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Level up your game with the best Xbox controllers

Calling all gamers! Upgrade your level of play today with the best Xbox wireless and wired controllers by side.

Published Dec 04, 2023
5 min. reading time
two xbox controllers, one white, one black

Best controllers for Xbox

Microsoft Xbox Wireless Controller for Xbox

Microsoft Xbox Wireless Controller for Xbox in black

Microsoft Elite Series 2 Core Wireless Controller for Xbox

Microsoft Elite Series 2 Core Wireless Controller for Xbox in white and black

PowerA Wired Controller for Xbox Series X|S

PowerA Wired Controller for Xbox Series X|S  in black

PowerA Enhanced Wired Controller for Xbox Series X|S

PowerA Enhanced Wired Controller for Xbox Series X|S  in bright red

Xbox Wireless Controller Stormcloud Vapor Special Edition

Xbox Wireless Controller Stormcloud Vapor Special Edition in blue

Xbox Wireless Controller Arctic Camo Special Edition

Xbox Wireless Controller Arctic Camo Special Edition in white and gray

Turtle Beach Recon Controller Wired Controller for Xbox Series

Turtle Beach Recon Controller Wired Controller for Xbox Series in black

SCUF Instinct Pro Wireless Performance Controller for Xbox Series X|S

SCUF Instinct Pro Wireless Performance Controller for Xbox Series X|S in dark gray
Price
$59.99
Price
$129.99
Price
You save $3.11 (10.37%)
$26.88$29.99
Price
$32.88
Price
$62.75
Price
$64
Price
You save $12.95 (21.60%)
$47$59.95
Price
$229.99
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Specifications
Wireless
Wireless
Wireless
Wireless
Wireless
Wireless
Wireless
Wireless
Special features
40 hours of gameplay, custom mapping and easy pair and switch
Special features
40 hours of gameplay, custom mapping and adjustable tension thumbsticks
Special features
10ft USB cable, dual rumble motors and smooth controls
Special features
10ft USB cable, mappable advanced gaming buttons and dual rumble motors
Special features
40 hours of gameplay, custom button mapping and share button
Special features
40 hours of gameplay, custom mapping and easy pair and switch
Special features
10ft USB cable, remappable button and Superhuman hearing audio
Special features
40 hours of gameplay, remappable paddles and adjustable instant triggers

If you're an Xbox enthusiast, you know that the right controller can significantly enhance your gaming experience. 

So, if you’re more than ready to upgrade your level of play, we can help.

We’ve searched the web and rounded up the best Xbox controllers available on the market. Each one has been carefully reviewed, considering its features, performance and price. 

Browse here to find the perfect Xbox controller for you!

Read more: Top budget gaming laptops

Top controllers for Xbox

Microsoft Xbox Wireless Controller for Xbox in black
Suitable for all gamers
Microsoft Xbox Wireless Controller for Xbox
$59.99 at Best Buy
Microsoft Elite Series 2 Core Wireless Controller for Xbox in white and black
Top pick for pros
Microsoft Elite Series 2 Core Wireless Controller for Xbox
$129.99 at Best Buy
PowerA Wired Controller for Xbox Series X|S  in black
Best for comfort
PowerA Wired Controller for Xbox Series X|S
$26.88 at Amazon
PowerA Enhanced Wired Controller for Xbox Series X|S  in bright red
For precise play
PowerA Enhanced Wired Controller for Xbox Series X|S
$32.88 at Walmart

Suitable for all gamers

Specifications

  • Wireless: Yes

  • Battery life: Up to 40 hours

  • Compatibility: Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, Xbox One

The Carbon Black Xbox Wireless Controller by Microsoft is the ultimate companion for every type of Xbox gamer.

Its state-of-the-art design, featuring beautifully sculpted surfaces and refined geometry, promotes an enhanced gaming experience. 

But one of its most defining features is its impressive battery life. With up to 40 hours of gameplay per charge, players can immerse themselves in all-day gaming marathons without the worry of running out of battery. The modernized design isn't just pleasing to the eye but also offers outstanding comfort and effortless control throughout the gameplay.

Whether you're racing in “Forza Horizon”, on an adventure in “Halo”, or in the midst of an intense battle in “Call of Duty”, this controller ensures a smooth, responsive input that can give you the edge in competitive games.

Specifications

  • Wireless: Yes 

  • Battery life: Up to 40 hours

  • Compatibility: Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, Xbox One, Windows PCs

Designed for competitive gamers who aim for the top, the Microsoft  Elite Series 2 Core Wireless Controller for Xbox is a game-changer. 

Built with gamer-specific performance features, a high level of customization and robust durability, this controller takes your gaming experience far beyond the ordinary.

Crafted with ergonomics in mind, the controller also offers a seamless, comfortable fit that's perfect for long gaming sessions.

Plus, the wireless feature eliminates the seizure of tangled wires, allowing you a fluid gaming experience.

Best for comfort

PowerA Wired Controller for Xbox Series X|S  in black
Photo: Amazon

Specifications

  • Wireless: No

  • Battery: No batteries required 

  • Compatibility: Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Windows

Looking for comfort, fast response time and multi-platform compatibility? This pick fits the bill.

