Finest Xbox Controllers In 2021 | GameSpot

Specs:

• Battery: 40 hours
• Corridor impact sticks: No
• Headphone jack: Sure
• Professional options: None
• Connectivity: Xbox Wi-fi, Bluetooth, USB-C
• Supported platforms: Xbox Collection X|S, Xbox One, PC

Execs:

• One comes bundled with each Xbox console
• Inexpensive
• Extraordinarily snug to make use of
• A lot of coloration choices

Cons:

• No further options
• Runs barely smaller than different controllers

No shock right here. The primary-party Xbox Wi-fi Controller is the obvious alternative should you’re searching for a brand new controller. Barely revised when the Xbox Collection X|S launched, the “Core” mannequin has some good enhancements that make an already nice controller even higher. It is a tad smaller, has textured grips and triggers, and swaps the usual D-pad for an eight-way design that is has a bit extra click on to it. One of the crucial notable additions is the Share button, which provides Xbox gamers a simple strategy to rapidly snap screenshots and document footage.

The Xbox Wi-fi Controller is accessible in all kinds of colours. For the worth, you’ll be able to’t beat it–and it is not unusual for this controller to be on sale. The Xbox Wi-fi Controller stays one of the vital snug and stable controllers in 2023–across all platforms. All Xbox house owners have already got at the very least one, however that is positively a controller that gamers wind up proudly owning a number of of. It is also an outstanding choice for PC and cell gadgets through Bluetooth.

Specs:

• Battery: 40 hours
• Corridor impact sticks: No
• Headphone jack: Sure
• Professional options: Again paddles, swappable thumbstick and D-pad kinds, extra button mapping choices, set off locks
• Connectivity: Xbox Wi-fi, Bluetooth, USB-C
• Supported platforms: Xbox Collection X|S, Xbox One, PC

Execs:

• Nice pro-level options
• Customizable button layouts and parts
• Snug design
• Contains numerous equipment

Cons:

• Costly should you do not want the extras

Although the usual Xbox controller is the “finest” because of efficiency and worth, in order for you the highest-performing controller with an ultra-premium construct, the Xbox Elite Collection 2 is the clear winner.

Made with sturdier supplies and weighted simply sufficient to present it an unparalleled really feel, the Xbox Elite Collection 2 is a type of controllers that is spectacular earlier than you even begin gaming with it in your palms. It boasts textured hand and set off grips in addition to metallic analog sticks and D-pads.

The analog stick caps and D-pads may be swapped on the fly with the included customization package. 4 extra stick caps (domed and totally different heights) are included within the hardshell carrying case. It comes with an eight-way D-pad and a regular cross mannequin.

Different customization options on the precise controller itself embody adjustable stick pressure and set off stops. An included software permits you to alter stick pressure to your liking, and switches on the again of the controller help you lock triggers at three totally different pull distances.

Maybe most significantly, the Elite Collection 2 has 4 detachable again paddles that simply snap into place. These are positioned in simply the best spots to make them really feel pure to press.

You should utilize the Xbox Equipment App to remap inputs and save as much as three distinctive controller profiles that may be cycled via on the fly. It’s also possible to tinker with rumble depth within the app and create customized “shift” keys so as to add much more management inputs.

The controller and the entire spare parts are conveniently saved contained in the included carrying case. It comes with a USB-C cable that provides the Elite Collection 2 a formidable 40 hours of battery life on a full cost.

The Elite Collection 2 is roughly thrice as costly as the usual Xbox controller. It might not be value it except you’re critical about on-line multiplayer video games, however it’s arguably the most effective controller in the marketplace as we speak (for any platform).

Specs:

• Battery: N/A
• Corridor impact sticks: Sure
• Headphone jack: Sure
• Professional options: Two further rear buttons, customized button mapping, set off/thumbstick sensitivity
• Connectivity: USB-C
• Supported platforms: Xbox Collection X|S, Xbox One, PC

Execs:

• Inexpensive
• A lot of pro-level options for the worth
• Anti-drift Corridor Impact thumbsticks

Cons:

8BitDo makes a number of the finest controllers round, so it was nice information when the producer introduced it might produce Xbox controllers. The 8BitDo Final is a wired controller with a modern look and wonderful customization options. Its buttons, triggers, and sticks all really feel nice, and as of the latest {hardware} revision, the sticks now characteristic Corridor Impact sensors to forestall joystick drift. Better of all? It is accessible for below $50, which makes it a steal contemplating what you are getting right here.

