Best cheap Xbox controller deals in June 2023
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(Image credit: Microsoft)
Grabbing one of the best cheap Xbox controller deals on the web can add remarkable flexibility to your setup. Be that for the next-gen console itself or a new gaming PC, the Xbox controller is a brilliant bit of kit, more than adequate for all gaming in 2023 – and if you can save some money too, then even better.
What’s worth knowing is that the more premium Xbox controllers do get a bit expensive, so by doing a bit of deal hunting, it can pay off. That’s why we’ve got our price comparison software on the job to help find you a bargain. Bear in mind sometimes this extra cost is worth it as these controllers are also compatible PC controllers.
Not only are we rounding up all the best gamepads you should be getting your hands on, but we’re also bringing you the cheapest Xbox controller deals on the web right now. These prices are updated every half an hour for the absolute best savings available today, so whether you’re after a cheap multiplayer stand-in or a super customizable pro device you’ll always get the best deal possible.
These cheap Xbox controllers are all compatible with both Xbox One and Xbox Series X / S. That means you’ll be able to grab one of the best Xbox One accessories and the best Xbox Series X accessories no matter what generation you’re still rolling with.
Today’s best Xbox controller deals
Microsoft Xbox Series X controller
£54.99
£39.99
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PowerA Enhanced Wired Controller for
£38.13
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Microsoft Xbox Elite Wireless
£173.87
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Razer Wolverine Ultimate
£169.99
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See all prices
The best cheap Xbox controllers
(Image credit: Microsoft)
1. Xbox Core Wireless controller
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The new Xbox Series X controller is also compatible with the Xbox One, so if you’re looking for a more comfortable grip, textured triggers, and a hybrid D-pad on the previous generation, you’re in luck. You’re getting a far more ergonomic experience with the new redesign, and prices are often a little lower than the previous model as well.
Not only that, but the new share button will work across both generations as well. With the Xbox Series X came a new generation of the best Xbox controllers. This is still a AA battery operated piece of equipment, but the new play and charge kit also offers up USB-C charging as well.
Today’s best Xbox Series X wireless controller deals
£39.99
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£43.49
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£49.99
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2. PowerA Enhanced Wired Xbox Controller
Image 1 of 4
(Image credit: PowerA)(Image credit: PowerA)(Image credit: PowerA)(Image credit: PowerA)
If you don’t want to break $40 you can still pick up an excellent cheap Xbox controller. The PowerA Enhanced series offers plenty of different color options as well as compatibility across both Xbox One and Xbox Series X. That’s perfect if you’re after a quick stand-in, or a more affordable third player gamepad.
You’re also picking two additional buttons which can easily be remapped, dual rumble motors, a 3.5mm headphone jack, Share button and volume dial built in. That means all the functionality of the new Series X controller with a much lower price tag. The main sacrifice here is that wired connection, though.
Today’s best PowerA Enhanced Xbox controller deals
£29.99
£26.50
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£31.48
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£34.99
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Image 1 of 4
(Image credit: Microsoft)(Image credit: Microsoft)(Image credit: Microsoft)(Image credit: Microsoft)
3. Xbox One Wireless Controller
Want a standard, ‘normal’, no-fuss Xbox One controller? This is it. The wireless handset pictured above is just like the one packaged with every Xbox console, and we’ve rustled up the best deals for it below.
Because Microsoft is unmatched when it comes to alternate designs, we’ve been sure to include a variety of different colors and patterns as well. All of them are compatible with the Xbox One console and other Xbox One accessories you might have.
Just remember, you’ll need a pair of AA batteries or a Play and Charge Kit to power your shiny new controller. You’ll find more info on the latter further down the page, accompanied by the lowest prices available. To see what different controller options are in stock at the moment, click on the relevant drop-down in the widget below.
Today’s best Microsoft Xbox One Wireless Controller deals
982 Amazon customer reviews
☆☆☆☆☆
£91.70
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The best pro Xbox controllers
Image 1 of 3
(Image credit: Microsoft)(Image credit: Microsoft)(Image credit: Microsoft)
1. Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2
The Xbox Elite Controller Series 2 is Microsoft’s all-singing, all-dancing ode to the competitive scene. As a follow-up to the already-brilliant Elite Controller, this peripheral had the odds stacked against it; the original was perfect already, so why invest in a new one? The Elite Series 2 gives more than a few reasons.
