Whether you prefer wired precision or wireless freedom, our top picks for the best PC controllers in 2025 include the finest gamepads from Microsoft, Razer, Sony, Scuf, and more. Tested thoroughly across various PC games, these controllers offer excellent alternatives to keyboard and mouse gameplay.
🎮 Top Picks at a Glance:
- Xbox Wireless Controller – Best overall
- EasySMX X05 – Best budget
- Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 – Best premium
- Razer Wolverine V3 Pro – Best Hall Effect tech
- Scuf Valor Pro – Best wired controller
- PlayStation DualSense – Best haptics & immersion
- PDP Wireless Minecraft Controller – Best for Minecraft fans
- PowerA Moga XP-Ultra – Best for mobile & PC
- Razer Kishi Mobile – Best for mobile gaming
- PDP Riffmaster Guitar – Best guitar controller
1. Xbox Wireless Controller – Best Overall
- Price: $59.99 at Microsoft
- Pros: Hybrid D-pad, Bluetooth support, textured triggers
- Cons: Uses AA batteries, lacks customization
This controller balances affordability, quality, and compatibility. Plug-and-play with Windows and Xbox, it's ergonomic, durable, and responsive. The extended rear grip, hybrid D-pad, and revised shape make it ideal for long gaming sessions—though it still relies on AA batteries unless you buy the Play & Charge kit.
2. EasySMX X05 – Best Budget Wireless Controller
- Price: $23.98 at Amazon
- Pros: Hall Effect sticks, Bluetooth + 2.4GHz, rechargeable
- Cons: Plasticky buttons, no full console support
Astonishing value under $25. Includes modern Hall Effect sticks and wireless support. Though the build feels light and buttons are basic, the comfort, accuracy, and battery life (with RGB off) make this a fantastic low-cost pick. Better than many competitors at twice the price.
3. Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 – Best Premium Option
- Price: $159 at Amazon
- Pros: Customizable parts, pro-level paddles, great build
- Cons: High price, lacks Hall Effect sticks
This top-tier gamepad includes removable thumbsticks, D-pads, and paddles, a carry case, and adjustable trigger locks. With top-notch build quality and a premium feel, it’s the gold standard—just without Hall Effect tech or microswitches like some competitors.
4. Razer Wolverine V3 Pro – Best Hall Effect Controller
- Price: $199.99 at Amazon
- Pros: 1,000Hz polling, mecha buttons, customizable sticks
- Cons: Battery life underwhelming with full features on
This premium controller delivers elite performance with Hall Effect sticks and ultra-responsive buttons. Includes extra paddles, swappable stick caps, a high polling rate, and strong build quality. If battery life and budget aren't concerns, this is the tech-forward pick for pros.
5. Scuf Valor Pro – Best Wired Controller
- Price: $99 at Scuf / $229.99 at Amazon
- Pros: Hall Effect sticks, rear paddles, swappable sticks
- Cons: Wired only, expensive for a wired-only pad
A wired alternative to elite wireless options. Offers all key features including rear paddles, stick height customization, high polling rate, and swappable faceplates. If you're a PC gamer who doesn’t need wireless, this gives you elite-level control at a lower price point.
6. PlayStation DualSense – Best Haptic Immersion
- Price: $76.60 at Amazon
- Pros: Adaptive triggers, high comfort, excellent build
- Cons: Inconsistent PC support, no haptics via Bluetooth
Built-in adaptive triggers and immersive haptics make it a great pick for games that support it. However, PC compatibility is limited and requires USB for full features. Still, it’s a strong pick if you’re a fan of the symmetrical layout and Sony’s controller feel.
7. PDP Wireless Minecraft Controller – Best for Minecraft Fans
- Price: Varies by retailer
- Pros: Minecraft design, rear paddles, rechargeable
- Cons: Premium price for design, plastic shell
This themed controller includes fun Minecraft art, LED lighting, and a mini Steve figurine inside. Includes a rechargeable battery, Xbox layout, audio controls, and solid wireless performance. Perfect for Minecraft fans looking to personalize their setup.
Conclusion
There’s no single best PC controller for everyone in 2025, but with these choices—from budget Hall Effect gamepads to immersive DualSense triggers—you’re bound to find a pad that fits your playstyle and budget.