The greatest Xbox controller in 2023 is not actually a shock. The first-party Xbox Wireless Controller has held the highest spot on our record because the Xbox One period, and that in all probability will not change throughout the Xbox Series X|S lifecycle both. Similarly, the very best premium Xbox controller remains to be the excellent Elite Series 2–though now there are a couple of completely different fashions to select from. Having stated all that, there are a bunch of actually nice third-party Xbox controllers which might be value trying out, particularly in case you’re in search of pro-style customization options with out breaking the financial institution. We’ve rounded up the very best Xbox Series X|S controllers obtainable now.Outside of the pair of first-party Xbox controllers which might be in all probability all the time in your thoughts when looking for a brand new controller, there are compelling alternate options from fashionable third-party manufacturers, together with 8BitDo, HyperX, Razer, Turtle Beach, and extra.For occasion, in case you want aligned joysticks or play loads of video games that work higher with D-pad controls, the 8BitDo Pro 2 is a greater choose than Microsoft’s controllers. If you’re targeted on aggressive multiplayer, it’s possible you’ll wish to take into account the Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma, which options ultra-quick actuation and different options aimed toward bettering multiplayer efficiency. Also, Xbox players could be nostalgic for the Duke–the ill-fated authentic Xbox controller that some people fondly bear in mind for some motive. Of course, Xbox can also be dwelling to essentially the most creative and essential gaming controller of our time. The Xbox Adaptive Controller helps players with restricted mobility take pleasure in extra gaming experiences than ever earlier than.If you additionally personal different platforms, we now have roundups of the very best controllers for PC, Nintendo Switch, and PS5. Xbox Wireless Controller No shock right here. The first-party Xbox Wireless Controller is the obvious selection in case you’re in search of a brand new controller. Slightly revised when the Xbox Series X|S launched, the “Core” mannequin has some good enhancements that make an already nice controller even higher. It’s a tad smaller, has textured grips and triggers, and swaps the usual D-pad for an eight-way design that is has a bit extra click on to it. One of essentially the most notable additions is the Share button, which provides Xbox gamers a straightforward option to shortly snap screenshots and document footage.The Xbox Wireless Controller is offered in all kinds of colours. For the worth, you possibly can’t beat it–and it isn’t unusual for this controller to be on sale. The Xbox Wireless Controller stays one of the vital comfy and strong controllers in 2023–across all platforms. All Xbox homeowners have already got not less than one, however that is undoubtedly a controller that gamers wind up proudly owning a number of of. It’s additionally an excellent choice for PC and cell gadgets through Bluetooth. Xbox Elite Series 2 Controller Though the usual Xbox controller is the “best” attributable to efficiency and worth, if you need the highest-performing controller with an ultra-premium construct, the Xbox Elite Series 2 is the clear winner.Made with sturdier supplies and weighted simply sufficient to provide it an unparalleled really feel, the Xbox Elite Series 2 is a kind of controllers that is spectacular earlier than you even begin gaming with it in your arms. It boasts textured hand and set off grips in addition to steel analog sticks and D-pads.The analog stick caps and D-pads could be swapped on the fly with the included customization package. Four further stick caps (domed and completely different heights) are included within the hardshell carrying case. It comes with an eight-way D-pad and an ordinary cross mannequin.Other customization options on the precise controller itself embrace adjustable stick stress and set off stops. An included instrument permits you to alter stick stress to your liking, and switches on the again of the controller will let you lock triggers at three completely different pull distances.Perhaps most significantly, the Elite Series 2 has 4 detachable again paddles that simply snap into place. These are positioned in simply the suitable spots to make them really feel pure to press.You can use the Xbox Accessories App to remap inputs and save as much as three distinctive controller profiles that may be cycled by means of on the fly. You can even tinker with rumble depth within the app and create customized “shift” keys so as to add much more management inputs.The controller and the entire spare parts are conveniently saved contained in the included carrying case. It comes with a