The 8BitDo Final has two programmable again buttons and may retailer as much as three customized profiles. You may obtain 8BitDo’s Final software program in your Xbox, PC, or smartphone to tweak a number of settings to get the controller working the way in which you prefer it. You may change thumbstick and set off sensitivity and regulate the pressure of the rumble. The entire buttons may be remapped utilizing the software program, too. You may cycle via your trio of profiles everytime you need with the press of a button, which makes this wired controller superior for individuals who play a number of on-line video games commonly.

Specs:

• Battery: N/A
• Corridor impact sticks: No
• Headphone jack: Sure
• Professional options: Two further rear buttons, customized button mapping, set off/thumbstick sensitivity
• Connectivity:
• Supported platforms: Xbox Collection X|S, Xbox One, PC

Execs:

• Nearly all the identical options because the 8BitDo Final, however at a lower cost

Cons:

• Doesn’t use Corridor Impact sticks
• Wired-only connection

The 8BitDo Professional 2 was the primary formally licensed Xbox controller launched by the producer. It has the identical design because the Professional 2 that has been fashionable for the Nintendo Change for years. As such, the analog stick format mirrors PlayStation’s strategy to controllers. When you play combating video games quite a bit, this stick and D-pad format could also be preferable. It is also nice for retro video games or fashionable side-scrollers that play higher with a D-pad. Outdoors of the reversed place and its retro-inspired kind issue, the 8BitDo Professional 2 has the identical nice options because the 8BitDo Final.

Specs:

• Battery: N/A
• Corridor impact sticks: No
• Headphone jack: Sure
• Professional options: Two programmable rear buttons, set off locks
• Connectivity:
• Supported platforms: Xbox Collection X|S, Xbox One, PC

Execs:

• Removable cable prevents injury
• Sturdy design
• Respectable further options given the worth

Cons:

• Wired-only
• Some fancier choices aren’t that rather more costly

HyperX’s new Clutch Gladiate controller is tremendous spectacular for the worth (simply $35). It has the entire inputs you’d discover on a regular Xbox controller (together with the Share button) and an outstanding ergonomic kind issue.

The Clutch Gladiate has textured grips, a pair of remappable again buttons, twin set off locks, and a pair of rumble motors. The D-pad is simply a regular cross format, however it’s responsive and has a pleasant really feel.

Even with out its suite of competitive-focused options, the Clutch Gladiate could be a great decide for these searching for a budget-friendly wired controller.

Specs:

• Battery: N/A
• Corridor impact sticks: No
• Headphone jack: Sure
• Professional options: Two remappable rear buttons, nhanced headset audio
• Connectivity: USB-C
• Supported platforms: Xbox Collection X|S, Xbox One, PC

Execs:

• Feels very near the usual Xbox controller
• Nice audio enhancements

Cons:

• Wired-only
• Minimal pro-level options

The Turtle Seaside Recon is one other reasonably priced pro-style controller that is value testing. This formally licensed controller has a light-weight however sturdy design. Its face buttons appear and feel almost an identical to the common Xbox controllers. Whereas the sticks are a bit looser, they nonetheless really feel nice. The Recon additionally has a pair of fantastic again triggers with textured grips which might be positioned within the excellent spot. The deal with grips additionally supply an enchancment on the common Xbox controller. The D-pad is a bit underwhelming, because it has a inflexible really feel to it. On the plus facet, you get the entire identical menu buttons right here, together with the brand new Share button.

The principle perk of the the Recon is that it has built-in audio options when utilizing a 3.5mm headset (it would not need to be a Turtle Seaside headset). Dubbed “Superhuman Listening to,” the audio tech will help you determine the character of sounds and the place they got here from in aggressive multiplayer video games. You additionally get full management of your sport/chat combine, EQ, and different basic audio settings instantly on the controller.

