Welcome to our comprehensive guide to the best Xbox controllers, fully updated and ready for the 2025 gaming season. This year is packed with releases and you may well need a new Xbox controller. Our top choice and best overall remains the Xbox Wireless Controller, widely available at most electronics retailers. We've also selected five other controllers that excel depending on your needs.
Choosing the best Xbox controller is becoming increasingly complex. Recently, Microsoft lifted the restrictions that were in place for Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S controllers, ending their de facto monopoly on wireless technology. Wireless options are still pricey though, but we expect that to change this year as more third-party options come to market.
Recent updates
January 23, 2025: I've tested a couple new controllers since we first published, and while the 6 top picks remain the same I've added some to our honorable mentions for you to consider — Jennifer Young
Across the Windows Central team, we spend thousands of hours a year playing video games, and each controller, headset, and other accessories enjoy dozens of hours of extensive testing for our in-depth expert reviews.
To that end, third-party controller makers like Razer, Turtle Beach, or GameSir, generally couldn't use wireless modes in their controllers. There were a few exceptions, relating to patent amnesties and things like that, but generally speaking, if you wanted wireless you had to buy from Xbox and Microsoft.
Times have changed, though. More than ever, third-party players are building wireless options for Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One, giving "Player 2" a better experience than ever. Of course, every Xbox Series X|S purchase comes with a standard Xbox controller in the box, but what if your dog ate it and you need a replacement? What if you want an Xbox controller that simply does more? Well, look no further, friend.
I've personally tested dozens of Xbox controllers over the years, and have worked with my colleagues at Windows Central to bring you this wide-ranging guide into the best Xbox controllers money can buy. Generally speaking, all Xbox controllers also work on PC, thanks to the synergy between Windows and Xbox, so this is also a good guide if you're looking for a new PC gamepad as well.
Here's an in-depth look at our top picks for best Xbox controllers and gamepads for a variety of user scenarios, budgets, and niches. — Jez Corden, Managing Editor
The quick list
Here's a list of our top six picks, representing the best of the best in each category of Xbox controllers. From the standard Xbox controller to more specialized picks like the Thrustmaster, these controllers beat out everything else we've laid our hands on. If you want more details on each pick and why we chose it, you can click each link to fast-forward to the full descriptions.
The standard Xbox Series X|S controller offers the perfect balance of performance and value for money. While you can stick with the stock controller that comes with your console, there is also a seemingly endless range of colors and designs for most tastes. Its weight is well balanced, buttons are perfectly positioned, and the addition of the share button this gen makes taking game captures a breeze. We recommend the Vapor range in particular because of the inclusion of rubber grips on the rear, making this ergonomic controller even more comfortable to use.
GameSir has steadily built a reputation for delivering high value in the sub-$50 controller space, and the GameSir G7 SE boasts components like Hall effect sticks that outperform and outlast the standard Xbox controller, and anti-friction rings and rear remappable buttons. The only thing holding this controller back from topping our list is that it's wired, which isn't convenient for most — but if that's not a deal breaker for you and you want the best a low budget can get, this is it.
We've long lauded Razer's Wolverine controller range, and its first wireless model has impressed us to no end. The inclusion of Hall effect sticks for eradicating stick drift, Razer mouse switch technology, and the ability to unlock 1000 Hz polling when used with a PC push this a few steps ahead of Xbox's own Elite controller if you are looking for something to give you a competitive advantage.
The official Xbox Elite Series's premium feel is unmatched by any third-party competitors. It has a hefty price tag but has come down in sales in recent years to make it a little more accessible. The Elite Series 2 has a satisfying weight and exquisitely designed components, such as the magnetic analog sticks and D-pad you can pop off and switch to your preference. The real bang for your buck here is the 40-hour battery life and inclusion of a wireless charging dock.
If you've ever really wanted to customize a controller on the fly— perhaps move the sticks from asymmetric to side-by-side or switch out the D-Pad—then a modular controller like the ESwap X Pro is the perfect solution for you. With a controller that lets you switch everything around, you can configure it to exactly your needs. There's even a Forza Horizon version with a wheel, and the parts are swappable between all of the models.