USB-C cable that provides the Elite Series 2 a powerful 40 hours of battery life on a full cost.The Elite Series 2 is roughly thrice as costly as the usual Xbox controller. It will not be value it except you’re severe about on-line multiplayer video games, nevertheless it’s arguably the very best controller available on the market immediately (for any platform). Xbox Elite Series 2 Core Controller The Xbox Elite Series 2 Core Controller launched final yr as a “budget” various to the usual Elite Series 2. It’s the identical actual controller from a construct perspective, nevertheless it doesn’t include the carrying case crammed with swappable parts.What meaning: no again paddles, additional analog sticks, or additional D-pad. However, it nonetheless has the built-in set off stops and analog stick stress adjustment instrument. The D-pad and included pair of sticks could be eliminated on the fly–just like the unique Elite Series 2.Essentially, this mannequin will attraction to those that need the premium construct of the Elite Series 2 with out the entire customization.Of course, you should purchase the entire swappable equipment individually. Down the road, in case you determine you need the whole lot, you possibly can choose up the Complete Component Pack for $60 to show your Core controller into an ordinary Elite Series 2.Alternatively–and that is in all probability the path to go for many users–you can choose and select which equipment you wish to purchase and buy them from third-party producers. For occasion, you may get Scuf’s wonderful again paddles for $20, or you should purchase paddles that look just about precisely the identical because the official ones for round $10.The Elite Series 2 Core controller now is available in crimson, white, and blue. Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma Razer’s newest Xbox iteration of its Wolverine controller is the corporate’s greatest but. The Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma is a marked enchancment by way of kind issue. The L-shaped chassis design makes it comfy for lengthy gaming periods, and it is now simpler than ever to handle the Wolverine’s plethora of inputs.The Wolverine V2 Chroma has 4 again paddles that resemble triggers in addition to a pair of additional shoulder buttons. Essentially, the Wolverine V2 Chroma is the very best Xbox controller for individuals who prefer to customise their inputs. One of the hallmarks of the Wolverine line continues with the V2 Chroma: Mecha-Tactile buttons. The face buttons and D-pad have suggestions that is just like clicking a mouse, they usually additionally provide lightning fast response occasions.The Wolverine V2 has interchangeable thumbsticks and comes dome-shaped and taller sticks. Additionally, it has set off stops for the left and proper triggers. Customizing your enter structure and total expertise (creating profiles) is simple with Razer’s proprietary software program that is obtainable on the Xbox and Windows Stores.The solely draw back right here is that the V2 Chroma nonetheless can solely be used with a wired connection. It comes with a prolonged, removable USB-C twine. That stated, in case you’re choosing up an Xbox controller for aggressive play, it is smart to seize a wired controller when contemplating latency. We’d suggest the V2 Chroma for individuals who routinely play aggressive multiplayer video games. 8BitDo Ultimate 8BitDo makes a few of the greatest controllers round, so it was nice information when the producer introduced it could produce Xbox controllers. The 8BitDo Ultimate is a wired controller with genuine look, nice sticks/triggers/buttons, and wonderful customization options. Best of all? It’s obtainable for underneath $50, which makes it a steal contemplating what you are getting right here.The 8BitDo Ultimate has two programmable again buttons and may retailer as much as three customized profiles. You can obtain 8BitDo’s Ultimate software program in your Xbox, PC, or smartphone to tweak a number of settings to get the controller working the best way you prefer it. You can change stick and set off sensitivity and alter the pressure of the rumble. All of the buttons could be remapped utilizing the software program, too. You can cycle by means of your trio of profiles everytime you need with the press of a button, which makes this wired controller superior for individuals who play a number of on-line video games frequently. 