5 best PC gaming controllers

The tried-and-true keyboard and mouse setup has been a staple for PC gamers for decades. However, today, some hot PC games are best enjoyed when switching to a game controller.

Xbox Elite Series 2 Core

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If you're a PC gamer who wants the best customization experience with your controller, the Xbox Elite Series 2 Core is the choice for you. Using this wireless controller with the Xbox Accessories app gives you a set of customizable options, including button mapping, custom player configurations, and light array settings.

It has a pair of thumbsticks with adjustable tension, a shorter responsive trigger lock, and a rubberized grip, which adds to the overall professional feel. If you want to change the style, its thumb pads, paddles, and D-pad can all be swapped out (a thumb adjustment tool is included), and you can choose between connecting wireless, Bluetooth or USB-C for added versatility.

Add to that an impressive 40-hour battery life and you have a gamepad worthy of its Elite status. It's not cheap, but if you value nearly limitless customization to increase your gaming time, this is a very worthwhile upgrade to the standard Xbox core controller.

GameSir T4 Kaleid

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The GameSir T4 Kaleid is one of the best budget-friendly wired game controllers that PC gamers could wish for. Its transparent body is ideal for maximizing customizable LED lighting features, allowing the appearance to be adjusted to personal preference and play style.

The Hall effect stick provides a precise level of control without any lag issues, and the macro back buttons allow the freedom to assign one's own commands for a more bespoke, customizable experience. Further editing using GameSir Nexus software. Additionally, for action gamers, the Turbo function allows switching to quick trigger mode with a quick button press for extremely responsive controls.

Additionally, you'll find an integrated 6-axis gyroscope that supports motion control to aid visual aiming or steering control to round out Kaleid's list of functions. And with the included 1.98m cable, gaming won't be limited with this impressive, cost-effective controller.

8Bitdo Pro 2

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Offering a cool retro look with convenient wireless functionality, the 8Bitdo Pro 2 is a retro gamer's dream. But don't let its simpler design fool you. This wireless and Bluetooth-enabled controller hides plenty of customizable features behind its unassuming exterior.

Using 8Bitdo Ultimate Software, you can assign macros, set trigger lengths, and access button mapping functions. Thumbstick sensitivity and vibration intensity can also be adjusted, and custom profiles can be switched depending on the game.

There are durable Hall effect joysticks that help prevent any annoying issues with joystick drift, and the Pro 2 even supports motion controls. Plus, with an in-tank battery life of 20 hours (when fully charged), you can enjoy plenty of playtime before needing to recharge.

Turtle Beach VelocityOne Flightdeck

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Turtle Beach VelocityOne Flightdeck is the ideal premium controller for Microsoft Flight Simulator. Equipped with a customizable OLED HUD, it delivers an unrivaled precision experience with many features.

The handle includes a lever module with shift lever plus a 3-position rotary dial, providing super smooth control. It also features a re-adjustable 4-way navigation key and an eight-way HAT switch, allowing for quick switching between attack and sensor fine-tuning modes. This offers complete freedom for customization, with up to 139 programmable button functions for advanced control.

NACON Daija Arcade Fight Stick

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If you're looking for a PC gaming controller to help take down your opponents as expertly and stylishly as possible, the Nacon Daija Arcade Fight Stick will help you. This controller is designed for top fighting games like Tekken, Mortal Kombat and Soul Caliber.

Using the Nacon Daija Arcade Stick software, all buttons are fully mappable. You can set up custom configurations and change the SANWA joystick head easily. Additionally, the textured palm rest makes it possible to perform every action in complete comfort, even during long gaming sessions.

The Nacon Daija Arcade Fight Stick is the perfect PC gaming controller for any aspiring ultimate fighting game champion.

Jessica Tanner

Update 24 June 2024