The GameSir G8 Galileo is one of many options for mobile gaming controllers for Xbox Cloud Gaming. It's much cheaper than its Razer and Backbone competitors and offers full-size grips and seriously satisfying buttons and sticks. If you want something to comfortably turn your mobile into a handheld, rivaling the likes of the PS Portal and Logitech G Cloud, you can do it with this or the alternative G8 Plus, which connects with Bluetooth and offers wider compatibility for folding phones.
How we chose the best Xbox and Windows PC controllers
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When looking for a controller, we're looking for compatibility with Xbox—it seems like a no-brainer, but many controllers advertise as 'Xbox layout' but do not actually work with Microsoft's console. We also look at the price of each controller to determine if we feel it's worth what the manufacturer is asking after conducting our own testing. For instance, a $30 controller may be cheap, but is it worth it if the controller's build quality isn't up to scratch? The answer is probably not if you have to constantly replace them.
✅Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and PC compatibility
✅Price and relative value
✅Features like Bluetooth and mobile support
We also consider any additional features an Xbox Series X|S controller offers over its counterparts before deciding whether it deserves our 'best in slot' accolade. For example, PowerA may be in a similar price bracket to GameSir, but we often choose the latter for including Hall effect sticks, which makes them a better value.
There are also things to consider, like compatibility. Xbox has a strange history with third-party controllers, previously maintaining a monopoly over wireless access. But that restriction was lifted this year, leading to a broader variety of options for users looking to get more out of their wireless Xbox controller experience. We test dozens of these devices every year over long periods of time to help you make the best choices for you. — Jennifer Young
The best overall Xbox and PC controller
- Read our in-depth Xbox Wireless Controller review
You can't beat old faithful, which is why for most, the standard Xbox Series X|S Wireless Controller remains the best option. It's the easiest to replace with almost infinite stock, and it's supremely comfortable, balanced, and light to hold over long periods. Heavily supported by Microsoft as its home-grown option, it boasts a huge variety of compatibility capabilities. It comes bundled with the Xbox Series X|S, so you probably already have one. If not, it has an MSRP of $69.99, but you can find it for $59.99 at Amazon and other major retailers. There’s a seemingly endless array of colors and designs, with the most recent addition being the stunning new Pulse Red from the Cipher range.
The Xbox Series X|S Wireless Controller also works with Xbox One and Windows PCs via USB cable or Bluetooth. For a more reliable connection than Bluetooth, you can use an Xbox Wireless Dongle, available for $24.99 at Walmart and other major retailers.
One downside is the lack of an internal battery. While there are many aftermarket Xbox rechargeable battery options, finding one with decent long-term quality can be tricky. This led me to opt for the Xbox Wireless Elite Controller Series 2 for its monster battery life, though it comes at a premium price. The standard Xbox Series X|S controller, however, remains highly affordable and versatile.
RELATED: Best Xbox controller chargers
Speaking of versatility, it's compatible with PC, iPad, iPhone, and Android devices via USB and Bluetooth, making it perfect for Xbox Cloud Gaming with full "native" support for the Xbox button. It’s often considered the "standard" option for many PC games as well, including services like NVIDIA GeForce Now, though PlayStation's offering has also gained compatibility.
The Xbox Wireless Controller doesn't feature Hall effect inputs, which means it can suffer from drift over time. Additionally, there have been some quality issues with the bumpers, often due to dust accumulation. Fortunately, it's one of the easiest controllers to repair (like with the Joreswt 38PCs Repair Kit for $9.99 at Amazon). Opening the controller is easy with a pry tool or even a knife (if you’re careful), making internal cleaning straightforward with a guide.
The Xbox Wireless Controller is frequently updated via the Xbox Accessories app on both Xbox and PC, and it has long been the go-to pick for the best gamepad across both platforms. — Jez Corden
| Attribute | Rating & notes |
|---|---|
| Value | 4.5 — For $59.99 this controller will faithfully accompany you across thousands of hours of play on multiple devices. |
| Design | 4.5 — While the design needs a bit of a modern refresh, it is the standard bearer for all gamepads for many years. |
| Connectivity | 5 — This is where Xbox gets top marks, with Bluetooth, Xbox Wireless, USB wired, across virtually every platform. This is a connectivity powerhouse. |
| Features | 4.5 — Microsoft could do a bit more here, especially given the multi-device world Xbox wants to live in, but the versatility cannot be understated. |
The best budget Xbox and PC controller
GameSir has steadily made a name for itself, designing and releasing affordable, quality controllers that bring high-end features down to lower price points. The GameSir G7 line represents the highest-performance controllers GameSir can make for Xbox and Windows PC, and they're genuinely some of my favorite controllers of all time. I originally reviewed the GameSir G7, then revisited that review when the SE variant was released sometime later. If this controller was wireless, we might be recommending it above Microsoft's own option.
