Best Gaming Controllers & Controller Gear
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The controller is the part of your setup you actually touch for hours. Upgrading it, or just adding a few small pieces of gear, can make games more comfortable and your controllers last longer. Here's what's worth buying for PS5, Xbox and PC.
Quick picks
Sony DualSense Edge
Our top pick for pS5 players who want back paddles and swappable sticks.
Check price on Amazon →Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2
Our top pick for xbox and PC players who want a premium pad.
Check price on Amazon →8BitDo Ultimate controller
Our top pick for pC and Switch players on a budget.
Check price on Amazon →Hard-shell controller case
Our top pick for travel and protecting a pricey pad.
Check price on Amazon →Premium controllers
Sony DualSense Edge (PS5)
Sony's pro controller keeps the DualSense haptics and adaptive triggers. It adds back buttons, adjustable trigger stops, saved profiles and replaceable stick modules. Being able to swap the sticks matters, because stick drift is the most common way controllers die. It comes with a carrying case.
Who it's for: competitive PS5 players, and anyone tired of replacing standard controllers.
Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 (Xbox / PC)
Microsoft's premium controller has adjustable-tension thumbsticks, swappable sticks and d-pads, back paddles and a rechargeable battery. It's one of the most popular pro controllers on PC as well. Read recent reviews before buying, because some owners report long-term durability issues. [VERIFY]
Who it's for: Xbox and PC players who want customization.
8BitDo Ultimate controller (budget)
8BitDo makes well-reviewed controllers for a fraction of what the premium pads cost. Check the exact version on the listing, because different models support different systems (PC, Switch, Android, Xbox).
Controller gear
Charging docks
A dock gives your controllers a home and keeps them charged. Buy one made for your specific controller, since DualSense and Xbox docks aren't interchangeable. Xbox controllers need a rechargeable battery pack to use most docks.
- PS5 DualSense charging station: Check price on Amazon
- Xbox controller charging dock with batteries: Check price on Amazon
Thumbstick caps
Thumbstick caps slip over your sticks. They add height, which helps with finer aim, and grip, which helps with sweaty thumbs. They're also cheap protection against the rubber wearing down. KontrolFreek is the best-known brand. Pick a height you're comfortable with, because taller caps take getting used to.
Grips and skins
Silicone covers and grip tape make a controller less slippery and protect it from scratches. They're cheap, easy to remove, and a fun way to make your controller look different.
Carrying cases
If you take a controller to a friend's place, or own a premium one, a hard-shell case is cheap insurance. Make sure the case lists your controller model, since shapes differ.
Longer charging cable
A 10-foot USB-C cable lets you play while charging from the couch. Current PlayStation and Xbox controllers use USB-C.
Controller wall mount or stand
If you collect cards, you probably like displaying things. A stand or wall mount keeps controllers off the floor and looks great next to a card shelf.
What to skip
- No-name "pro" controllers with fake reviews. Look for brands with a history, and recent verified reviews.
- Third-party DualSense clones that skip haptics and adaptive triggers.
- Cheap chargers that run hot. Charging gear plugs into the wall, so buy from reputable brands.
Stick drift: a quick note
Drift is when your character moves on its own, and it eventually affects lots of controllers. Before buying a new one, check whether your controller is still under warranty. Controllers with swappable sticks, like the Edge and the Elite, let you replace just the stick module.
Bottom line
If you only buy one thing, make it a charging dock. If you play a lot and keep wearing out controllers, a DualSense Edge or Elite Series 2 with replaceable parts can pay for itself. Thumbstick caps and a case are cheap upgrades that make any controller better.