Feature

The best PC controller for gaming 2022

best PC controller 2022

For as much as we love the traditional deck and pointer setup, the best PC controller for gaming offers a much more viable way of enjoying certain genres of games available on the platform. Simply put, you’re going to struggle pulling off full combos in fighting games (such as Street Fighter V or the upcoming The King of Fighters XV) or taking pole position in the latest racers (like Forza Horizon 5 or the soon to be released Grid Legends) when restricted to digital inputs just to name a few examples. 

There’s also the fact that the best PC controller for gaming is going to be preferred by some gamers, especially those who may be switching over from consoles or wanting to maximize the performance setup on a top gaming rig. A gaming PC or laptop setup with a controller could offer a viable alternative for those looking for a big screen, or a more familiar, experience. 

It’s the dawn of a new year, and we’re expecting big things from many PC controller manufacturers, especially considering that third-party options made for PS5 are beginning to be rolled out. We’re hopeful that we will be inundated with both wired and wireless options, with some gamepads featuring mechanical microswitches and Esports-centric feature sets to suit any preference and budget from all the established names. Below you’ll find our top picks for the best PC controllers available in 2022 that we’ve put together through testing ourselves and from extensive research. A lot of us on the GamesRadar hardware team use these controllers ourselves so we know which are worth your hard-earned money.

However, if you’re after more options, we recommend checking out our best Xbox One controller and best Xbox Series X controller guides, too, for native compatibility on those consoles.

The best PC controllers 2022

Thrustmaster eSwap X Pro

1. Thrustmaster eSwap X Pro

The best and most accessible PC controller

Specifications

Wireless: NoPowered by: USBBattery life: N/AToday’s Best DealsPrimeView at AmazonView at DellView at Microsoft USSee all prices (9 found)

Reasons to buy

+Bigger than average build +Great weight +Different D-pads are viable 

Reasons to avoid

-Always plugged in 

We recently reviewed this controller and praised it for its accessibility options. That goes hand-in-hand with the build quality – being a larger than average gamepad with a suitably heavier, more substantial, feel. Similar to the Razer Wolverine line, it’s wired, but this approach means that there is zero latency in the response time; perfect for those gaming sessions where milliseconds matter. 

It’s in the surplus of extra buttons – including the phenomenal feeling triggers and the four on the face – that elevate this controller above its similarly priced competition. If you’ve been waiting on a great feeling modular controller that finally allows you to swap the positions of the D-pad and left analog stick at will, as well as offering customisation and extra inputs, then this is the one.

Read more: Thrustmaster eSwap X Pro review

best pc controller for gaming: Turtle Beach Recon Controller

(Image credit: Turtle Beach)

2. Turtle Beach Recon Controller

The best affordable PC controller

Specifications

Wireless: NoPowered by: USBBattery life: N/AToday’s Best DealsPrimeView at AmazonView at Microsoft USView at Best BuySee all prices (5 found)

Reasons to buy

+Comfortable D-pad +Tactile feel +Outstanding audio control

Reasons to avoid

-It’s light in the hand

There’s a lot of impressive features that this $60 Xbox controller has that gamepads twice its price point don’t. For a start, there’s a whole host of audio options available through the dedicated audio bar atop the dashboard button. 

Through this menu, you can toggle things such as what Turtle Beach calls ‘superhuman hearing’ which isolates and amplifies subtle noises that would have otherwise been washed out in the chaos, such as gunfire and footsteps. In our testing, we found that this audio boost worked well to help us focus in the few games we tested it out on where the music could drown out such sound effects; Katana Zero, Hotline Miami, and Sonic Mania. That’s just scratching the surface of what the Turtle Beach Recon Controller provides from a purely audio perspective, though you will need a wired gaming headset. We tested the EQ and the four different levels of audio intensity and found the results were more than pleasing through a Razer Kraken Tournament Edition headset. 

Sound aside, the two most interesting features relate to the physicality of gameplay; ‘Pro Aim’ mode and button remapping. The former is a form of sensitivity reduction that can be manually set to four different levels of force to suit the situation, with the 4th setting (highest) offering a restricted amount of stick movement for more precise inputs; it works surprisingly well. The button remapping refers to the two buttons on the back of the controller which can be programmed to cycle through four different profiles for different configurations of resistance and audio settings. This means that you spend less time desperately wading through the options and have your desired setup for any given in-game moment. 

The only feature that you miss out on when using this controller on PC, however, is the Chat Mix function, which is controlled through a dedicated rocker on the right-hand side of the panel, it’s unlikely to be much of an issue for most, as applications such as Discord have their own audio monitoring software. 

Read more: Turtle Beach Recon Controller review 

Xbox Core Controller

(Image credit: Future)

3. Xbox Wireless Controller

The best PC controller for most people

Specifications

Wireless: YesPowered by: AA batteriesBattery life: Depends on your AAs/battery packsToday’s Best DealsPrimeView at AmazonView at Microsoft USView at Best BuySee all prices (9 found)

Reasons to buy

+Works both wired and wireless+Native compatibility+Improved feel in the hand

Reasons to avoid

-Very similar to the Xbox One gamepad-Still uses batteries

It should be of little surprise to anyone that the latest revision of the Xbox gamepad tops our list for its performance and comfortable feel. Couple that with the fact that it works natively on PC – just plug it in or link up via Bluetooth – and it’s ready to go with no further messing around. 

