If you want to game on your PC, you probably need a controller; unfortunately, your computer doesn’t come with one in the box. If you’re a console gamer, the single, included gamepad isn’t enough for local multiplayer games, and the Nintendo Switch’s Joy-Cons aren’t exactly the most comfortable, conventional control scheme. If you’re a hardcore gamer, you may need to replace a gamepad that’s been worn down over many gaming sessions (or was broken in a fit of frustration). Whatever your reason, it’s time to shop for a game controller. Here are the best choices we’ve tested, and what you should know before buying.
The Most Important Detail: What’s Your Game Platform?
The most important factor to consider is your game platform. PlayStation, Switch, and PC/Xbox have different controller standards, so you can’t just mix and match gamepads. Some controllers are compatible with multiple systems, but even then you must make sure that your preferred game system will work with it.
PC and Xbox can be grouped together as one platform, because Microsoft has essentially merged Windows 10 and Xbox from a gaming perspective. In fact, if you want to buy a Microsoft game on PC (or play a game via Xbox Game Pass Ultimate), you need to do it through the Xbox app. If a controller works with an Xbox One or Xbox Series S/X, it will work with Windows 10. That applies to Steam games, too; even outside of Microsoft’s specific game ecosystem, the vast majority of PC games that work with controllers use the same XInput protocol as Microsoft-sold games.
The Nintendo Switch and PlayStation have different controller protocols from each other and PC/Xbox, so that means different gamepad selections. Numerous controllers are available for the Switch in wireless (via Bluetooth and USB dongle) and wired USB forms. Some even have alternate XInput modes for working easily on Windows PCs, too. A handful of third-party gamepads are available for the PlayStation 4, but if you want another controller for your PlayStation 5, you must buy a second DualSense.
Extra Gamepad Features
You can expect dual analog sticks, four face buttons, four shoulder buttons, and a direction pad from nearly any controller on this list (the Retro-Bit Sega gamepad is the one exception, designed to almost perfectly mimic Genesis or Saturn controllers). Those are the basics that are required for playing modern games, no matter the system. Some controllers may also have motion controls and/or vibration, as well. Gamepads don’t have to stop there, though.
Programmable rear buttons are common among third-party gamepads (and the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller). They’re extra controls that you can map any standard, non-analog control to, giving you many customization options. Depending on the game, they prove extremely handy.
Some gamepads go even further, with Windows 10 and Xbox apps that provide total control remapping and other customization options. Depending on the controller, you can remap every button, tweak the sensitivity of the analog sticks or triggers, program macro commands, or even create multiple profiles of these settings to switch between for individual games.
Want More Choices or More Specifics?
If you specifically want to game on your PC, our guide to choosing the right controller can provide additional information you need, including tips on using Nintendo or Sony gamepads with PC games. If your tastes are a bit more eclectic, and you want a nice controller for fighting, flying, or racing games, our guide to alternative console controllers can help you on that front, too.