The GameSir G7 SE is a lightweight, compact, plastic-clad, wired controller for Xbox and PC that comes in at just $44.99 at Amazon (with your choice of four colors, too), but the sheer quality and number of features you get at that price point is astounding. This controller is very comfortable to use for long periods of time; it features laser-etched grips, the faceplate is replaceable and paintable for added customization, and the controller is overall built great.
GameSir also employs Hall effect sensors in both the joysticks and the triggers, which basically replaces traditional analog mechanisms that are prone to wear, tear, and drift with electromagnets. This ensures a much longer lifespan than your average controller but also enables features like the "hair trigger" mode to make the triggers as responsive as possible in competitive games. You're getting a lot of other features, too: two remappable rear buttons and lock switches for them, audio controls integrated into the D-Pad, a 3.5mm audio jack, and support for the GameSir Nexus app on both Xbox and PC.
Unfortunately, this controller is still wired, so if you absolutely need to cut that cable, this won't be the best fit for you. If you don't mind being plugged in, though, I put the GameSir G7 SE over the Xbox Wireless Controller in overall performance and durability, which is an impressive feat for $45.
As an honorable mention, you can also consider the alternative GameSir G7 "HE," the latest variant that brings back the awesome tactile microswitches of the original G7 for the face buttons and D-Pad and replaces the laser-etched grips with silicone... at the expense of the rear button locks and an extra $5 out of your pocket. The GameSir G7 HE is available in both black and white for $49.99 at Amazon. — Zachary Boddy
| Attribute | Rating & notes |
|---|---|
| Value | 5 — For just $45 you're getting a comfortable, durable, and performant controller with some excellent extra features. |
| Design | 4.5 — The more compact design makes the G7 SE great for those with smaller hands, and in general this controller feels far more premium than its price would suggest. |
| Connectivity | 4 — Being limited to a wire is unfortunate, but it's at least a nice braided cable and the GameSir Nexus app is available on both Xbox and Windows PC. |
| Features | 5 — Hall effect sensors, anti-glide friction rings, remappable rear buttons with lock switches, integrated audio controls, software customization, an onboard "M" control button... What more do you need? |
The best premium Xbox and PC controller
The Razer Wolverine V3 Pro is what players have been dreaming of for years — a high-end, truly wireless Xbox and PC controller that gives the long-standing Xbox Elite Wireless Controller some serious competition. The Wolverine V3 Pro delivers the closest thing we have to perfection for hardcore and competitive gamers looking for the ultimate controller, although it is expensive, selling for $199.99 at Best Buy.
At least you get everything you need in the box, including the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro in its matte black glory, with its etched grips, six remappable buttons built on Razer mouse switches, Hall effect joysticks, triggers with a one-stage lock that activates the hidden tactile mouse switches for instant response, and the customizable glowing Razer logo. You also get a braided USB Type-C cable you can use for charging or wired connectivity (which also enables a 1,000Hz polling rate on PC), two alternative joystick caps, and a firm travel case.
Physically, the Wolverine V3 Pro appears similar to past Razer controllers. It's a different shape than the standard Xbox controller, but it's nearly as comfortable and is a little more suited for smaller hands. Build quality is also top-notch, and the controller feels supremely durable... With the minor exception that one of the rear paddles on my unit already feels a little loose after just a few weeks of use. Still, at the very least, you'll never have to worry about joystick drift.
Once you're connected, the Wolverine V3 Pro is a beast of a controller. It's perfectly responsive, with the joysticks and triggers feeling silky smooth and every button having a firm, tactile action that feels incredibly satisfying. There's no latency, and I've never experienced a disconnect, although it can take the Wolverine V3 Pro longer than it should to first connect when you power it on, and you lose a USB port to the HyperSpeed dongle.
This is an expensive controller, but it's worth it. My colleague Richard Devine wrote the majority of our Razer Wolverine V3 Pro review (I then contributed my own thoughts and testing) and stated, "If you've been holding out on getting a new controller because you're in the market for the best of the best, you're probably going to find it here."
