10 Best PC gaming controllers 2025 in the United States

The PlayStation DualSense Wireless Controller in Midnight Black offers a solid option for PC gamers. It stands out with its ergonomic design, providing comfortable gameplay even during extended sessions. The button layout is intuitive, resembling the traditional PlayStation setup, which might appeal to those familiar with it.

Compatibility is a strong suit, as this controller can connect to Windows PCs and Mac computers via USB Type-C or Bluetooth, expanding its usability beyond just PlayStation consoles. Connectivity is further enhanced with the Bluetooth option, allowing for wireless play without the hassle of cables. The haptic feedback and adaptive triggers add a new dimension to gaming experiences, bringing in-game actions to life through varying force and tension, which is particularly immersive.

The built-in microphone and 3.5mm jack allow for easy communication with teammates during online play. Additionally, the built-in speaker can enhance the gaming atmosphere by providing high-fidelity sound effects in supported games. The build quality is impressive, with a sturdy feel and responsive buttons. However, it's worth noting that the advanced features like haptic feedback and adaptive triggers might not be supported in all PC games, limiting their usefulness in some instances. The controller also requires a lithium-ion battery, which is included, but users will need to manage charging. In summary, the DualSense Wireless Controller is a highly functional and well-built option for PC gaming, especially for those who appreciate advanced tactile feedback and a familiar button layout.

The Xbox Elite Series 2 Core Wireless Gaming Controller is designed to offer a comfortable and customizable gaming experience, especially for serious players. It features adjustable-tension thumbsticks and a wrap-around rubberized grip, which help improve comfort and precision during long gaming sessions. The button layout is customizable using the Xbox Accessories app, allowing users to remap buttons and even change the Xbox button’s light color, which adds a nice personal touch. It supports saving up to three custom profiles, so you can switch control setups quickly depending on the game you're playing.

This controller is compatible with Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Windows PCs, Android, and iOS devices, making it very versatile. You can connect via Xbox Wireless, Bluetooth, or USB-C cable, which covers most connection preferences and ensures low latency. Battery life is quite strong, offering up to 40 hours of gameplay on a single charge, so you don’t have to worry about frequent recharging during extended play.

The build quality is solid, with refined components designed to last, although this version is a more streamlined “core” model compared to the full Elite Series 2, meaning it lacks additional paddles and some premium parts that come separately. Vibration feedback adds immersion, though it’s similar to standard Xbox controllers rather than enhanced haptics found in some higher-end models. The included components are essential but don’t offer the complete customization pack out of the box; if you want full customization options like extra paddles or different thumbsticks, you’ll need to buy those separately. This controller is well suited for gamers who want a reliable, comfortable, and versatile wireless controller with good customization options and excellent cross-device compatibility, without the full premium price of the complete Elite Series 2 package.

The Razer Wolverine V3 Pro Wireless Gaming Controller is designed for serious gamers, particularly those playing on Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and Windows PCs. One of its standout features is the ergonomic design with rubberized handles, which provides comfort during long gaming sessions. The inclusion of 4 remappable back paddles and claw grip bumpers allows for enhanced control and responsiveness, making it a great choice for competitive play. Plus, the pro hypertriggers feature instant actuation, which can be a game-changer in fast-paced scenarios.

The controller also boasts hall effect thumbsticks that offer better precision and durability compared to standard thumbsticks, which many gamers will appreciate. Its hyperspeed wireless technology ensures low latency performance, which is crucial for competitive gaming. Users can customize button layouts and thumbstick sensitivity through the Razer app, making it adaptable for different gaming styles.

There are some drawbacks. Despite its robust design, the controller weighs around 2.09 pounds, which might feel a bit heavy for some users. Additionally, while it provides a wired tournament mode with a 1000Hz polling rate, this feature requires users to switch to a wired connection, which might not be ideal for everyone. The Razer Wolverine V3 Pro is an excellent choice for competitive gamers looking for a controller that offers customization and precision. However, potential buyers should weigh the benefits against the weight and mixed customer feedback before making a decision.