The new additions this time around, though distinctively minor, are the inclusions of USB-C charging – much faster than Micro-USB (if you use a rechargeable pack at least) – as well as the ‘hybrid’ D-pad which takes its cues from another much more expensive Xbox model that we’ll get to later. There’s also a share button – as was found on the DualShock 4 – which does exactly the same thing; create and share photos and video clips to upload to social media; something which offers limited functionality for use on PC. 

There’s a reason why not much has changed in eight years – when the Xbox One controller launched – and it’s because it was already damn near perfect. If you want to go even further back, it’s only really been iterative since the Xbox 360’s gamepad back in 2005 – because it all just works exceedingly well and continues to be the go-to pad for PC, balancing performance and value.

Read more: Our impressions of the Xbox Series X controller

Sony DualSense controller

4. PlayStation DualSense

The best Xbox alternative PC controller

Specifications

Wireless: YesPowered by: Lithium-ion internal packBattery life: 4-8 hours Today’s Best DealsView at AdoramaPrimeView at AmazonView at Best BuySee all prices (26 found)

Reasons to buy

+Amazing build quality +Satisfying buttons and triggers +Excellent rumble and haptics (if supported)+Upgrade over Dualshock 4

Reasons to avoid

-Low battery life

Sony’s newest controller sees the biggest departure from the DualShock brand in, well – ever. For a start, it’s not only the first PlayStation controller to forgo the moniker, but it deviates both in design and ergonomic feel almost wholesale – a change that was made for the better in our opinion. 

As mentioned above, getting this controller to work on your PC has never been easier. Gone is the need to run third-party drivers like the ever-popular DS4Windows. Instead, boot up Big Picture, configure the controller with the PlayStation pre-set and you’re away. 

The biggest drawback to the Dualsense on PC is that those all-impressive haptic feedback rumble motors aren’t configured to run at their full potential on the platform – if this omission is a deal-breaker for you – you may want to turn your attention to a different entry on our list. 

Vibrating aside, one thing is for sure: this is a very well-made and comfy controller that serves as an excellent, symmetrical alternative for an Xbox gamepad.

Read more: DualSense PS5 controller review

best pc controller for gaming: Xbox Elite 2

5. Xbox Elite 2 Controller

The best top-of-the-line PC controller

Specifications

Wireless: YesPowered by: Lithium-ion internal packBattery life: 30-40 hoursToday’s Best DealsPrimeView at AmazonView at AdoramaView at Best BuySee all prices (5 found)4297 Walmart customer reviews☆☆☆☆☆

Reasons to buy

+Unparalleled customization +Incredible build quality +Wired or wireless use  

Reasons to avoid

-Very pricey

Here’s where things start to get serious – with a price tag to match no less. I’ll preface this by saying that this gamepad is, at heart, a mega-charged edition of the standard Xbox Series X controller. 

Included in the box are replacement thumbstick heads, a classic cross-design D-pad, and tools to tailor the feel of the controller to your liking – with physical adjustments to almost every part of the controller. Also to note, the extended 40-hour battery life – akin to the Switch Pro controller – a good 8-hour bump up from the Xbox Series X gamepad’s lifespan between charges. 

I’ll be as brazen to say that the Elite 2 justifies its asking price through its premium design and suite of features, but as the most expensive item in our list, it’s not going to be to everyone’s tastes – or budget – and that’s understandable, too. But if you have the budget, and desire those features, this is arguably the best premium PC controller on balance.

Read more: Xbox Elite 2 controller review

best pc controller for gaming: Nacon Revolution X Pro

(Image credit: Nacon)

6. Nacon Revolution X Pro Controller

Esports customization for less

Specifications

Wireless: NoPowered by: USBBattery life: N/AToday’s best Nacon Revolution X Pro Controller dealsView Similar Amazon USAmazonNo price informationCheck AmazonNacon Revolution X Pro...No price informationVisit SiteWe check over 250 million products every day for the best prices

Reasons to buy

+Great weight and build quality +Stellar physical tweaking options +Reprogrammable buttons 

Reasons to avoid

-It’s not wireless-The software isn’t ideal

The Nacon Revolution X Pro Controller is one of the studier gamepads we’ve had our hands on recently, and it has exceptional build quality and a satisfying weight to it. Its suite of adjustability and customization options (both physically and through software) offers functionality comparable to high-end Esports controllers (like the Xbox Elite 2) for a fraction of their asking price. 

You not only benefit from being able to swap out thumbstick heads, or adding or subtracting movement from your analog sticks but there is also the option to restrict trigger feedback too which can prove instrumental in certain competitive game genres. On the audio front, it’s also nice to see Dolby Atmos present and accounted for, and while your tweaking options are a little on the thin side, the sound that comes through the Nacon Revolution X Pro Controller (through all the headsets tested) was suitably impressive. 

