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10 Best PC controllers 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Xbox Wireless Gaming Controller (2025) – Carbon Black – Play on Xbox, Windows, Android, iOS, FireTV Sticks, Smart TVs, VR Headsets

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,127
Ergonomics
Button Layout
Connectivity

Most important from
22077 reviews

Ergonomics
Comfort is exceptional thanks to sculpted surfaces, rubberized grips, and textured triggers that enhance control during long gaming sessions.
Button Layout
This controller offers accurate, responsive buttons with excellent tolerance, making it reliable for precise gaming inputs.
Connectivity
Bluetooth connectivity works flawlessly, enabling seamless use across Xbox consoles, PCs, and other devices without any issues.
Build Quality
Build quality impresses with solid construction and attention to detail, including knurling on triggers to prevent slipping.
Additional Features
The added Share button and customizable controls provide valuable features for capturing gameplay and personalizing the experience.

The Xbox Wireless Gaming Controller (2025) is designed with player comfort in mind, featuring sculpted surfaces and a refined shape that many find easy to hold for long gaming sessions. The button layout is intuitive, including a new hybrid D-pad and textured grips on triggers and bumpers, which help improve control and accuracy.

Connectivity is versatile, offering both Xbox Wireless and Bluetooth options, so it works well with Xbox consoles, Windows PCs, Android and iOS devices, Fire TV Sticks, Smart TVs, and VR headsets. This makes it a convenient choice if you play games across multiple platforms. The controller also includes a 3.5mm headset jack and a USB-C port for wired connections, adding to its flexibility.

Build quality is solid, with a lightweight but sturdy feel, though it relies on two included AA batteries that can last up to 40 hours—some users might prefer rechargeable options. Additional features like the dedicated Share button and customizable button mapping via the Xbox Accessories app add extra value for gamers who like to personalize their experience or capture gameplay moments easily. While it’s not the cheapest option, its performance and broad compatibility make it an excellent choice for casual and serious gamers who want a reliable, comfortable, and versatile controller.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,127
Ergonomics
Button Layout
Connectivity

Most important from
22077 reviews

Ergonomics
Comfort is exceptional thanks to sculpted surfaces, rubberized grips, and textured triggers that enhance control during long gaming sessions.
Button Layout
This controller offers accurate, responsive buttons with excellent tolerance, making it reliable for precise gaming inputs.
Connectivity
Bluetooth connectivity works flawlessly, enabling seamless use across Xbox consoles, PCs, and other devices without any issues.
Build Quality
Build quality impresses with solid construction and attention to detail, including knurling on triggers to prevent slipping.
Additional Features
The added Share button and customizable controls provide valuable features for capturing gameplay and personalizing the experience.
#2

Logitech G X56 H.O.T.A.S Throttle and Joystick Flight Simulator Game Controller, 4 Spring Options, +189 Programmable Controls, RGB Lighting, 2x USB, PC - Black

Rating
9.1
Ergonomics
Button Layout
Connectivity

Most important from
2741 reviews

Ergonomics
The joystick is large, requiring hand adjustments to reach all buttons, unlike real aircraft sticks.
Button Layout
The joystick movement is fluid and smooth, with more buttons and hat switches than you could possibly need.
Connectivity
The throttle needs to be plugged into a powerful hub or directly into the computer to avoid ghost inputs.
Compatibility
The Logitech G X56 H.O.T.A.S offers an impressive experience in games with numerous controls to bind, like Elite Dangerous, Star Citizen, and MSFS.
Build Quality
Despite being primarily plastic, the controls feel premium and the construction is solid.
Additional Features
The stick is sufficiently sensitive for precise maneuvers, with no deadzones, making it great for formation work in IL2.

The Logitech G X56 H.O.T.A.S Throttle and Joystick is tailored for flight simulation enthusiasts, offering military-grade precision and a host of customizable options. It excels in ergonomics with its well-placed controls, enhancing comfort during extended gaming sessions. The button layout is comprehensive, featuring 189 programmable controls, ensuring that every command is at your fingertips.

Connectivity is facilitated through two USB ports, making setup straightforward on compatible Windows systems (Windows 7, 8.1, 10, 11). Compatibility is strong, covering a range of Windows operating systems, making it versatile for most PC setups. Build quality is robust, featuring a solid construction that can withstand intensive use, and it includes hall-effect sensors for precise control inputs.

Additional features like RGB backlighting allow for aesthetic customization to match your gaming rig, and the adjustable stick force with a 4-spring system offers a personalized experience. On the downside, its weight of 5.06 pounds makes it less portable, and the need for two USB ports could be a limitation for users with fewer available ports. Additionally, the product's premium features come at a higher price point, which might not be suitable for casual gamers. The Logitech G X56 H.O.T.A.S is an excellent choice for dedicated flight sim enthusiasts looking for a high-quality, customizable controller.

Rating
9.1
Ergonomics
Button Layout
Connectivity

Most important from
2741 reviews

Ergonomics
The joystick is large, requiring hand adjustments to reach all buttons, unlike real aircraft sticks.
Button Layout
The joystick movement is fluid and smooth, with more buttons and hat switches than you could possibly need.
Connectivity
The throttle needs to be plugged into a powerful hub or directly into the computer to avoid ghost inputs.
Compatibility
The Logitech G X56 H.O.T.A.S offers an impressive experience in games with numerous controls to bind, like Elite Dangerous, Star Citizen, and MSFS.
Build Quality
Despite being primarily plastic, the controls feel premium and the construction is solid.
Additional Features
The stick is sufficiently sensitive for precise maneuvers, with no deadzones, making it great for formation work in IL2.
#3