To begin with, it has a new trigger, bumper, and handle design built for superior grip. This is followed by three built-in custom profiles, increased battery life, Bluetooth functionality, and a detachable charging dock that’s built into the controller’s carry case. Like its predecessor, it’s highly adaptable as well; both thumbsticks and the D-Pad can be replaced with performance-targeted alternatives, the shoulder buttons can be fine-tuned with a hair-trigger lock that shortens travel, and the four back paddles give access to face button inputs without having to move your fingers an inch.
It’s expensive, but you’re paying for quality. You’re also paying for improved performance – this handset will have you reacting faster than you ever could on a standard Xbox One controller. Note: Microsoft has stopped making the series 1 version now, so this is the Elite one to shop for.
Read more: Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 review
Image 1 of 3
(Image credit: Razer)(Image credit: Razer)(Image credit: Razer)
2. Razer Wolverine Ultimate
Hardware giant Razer throws its hat into the pro controller ring with the Wolverine Ultimate. Like everything else they do, it’s of the highest quality and earns the larger price tag.
Boasting fancy Chroma lighting that changes while you play, interchangeable thumbsticks and d-pads, four back buttons so you don’t have to reach for the face buttons, and two extra shoulder buttons, it aims to have everything in reach without you needing to lift your thumbs from the sticks. The face buttons are super responsive too by ditching the squishy buttons of old for a very satisfying click with minimal travel.
It’s aggressively targeting Microsoft’s latest Elite Series 2 controller with similar pricing and features and the Wolverine Ultimate justifies that by giving you the undeniable precision, quality, and pizazz of the Razer brand.
Today’s best Razer Wolverine Ultimate deals
£169.99
View
(Image credit: Razer)
3. Razer Wolverine Tournament Edition
The Razer Wolverine Tournament Edition is priced around $119/£119 so we’re holding it to a higher standard of testing, especially against the excellent Wolverine Ultimate which is packed with features, albeit at a higher price too.
The Wolverine Tournament Edition feels great in the hands and we love the extra shoulder buttons. Equally pleasing is the way the two rear paddles are tucked away modestly enough to ensure accidental touches are kept to a minimum and you don’t have to adjust your usual grip to use them, they’re just…ready. You’ve also got the lockable trigger switches from the Ultimate so you can have less travel on LT/RT too if you want.
However, the lack of swappable analog sticks and d-pads is disappointing for this price. As is the lack of an on-board button to change button mapping on the fly without having to revert back to the Xbox app. The face buttons are really stiff too, with a heavier and longer touch required compared to the instant reactions of the Wolverine Ultimate and even the standard Xbox One controller. We’d wait for a lower sale price, or better yet if your budget will allow it, pick up the excellent Razer Wolverine Ultimate we mentioned earlier in this guide instead.
Today’s best Razer Wolverine Tournament Edition deals
No price information
Check Amazon
Play and Charge Kit
©Microsoft
If you’re fed up with burning through disposable AA batteries for your controller, the Play and Charge Kit will become your new best friend. This handy accessory gives you up to 30 hours of wireless play, and it’s rechargeable to ensure longevity.
It’s easy to use, too. Simply slot it into the AA battery slot on the back of your controller and away you go. When it starts to run low on juice, just plug in the cable provided and carry on playing. Basically? The Play and Charge Kit is an essential purchase if you’re new to Xbox One.
Today’s best Microsoft Xbox One Play and Charge Kit deals
12 Amazon customer reviews
☆☆☆☆☆
£14.99
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Deal ends Sat, 24 Jun
Are cheap Xbox controllers compatible with PC?
Is the Xbox controller compatible with PC? Absolutely. It’s a relatively hassle-free process; you can either plug the controller into a USB port with your charging cable (a standard USB to micro-USB cable), connect via Bluetooth, or use an official Wireless Adaptor for Windows 10. However, be aware that you can only use the Bluetooth function if your controller was made after 2016.
Post-2016 models have the Xbox button as part of the main controller ‘face’ (e.g. the plastic around the Xbox button is matte and part of the main shell). Controllers made beforehand feature the Xbox button on a separate, shiny plastic strip that’s connected to the bumpers.
