Playing PC games with a keyboard and mouse has always been the preferred method for many genres, but there are just some PC games where a controller simply makes more sense. This is where our collection of only the best PC controllers comes into play. Whether you want to remain tethered to the desktop or enjoy a more laid-back wireless session, you'll find controllers right here that can elevate your gaming experience.

  • Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2
    Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2
    Staff pick

    Microsoft has been making controllers since the original Xbox was released in 2001, and the latest Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 is a masterpiece. Seriously, you'll understand why we rate this controller highly as soon as you wield it.

  • Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 Core render
    Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 Core
    Best value

    The Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 Core is a controller that lets you game like a professional, thanks to the adjustable-tension thumbsticks, wrap-around rubberized grip, and shorter hair trigger locks. Up to three profiles can be saved to the controller itself, making it great for LAN parties.

  • Scuf Instinct Pro
    Scuf Instinct Pro
    Premium pick

    The Scuf Instinct Pro is a great third-party controller for the Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S. It has four remappable paddles on the back, adjustable Instant Triggers, a rubberized grip, and a microphone button on the front. You even can swap out the faceplate. 

  • PlayStation DualSense Wireless Controller
    Sony DualSense Wireless Controller
    Best ergonomics

    The Sony DualSense wireless controller may not be for Microsoft's consoles, but it's still worth considering for PC gaming. It has super-accurate thumbsticks, adaptive triggers, and haptic rumble. It's also comfortable to use and looks the part.

  • Black Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma, front view
    Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma
    Best Wired

    The Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma controller for Xbox and PC offers fast actuation with Razer Mecha-Tactile buttons, six extra remappable buttons on the shoulders and back, swappable thumbstick caps, and Razer Chroma lighting support. If you need a high-end alternative to the Xbox controller, this has a lot to offer.

  • 8BitDo Pro 2
    8Bitdo Pro 2
    Best classic

    Do you miss the controllers from your childhood? We do too, and that's why the 8BitDo Pro 2 is amazing for those who prefer the look and feel of older-generation controllers. The 8BitDo Pro 2 works well with Windows, Mac, Switch, Android, and Linux.

  • White PowerA Enhanced Wired Controller, front view
    PowerA Enhanced Wired Controller
    Best budget

    The PowerA Enhanced Wired Controller works with the new Xbox Series X and Series S consoles, as well as a PC running Windows and Linux, and comes in a wide variety of colors. If you want a decent controller at an affordable price, you just found it.

  • HORI Fighting Stick Alpha
    Hori Fighting Stick
    Best stick

    This a perfect recommendation who wants to relive the days of smashing buttons and turning the joystick on old-fashioned arcade controls. If you're more into fighting games, this will be the controller for you.

Playing games with the best PC controller

It's important to consider a few factors when choosing the best PC controller. Primarily, you need to determine whether they require wireless connectivity. It's one thing to play on a video game console in the living room, but it's a whole different ball game when you're using a PC and monitor at a desk. A wired controller may make more sense with a PC, especially if you want to cut down on latency. Then, there are advanced features, such as haptic feedback, that may work with Windows and other operating systems. We bear all this in mind when choosing our recommendations.

We view the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 as the best controller for PC gaming simply because it fuses everything that makes for an ideal device. It's incredibly comfortable to use for hours at end, has premium triggers and buttons for better durability and performance, and looks the part. For something a little more affordable, we'd recommend the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 Core, which is a slightly tuned-down version of the Elite but still manages to pack a punch where it matters most, including wireless capabilities.

If you want a wired controller only, the Scuf Instinct Pro is the option to buy. It's exceptional, with tons of great features, but it's expensive. We've also included the DualSense controller, which may sound like a strange recommendation since Sony doesn't also have a desktop-class operating system like Microsoft, but the controller works well with Windows or Linux, minus a few PlayStation-only features. It's simply a good controller.

Regardless of which controller you choose for PC gaming, you'll be able to enjoy many games, like The Witcher 3, better than with a keyboard and mouse. We've covered almost all the basics, aside from HOTAS, and even included some of our recommendations from our best Xbox Series X controllers.