Read more: Nacon Revolution X Pro Controller review

best pc controller: Switch Pro

7. Nintendo Switch Pro Controller

The PC controller with a great battery life

Specifications

Wireless: YesPowered by: Lithium-ion internal packBattery life: Approximately 40 hoursToday’s Best DealsView at AmazonView at Best BuyView at AdoramaSee all prices (11 found)628 Walmart customer reviews☆☆☆☆☆

Reasons to buy

+40-hour battery life +Weighty feel+Simple connection

Reasons to avoid

-Expensive for what it is

The thing that stood out for us the most in our testing was just how good the battery life on this controller was. We’ve been used to the average lifespan of gamepads – such as the DualShock 4 – only lasting between 4-8 hours with moderate use, so the fact that the Switch Pro controller can go for up to 40 hours – after a six-hour full charge – is frankly astounding. It’s a great PC controller in itself, and especially if you’re looking for one that has the battery-life to back it up.

If you’ve had hands-on experience with the ill-fated Wii U pro controller, then the look and feel should be somewhat familiar to you. We found the weight and sturdiness of this gamepad to be comfortable enough over long periods of time. It should be noted, it’s a touch heavier than both Sony and Microsoft’s current generation offerings, but that dissipated quickly. 

Read more: Nintendo Switch Pro controller review

best pc controller: Razer Wolverine V2

8. Razer Wolverine V2

The best affordable Esports PC Controller

Specifications

Wireless : NoPowered by: USBBattery life: N/AToday’s Best DealsPrimeView at AmazonView at Best BuyView at Microsoft USSee all prices (14 found)

Reasons to buy

+Clicky buttons +Rugged feel +Responsive feedback

Reasons to avoid

-Wire doesn’t detach 

If you’ve been in the market for a solid E-sports gamepad – but didn’t want to spend in excess of $150 – then you should find that the V2 proves its metal from the offset. Tweaking and tinkering really is the name of the game with this modular controller; especially for its ‘mecha’ tactile buttons – which were satisfyingly clicky in our testing – and the adjustable sensitivity of the two analog sticks.

It is wired, however, something that may not gel with those looking to sit a decent distance away. If you play a lot of fighting games with a pad – as I do – you should feel right at home with the options afforded to you. At just a touch over the MSRP of the standard Xbox gamepad, it’s worth a second look if these features are appealing to you. 

Read more: best Razer controller

  • Back to the top ^ 

How we test PC controllers 

In brief, every controller that we have had our hands on is used in a series of different video games to accommodate for most genres. This means that we’ll test the responsiveness of the sticks, face buttons, bumpers, triggers, and any other additional features found on the unit. If a controller is wired or relies on rechargeable batteries, then the duration of the lifespan is tested, too. The same can be said for any specialist software, such as drivers, that may be included with the gamepad as well. 

For more on how we test controllers at GamesRadar+ check out our full article, and for something more representative of our holistic approach to the latest gear, check out our Hardware Policy. 


Looking for more ways to enhance your gaming setup? Definitely check out your control alternatives with the the best gaming keyboards and best gaming mouse candidates. And maybe it’s time to upgrade to one of the best gaming desks or best gaming chairs. If your PC is getting on a bit, take a look at our guides on the best gaming laptops and best gaming PC.

Round up of today’s best dealsThrustmaster eSwap X PRO...Thrustmaster Eswap X Pro ControllerAmazon$159.99ViewSee all pricesTurtle Beach Recon Controller...Turtle Beach Recon ControllerAmazon$56.08ViewSee all pricesReduced PriceXbox Core Wireless Controller...Microsoft Xbox Series X controllerAmazon$59.99$49ViewSee all pricesPlayStation DualSense...Sony PlayStation 5 DualSense WirelessAmazon$69ViewSee all pricesReduced PriceXbox Elite Wireless...Microsoft Xbox Elite WirelessAmazon$179.99$131ViewSee all pricesNintendo Switch Pro ControllerNintendo Switch Pro ControllerAmazon$59ViewSee all pricesReduced PriceRazer Wolverine V2 Wired...Razer Wolverine V2Amazon$99.99$84.95ViewSee all pricesWe check over 250 million products every day for the best pricespowered by Gamesradar


More information

The best PC controller for gaming 2022

For as much as we love the traditional deck and pointer setup, the best PC controller for gaming offers a much more viable way of enjoying certain genres of games available on the platform. Simply put, you’re going to struggle pulling off full combos in fighting games (such as Street Fighter V or the upcoming The King of Fighters XV) or taking pole position in the latest racers (like Forza Horizon 5 or the soon to be released Grid Legends) when restricted to digital inputs just to name a few examples. 
There’s also the fact that the best PC controller for gaming is going to be preferred by some gamers, especially those who may be switching over from consoles or wanting to maximize the performance setup on a top gaming rig. A gaming PC or laptop setup with a controller could offer a viable alternative for those looking for a big screen, or a more familiar, experience. 
It’s the dawn of a new year, and we’re expecting big things from many PC controller manufacturers, especially considering that third-party options made for PS5 are beginning to be rolled out. We’re hopeful that we will be inundated with both wired and wireless options, with some gamepads featuring mechanical microswitches and Esports-centric feature sets to suit any preference and budget from all the established names. Below you’ll find our top picks for the best PC controllers available in 2022 that we’ve put together through testing ourselves and from extensive research. A lot of us on the GamesRadar hardware team use these controllers ourselves so we know which are worth your hard-earned money.
However, if you’re after more options, we recommend checking out our best Xbox One controller and best Xbox Series X controller guides, too, for native compatibility on those consoles.
The best PC controllers 2022