©Microsoft
As discussed above, going wireless on PC with older Xbox One controllers (or PCs without Bluetooth capability) requires the official Wireless Adaptor. This isn’t too expensive and is relatively easy to get hold of.
You’ll find the cheapest prices listed here.
Today’s best Microsoft Xbox One Controller + Wireless Adapter for Windows 10 deals
No price information
Check Amazon
What’s the cheapest controller for Xbox One?
We have found that the best cheap Xbox controller is the Xbox Core Wireless controller which you can pick up for around $/£60. It is an official controller with loads of great and useful features. However, if this is still out of your price range, it can be easy to source cheaper third-party controllers. If you do decide to opt for a third-party controller be sure that it is optimized for your chosen platform or console. Sometimes opting for a third-party cheap controller can lead to some issues so be sure to check product reviews before purchasing.
What is the best controller for an Xbox One
While many Xbox One controllers do a fine job, we recommend the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 due to it being wildly customizable, having a built-in battery as well as modular thumb sticks and a D-Pad. With a battery life of 30 to 40 hours, charging is less frequent, however, the pricing is higher than most as a result.
How can I get a cheap Xbox controller?
The best way to get a cheap Xbox controller is to look out for money saving deals during sales periods, such as Black Friday. You can keep an eye on this page as our comparison software actually surfaces all the lowest prices from around the web every half an hour.
If you’re after more gear, we’re also rounding up all the best Xbox steering wheels available now, and showing you how to find Xbox Series X restocks and Xbox Series S bundles if you’re still without the current-gen console.
Of course, we’re also showing you all the latest Xbox Live deals and the best Xbox Series X external hard drives as well.
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Contact me with news and offers from other Future brandsReceive email from us on behalf of our trusted partners or sponsors
Currently a Hardware Editor at GamesRadar+ and in charge of all things PC after graduating from University with a degree in Politics and International Relations in 2022. During my time at University I managed to obtain a platform on social media – specifically TikTok – where I reviewed tech and gaming hardware and produced creative and innovative gaming content. My platform allowed me to be an advocate for females in gaming and within the tech industry as a whole. I’m primarily a PC gamer and have been for over 8 years now and with no specific genre I enjoy, I have been able to play and love many titles from the past decade. I would label myself as a Nintendo Fanatic and also am extremely interested in VR and hoping to follow it closely in upcoming years.
The cheapest Xbox controller deals in June 2023
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(Image credit: Future)
The cheapest Xbox controller deals are pivotal if you’re planning on replacing your existing controller or looking to get more at the fairest rates around. Whether you play on Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, or PC, we’re bringing you all the latest and greatest savings on all manner of gamepads for the systems in question.
When we think about the best Xbox controllers, the two that most quickly come to mind have to be the Xbox Wireless Controller and the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2. While these two gamepads are truly excellent, they certainly aren’t usually the most affordable. That’s the great thing about the cheapest Xbox controller deals as now these models have been around for years, and offers are much more common in the US, the UK, and Australia now than they were at release.
Our mission is to be your one-stop destination for all things Xbox. If you’ve been a gamer on the platform for some time then you’ll know that controllers are just the tip of the iceberg. We’re also helping you save money with the best Xbox Game Pass deals as well as the best Xbox game deals to get the best Xbox Series X games cheaper.
We’ll cut right to the chase and show you exactly where to find the best cheapest Xbox controller deals and what to expect from major retailers in the US and the UK right now. Historically, we’ve seen the best levels of success from major outlets such as Amazon in the US and the UK, with specific retailers such as Best Buy in the US and Currys in the UK boasting the best deals month by month.
US:
- Microsoft – all the latest colors and a few discounts
- Amazon – regular discounts and cheaper alternatives as well
- Walmart – frequent savings on PowerA and official gamepads
- Best Buy – price-matches other sales and usually has good stock levels
- Newegg – better for third party devices and accessories but great prices
UK:
- Microsoft – widest range of colour options available
- Amazon – frequently offers additional discounts on Game Pass
- Currys – price matches other sales with extra freebies included
- Argos – great prices on official and third party controllers
- John Lewis – smaller range but two year guarantee included
- Ebuyer – regular discounts and often lowest prices around
- The Game Collection – low prices and budget accessories available
(Image credit: Future)
Xbox Wireless Controller deals
The Xbox Wireless Controller in its current form has been around for almost three years meaning that it’s often possible to find a discount on this tried and true gamepad. With so many different versions available, there are bound to be a couple of color schemes that you’ll be able to find at more affordable rates than others. We’ve rounded up some top offerings below.
