Consider getting one of the best controllers for PC if you haven’t already. Purists may insist on sticking with the traditional mouse-and-keyboard combo. However, a strong case can be made for using controllers to play the best PC games – especially now that most AAA games support console controls, making it easy to get up and running with one of these controllers.
In fact, especially if you’re a fan of action-RPGs and fighting games, the best controllers for PC are an ideal match. Since you’re typically just using your thumb, middle, and index fingers, you’ll have more streamlined controls at your fingertips. You’ll find the experience a lot smoother and more efficient over the classic method, even if you do have the best gaming mouse or the best gaming keyboard in your arsenal. As a result, you’ll be able to react quicker.
There’s never been a more ideal time to try out a PC controller. From premium ones with all the bells and whistles to more budget-friendly options to get you in the door, we gathered the best controllers for PC 2021 has to offer. Regardless of your playstyle or preferred aesthetic, you’ll find something on this list that will fit your needs.
The Xbox Wireless Controller is as universal as they come. (Image credit: Microsoft)
The gold standard
Connectivity: Wired, Bluetooth | Features: Textured grip, 3.5mm stereo headset, replaceable battery
Comfortable
Affordable
Not very many features
Microsoft’s Xbox controller has been the ruler by which other PC game controllers are measured since the Xbox 360 days, and for good reason. It’s comfortable and weighty with a button layout that feels natural. The most recent version – designed for the Xbox One console – iterates on everything that made last generation’s model so great by adding clickier shoulder bumpers and a vastly improved directional pad.
The built-in Bluetooth wireless makes pairing it with your desktop a breeze, and the price point is very attractive for consumers on a budget. It also comes in a variety of colors and patterns, meaning you’re likely to find something that matches your rig. And, even if there isn’t a color scheme you’re into, Microsoft will let you customize it through the Xbox Design Lab. This controller is as universal as they come, making it a fantastic choice for just about any setup and one of the best PC controllers of 2021.
If you’re looking for the most feature-packed controller available for your PC, the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller is your best bet (Image credit: Microsoft)
The king of luxury
Connectivity: Wired, Wireless (via adapter) | Features: Interchangeable components, haptic rumble, 3.5mm headset, extensive customization
Tons of features and customizability
Fantastic software
Very expensive
A premium version of the Xbox One controller, the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller certainly earns its moniker. It features an enormous number of upgrades over the standard Xbox controller, such as an interchangeable component layout and paddle buttons on the reverse side. There’s also a trigger governor that you can toggle for more sensitive trigger pulls. It’s more than double the price, though, so this is a product aimed squarely at those among us who truly want to take advantage of keyboard levels of customizability.
The Elite controller includes some truly impressive software functionality, which lets you tweak and fine-tune nearly every aspect of play. Here, you can customize many different profiles, of which the controller can hold two at any time, letting you change between them with the flick of a switch. If you’re looking for the most feature-packed controller available for your PC, this is your best bet, provided you’re willing to shell out the cash.
Read the full review: Xbox Elite Wireless Controller
The Logitech F310 is a fine choice for an inexpensive alternative to a mouse and keyboard. (Image credit: Logitech)
The ultimate budget solution
Connectivity: Wired | Features: Programmable buttons, DirectInput switch for use with older and modern games
Very inexpensive
Functionally simple
A bit small
If you’re in the market for the best PC controller that won’t break the bank, it’s tough to beat Logitech’s F310. It may be basic in its execution and functionality, but there’s something to be said about the no-frills nature of this cheap option. Just plug it in via USB and you’re ready to go. Considering the glut of customization options and features of all the premium controllers out there, the F310 is oddly refreshing. It also boasts an admirable directional pad and a great button layout.
As might be expected, the price point comes with a number of tradeoffs. First, the controller is rather lightweight, which lends an unfortunately flimsy quality to the experience of gaming with it. Also, with no wireless functionality, the cord interface may be less than ideal for some. It’s also a tad small and larger hands are likely to struggle a bit. Still, given these caveats, the F310 is a fine choice for an inexpensive alternative to a mouse and keyboard.