1. Thrustmaster eSwap X Pro
The best and most accessible PC controller
Specifications
Wireless: NoPowered by: USBBattery life: N/AToday’s Best DealsView at AmazonView at DellView at Microsoft USSee all prices (9 found)
Reasons to buy
+Bigger than average build +Great weight +Different D-pads are viable 
Reasons to avoid
-Always plugged in 
We recently reviewed this controller and praised it for its accessibility options. That goes hand-in-hand with the build quality – being a larger than average gamepad with a suitably heavier, more substantial, feel. Similar to the Razer Wolverine line, it’s wired, but this approach means that there is zero latency in the response time; perfect for those gaming sessions where milliseconds matter. 
It’s in the surplus of extra buttons – including the phenomenal feeling triggers and the four on the face – that elevate this controller above its similarly priced competition. If you’ve been waiting on a great feeling modular controller that finally allows you to swap the positions of the D-pad and left analog stick at will, as well as offering customisation and extra inputs, then this is the one.
Read more: Thrustmaster eSwap X Pro review

(Image credit: Turtle Beach)
2. Turtle Beach Recon Controller
The best affordable PC controller
Specifications
Wireless: NoPowered by: USBBattery life: N/AToday’s Best DealsView at AmazonView at Microsoft USView at Best BuySee all prices (5 found)
Reasons to buy
+Comfortable D-pad +Tactile feel +Outstanding audio control
Reasons to avoid
-It’s light in the hand
There’s a lot of impressive features that this $60 Xbox controller has that gamepads twice its price point don’t. For a start, there’s a whole host of audio options available through the dedicated audio bar atop the dashboard button. 
Through this menu, you can toggle things such as what Turtle Beach calls ‘superhuman hearing’ which isolates and amplifies subtle noises that would have otherwise been washed out in the chaos, such as gunfire and footsteps. In our testing, we found that this audio boost worked well to help us focus in the few games we tested it out on where the music could drown out such sound effects; Katana Zero, Hotline Miami, and Sonic Mania. That’s just scratching the surface of what the Turtle Beach Recon Controller provides from a purely audio perspective, though you will need a wired gaming headset. We tested the EQ and the four different levels of audio intensity and found the results were more than pleasing through a Razer Kraken Tournament Edition headset. 
Sound aside, the two most interesting features relate to the physicality of gameplay; ‘Pro Aim’ mode and button remapping. The former is a form of sensitivity reduction that can be manually set to four different levels of force to suit the situation, with the 4th setting (highest) offering a restricted amount of stick movement for more precise inputs; it works surprisingly well. The button remapping refers to the two buttons on the back of the controller which can be programmed to cycle through four different profiles for different configurations of resistance and audio settings. This means that you spend less time desperately wading through the options and have your desired setup for any given in-game moment. 
The only feature that you miss out on when using this controller on PC, however, is the Chat Mix function, which is controlled through a dedicated rocker on the right-hand side of the panel, it’s unlikely to be much of an issue for most, as applications such as Discord have their own audio monitoring software. 
Read more: Turtle Beach Recon Controller review 

(Image credit: Future)
3. Xbox Wireless Controller
The best PC controller for most people
Specifications
Wireless: YesPowered by: AA batteriesBattery life: Depends on your AAs/battery packsToday’s Best DealsView at AmazonView at Microsoft USView at Best BuySee all prices (9 found)
Reasons to buy
+Works both wired and wireless+Native compatibility+Improved feel in the hand
Reasons to avoid
-Very similar to the Xbox One gamepad-Still uses batteries
It should be of little surprise to anyone that the latest revision of the Xbox gamepad tops our list for its performance and comfortable feel. Couple that with the fact that it works natively on PC – just plug it in or link up via Bluetooth – and it’s ready to go with no further messing around. 
The new additions this time around, though distinctively minor, are the inclusions of USB-C charging – much faster than Micro-USB (if you use a rechargeable pack at least) – as well as the ‘hybrid’ D-pad which takes its cues from another much more expensive Xbox model that we’ll get to later. There’s also a share button – as was found on the DualShock 4 – which does exactly the same thing; create and share photos and video clips to upload to social media; something which offers limited functionality for use on PC. 
There’s a reason why not much has changed in eight years – when the Xbox One controller launched – and it’s because it was already damn near perfect. If you want to go even further back, it’s only really been iterative since the Xbox 360’s gamepad back in 2005 – because it all just works exceedingly well and continues to be the go-to pad for PC, balancing performance and value.
Read more: Our impressions of the Xbox Series X controller