Today’s best Xbox Wireless controller deals
Microsoft Xbox Series X controller
$59.99
$45.31
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Microsoft Xbox Series X controller
$59.99
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Microsoft Xbox Series X controller
$63.99
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Microsoft Xbox Series X controller
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Microsoft Xbox Series X controller
$85.94
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Xbox Elite Wireless controller deals
(Image credit: Future)
The Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 is absolutely awesome and we said as much in our 4.5-star review stating: “It’s the best Xbox controller on the market – but it doesn’t come cheap”. Well, fortunately, it’s been over four years since this all-star controller hit the scene and we’ve seen extensive discounts on it since.
There is now also the option of the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 Core which is a cheaper alternative, which starts at around $101 / £103 / AU$189 and delivers a significantly higher-end model than the standard Xbox controller but without the extras. What’s more, it’s now available in blue, red, and white, too.
Today’s best Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 deals
Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2
$163.49
$142.49
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Microsoft Xbox Elite Wireless
$129.99
$119.99
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Cheap Xbox controller alternatives
Sometimes going with the official controller isn’t necessarily the best plan of action if you’re on a budget. That’s why we’ve expanded our search out to other manufacturers, such as PowerA, which provides a cost-effective alternative that sacrifices none of the functionality but keeps the costs down.
More Xbox controller alternatives
PowerA Enhanced Wired Controller for
$86. 27
View Deal
See all prices
PowerA Spectra Enhanced Illuminated
$69.99
View Deal
See all prices
PDP Afterglow Wired Controller for Xbox
$53.94
View Deal
See all prices
Razer Wolverine Ultimate
$159.99
$69.99
View Deal
See all prices
Razer Wolverine V2
$99.99
$78.38
View Deal
See all prices
Where can I find the best cheap Xbox controller deals?
Generally speaking you can find some of the best cheapest Xbox controller deals at Amazon in the US, the UK, and Australia but more region specific retailers like Best Buy in the US, Currys in the UK, and JB Hi-Fi in Australia have some of the most competitive offers.
Are cheap Xbox controllers worth it?
While budget Xbox controller offerings from the likes of PowerA and PDP perform functionally identical, you aren’t going to have the same weight and build quality as with the OEM gamepad that comes with your Xbox Series X or Xbox One console. With that said, if you want something cheap then they will be more than enough without breaking the bank.
- The best Xbox Series X and Series S accessories in 2023
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Aleksha McLoughlin is the Hardware Editor for TechRadar Gaming and oversees all hardware coverage for the site. She looks after buying guides, writes hardware reviews, news, and features as well as manages the hardware team. Before joining TRG she was the Hardware Editor for sister publication GamesRadar+ and she has also been PC Guide’s Hardware Specialist. She has also contributed hardware content to the likes of Trusted Reviews, The Metro, Expert Reviews, and Android Central. When she isn’t working, you’ll often find her in mosh pits at metal gigs and festivals or listening to whatever new black and death metal has debuted that week.
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Exploring the XBox Accessories app for Xbox One controllers
This content was written by a website visitor and has been rewarded.
The XBox Accessories app is known to many owners of the XBox One game controllers. This app is for configuring, checking features, and updating firmware on current Microsoft controllers. It is available on the XBox One console (in all manifestations) and Windows 10. We will look at the application for the Windows 10 platform, in relation to the regular XBox One controller and the XBox Elite Series 2 controller.