The Sony DualShock 4 boasts tactile analog sticks with just enough resistance. (Image credit: Sony)
The motion controller
Connectivity: Wireless | Features: 3.5mm headset, touchpad, motion control capabilities
Comfortable, fantastic d-pad
Motion controls
Exposed shoulder buttons
The DualShock 4 is Sony’s best controller to date, and lucky for us it’s compatible with Steam’s entire library of games. Very comfortable in the hands, the DualShock 4 boasts tactile analog sticks with just enough resistance, and perhaps the best directional pad ever. It also features motion technology that’s compatible with with a surprising number of games, allowing you to steer in racing games or aim in shooters by moving the controller around.
There are a couple issues, though. Most notably, the exposed shoulder buttons make it easy to accidentally bump them on the desk. The rubber on the analog sticks also tends to rub off after extended use. Still, Sony’s controller ranks up there among the best options for controller-based PC gaming.
Read the full review: Dualshock 4 Controller
The craftsmanship on the 8BitDo SN30 Pro is surprisingly sturdy, especially considering its budget pricing. (Image credit: 8BitDo)
The retro champ
Connectivity: Wired, Bluetooth | Features: Rumble, screenshot button, turbo button
Sturdy
Retro design
Small and slightly uncomfortable
Peripheral manufacturer 8BitDo has made its name on retro designs that lean heavily on nostalgia, and the SN30 Pro wears its inspiration on its sleeve. Modeled after old-school Super Nintendo controllers, it’s ideal for the PC’s ever-growing library of retro-inspired games, even if it doesn’t necessarily appeal to everyone. The button layout will be instantly familiar to anyone who grew up with 2D platformers and JRPGs.
The craftsmanship on the SN30 Pro is surprisingly sturdy, especially considering its budget pricing. It also sports a pair of analog sticks should you want to use it for modern shooters or action games, though we wouldn’t recommend that. Its small form factor makes it uncomfortable in the hand during extended sessions and more twitch-based games. Regardless, there are a number of games that would benefit from the authentically retro touch that the SN30 brings to the desk. That alone makes this one of the best PC controllers right now.
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In fact, especially if you’re a fan of action-RPGs and fighting games, the best controllers for PC are an ideal match. Since you’re typically just using your thumb, middle, and index fingers, you’ll have more streamlined controls at your fingertips. You’ll find the experience a lot smoother and more efficient over the classic method, even if you do have the best gaming mouse or the best gaming keyboard in your arsenal. As a result, you’ll be able to react quicker.
There’s never been a more ideal time to try out a PC controller. From premium ones with all the bells and whistles to more budget-friendly options to get you in the door, we gathered the best controllers for PC 2021 has to offer. Regardless of your playstyle or preferred aesthetic, you’ll find something on this list that will fit your needs.
The Xbox Wireless Controller is as universal as they come. (Image credit: Microsoft)
1. Microsoft Xbox Wireless Controller
The gold standard
Connectivity: Wired, Bluetooth | Features: Textured grip, 3.5mm stereo headset, replaceable battery
Comfortable
Affordable
Not very many features
Microsoft’s Xbox controller has been the ruler by which other PC game controllers are measured since the Xbox 360 days, and for good reason. It’s comfortable and weighty with a button layout that feels natural. The most recent version – designed for the Xbox One console – iterates on everything that made last generation’s model so great by adding clickier shoulder bumpers and a vastly improved directional pad.
The built-in Bluetooth wireless makes pairing it with your desktop a breeze, and the price point is very attractive for consumers on a budget. It also comes in a variety of colors and patterns, meaning you’re likely to find something that matches your rig. And, even if there isn’t a color scheme you’re into, Microsoft will let you customize it through the Xbox Design Lab. This controller is as universal as they come, making it a fantastic choice for just about any setup and one of the best PC controllers of 2021.
If you’re looking for the most feature-packed controller available for your PC, the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller is your best bet (Image credit: Microsoft)
2. Microsoft Xbox Elite Wireless Controller
The king of luxury
Connectivity: Wired, Wireless (via adapter) | Features: Interchangeable components, haptic rumble, 3.5mm headset, extensive customization
Tons of features and customizability
Fantastic software
Very expensive
A premium version of the Xbox One controller, the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller certainly earns its moniker. It features an enormous number of upgrades over the standard Xbox controller, such as an interchangeable component layout and paddle buttons on the reverse side. There’s also a trigger governor that you can toggle for more sensitive trigger pulls. It’s more than double the price, though, so this is a product aimed squarely at those among us who truly want to take advantage of keyboard levels of customizability.