If you don't need the wireless connectivity, though, you can save yourself some cash and get the Razer Wolverine V3 Tournament Edition for just $99.99 at Best Buy. This controller deserves an honorable mention because it shares the same core foundation and design as the Wolverine V3 Pro and basically just loses the wireless support and the glowing Razer logo for literally half the cost. Oh, and it still works with Xbox consoles. — Zachary Boddy
| Attribute | Rating & notes |
|---|---|
| Value | 4 — This is an expensive controller, but it's worth it if you truly want the best of the best (and need it to be wireless). |
| Design | 4.5 — This is a very comfortable design that in some ways surpasses Microsoft's own, but it falls just short of that level of ergonomic perfection. |
| Connectivity | 4.5 — Having true wireless support for Xbox and PC is awesome in addition to the wired fallback, but you have to rely on a dongle rather than true Xbox Wireless (and there's no Bluetooth support, either). |
| Features | 5 — As far as controllers are concerned, you can't include many more features than the Wolverine V3 Pro has. Six remappable buttons and short trigger stops (all using premium mouse switches) is unique. |
The best alternative Xbox and PC controller
- Read our in-depth Xbox Elite Controller (Series 2) review
Previously, we had the Xbox Elite Controller (Series 2) up as our "best" controller pick in a previous version of this article, but over time, some pretty egregious issues have reared their head with this setup.
It's true that not everybody experiences problems with the Xbox Elite Controller (Series 2), but I know far too many people with issues that it would be remiss not to mention them. The right bumper on the Xbox Elite Controller (Series 2) seems to have a shelf life of around 6-8 months, which is irritating when you can pay up to $199.99 at Amazon for this controller, depending on which bundle you pick. If you're willing to risk it, though (or repair it yourself, which is possible), this remains one of the best Xbox controllers money can buy today.
The Xbox Elite Controller (Series 2) is a personal favorite of mine. I've owned three of these things so far, one as a replacement and two for different work locations. The thing that makes it so good, for me, is the battery life and its complimentary charger. So few battery charging solutions offer true longevity or quality, and Microsoft absolutely nailed it here with a dock that works every single time and will keep your controller maxed out for infinite gaming sessions. With this controller, you will never have to worry about battery life or charging ever again.
It also sports familiar versatility to its standard cousin, with Bluetooth capabilities for PC, Android, and iOS, as well as Xbox Wireless and USB wired support on both Xbox and PC. The bundle version is $179.99 MSRP and comes with a carry case, the charging dock, back paddles, additional joysticks, and D-pad styles. The $139.99 "Core" version ditches the dock and extra buttons for a tidy ~$60 saving (or more, depending on where you buy). Plus, you can customize it to look the way you'd like via Xbox Design Lab.
It has hair trigger locks, which reduce the graded activation. In some games, you'll want (or even need) to feel the gradual pull of a trigger, but in fast-paced shooters, you'll want that travel distance reduced. That's where the trigger locks can be really handy. Similarly, the back buttons offer a tactical edge over the standard controller. In shooters, if you want to hit any of your ABXY buttons for reloading and the like, you need to take your finger off one of the movement sticks. With back buttons, you can keep your thumbs on the joysticks at all times, moving things like jumping and reloading to the back of the controller.
This would be a no-brainer recommendation if it weren't for the known issues with the right bumper. They are repairable with a pry tool and isopropanol since the issue generally pertains to the contacts getting dusty. But if you don't want the hassle, the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro we recommended above is a far "safer" option for now, it seems, even if it's a bit more expensive and has decreased battery life. — Jez Corden
| Attribute | Rating & notes |
|---|---|
| Value | 3.5 — The value rating takes a beating here because of the known bumper issues. The Xbox Elite Controller (Series 2) is known to have an average shelf life of around 6 months before the bumper will fail, requiring a repair. You can repair it yourself, but it's not as easy as repairing a standard controller. |
| Design | 4 — The design of the Xbox Elite Controller (Series 2) itself is fantastic, with monster battery life and high customizability. It's just that pesky right bumper... |
| Connectivity | 5 — Like its cheaper standard cousin, the fact you can use this controller on practically any device where Xbox exists is a big plus. |
| Features | 4.5 — Interchangeable sticks, trigger locks, Bluetooth, hardware profile buttons, and the best controller charge dock on the market make this a killer product. |