recommendations
By default, this utility is not preinstalled in Windows 10, it must be downloaded from the Microsoft Store. It so happened that a couple of weeks ago I bought an XBox Elite Series 2 gamepad (the link to the review is available from the FAQ topic on gamepads in the conference), so we can get acquainted with the functionality of the application not only for the usual, but also for the new, elite, gamepad:
After the introduction with a brief description of the advantages of the XBox Elite Series 2 controller:
the application offers to choose an individual nickname for our gamepad (the possibility is available only for the elite version):
and upload the latest firmware (version 4. 8.190 for Elite Series 2):
9 0004
Meets us right after the main window of the program. On the XBox console, the application is linked to the XBox account, and on the PC, the XBox account details can be entered in the XBox Console Companion client:
All profiles created in the application go to the cloud, so they will not be lost when you reinstall Windows, change PC, console, etc. Just log in to your account that is common to the console and PC (unless you want to create a separate account) . Three programmable (built-in) profiles are available on the XBox Elite Series 2 controller and are stored in the controller’s memory. There is another, fourth, non-programmable profile, it does not use additional petals-buttons – this is a kind of mode of a regular XBox One gamepad. Profiles are switched with a special button, and three white LEDs on the front of the controller are used to indicate the current slot:
Only one software programmable slot is available for regular gamepad. The slot is not saved to the gamepad memory:
In addition to button matching, the application has a trigger motor test, a button for checking the current firmware, and a Copilot switch. Copilot duplicates control on the second XBox One gamepad (if you have one):
There is also a tab for checking the mapping of buttons, sticks and triggers after the changes made:
You can create any number of blank profiles in the application and apply them as needed:
More button mapping functionality is possible for the Elite 2 controller. I’ll make a reservation right away, naturally, assigning keyboard or mouse buttons to gamepad buttons will not work. The XInput API is limited by strict limits on the number of axes and buttons, and you cannot go beyond these limits. Button combinations (macros) are also not possible. Probably needless to explain why:
There is even a shift mode that allows you to switch to an alternative layout:
For a regular controller, the mapping capabilities are more modest. You can swap buttons, invert stick axes, and switch triggers (left to right/right to left). Plus, disable vibration (completely):
The following settings are only available for elite gamepads. These are stick curve settings:
Dead zones for triggers:
Vibration intensity for any of the four vibration motors:
And brightness for the XBox button:
Actually everything. From myself, I can add that in real conditions, the curve settings for sticks and the mapping of buttons to petals are most in demand for me. The ability to swap buttons in places has not been useful to me anywhere.
Here is a short video to visualize the above:
This material was written by a site visitor and has been rewarded.
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TOP 10 best gamepads. Joystick rating 2023
In some games, the gamepad can be more convenient than a regular mouse with a keyboard or a touchscreen. It helps to increase immersion in the atmosphere of the game, get a new experience, and some projects are simply better optimized for joystick control from the very beginning. In general, you should not refuse such an opportunity, therefore, if you want to buy a gamepad for PC, Xbox one or PS4 and do not know which one is better for games, our top 10 best models will help. Go!
These materials may be of interest to you: how to choose a game console and the best portable game consoles
Rating the best joysticks of 2023
models for relevance, and also re-examined user reviews. The top joysticks have been updated: outdated devices have been removed and the list has been supplemented with the best modern models based on the results of the analysis of technical characteristics and user opinion.
How to choose a gamepad, what to look for
First you need to decide on your goals. Please note that some gamepads may not be suitable for certain devices. See the model specifications for compatibility with your model and operating system. And be sure to consider the games that you are mainly going to play. For example, the Steam Controller, thanks to the touchpad, is great for shooters and strategies, while the comfortable and grippy Xbox Series gamepad is an excellent choice for long action and adventure gaming sessions.
The best game consoles
Brands also influence the choice of the best joystick model. In total, there are several major manufacturers of gamepads on the market:
- Logitech . Produces various peripheral equipment for PC: mice, keyboards, gamepads, manipulators. Mostly aimed at gamers. Gamepads from Logitech are great for PC gamers, although some models can be used for consoles or smartphones.
- Microsoft.
Makes gamepads for its Xbox consoles, although they can be easily connected to Windows computers and Android or iOS devices.
- Sony. Manufacturer of gamepads primarily for the PlayStation. As a rule, their gamepads are supported not only by branded consoles, but also by computers. True, only by cable – to play in wireless mode, most likely, you will need a special branded adapter.
- Nintendo . Another Japanese company specializing in the production of gaming products. It produces mainly gamepads for its own devices.
- Defender. Manufacturer of PC peripherals. Including produces gamepads that can be connected to a computer or set-top box.
TOP 10 best gamepads in 2023
To help you decide which gamepad is best for your computer. set-top boxes or smartphones, picked up different game controllers for each category. When choosing, the characteristics of the model and the opinion of users were taken into account.