The Recon plugs into your Xbox through the included USB-C to USB-A cable. Total, the Recon falls simply in need of the 8BitDo when it comes to really feel and efficiency, however it’s nonetheless a stable controller and the audio options are distinctive for certain.

Specs:

• Battery: 30 hours
• Corridor impact sticks: Sure
• Headphone jack: Sure
• Professional options: 4 programmable again buttons; built-in OLED display screen and on-control settings menu
• Connectivity: Bluetooth, USB-C
• Supported platforms: Xbox Collection X|S, Xbox One, PC, Android

Execs:

• OLED display screen pairs to telephone and permits you to regulate controller and headset settings
• Contains charging dock
• Corridor impact sticks come commonplace

Cons:

• Construct high quality beneath expectations for the worth
• Professional options lag behind opponents

The Turtle Seaside Stealth Extremely is a slick-looking professional controller with a bunch of nice options you will not see on different gamepads. The principle draw is its built-in 1.5-inch OLED display screen used to regulate numerous controller settings on the fly, together with button mapping, analog stick senstiivity, headphone EQ mixing, and RGB lighting modes. The display screen would not use contact controls and as a substitute contains a toggle that permits you to use the buttons and thumbsticks to navigate the menus. You may even pair the controller to your Android gadget or iPhone to get notification pop-ups on the display screen.

The Stealth Extremely additionally has a couple of different professional controller options like 4 programmable again buttons and adjustable set off throws, although its missing options seen on different gamepads of comparable worth, most notably the dearth of swappable components like alternate D-pad or thumbstick kinds. That stated, the buttons are responsive and clicky and carry out effectively in a wide range of video games and genres.

The Stealth Extremely helps wi-fi 2.4Ghz and Bluetooth wi-fi or wired USB-C connections. It comes with a 10-foot USB-C cable, charging dock, 2.4Ghz USB dongle, and a mesh carrying case. You additionally get 4 rubberized thumbstick pads.

Specs:

• Battery: 20 hours
• Corridor impact sticks: Sure, however offered individually
• Headphone jack: Sure
• Professional options: Modular design, again buttons, adjustable set off sensitivity and thumbstick choices
• Connectivity: Wi-fi (Bluetooth); Wired (USB-C)
• Supported platforms: Xbox Collection X|S, Xbox One, PC

Execs:

• Modular design makes it excellent for a variety of video games and genres
• Tons of customizability
• Nice design and ergonomics

Cons:

• Corridor Impact sticks price further

PDP’s Victrix Professional BFG has been one among our favourite controllers on PlayStation, and now that an Xbox model is accessible, it simply takes this class. The controller comes with a number of modules you’ll be able to swap to on the fly that change its format and performance. You get the usual twin thumbsticks, d-pad, and 4 facebuttons by default, however this may be modified to a six-button format that is excellent for combating video games. There are additionally a number of D-pad choices included, and you may modify the thumbsticks with totally different stick lengths, thumb cap kinds, and directional gates. You may even rotate the left stick’s place to have a parallel thumb placement like on a PlayStation controller.

Along with the modular design, there are different customization choices like 4 programmable again buttons and adjustable set off sensitivity. Whereas the usual Victrix Professional doesn’t characteristic Corridor Impact sticks, you should purchase an improve module individually.

The $180 price ticket is excessive, however it’s value it. Few controllers supply the depth and breadth of customization that the Victrix Professional BFG supplies.

Specs:

• Battery: N/A
• Corridor impact sticks: No
• Headphone jack: Sure
• Professional options: N/A
• Connectivity: USB
• Supported platforms: Xbox Collection X|S, Xbox One, PC

Execs:

• Nostalgic design
• Works nice with fashionable video games

Cons:

• Restricted options
• Not a lot to supply for individuals who haven’t got nostalgia for the unique Xbox Duke controller

The Hyperkin Duke was made purely out of nostalgia for the unique launch Xbox controller from method again in 2001–it was this hulking gamepad with oddly formed and offset face buttons. So there wasn’t a lot shock when it was rapidly surpassed by the Controller S, which grew to become the usual design transferring ahead. However when you’ve got bigger palms, the Duke may be a greater match.

