Buying a game controller for your PC is a task fraught with uncertainty and confusion. While gaming on a console typically locks you into whatever stock controller came with the system (or a few alternatives), gaming on a PC opens up a much wider range of options to explore.
Not sure where to begin? I’ll take you through it! Here’s the ultimate guide to buying a game controller for PC gaming. I’ll tell you all about the different types of controllers, their various pros and cons, the features you need to be aware of, and any caveats worth keeping in mind.
Xbox controllers work well out of the box
If you’re gaming on a Windows PC, Xbox controllers have some of the best out-of-the-box support available. Recent models made for the Xbox Series X and S work especially well with gaming PCs.
Thiago Trevisan / IDG
Most major game libraries, including Steam and Microsoft Game Pass, will recognize Xbox controllers natively. Inputs and controller overlays in games will show up accurately, just as if you were playing on an Xbox.
Thiago Trevisan / IDG
So, for many gamers, a basic no-frills Xbox controller will serve perfectly well for hours-long sessions. You’ll want to download the Xbox Accessories app, though, found in the Microsoft Store. This app allows you to make effortless customizations to your controller, adjust the LED lights, and update firmware.
Which Xbox controller is best?
The simplest choice is the standard Microsoft Xbox controller, which has an MSRP of $59.99 but can often be found for $50 or less. It’s widely available in over a dozen different color schemes.
Thiago Trevisan / IDG
Microsoft also offers the Xbox Elite Series 2 controller, which is a more expensive pro-level product. It comes with a carrying case and charging dock, along with the usual accessories needed for the controller.
The biggest difference between the stock Xbox controller and the Xbox Elite Series 2 controller? Four paddles on the back, which can be remapped to other buttons and actions. This can make action-heavy games easier and more enjoyable, letting you keep your thumbs on the thumbsticks while your other fingers do most of the work.
Thiago Trevisan / IDG
The Xbox Elite Series 2 also offers trigger stops, which shorten the actuation distance of the left and right triggers so they’re quicker to respond. With a simple slide of the rear toggle, you can switch back and forth between standard and shortened trigger.
While the Xbox Elite Series 2 has an MSRP of $179.99, it can often be found closer to $140 on sale. Microsoft also offers the Xbox Elite Series 2 Core version without accessories for $129.99 MSRP. You’ll need to buy the paddles and carrying case separately, but it’s essentially the same controller as the more expensive version.
PlayStation controllers work, with caveats
With the Sony PlayStation 5 outselling Microsoft Xbox consoles, it’s no surprise to see a sea of DualSense controllers out there. The great news here is that DualSense controllers work quite well on gaming PCs, but with a few more caveats than Xbox controllers.
Thiago Trevisan / IDG
For starters, the regular DualSense controller is priced a bit higher than the regular Xbox controller, with an MSRP of $74.99 that rarely goes on sale. Sony also offers a higher-end DualSense Edge controller for $199.99 MSRP, which offers more oomph for hardcore gamers. Sony DualShock controllers (for the PlayStation 4) also work on PC, and they’re priced more in line with regular Xbox controllers.
Caveats to keep in mind
Controller features may be spotty on PC, though. Some haptic feedback, like when you ride your horse, may only be felt when connected via USB cable. The controller’s speaker will also need to be cable-connected to work. Most other features work with Bluetooth, but note that DualSense controllers can only pair with one device at a time. That could be a pain point if you frequently switch between PS5 and PC.
If you’re going to use a DualSense controller on PC, Steam is your best bet, with many games offering native DualSense support — just make sure to disable PlayStation controller support in Steam settings. That may sound counterintuitive, but it’ll give you the best results when playing games that natively support DualSense controllers.
On other PC gaming platforms, such as Game Pass and Epic Games Store, your mileage may vary. You may need to use third-party tools, such as DualSenseX, to have it function properly.
Which PlayStation controller is best?
As with Xbox controllers, the basic no-frills Sony PS5 DualSense controller is more than enough for everyday gamers. The connection is easy to make, the ergonomics are comfortable, and the feel of it in your hand leads to an overall premium experience.
Thiago Trevisan / IDG
But the Sony DualSense Edge controller is one of the best pro-level controllers on the market. It adds two paddles on the back, plus extra accessories like a carrying case and USB cable lock. Much like the Xbox Elite Series 2, it also has adjustable-length triggers.
One standout feature of the DualSense Edge is swappable thumbsticks, allowing you to change them out on demand, which comes in handy when they’re affected by stick drift. You can also customize your controller profiles using the PlayStation Accessories app.
What about third-party controllers?
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