Model | Than cool | |
---|---|---|
#10 | Defender Omega | Non-staining plastic |
#9 | Defender X7 | Good package |
#8 | Logitech G Gamepad F310 | Not needs to be charged |
#7 | Logitech Wireless Gamepad F710 | Low price |
#6 | Sony DualShock 4 v2 | |
#5 | Sony DualSense | Excellent battery life |
#4 | Nintendo Switch Pro Controller | Fits well in the hand |
#3 | Nintendo Switch Joy-Con controllers Duo | Long battery life |
#2 | Microsoft Xbox Series | Value for money |
#1 | Microsoft Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 | High quality workmanship |
1st place: Microsoft Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2
Rating on Yandex. Market — 4.5, rating on Ozone — 5.0.
Photo from a review on YandekMarket
Original wireless gamepad from Microsoft designed for Xbox One and PC. It is a premium option for gamers. It features a stylish and ergonomic design, as well as a high price – almost like the Nintendo Switch Lite. Compatibility is declared only with the new Xbox consoles and PCs on Windows 10. The gamepad is very convenient to use, it has all the necessary features for a comfortable game. Plus, the device is quite autonomous.
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Along with the standard set of gamepad comes an additional one – four sticks, one cross, four “petals” and a metal “key” to adjust the resistance of the sticks when tilted. With the help of different sticks, you can customize the gamepad for yourself or for a specific game. All replaceable elements are attached with magnets. The best gamepad for Xbox One and PC that will not let you down even in the most productive games.
Main specifications:
- Gamepad type: wireless;
- With vibration feedback;
- Battery life 40 hours;
- Supported API – XInput;
- Optional: motion sensor, accelerometer, gyroscope.
High quality
Microsoft Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2
High quality;
Lots of features and functionality;
Additional stick kits.
Overpriced.
2nd place: Microsoft Xbox Series
DNS reliability score 99.60% (reliable), rating on Yandex.Market — 4.5, rating on Ozone — 4.9.
Photo from a review on YandexMarket
A more modest branded gamepad from the same Microsoft. This inexpensive joystick costs two to three times less, but it supports more platforms: iOS, Mac, Xbox One, PC, Xbox Series S, Xbox Series X. The model is also suitable for Android smartphones. This is a standard solution from the company. Has a minimalist design. It is worth noting that the sticks here are located a little asymmetrically, which will require additional getting used to. However, they are still comfortable. You don’t have to worry about compatibility issues on PC, Xbox consoles, and mobile devices. Incidents happen, but rarely.
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Additionally, the joystick is equipped with an interface for connecting a headset. It is worth noting that the gamepad is not powered by a battery, but by ordinary AA batteries. Therefore, when the device is discharged, you will have to buy new power supplies. Luckily they last a long time.
Main specifications:
- Gamepad type: wireless;
- With vibration feedback;
- Battery operated AA;
- Supported API – XInput;
- Optional: motion sensor, accelerometer, gyroscope.
Value for money
Microsoft Xbox Series
Value for money;
Compatible with many devices;
High build quality.
AA battery operated.
3rd place: Nintendo Switch Joy-Con controllers Duo
Yandex.Market rating — 4.8.
Photo from a review on YandexMarket
If you don’t know which joystick is best for your game console, check out this wireless gamepad for Nintendo Switch, which is also suitable for children due to its compact size. Supplied as a set of two controllers – left and right. And you can’t change them with each other. Both are made of excellent plastic: pleasant to the touch, odorless – matte and velvety, plus, does not slip in the hands, even if they sweat. The controllers themselves are small and fit easily in the palm of an adult. Despite this, they are still comfortable to hold in your hands.
😱 These gadgets were incredibly expensive at the start
Controllers work wirelessly via Bluetooth. The charge lasts approximately 20-25 hours with active play. Charging time to 100% takes about 1 hour.
Key features:
- Gamepad type: wireless;
- With vibration feedback;
- Battery life up to 25 hours;
- Optional: motion sensor, accelerometer, gyroscope.
Long battery life
Nintendo Switch Joy-Con controllers Duo
Long battery life;
Usability;
High build quality.
Slightly overpriced.
4th place: Nintendo Switch Pro Controller
DNS reliability score 97.72% (reliable).