Hyperkin has made a reputation for itself by recreating retro gaming experiences via its wide selection of {hardware}, and its Duke controller very a lot resembles the unique Xbox controller when it comes to measurement and button format, however with a couple of fashionable touches. Whereas unique Xbox controllers had black/white buttons as a substitute of left/proper bumpers, Hyperkin included small bumpers so the Duke would make sense for enjoying as we speak’s video games. The massive emblem on the middle of the controller is a display screen that additionally acts as the house button–when you energy on, the display screen shows the previous Xbox splash display screen. In any other case, it is a trustworthy recreation of the Duke that now works via USB for Xbox Collection X|S, Xbox One, and PC.

Specs:

• Battery: N/A
• Corridor impact sticks: No
• Headphone jack: Sure
• Professional options: N/A
• Connectivity: USB
• Supported platforms: Xbox Collection X|S, Xbox One, PC

Execs:

• Nostalgic design
• Works nice with fashionable video games

Cons:

• Restricted options
• Not a lot to supply for individuals who haven’t got nostalgia for the unique Xbox Duke controller

Along with Hyperkin’s big selection of retro gaming {hardware} that permits you to play previous video games simply, it has a couple of retro-inspired equipment. A type of is the Hyperkin X91, an Xbox Collection X controller that is scrunched down right into a SNES-like kind issue. Regardless of the small measurement of this gamepad, every thing you want in a controller is there and all of it works surprisingly effectively. From the analog sticks to the face buttons, the X91 recreates the total controller really feel nearly completely. One draw back is that the triggers can really feel a bit squishy versus the graceful really feel of the triggers on a DualShock or common Xbox controller.

And when you’ve got a gaming laptop computer and play on the go usually, the X91 is the proper measurement for journey. Sadly, this controller solely works via wired USB. Whereas which means you do not have to fret about battery life, having a thick wire related could make it a bit clunky to have round. The shape issue may make it barely harder to be exact with the analog sticks since there is not a lot you’ll be able to grip to maintain the controller regular. Nevertheless, should you want a small, fully-featured gamepad for much less intense video games, the X91 is a positive alternative.

Specs:

• Battery: N/A
• Corridor impact sticks: N/A
• Headphone jack: Sure
• Professional options: None
• Connectivity: USB-C
• Supported platforms: Xbox Collection X|S, Xbox One, PC

Execs:

• Six-button format is nice for retro video games, side-scrollers, and combating video games.

Cons:

• Lack of thumbsticks and different options limits its use for contemporary video games

If you end up enjoying numerous retro video games, platformers, or indie video games that require exact D-pad inputs–or you simply need enjoying previous video games to really feel extra authentic–then we advocate 8BitDo’s M30. This wired USB controller is designed to appear to be the traditional Sega Genesis controller, sporting a D-pad, six face buttons, and shoulder triggers. Nevertheless, it is bulkier than the Sega Genesis pad (in a great way), and a barely altered form for extra ergonomic handgrips. It additionally consists of Xbox Information, share, and choices buttons discovered on the conventional Xbox controller, in addition to a toggle that permits you to map left or proper thumbstick inputs to the D-pad for navigating menus.

Whereas the dearth of thumbsticks will restrict its use for many fashionable video games, it might pair effectively with the Sega Classics assortment or Uncommon Replay, to not point out quite a few indie platformers. It is also nice for combating video games, together with fashionable titles like Avenue Fighter 6, because of its six-button format and lag-free inputs.

Specs:

• Battery: 30 hours
• Corridor impact sticks: N/A
• Headphone jack: Sure
• Professional options: N/A
• Connectivity: Bluetooth, 2.4Ghz, USB-C
• Supported platforms: Xbox Collection X|S, Xbox One, PC

Execs:

• Easy design
• Modable
• A number of connection choices
• Inexpensive

Cons:

• Parts aren’t as strong as high-end sticks
• Comparatively fewer options
• Some gamers might discover it too small

Whereas battle sticks aren’t required for combating games–and will not magically make you a footsie pro–they do make for a extra genuine arcade expertise, and may even make nailing tremendous strikes or combos a little bit extra snug. Sadly, most good-quality battle sticks are prohibitively costly, particularly for curious newbies trying to attempt them out.