Ergonomically designed with an intuitive button layout and dual rumble motors, this controller minimizes your downtime mid-battle or race and offers a more immersive and responsive gaming experience. 

But that’s not all.

This controller also includes a detachable 10ft USB cable, supplying ample room to maneuver during those intense gaming nights.

And since Ii's also officially licensed for Xbox Series X|S and compatible with both Xbox One and Windows, you get a seamless transition between platforms if you’re a gamer with diverse platforms.

Specifications

  • Wireless: No

  • Battery: No batteries required

  • Compatibility: Xbox Series X|S

Officially licensed by Xbox, this controller is not just brilliantly designed with an eye-catching red finish, but it is also engineered with precision for an immersive gaming experience. 

Equipped with two mappable advanced gaming buttons, this controller can be customized and quickly programmed even in the middle of the action.

Whether you're navigating through vast open worlds, on the edge of your seat in a high-stakes competition, or simply enjoying a friendly match with pals, this device delivers responsive controls and a comfortable grip for those lengthy gaming sessions. 

Best of all? Its wired design ensures you don't have to worry about battery life, letting you focus on what really matters – the game.

Specifications

  • Wireless: Yes

  • Battery life: Up to 40 hours

  • Compatibility: Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Windows 10

With its bold design, this controller’s unique blue and black color swirl is exclusive to every unit, making your gaming experience not only exciting but also personalized.

Built with top-grade plastic and synthetic rubber, this controller is not just beautifully designed but also robust and provides a firm grip with its rubberized blue diamond-pattern grips on the back case.

This sturdy build also ensures that the controller can handle extended gaming sessions and last for a considerable period. In terms of functionality, it's compatible with Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, and Windows 10, so you get the best gaming experience regardless of the platform you're using.

An additional feature is a new share button that makes capturing screenshots and game clips simple and accessible, too.

Specifications

  • Wireless: Yes

  • Battery life: Up to 40 hours

  • Compatibility: Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PC

With its blend of style, performance and comfort, this controller is designed to enhance your gaming adventure, one click at a time.

Featuring a rugged white and gray camouflage pattern, this controller is not just about aesthetics. Its modern sculpted surfaces and refined geometric design promote comfort and better grip, so you stay ahead in your gaming marathons.

But this special edition controller truly stands out with its wireless connectivity, making it easy to pair with your Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, and even with your PC.

Whether you're in an intense combat in Call of Duty or exploring the vast GTA V's San Andreas, this gadget is your trusty tool to navigate these worlds without the constraints of wires.

Top wired pick

Specifications

  • Wireless: No

  • Battery: No batteries required

  • Compatibility: Xbox Series X & Xbox Series S, Xbox One & Windows 10 PCs

If you’re looking for reliability, function and comfort in your next controller, this pick just might be the perfect fit for you. 

With its wired connection, this controller promises an ultra-fast response time and eliminates any risk of battery drain during prolonged gaming sessions.  And thanks to the Superhuman Hearing audio feature and mic monitoring, no detail or noise in the action will be missed, too.

But what makes this controller stand out is its combination of comfort and functionality. It's ergonomically designed with cooling grips for maximum comfort even during marathon gaming sessions. Meanwhile, Its robust construction guarantees long-term durability, so you know this controller is built to last for years to come.

Specifications

  • Wireless: Yes

  • Battery life: Up to 40 hours

  • Compatibility: Xbox Series S, Xbox Series X, Xbox One, Windows, Android, iOS

Designed for exceptional performance and faster response times, this controller might just be the game changer for passionate gamers seeking a competitive edge..

Its prime attraction is the four rear remappable paddles embedded within, providing a remarkable edge in terms of play speed and durability.

It also shines in terms of customization, with three distinct paddle remapping configurations for you to choose from. The icing on the cake is the Instant Triggers feature, which optimizes your gaming experience by switching from a regular trigger to a mouse-click action, making your shots incredibly efficient.

Moreover, the interchangeable thumbsticks work wonders in enhancing your game accuracy. Whether your gaming style leans more toward rapid taps or firm plunges, there’s always a control setup to match your gameplay needs.

Does it matter what controller you get for Xbox?

Yes!

Different controllers offer varying features, such as wireless functionality, battery life and customizable buttons. Your choice of controller can impact your gaming experience, so it's essential to choose one that suits your preferred gaming style and needs.

What are the best Xbox controllers?

The high-quality Xbox Wireless Controller offers excellent performance and a comfortable grip, making it perfect for long gaming sessions.

On the other hand, the Elite Series 2 Core Wireless Controller stands out with its high level of customization and robust durability, making it one of the best custom Xbox controllers on the market for competitive gamers.

Whether you're a casual gamer or a competitive player, there's a controller out there that's perfect for you. So, go ahead and pick the one that best suits your needs and get ready to take your gaming to the next level!


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Prices updated on 12/04/2023. We are not responsible for any changes to the prices mentioned above.

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Written by
Lauren Pascal

A self-proclaimed ‘obsessed TikTok user,’ Lauren Pascal uses her knowledge to help readers shop for trendy new products. Lauren is also an experienced travel writer and recently wrote informative pieces for travellers during the pandemic.