Gamepads are simply the best option for a lot of PC games, thanks to their comfortable layout, analogue inputs and decades of love from game developers. Given that most console and mobile controllers also support PC, there’s a wealth of options – from what we call “first-party” options made by Microsoft, Sony and Nintendo, to third-party models from Turtle Beach, Nacon, Scuf and more.
That can make finding the ultimate controller tough, especially if you’re a lifelong PC gamer with no particular stake in the console war. To help you out – and for our own particular interests – we’ve tested dozens of the best gamepads on the market, sorted the wheat from the chaff, and picked out the best options for a range of budgets and gaming genres.
Best PC controller 2025
Best PC controller: Xbox Wireless ControllerRunner-up: Sony DualSense (PS5) ControllerSecond runner-up: Nintendo Switch 2 Pro ControllerBest premium PC controller: Xbox Elite Series 2 / Elite Series 2 CoreBest cheap PC controller: GuliKit ES ProBest TMR controller: GameSir G7 ProBest Hall Effect controller: Razer Wolverine V3 ProBest cheap Hall Effect Xbox controller: GameSir G7 SEBest value Hall Effect controller: 8BitDo Ultimate 2Best third-party PC controller: Asus ROG Raikiri ProMost customisable PC controller: Scuf Envision / Envision ProRunner-up customisable controller: Victrix Pro BFGBonus – Best cheap Android/iOS controller: Gamesir G8 GalileoBonus – Best overall Android/iOS controller: Razer Kishi V3 ProBest of the rest: other controllers we testedTo see this content please enable targeting cookies. Best PC controller: Xbox Wireless Controller Pros: Unmatched PC game support, low-latency wireless plus Bluetooth, multiple stylesCons: Rechargeable battery pack and 2.4GHz Xbox Wireless Adapter cost extraBuy: Amazon UK, Amazon US
The best PC controller for most people is the Xbox Wireless Controller. This Xbox Series-era controller works well out of the box with the widest range of PC titles, offers wired, Bluetooth or 2.4GHz wireless connectivity and is available in a range of colours and styles at a reasonable price. The Microsoft controller is also well made, with responsive triggers and a large, comfortable shape. It’s just a great controller all-around.