Fortunately, the 8BitDo Arcade Stick is a wonderful battle stick that prices just some {dollars} greater than a regular Xbox controller. It options premium buttons with nice response time, although you can too swap out the buttons and joysticks with parts from different battle sticks, giving it some first rate modding potential. It is also smaller than many different battle sticks, which some gamers might favor over the bulkier choices on the market.

The 8BitDo Arcade Stick helps wi-fi Bluetooth and a couple of.4Ghz connections, or you’ll be able to plug it in through a USB-C cable. It additionally has a 2.3mm audio jack, so you’ll be able to plug in a gaming headset or pair of headphones.

Total, the 8BitDo Arcade Stick is a stable, streamlined battle stick that works nice for brand spanking new combating sport followers and informal gamers.

Specs:

• Battery: 40-60 hours
• Corridor impact sticks: No
• Headphone jack: Sure
• Professional options: Remappable again buttons
• Connectivity: Bluetooth
• Supported platforms: Xbox Collection X|S, Xbox One, PC, Android, iOS

Execs:

• Lengthy battery life
• Module design that may match a number of gameplay kinds, together with distant play

Cons:

• Dearer than different remote-play choices
• Missing options in comparison with professional controllers of comparable worth

It could be superior if Microsoft made a devoted distant play handheld gadget just like the PlayStation Portal, however alas, Xbox followers should depend on third-party choices. Fortunately, there’s the Moga XP-Extremely from PowerA, a chameleon controller you need to use to play Xbox nearly anyplace. The controller options three modular components, beginning with the mini-pad options all of the face buttons, D-pad, shoulder triggers, and thumbsticks discovered on a regular Xbox controller. This slots into the handgrip, which provides two extra remappable again buttons. The ultimate piece is a clip that attaches your smartphone to the XP-Extremely.

You may combine and match these parts to fit your wants. The mini-pad and full controller modes are excellent for enjoying in your console or PC, and each modes work nice with the smartphone clip, turning the gadget into a conveyable gaming handheld that may play Android video games or stream them through distant play or Xbox Recreation Go Final cloud streaming.

That versatility comes with tradeoff, particularly that the XP-Extremely’s deal with modular, distant play-friendly design means its dearer in comparison with commonplace controllers. And whereas it has a pair programmable again buttons, it is missing in different pro-level options that one would count on at this worth level. Nevertheless, the XP-Extremely’s battery life is superb, and for the reason that mini-pad options rumble suggestions, impulse triggers, and a 3.5mm audio jack, you may get a fully-featured gameplay expertise in all configurations whether or not you are enjoying at house or on the go.

Specs:

• Battery: N/A
• Corridor impact sticks: No
• Headphone jack: Sure
• Professional options: None
• Connectivity: USB-C or Lightning port
• Supported platforms: Android, iOS (distant play through Xbox Collection X|S, Xbox One, PS5, PS4, PC)

Execs:

• Simple arrange
• Extremely moveable
• Helps a variety of telephone fashions, consoles, and streaming apps

Cons:

• No rumble, set off suggestions, or different options
• Solely usable as a distant play gadget

Smartphone controller grips are nice. They simply slot onto your Android or iPhone and switch it right into a gaming handheld with an identical kind issue to a Nintendo Change or Steam Deck. Whereas there are various such gadgets on the market, our favourite is the Spine One.

The Spine One is accessible in a number of fashions: the usual model options ABXY button labels and layouts acquainted to Xbox gamers, and a model with PlayStation-style button labels, although each variations work with Xbox video games. You may get each variations in both a USB-C mannequin that helps Android and iPhone 15 gadgets or newer, or a lightning port mannequin that works with older iPhone fashions.

Whereas the usual Spine One might be higher for Xbox gamers, the excellent news is all mannequin are snug and really feel like premium controllers. The additionally all work with Xbox distant play, Recreation Go Final cloud streaming, and different apps like Amazon Luna, GeForce Now, or distant play from PS5 and Steam. After all, the spine One will not work as a regular controller together with your Xbox or different consoles and it lacks options from the usual Xbox pad (to not point out no pro-level options), however the excessive construct high quality, consolation, and wide selection of assist make it our go-to for a dedicate distant play choice on a budget–for Xbox or in any other case.