the controller, in addition to a Dolby Atmos for Headphones app license, and also you’ve bought a number of 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 be able to 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 amazing controller for tinkering. It took me time to heat as much as it, however upon setting it up the way in which I most popular, it made for a really compelling controller in a wide range of recreation sorts.

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

Turtle Seashore is thought for its headsets, so it is sensible that its Recon wired controller options some strong audio controls. Its strengths actually come into focus when taking part in 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 worth of round $60, and as soon as promoting as little as $39.95, the Recon is a reasonably reasonably priced solution to achieve a slight aggressive edge in multiplayer video games with out spending effectively 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 course of its brow, however each has a sound goal. There are 4 ranges of microphone monitoring, general recreation quantity controls, recreation 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 Goal by Turtle Seashore, lowers the sensitivity of the correct 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 could sound daunting, however the controller’s quick-start information makes it simpler. Superhuman Listening to may be very useful for shooters and value utilizing extensively for video games like Halo Infinite — simply bear in mind that it’s going to muddy up the soundtrack a bit, so it’s possible you’ll 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 bought an amazing recipe for shooters. The Recon has a little bit of a studying curve, however should you play ranked matches and worth a reasonably priced wired controller with further buttons and useful audio features, you possibly can’t go fallacious right here.

• The GameSir G7 is a superb wired controller with textured grip materials feeling a tiny bit like a Scuf, clicky face buttons like a Razer and two programmable rear buttons. Its D-pad is a bit too stiff, however what makes this gamepad distinctive is it comes with two magnetic face plates — one black, one white — which might be primed for personalization with spray paint or markers.
• Turtle Seashore’s React-R is a stripped-down Recon that maintains Superhuman Listening to and rear buttons however omits EQ presets, mic monitoring, and Professional-Goal for a decrease $39.99 worth. It’s a great worth, particularly should you 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 every other controller (six whole), although their positioning requires reaching, and it’s a bit dear.
• Briefly talked about above, the Horipad Professional has the most effective D-pads round. It additionally provides a number of software program customization at an reasonably priced worth, however its shoulder buttons are a bit stiff.
• PowerA’s Nano Enhanced Wired Controller is an adorably smol man for individuals with tinier fingers 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 choose from PowerA above, this one ditches Micro USB 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 could really feel hit and miss relying in your hand dimension.
• One of many dumbest but most lovable 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.

Yet another controller examined was the Turtle Seashore Recon Cloud. It didn’t make the lower resulting from its excessive price and area of interest use case, however the suggestions above current higher options.

Pictures by Antonio G. Di Benedetto / The Verge