4. PlayStation DualSense
The best Xbox alternative PC controller
Specifications
Wireless: YesPowered by: Lithium-ion internal packBattery life: 4-8 hours Today’s Best DealsView at AdoramaView at AmazonView at Best BuySee all prices (26 found)
Reasons to buy
+Amazing build quality +Satisfying buttons and triggers +Excellent rumble and haptics (if supported)+Upgrade over Dualshock 4
Reasons to avoid
-Low battery life
Sony’s newest controller sees the biggest departure from the DualShock brand in, well – ever. For a start, it’s not only the first PlayStation controller to forgo the moniker, but it deviates both in design and ergonomic feel almost wholesale – a change that was made for the better in our opinion. 
As mentioned above, getting this controller to work on your PC has never been easier. Gone is the need to run third-party drivers like the ever-popular DS4Windows. Instead, boot up Big Picture, configure the controller with the PlayStation pre-set and you’re away. 
The biggest drawback to the Dualsense on PC is that those all-impressive haptic feedback rumble motors aren’t configured to run at their full potential on the platform – if this omission is a deal-breaker for you – you may want to turn your attention to a different entry on our list. 
Vibrating aside, one thing is for sure: this is a very well-made and comfy controller that serves as an excellent, symmetrical alternative for an Xbox gamepad.
Read more: DualSense PS5 controller review

5. Xbox Elite 2 Controller
The best top-of-the-line PC controller
Specifications
Wireless: YesPowered by: Lithium-ion internal packBattery life: 30-40 hoursToday’s Best DealsView at AmazonView at AdoramaView at Best BuySee all prices (5 found)4297 Walmart customer reviews☆☆☆☆☆
Reasons to buy
+Unparalleled customization +Incredible build quality +Wired or wireless use  
Reasons to avoid
-Very pricey
Here’s where things start to get serious – with a price tag to match no less. I’ll preface this by saying that this gamepad is, at heart, a mega-charged edition of the standard Xbox Series X controller. 
Included in the box are replacement thumbstick heads, a classic cross-design D-pad, and tools to tailor the feel of the controller to your liking – with physical adjustments to almost every part of the controller. Also to note, the extended 40-hour battery life – akin to the Switch Pro controller – a good 8-hour bump up from the Xbox Series X gamepad’s lifespan between charges. 
I’ll be as brazen to say that the Elite 2 justifies its asking price through its premium design and suite of features, but as the most expensive item in our list, it’s not going to be to everyone’s tastes – or budget – and that’s understandable, too. But if you have the budget, and desire those features, this is arguably the best premium PC controller on balance.
Read more: Xbox Elite 2 controller review

(Image credit: Nacon)
6. Nacon Revolution X Pro Controller
Esports customization for less
Specifications
Wireless: NoPowered by: USBBattery life: N/AToday’s best Nacon Revolution X Pro Controller dealsNo price informationCheck AmazonNo price informationVisit SiteWe check over 250 million products every day for the best prices
Reasons to buy
+Great weight and build quality +Stellar physical tweaking options +Reprogrammable buttons 
Reasons to avoid
-It’s not wireless-The software isn’t ideal
The Nacon Revolution X Pro Controller is one of the studier gamepads we’ve had our hands on recently, and it has exceptional build quality and a satisfying weight to it. Its suite of adjustability and customization options (both physically and through software) offers functionality comparable to high-end Esports controllers (like the Xbox Elite 2) for a fraction of their asking price. 
You not only benefit from being able to swap out thumbstick heads, or adding or subtracting movement from your analog sticks but there is also the option to restrict trigger feedback too which can prove instrumental in certain competitive game genres. On the audio front, it’s also nice to see Dolby Atmos present and accounted for, and while your tweaking options are a little on the thin side, the sound that comes through the Nacon Revolution X Pro Controller (through all the headsets tested) was suitably impressive. 
Read more: Nacon Revolution X Pro Controller review

7. Nintendo Switch Pro Controller
The PC controller with a great battery life
Specifications
Wireless: YesPowered by: Lithium-ion internal packBattery life: Approximately 40 hoursToday’s Best DealsView at AmazonView at Best BuyView at AdoramaSee all prices (11 found)628 Walmart customer reviews☆☆☆☆☆
Reasons to buy
+40-hour battery life +Weighty feel+Simple connection
Reasons to avoid
-Expensive for what it is
The thing that stood out for us the most in our testing was just how good the battery life on this controller was. We’ve been used to the average lifespan of gamepads – such as the DualShock 4 – only lasting between 4-8 hours with moderate use, so the fact that the Switch Pro controller can go for up to 40 hours – after a six-hour full charge – is frankly astounding. It’s a great PC controller in itself, and especially if you’re looking for one that has the battery-life to back it up.
If you’ve had hands-on experience with the ill-fated Wii U pro controller, then the look and feel should be somewhat familiar to you. We found the weight and sturdiness of this gamepad to be comfortable enough over long periods of time. It should be noted, it’s a touch heavier than both Sony and Microsoft’s current generation offerings, but that dissipated quickly. 
Read more: Nintendo Switch Pro controller review