8BitDo Pro 2 The 8BitDo Pro 2 was the primary formally licensed Xbox controller launched by the producer. It has the identical design because the Pro 2 that has been fashionable for the Nintendo Switch for years. As such, the analog stick structure mirrors PlayStation’s method to controllers. If you play combating video games loads, this stick and D-pad structure could also be preferable. It’s additionally nice for retro video games or fashionable side-scrollers that play higher with a D-pad. Outside of the reversed place and its retro-inspired kind issue, the 8BitDo Pro 2 has the identical nice options because the 8BitDo Ultimate. HyperX Clutch Gladiate HyperX’s new Clutch Gladiate controller is tremendous spectacular for the worth (simply $35). It has the entire inputs you’d discover on an ordinary Xbox controller (together with the Share button) and an excellent ergonomic kind issue.The Clutch Gladiate has textured grips, a pair of remappable again buttons, twin set off locks, and a pair of rumble motors. The D-pad is simply an ordinary cross structure, nevertheless it’s responsive and has a pleasant really feel.Even with out its suite of competitive-focused options, the Clutch Gladiate can be a superb choose for these in search of a budget-friendly wired controller. Turtle Beach Recon The Turtle Beach Recon is one other inexpensive pro-style controller that is value trying out. This formally licensed controller has a light-weight however sturdy design. Its face buttons feel and look practically similar to the common Xbox controllers. While the sticks are a bit looser, they nonetheless really feel nice. The Recon additionally has a pair of wonderful again triggers with textured grips which might be positioned within the excellent spot. The deal with grips additionally provide an enchancment on the common Xbox controller. The D-pad is a bit underwhelming, because it has a inflexible really feel to it. On the plus facet, you get the entire similar menu buttons right here, together with the brand new Share button.The most important perk of the the Recon is that it has built-in audio options when utilizing a 3.5mm headset (it does not must be a Turtle Beach headset). Dubbed “Superhuman Hearing,” the audio tech will help you determine the character of sounds and the place they got here from in aggressive multiplayer video games. You additionally get full management of your recreation/chat combine, EQ, and different basic audio settings straight on the controller.The Recon plugs into your Xbox through the included USB-C to USB-A cable. Overall, the Recon falls simply wanting the 8BitDo by way of really feel and efficiency, nevertheless it’s nonetheless a strong controller and the audio options are distinctive for certain. Scuf Instinct Pro Scuf has been making Elite-style controllers for years, and it reveals. The firm’s controllers are a few of the most comfy yow will discover, and the brand new Scuf Instinct Pro controller is a superb instance of this. The Scuf Instinct Pro is similar to an ordinary Xbox Series X pad, although it undoubtedly feels completely different. The plastic is way smoother on the Scuf controller, and the bottom options comfy textured grips. It additionally has an interchangeable faceplate. Unlike some older Scuf controllers, the Instinct Pro makes use of AA batteries for energy.The Instinct Pro truly bests the Elite Series 2 in a single class: again paddles. The Instinct Pro has 4 built-in again buttons/triggers moderately than conventional paddles. The placement of those buttons and the design makes them a bit extra comfy to use–especially in case you plan on utilizing all 4. You can remap these inputs in seconds, which is a useful characteristic to have.In addition to the interchangeable faceplates with cool designs, you possibly can swap out the default thumbsticks for the included pair of longer, flat sticks. The Instinct Pro additionally has adjustable set off stops and helps as much as three profiles that may be cycled by means of on the fly. However, it does not have adjustable stick stress.The Scuf Instinct Pro is costlier than the Elite Series 2. Even the common Instinct (sans textured grip) is pricier. We’d undoubtedly suggest the Elite Series 2 over the Instinct Pro. But in case your most important concern is programmable again buttons, the Instinct Pro is value contemplating. Thrustmaster eSwap S/X Thrustmaster’s eSwap S and X controllers are strong choices for aggressive gaming, they usually have a characteristic not present in different controllers on this record: a modular design. The analog sticks, D-pad, triggers, and facet panel handles could be simply swapped out with completely different shade scheme kits you should buy from Thrustmaster. You can even change the stick caps with completely different kinds, together with domed choices and different sizes. In addition to the modular design, you possibly can tweak set off pull sensitivity with the set off cease switches on the again of the controller.In phrases of really feel, the eSwap S and eSwap X each provide stellar ergonomics. These controllers are a bit bigger than the common Xbox controller, which makes them nice for individuals with greater arms. Another nice characteristic is the mechanical construct on the