Nintendo’s best value-for-money gamepad in 2023 has the more familiar feel of a classic gamepad. The battery life in this model is increased to 40 hours, but charging also takes more time – up to 6 hours. Again, it is worth noting the high build quality – nothing creaks or backlash. The plastic is very high quality and pleasant to the touch. The buttons are also located as conveniently as possible for the user.
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Key features:
- Gamepad type: wireless;
- With vibration feedback;
- Battery life up to 40 hours;
- Optional: motion sensor, accelerometer, gyroscope.
Feels good in the hand
Nintendo Switch Pro Controller
Feels good in the hand;
Smooth stick action;
High build quality.
Weak vibration.
5th place: Sony DualSense
Rating on Yandex.Market — 4.8, rating on Ozone — 4.8.
Photo taken from reviews on Ozone
The joystick has a rough texture, so it does not slip out of your hands, even if they sweat and you actively gesticulate with them. The gamepad has a built-in microphone and a CREATE button for creating custom content. The controller also provides excellent vibration, which is divided into several types, which allows you to even better immerse yourself in what is happening in the game.
Although this gamepad has a built-in microphone for chatting with friends, the user can connect a third-party headset via the 3.5mm jack. This is the best gamepad for PC, Android and PS5. There is no official compatibility with previous PS generations.
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Key features:
- Gamepad type: wireless;
- With vibration feedback;
- Battery capacity 1560 mAh;
- Optional: motion sensor, accelerometer, gyroscope.
Excellent battery life
Sony DualSense
Excellent battery life;
Various vibration modes;
Good built-in microphone.
There are problems connecting to the PC.
6th place: Sony DualShock 4 v2
Rating on Yandex.Market — 4.7, rating on Ozone — 4.7.
Photo taken from reviews on Ozone
A slightly older Sony version is the best gamepad for PS4. Suitable for iPhone, Mac, and PC. The design is standard for gamepads from a Japanese corporation. Additionally equipped with a touch touchpad at the top. It can be useful for various manipulations in some games. It is also worth noting the presence of a built-in speaker. This is a controversial decision, but it helps to get a new experience from games that support this technology.
The gamepad is powered by a built-in rechargeable battery. The manufacturer does not say how long the battery lasts, but it must be said that a long battery life is definitely not the DualShock 4 strong point. As with many gamepads, you can additionally connect a headset to it.
Main features:
- Gamepad type: wireless;
- With vibration feedback;
- Battery capacity 1560 mAh;
- Optional: motion sensor, accelerometer, gyroscope.
Accessory touchpad
Sony DualShock 4 v2
Accessory touchpad;
High build quality;
Nice built-in speaker.
There are problems connecting to the PC.
7th place: Logitech Wireless Gamepad F710
DNS reliability score 97.52% (reliable), rating on Yandex.Market — 4.3, rating on Ozone — 4.8.
Photo from YandexMarket review
Guess what iPhone it is
This joystick is cheaper than many brand analogs for consoles, but this is the best joystick for PC, as it was created for it. A good inexpensive option if you need to buy the first joystick for a child. It has all the characteristics necessary for comfortable gaming. Wireless connection. Users have not identified any serious shortcomings in this gamepad for its price category, although some note that you need to get used to the location and rigidity of the buttons.
Main features:
- Gamepad type: wireless;
- With vibration feedback;
- Supported API type – DirectInput / XInput;
- No additional sensors.
Low price
Logitech Wireless Gamepad F710
Low price;
High build quality;
Excellent PC compatibility.
Need to get used to the layout of the buttons.
8th place: Logitech G Gamepad F310
DNS reliability rating 99.88% (reliable), rating on Yandex.Market — 4.6, rating on Ozone — 5.0.
Photo from a review on YandexMarket
This gamepad is connected via a wire. For some, this may seem inconvenient or outdated, but in this case, the user does not need to worry about the remaining charge. At an acceptable cost, the gamepad has all the necessary characteristics for complete immersion in the game, plus it has a high-quality assembly. However, there is no vibration feedback, which can be a serious drawback for some gamers.
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Key features:
- Gamepad type: wired;
- No vibration feedback;
- Supported API type – DirectInput / XInput;
- Connection interface – USB.
No need to charge
Logitech G Gamepad F310
No need to charge;
High build quality;
Excellent PC compatibility.