8. Razer Wolverine V2
The best affordable Esports PC Controller
Specifications
Wireless : NoPowered by: USBBattery life: N/AToday’s Best DealsView at AmazonView at Best BuyView at Microsoft USSee all prices (14 found)
Reasons to buy
+Clicky buttons +Rugged feel +Responsive feedback
Reasons to avoid
-Wire doesn’t detach 
If you’ve been in the market for a solid E-sports gamepad – but didn’t want to spend in excess of $150 – then you should find that the V2 proves its metal from the offset. Tweaking and tinkering really is the name of the game with this modular controller; especially for its ‘mecha’ tactile buttons – which were satisfyingly clicky in our testing – and the adjustable sensitivity of the two analog sticks.
It is wired, however, something that may not gel with those looking to sit a decent distance away. If you play a lot of fighting games with a pad – as I do – you should feel right at home with the options afforded to you. At just a touch over the MSRP of the standard Xbox gamepad, it’s worth a second look if these features are appealing to you. 
Read more: best Razer controller
Back to the top ^ 
How we test PC controllers 
In brief, every controller that we have had our hands on is used in a series of different video games to accommodate for most genres. This means that we’ll test the responsiveness of the sticks, face buttons, bumpers, triggers, and any other additional features found on the unit. If a controller is wired or relies on rechargeable batteries, then the duration of the lifespan is tested, too. The same can be said for any specialist software, such as drivers, that may be included with the gamepad as well. 
For more on how we test controllers at GamesRadar+ check out our full article, and for something more representative of our holistic approach to the latest gear, check out our Hardware Policy. 
Looking for more ways to enhance your gaming setup? Definitely check out your control alternatives with the the best gaming keyboards and best gaming mouse candidates. And maybe it’s time to upgrade to one of the best gaming desks or best gaming chairs. If your PC is getting on a bit, take a look at our guides on the best gaming laptops and best gaming PC.
Round up of today’s best dealsThrustmaster Eswap X Pro Controller$159.99ViewSee all pricesTurtle Beach Recon Controller$56.08ViewSee all pricesReduced PriceMicrosoft Xbox Series X controller$59.99$49ViewSee all pricesSony PlayStation 5 DualSense Wireless$69ViewSee all pricesReduced PriceMicrosoft Xbox Elite Wireless$179.99$131ViewSee all pricesNintendo Switch Pro Controller$59ViewSee all pricesReduced PriceRazer Wolverine V2$99.99$84.95ViewSee all pricesWe check over 250 million products every day for the best pricespowered by

#controller #gaming

The best PC controller for gaming 2022

For as much as we love the traditional deck and pointer setup, the best PC controller for gaming offers a much more viable way of enjoying certain genres of games available on the platform. Simply put, you’re going to struggle pulling off full combos in fighting games (such as Street Fighter V or the upcoming The King of Fighters XV) or taking pole position in the latest racers (like Forza Horizon 5 or the soon to be released Grid Legends) when restricted to digital inputs just to name a few examples. 
There’s also the fact that the best PC controller for gaming is going to be preferred by some gamers, especially those who may be switching over from consoles or wanting to maximize the performance setup on a top gaming rig. A gaming PC or laptop setup with a controller could offer a viable alternative for those looking for a big screen, or a more familiar, experience. 
It’s the dawn of a new year, and we’re expecting big things from many PC controller manufacturers, especially considering that third-party options made for PS5 are beginning to be rolled out. We’re hopeful that we will be inundated with both wired and wireless options, with some gamepads featuring mechanical microswitches and Esports-centric feature sets to suit any preference and budget from all the established names. Below you’ll find our top picks for the best PC controllers available in 2022 that we’ve put together through testing ourselves and from extensive research. A lot of us on the GamesRadar hardware team use these controllers ourselves so we know which are worth your hard-earned money.
However, if you’re after more options, we recommend checking out our best Xbox One controller and best Xbox Series X controller guides, too, for native compatibility on those consoles.
The best PC controllers 2022

1. Thrustmaster eSwap X Pro
The best and most accessible PC controller
Specifications
Wireless: NoPowered by: USBBattery life: N/AToday’s Best DealsView at AmazonView at DellView at Microsoft USSee all prices (9 found)
Reasons to buy
+Bigger than average build +Great weight +Different D-pads are viable 
Reasons to avoid
-Always plugged in 
We recently reviewed this controller and praised it for its accessibility options. That goes hand-in-hand with the build quality – being a larger than average gamepad with a suitably heavier, more substantial, feel. Similar to the Razer Wolverine line, it’s wired, but this approach means that there is zero latency in the response time; perfect for those gaming sessions where milliseconds matter. 
It’s in the surplus of extra buttons – including the phenomenal feeling triggers and the four on the face – that elevate this controller above its similarly priced competition. If you’ve been waiting on a great feeling modular controller that finally allows you to swap the positions of the D-pad and left analog stick at will, as well as offering customisation and extra inputs, then this is the one.
Read more: Thrustmaster eSwap X Pro review