parts. Similar to Razer’s Wolverine Chroma line, the eSwap collection has mechanical face buttons and D-pad. This characteristic permits the eSwap to be sooner in the case of inputs. That stated, it takes a little bit of time to get used to the face buttons, as they’re fairly darn flat and mimic clicking a mouse much more so than the Wolverine Chroma.The most important distinction between the 2 controllers is the variety of programmable again buttons. The eSwap S has two, and the eSwap X has 4. However, these buttons are fairly a bit smaller than the standard again paddles, particularly on the eSwap X, which has 4 small, spherical buttons. Even the eSwap S’ elongated buttons are a tad too small. Both controllers are wired and use a microUSB connection to the controller. That’s considerably unlucky contemplating USB-C is the usual lately.Nevertheless, modular controllers aren’t tremendous plentiful, and the eSwap collection provides nice ergonomics and efficiency. We’d suggest the inexpensive eSwap S over the X. Xbox Adaptive Controller The Xbox Adaptive controller is way completely different than the remainder of the management choices on this round-up. It’s supposed at first as a tool that helps these with restricted mobility play video games. It works with a variety of assistive gadgets that customers can plug in and assign to particular controller inputs to provide them the power to play any recreation on the 2 platforms.It options 20 ports so that you can plug any sort of thumbstick, swap, button, and every other assistive machine you need into it–19 of these are 3.5 mm ports, whereas the opposite two are USB 2.0 ports. There’s additionally a 3.5mm audio output port for headphones or a headset. It’s appropriate with Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and PC, and there is fairly the devoted neighborhood behind it, discovering new methods to make use of the adaptive controller–you may even make the most of a Bluetooth adapter to get it working with the Nintendo Switch.The Adaptive controller will not be for everybody, however due to its capacity to successfully bridge the hole between players with restricted mobility and the video games they wish to play, there is no doubt in our minds that it is a very powerful controller on this record. Hyperkin Duke The Hyperkin Duke was made purely out of nostalgia for the unique launch Xbox controller from manner again in 2001–it was this hulking gamepad with oddly formed and offset face buttons. So there wasn’t a lot shock when it was shortly surpassed by the Controller S, which grew to become the usual design shifting ahead. But if in case you have bigger arms, the Duke could be a greater match.Hyperkin has made a reputation for itself by recreating retro gaming experiences by means of its wide selection of {hardware}, and its Duke controller very a lot resembles the unique Xbox controller by way of measurement and button structure, however with a couple of fashionable touches. While authentic Xbox controllers had black/white buttons as a substitute of left/proper bumpers, Hyperkin integrated small bumpers so the Duke would make sense for enjoying immediately’s video games. The enormous brand on the middle of the controller is a display that additionally acts as the house button–when you energy on, the display shows the previous Xbox splash display. Otherwise, it is a trustworthy recreation of the Duke that now works by means of USB for Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and PC. Hyperkin X91 In addition to Hyperkin’s big range of retro gaming {hardware} that allows you to play previous video games simply, it has a couple of retro-inspired equipment. One of these is the Hyperkin X91, an Xbox Series X controller that is scrunched down right into a SNES-like kind issue. Despite the small measurement of this gamepad, the whole lot you want in a controller is there and all of it works surprisingly properly. From the analog sticks to the face buttons, the X91 recreates the complete controller really feel nearly completely. One draw back is that the triggers can really feel a bit squishy versus the sleek really feel of the triggers on a DualShock or common Xbox controller.And if in case you have a gaming laptop computer and play on the go usually, the X91 is the proper measurement for journey. Unfortunately, this controller solely works by means of wired USB. While meaning you do not have to fret about battery life, having a thick twine linked could make it a bit clunky to have round. The kind issue can also make it barely tougher to be exact with the analog sticks since there is not a lot you possibly can grip to maintain the controller regular. However, in case you want a small, fully-featured gamepad for much less intense video games, the X91 is a tremendous selection.
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