The Elite controller includes some truly impressive software functionality, which lets you tweak and fine-tune nearly every aspect of play. Here, you can customize many different profiles, of which the controller can hold two at any time, letting you change between them with the flick of a switch. If you’re looking for the most feature-packed controller available for your PC, this is your best bet, provided you’re willing to shell out the cash.
Read the full review: Xbox Elite Wireless Controller
- Check out more cheap Xbox controller deals
The Logitech F310 is a fine choice for an inexpensive alternative to a mouse and keyboard. (Image credit: Logitech)
3. Logitech F310
The ultimate budget solution
Connectivity: Wired | Features: Programmable buttons, DirectInput switch for use with older and modern games
Very inexpensive
Functionally simple
A bit small
If you’re in the market for the best PC controller that won’t break the bank, it’s tough to beat Logitech’s F310. It may be basic in its execution and functionality, but there’s something to be said about the no-frills nature of this cheap option. Just plug it in via USB and you’re ready to go. Considering the glut of customization options and features of all the premium controllers out there, the F310 is oddly refreshing. It also boasts an admirable directional pad and a great button layout.
As might be expected, the price point comes with a number of tradeoffs. First, the controller is rather lightweight, which lends an unfortunately flimsy quality to the experience of gaming with it. Also, with no wireless functionality, the cord interface may be less than ideal for some. It’s also a tad small and larger hands are likely to struggle a bit. Still, given these caveats, the F310 is a fine choice for an inexpensive alternative to a mouse and keyboard.
The Sony DualShock 4 boasts tactile analog sticks with just enough resistance. (Image credit: Sony)
4. Sony DualShock 4
The motion controller
Connectivity: Wireless | Features: 3.5mm headset, touchpad, motion control capabilities
Comfortable, fantastic d-pad
Motion controls
Exposed shoulder buttons
The DualShock 4 is Sony’s best controller to date, and lucky for us it’s compatible with Steam’s entire library of games. Very comfortable in the hands, the DualShock 4 boasts tactile analog sticks with just enough resistance, and perhaps the best directional pad ever. It also features motion technology that’s compatible with with a surprising number of games, allowing you to steer in racing games or aim in shooters by moving the controller around.
There are a couple issues, though. Most notably, the exposed shoulder buttons make it easy to accidentally bump them on the desk. The rubber on the analog sticks also tends to rub off after extended use. Still, Sony’s controller ranks up there among the best options for controller-based PC gaming.
Read the full review: Dualshock 4 Controller
- Browse the latest DualShock controller prices
The craftsmanship on the 8BitDo SN30 Pro is surprisingly sturdy, especially considering its budget pricing. (Image credit: 8BitDo)
5. 8BitDo SN30 Pro
The retro champ
Connectivity: Wired, Bluetooth | Features: Rumble, screenshot button, turbo button
Sturdy
Retro design
Small and slightly uncomfortable
Peripheral manufacturer 8BitDo has made its name on retro designs that lean heavily on nostalgia, and the SN30 Pro wears its inspiration on its sleeve. Modeled after old-school Super Nintendo controllers, it’s ideal for the PC’s ever-growing library of retro-inspired games, even if it doesn’t necessarily appeal to everyone. The button layout will be instantly familiar to anyone who grew up with 2D platformers and JRPGs.
The craftsmanship on the SN30 Pro is surprisingly sturdy, especially considering its budget pricing. It also sports a pair of analog sticks should you want to use it for modern shooters or action games, though we wouldn’t recommend that. Its small form factor makes it uncomfortable in the hand during extended sessions and more twitch-based games. Regardless, there are a number of games that would benefit from the authentically retro touch that the SN30 brings to the desk. That alone makes this one of the best PC controllers right now.
- Find all the best cheap PC game deals available now
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