(Image credit: Turtle Beach)
2. Turtle Beach Recon Controller
The best affordable PC controller
Specifications
Wireless: NoPowered by: USBBattery life: N/AToday’s Best DealsView at AmazonView at Microsoft USView at Best BuySee all prices (5 found)
Reasons to buy
+Comfortable D-pad +Tactile feel +Outstanding audio control
Reasons to avoid
-It’s light in the hand
There’s a lot of impressive features that this $60 Xbox controller has that gamepads twice its price point don’t. For a start, there’s a whole host of audio options available through the dedicated audio bar atop the dashboard button. 
Through this menu, you can toggle things such as what Turtle Beach calls ‘superhuman hearing’ which isolates and amplifies subtle noises that would have otherwise been washed out in the chaos, such as gunfire and footsteps. In our testing, we found that this audio boost worked well to help us focus in the few games we tested it out on where the music could drown out such sound effects; Katana Zero, Hotline Miami, and Sonic Mania. That’s just scratching the surface of what the Turtle Beach Recon Controller provides from a purely audio perspective, though you will need a wired gaming headset. We tested the EQ and the four different levels of audio intensity and found the results were more than pleasing through a Razer Kraken Tournament Edition headset. 
Sound aside, the two most interesting features relate to the physicality of gameplay; ‘Pro Aim’ mode and button remapping. The former is a form of sensitivity reduction that can be manually set to four different levels of force to suit the situation, with the 4th setting (highest) offering a restricted amount of stick movement for more precise inputs; it works surprisingly well. The button remapping refers to the two buttons on the back of the controller which can be programmed to cycle through four different profiles for different configurations of resistance and audio settings. This means that you spend less time desperately wading through the options and have your desired setup for any given in-game moment. 
The only feature that you miss out on when using this controller on PC, however, is the Chat Mix function, which is controlled through a dedicated rocker on the right-hand side of the panel, it’s unlikely to be much of an issue for most, as applications such as Discord have their own audio monitoring software. 
Read more: Turtle Beach Recon Controller review 

(Image credit: Future)
3. Xbox Wireless Controller
The best PC controller for most people
Specifications
Wireless: YesPowered by: AA batteriesBattery life: Depends on your AAs/battery packsToday’s Best DealsView at AmazonView at Microsoft USView at Best BuySee all prices (9 found)
Reasons to buy
+Works both wired and wireless+Native compatibility+Improved feel in the hand
Reasons to avoid
-Very similar to the Xbox One gamepad-Still uses batteries
It should be of little surprise to anyone that the latest revision of the Xbox gamepad tops our list for its performance and comfortable feel. Couple that with the fact that it works natively on PC – just plug it in or link up via Bluetooth – and it’s ready to go with no further messing around. 
The new additions this time around, though distinctively minor, are the inclusions of USB-C charging – much faster than Micro-USB (if you use a rechargeable pack at least) – as well as the ‘hybrid’ D-pad which takes its cues from another much more expensive Xbox model that we’ll get to later. There’s also a share button – as was found on the DualShock 4 – which does exactly the same thing; create and share photos and video clips to upload to social media; something which offers limited functionality for use on PC. 
There’s a reason why not much has changed in eight years – when the Xbox One controller launched – and it’s because it was already damn near perfect. If you want to go even further back, it’s only really been iterative since the Xbox 360’s gamepad back in 2005 – because it all just works exceedingly well and continues to be the go-to pad for PC, balancing performance and value.
Read more: Our impressions of the Xbox Series X controller

4. PlayStation DualSense
The best Xbox alternative PC controller
Specifications
Wireless: YesPowered by: Lithium-ion internal packBattery life: 4-8 hours Today’s Best DealsView at AdoramaView at AmazonView at Best BuySee all prices (26 found)
Reasons to buy
+Amazing build quality +Satisfying buttons and triggers +Excellent rumble and haptics (if supported)+Upgrade over Dualshock 4
Reasons to avoid
-Low battery life
Sony’s newest controller sees the biggest departure from the DualShock brand in, well – ever. For a start, it’s not only the first PlayStation controller to forgo the moniker, but it deviates both in design and ergonomic feel almost wholesale – a change that was made for the better in our opinion. 
As mentioned above, getting this controller to work on your PC has never been easier. Gone is the need to run third-party drivers like the ever-popular DS4Windows. Instead, boot up Big Picture, configure the controller with the PlayStation pre-set and you’re away. 
The biggest drawback to the Dualsense on PC is that those all-impressive haptic feedback rumble motors aren’t configured to run at their full potential on the platform – if this omission is a deal-breaker for you – you may want to turn your attention to a different entry on our list. 
Vibrating aside, one thing is for sure: this is a very well-made and comfy controller that serves as an excellent, symmetrical alternative for an Xbox gamepad.
Read more: DualSense PS5 controller review

5. Xbox Elite 2 Controller
The best top-of-the-line PC controller
Specifications
Wireless: YesPowered by: Lithium-ion internal packBattery life: 30-40 hoursToday’s Best DealsView at AmazonView at AdoramaView at Best BuySee all prices (5 found)4297 Walmart customer reviews☆☆☆☆☆
Reasons to buy
+Unparalleled customization +Incredible build quality +Wired or wireless use  
Reasons to avoid
-Very pricey
Here’s where things start to get serious – with a price tag to match no less. I’ll preface this by saying that this gamepad is, at heart, a mega-charged edition of the standard Xbox Series X controller. 
Included in the box are replacement thumbstick heads, a classic cross-design D-pad, and tools to tailor the feel of the controller to your liking – with physical adjustments to almost every part of the controller. Also to note, the extended 40-hour battery life – akin to the Switch Pro controller – a good 8-hour bump up from the Xbox Series X gamepad’s lifespan between charges. 
I’ll be as brazen to say that the Elite 2 justifies its asking price through its premium design and suite of features, but as the most expensive item in our list, it’s not going to be to everyone’s tastes – or budget – and that’s understandable, too. But if you have the budget, and desire those features, this is arguably the best premium PC controller on balance.
Read more: Xbox Elite 2 controller review