Unusual button layout.
9th place: Defender X7
CSN reliability rating 96.97% (reliable), rating on Ozone — 4.6.
Photo taken from reviews on Ozone
Inexpensive good gamepad for wireless type smartphone, which is also supported by Android, PS3, PC platforms. There is a built-in battery that lasts for a long time. Charging is done via the micro-USB connector. Despite the fact that the gamepad is wireless, it can also be connected via the wire that comes with the kit. Its length of 2 meters should be enough. Also included is a special mount for installing a smartphone.
Party video game selection
Key features:
- Gamepad type: wired;
- There is vibration feedback;
- Supported API type – DirectInput / XInput;
- Connection interface – USB.
Good equipment
Defender X7
Good equipment;
Good vibration response;
Excellent smartphone compatibility.
Hard cross.
10th place: Defender Omega
DNS reliability score 99.04% (reliable), rating on Yandex.Market — 4.3, rating on Ozone — 4.7.
Photo taken from reviews on Ozone
The cheapest gamepad in the selection. In its design, it is somewhat reminiscent of a joystick for the first Playstation. This gamepad is, of course, wired. Despite its low price, the device has a built-in vibration feedback. Compatible with PC only. Unfortunately, despite the declared compatibility, it behaves incorrectly in some games.
Main features:
- Gamepad type: wired;
- There is vibration feedback;
- Supported API type – DirectInput / XInput;
- Connection interface – USB.
Non-staining plastic
Defender Omega
Non-staining plastic;
Good vibration response;
Long wire.
Poor compatibility with some games.
Comparison of the best gamepads
Name | Connection type | Compatibility | Number of mini joysticks 9 0168 | Vibration feedback | ||
Microsoft Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 | Wireless | Xbox One, PC | 2 | Yes | ||
Microsoft Xbox Series | Wireless | iOS, Mac, Android, Xbox One, PC, Xbox Series S, Xbox Series X 9 | Wireless | Nintendo Switch | 2 | Yes |
Nintendo Switch Pro Controller | Wireless | Nintendo Switch | 2 | Yes | ||
Sony DualSense | Wireless | Android, PC, PS5 | 2 | Yes | ||
Sony DualShock 4 v2 | Wireless | iOS, Mac, PS4, PC | 2 | Yes | ||
Logitech Wireless Gamepad F710 | Wireless | PC | 2 | Yes | ||
Logitech G Gamepad F310 | Wired | PC | 2 | No | ||
Defender X7 | Wireless | Android, PS3, PC | 2 | Yes | ||
Defender Omega | Wired | PC | 2 | No |
Best wired headphones
How to connect a gamepad to a computer?
It’s not enough to buy a good joystick, you need to connect it correctly. The process depends on the manufacturer of your manipulator, so in this case there may be different subtleties. With wired models, as a rule, there are no problems in connecting to a computer – just plug in a USB cable. After that, the device should be defined in the system. Wireless models already have their own nuances.
Xbox controllers
These are the easiest to connect. Xbox One controllers connect like any other Bluetooth device. No additional manipulations are required from the user. Xbox 360 or older models can only be connected to a computer via a wired connection.
Sony Gamepads
Instructions for connecting gamepads from Play Station 4 and 3 for PC look like this:
- Connect the gamepad via the DualShock USB cable.
- Download and install DS4Windows. The installation process is not difficult – you only need to agree with the license and click the “Next” buttons.
- Open the program and go to the Controllers tab and press the Stop / Start button in the lower right corner until the gamepad appears in the list of devices.
After that, we can assume that the gamepad is connected.
Other manufacturers
Typically, gamepads from other manufacturers are designed for PC only and connect as Bluetooth devices or via a USB cable. Less often, a special module for wireless connection may be included in the kit.
How to connect a gamepad to a smartphone?
The gamepad is connected to a smartphone either as a standard Bluetooth device or via a USB-OTG adapter. Detailed instructions for connecting and setting up a gamepad on a smartphone are usually written by the manufacturer in the documentation. It should be understood that if the selected gamepad is not supported by Android, then you will not be able to connect it, or you will have to spend a lot of time on it, but it will still work incorrectly.
Why doesn’t the gamepad work?
There are several options in which the gamepad may not work or work incorrectly:
- The device is discharged or close to discharge.