PDP Victrix Pro BFG Wireless Gaming Controller for Playstation 5 / PS5, PS4, PC, Modular Esports Gamepad, Remappable Buttons, Customizable Triggers/Paddles/D-Pad/Fightpad, PC App, Black

Rating
9.1
Ergonomics
Button Layout
Connectivity

Most important from
3319 reviews

Ergonomics
The controller strikes a great balance between sturdiness and lightness, making it comfortable for extended gaming sessions without feeling bulky.
Button Layout
The modular faceplate system allows effortless swapping between traditional stick layouts and a specialized six-button Fight Pad, catering perfectly to different play styles.
Connectivity
Wired and wireless modes are both well-implemented, with a durable braided USB-C cable included and seamless connectivity across PS5, PS4, and PC.
Compatibility
Wired and wireless modes are both well-implemented, with a durable braided USB-C cable included and seamless connectivity across PS5, PS4, and PC.
Build Quality
The controller strikes a great balance between sturdiness and lightness, making it comfortable for extended gaming sessions without feeling bulky.
Additional Features
Built-in tournament mode disables system buttons and the touchpad, ensuring no accidental interruptions during critical matches.

The PDP Victrix Pro BFG Wireless Gaming Controller is designed with esports and serious gamers in mind, especially those using PlayStation 5, PS4, and PC. Its most notable strength is the high level of customization—players can adjust triggers, paddles, and even switch between a traditional stick layout or a specialized Fight Pad with six microswitch buttons, which is a big plus for fighting game fans. The controller supports both wireless and wired connections and includes a headphone jack with support for PS5's 3D audio, enhancing immersive gameplay.

Ergonomically, the controller is thoughtfully designed to feel comfortable during long sessions and offers four mappable back buttons, which can be saved across different profiles. The clutch triggers provide adjustable stopping points, allowing precise control tailored to individual play styles. Build quality is solid, reflecting its status as a premium accessory that has won several awards.

On the connectivity side, switching between PS5, PS4, and PC is seamless, but firmware updates and advanced programming features require a PC app, which might be less convenient for users without PC access. Battery life can reach up to 20 hours with updates, which is respectable for wireless controllers. For those looking for a controller primarily for casual gaming or those who prefer simpler setups, the extensive customization options might be overwhelming or unnecessary. Additionally, at around 1.18 pounds, it is slightly heavier than some other controllers, which could affect comfort for smaller hands or long sessions. The Victrix Pro BFG is a versatile and well-built controller that excels in customization and compatibility, making it a strong choice for competitive PlayStation and PC gamers who want full control over their setup; however, casual players might find its features more complex than needed.

Rating
9.1
Ergonomics
Button Layout
Connectivity

Most important from
3319 reviews

Ergonomics
The controller strikes a great balance between sturdiness and lightness, making it comfortable for extended gaming sessions without feeling bulky.
Button Layout
The modular faceplate system allows effortless swapping between traditional stick layouts and a specialized six-button Fight Pad, catering perfectly to different play styles.
Connectivity
Wired and wireless modes are both well-implemented, with a durable braided USB-C cable included and seamless connectivity across PS5, PS4, and PC.
Compatibility
Wired and wireless modes are both well-implemented, with a durable braided USB-C cable included and seamless connectivity across PS5, PS4, and PC.
Build Quality
The controller strikes a great balance between sturdiness and lightness, making it comfortable for extended gaming sessions without feeling bulky.
Additional Features
Built-in tournament mode disables system buttons and the touchpad, ensuring no accidental interruptions during critical matches.

Buying Guide for the Best PC controllers

Choosing the right PC controller can significantly enhance your gaming experience. A good controller should feel comfortable in your hands, be responsive, and have the features you need for the types of games you play. Here are some key specifications to consider when selecting a PC controller.
ErgonomicsErgonomics refers to how comfortable and natural the controller feels in your hands. This is important because a well-designed controller can reduce fatigue and improve your gameplay. Controllers come in various shapes and sizes, so it's essential to find one that fits your hand size and grip style. If you have larger hands, look for controllers with a bulkier design. For smaller hands, a more compact controller might be better.
Button LayoutThe button layout includes the arrangement and number of buttons on the controller. This is crucial because it affects how easily you can access and press the buttons during gameplay. Controllers typically have a standard layout with a D-pad, analog sticks, face buttons, shoulder buttons, and triggers. Some controllers offer additional buttons or customizable layouts. If you play games that require complex inputs, consider a controller with extra buttons or programmable options.
ConnectivityConnectivity refers to how the controller connects to your PC. This can be wired or wireless. Wired controllers offer a stable connection and no battery concerns, but they limit your movement. Wireless controllers provide more freedom but require batteries or charging. If you prefer a clutter-free setup and don't mind charging, a wireless controller might be ideal. For uninterrupted gameplay, a wired controller is a better choice.
CompatibilityCompatibility ensures that the controller works with your PC and the games you want to play. Most controllers are compatible with Windows PCs, but some may require additional drivers or software. Check if the controller supports plug-and-play functionality for easy setup. If you play games on multiple platforms, look for a controller that is compatible with other devices like consoles or mobile phones.
Build QualityBuild quality refers to the durability and materials used in the controller. A well-built controller can withstand long hours of gaming and occasional drops. Look for controllers made from high-quality plastic and with sturdy buttons and analog sticks. If you are a heavy gamer, investing in a controller with robust build quality can save you from frequent replacements.
Additional FeaturesAdditional features include extras like vibration feedback, motion sensors, and customizable buttons. These features can enhance your gaming experience by providing more immersive gameplay and personalized control. Vibration feedback can make games feel more realistic, while motion sensors can add a new dimension to gameplay. Customizable buttons allow you to tailor the controller to your preferences. Consider which features are important for the types of games you play.

FAQ