(Image credit: Nacon)
6. Nacon Revolution X Pro Controller
Esports customization for less
Specifications
Wireless: NoPowered by: USBBattery life: N/AToday’s best Nacon Revolution X Pro Controller dealsNo price informationCheck AmazonNo price informationVisit SiteWe check over 250 million products every day for the best prices
Reasons to buy
+Great weight and build quality +Stellar physical tweaking options +Reprogrammable buttons 
Reasons to avoid
-It’s not wireless-The software isn’t ideal
The Nacon Revolution X Pro Controller is one of the studier gamepads we’ve had our hands on recently, and it has exceptional build quality and a satisfying weight to it. Its suite of adjustability and customization options (both physically and through software) offers functionality comparable to high-end Esports controllers (like the Xbox Elite 2) for a fraction of their asking price. 
You not only benefit from being able to swap out thumbstick heads, or adding or subtracting movement from your analog sticks but there is also the option to restrict trigger feedback too which can prove instrumental in certain competitive game genres. On the audio front, it’s also nice to see Dolby Atmos present and accounted for, and while your tweaking options are a little on the thin side, the sound that comes through the Nacon Revolution X Pro Controller (through all the headsets tested) was suitably impressive. 
Read more: Nacon Revolution X Pro Controller review

7. Nintendo Switch Pro Controller
The PC controller with a great battery life
Specifications
Wireless: YesPowered by: Lithium-ion internal packBattery life: Approximately 40 hoursToday’s Best DealsView at AmazonView at Best BuyView at AdoramaSee all prices (11 found)628 Walmart customer reviews☆☆☆☆☆
Reasons to buy
+40-hour battery life +Weighty feel+Simple connection
Reasons to avoid
-Expensive for what it is
The thing that stood out for us the most in our testing was just how good the battery life on this controller was. We’ve been used to the average lifespan of gamepads – such as the DualShock 4 – only lasting between 4-8 hours with moderate use, so the fact that the Switch Pro controller can go for up to 40 hours – after a six-hour full charge – is frankly astounding. It’s a great PC controller in itself, and especially if you’re looking for one that has the battery-life to back it up.
If you’ve had hands-on experience with the ill-fated Wii U pro controller, then the look and feel should be somewhat familiar to you. We found the weight and sturdiness of this gamepad to be comfortable enough over long periods of time. It should be noted, it’s a touch heavier than both Sony and Microsoft’s current generation offerings, but that dissipated quickly. 
Read more: Nintendo Switch Pro controller review

8. Razer Wolverine V2
The best affordable Esports PC Controller
Specifications
Wireless : NoPowered by: USBBattery life: N/AToday’s Best DealsView at AmazonView at Best BuyView at Microsoft USSee all prices (14 found)
Reasons to buy
+Clicky buttons +Rugged feel +Responsive feedback
Reasons to avoid
-Wire doesn’t detach 
If you’ve been in the market for a solid E-sports gamepad – but didn’t want to spend in excess of $150 – then you should find that the V2 proves its metal from the offset. Tweaking and tinkering really is the name of the game with this modular controller; especially for its ‘mecha’ tactile buttons – which were satisfyingly clicky in our testing – and the adjustable sensitivity of the two analog sticks.
It is wired, however, something that may not gel with those looking to sit a decent distance away. If you play a lot of fighting games with a pad – as I do – you should feel right at home with the options afforded to you. At just a touch over the MSRP of the standard Xbox gamepad, it’s worth a second look if these features are appealing to you. 
Read more: best Razer controller
Back to the top ^ 
How we test PC controllers 
In brief, every controller that we have had our hands on is used in a series of different video games to accommodate for most genres. This means that we’ll test the responsiveness of the sticks, face buttons, bumpers, triggers, and any other additional features found on the unit. If a controller is wired or relies on rechargeable batteries, then the duration of the lifespan is tested, too. The same can be said for any specialist software, such as drivers, that may be included with the gamepad as well. 
For more on how we test controllers at GamesRadar+ check out our full article, and for something more representative of our holistic approach to the latest gear, check out our Hardware Policy. 
Looking for more ways to enhance your gaming setup? Definitely check out your control alternatives with the the best gaming keyboards and best gaming mouse candidates. And maybe it’s time to upgrade to one of the best gaming desks or best gaming chairs. If your PC is getting on a bit, take a look at our guides on the best gaming laptops and best gaming PC.
Round up of today’s best dealsThrustmaster Eswap X Pro Controller$159.99ViewSee all pricesTurtle Beach Recon Controller$56.08ViewSee all pricesReduced PriceMicrosoft Xbox Series X controller$59.99$49ViewSee all pricesSony PlayStation 5 DualSense Wireless$69ViewSee all pricesReduced PriceMicrosoft Xbox Elite Wireless$179.99$131ViewSee all pricesNintendo Switch Pro Controller$59ViewSee all pricesReduced PriceRazer Wolverine V2$99.99$84.95ViewSee all pricesWe check over 250 million products every day for the best pricespowered by

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I'm Do Thuy, passionate about creativity, blogging every day is what I'm doing. It's really what I love. Follow me for useful knowledge about society, community and learning.

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