Say Goodbye to Input Lag With These Tried-and-True Xbox Controllers

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You no longer need an Xbox console to play the best AAA games from Microsoft. Today, select TVs come pre-loaded with Xbox Game Pass and even basic PCs are capable of cloud gaming. All today’s Xbox gamer needs is the right controller.

With so many third-party companies manufacturing licensed Xbox peripherals, the right controller can be hard to pin down. To get the most out of your games, you should pick your controller based on your play style and favorite types of games, and perhaps invest in a new headset if you’re into Warzone or Apex Legends for maximum immersion in the game.

The best Xbox controllers offer lightning-fast responsiveness, ergonomic grips, and decent customization options. Whether you’re a cloud gamer or a competitive FPS fiend, these picks are selected based on our hands-on experience—and, as always, loads of research.

Need more gaming accessories? Here are our picks for the best PC controllers, PC joysticks, and Nintendo Switch controllers.

Best Xbox Controllers

• Best Overall: Microsoft Core Controller

• Best Upgrade: Microsoft Elite Series 2 Core Wireless Controller

• Best Budget: PowerA Enhanced Wired Xbox Controller (Series X/S)

• Best Wired: PowerA FUSION Pro 3 Wired Controller

• Best for Competitions: Razer Wolverine Ultimate Officially Licensed Xbox One Controller

What to Consider

Wired or Wireless

Controllers are either wireless or wired, and while the seemingly obvious choice for gaming is the former, wired options are still worth considering. For one, wired controllers are cheaper. They also have a lower (albeit practically imperceptible) input latency, which results in a slightly more responsive button input and a more stable connection. They also don’t require batteries. On the other hand, wireless controllers may require batteries to operate, though many are made with rechargeable li-ion batteries. Wireless is also your best bet for connecting with a television set to use Xbox Game Press software.

Customization Buttons

Newer and competition-ready controllers offer a much deeper level of customization. Many premium models have remappable buttons and adjustable triggers for sensitivity and less input lag. Rear paddles also offer more functionality, offering additional buttons that don’t require moving fingers off another button, though at a cost.

For an alternative to the regular Xbox controller, consider a PC controller for cross-compatibility.

How We Selected

Many of our recommendations for the best Xbox controllers come from hands-on experiences with different models and hundreds of hours of use. For the products we couldn’t test ourselves, we performed intensive research, reviewing expert and customer reviews to identify potential pitfalls. We evaluated each controller on its functionality, design, and price, keeping a close eye on comfort, lag, and battery life.

Core Xbox Controller

The best overall Xbox controller remains the one that comes in the box: Microsoft’s Core controller. At first glance, you’d be hard-pressed to notice the difference between this wireless controller and the last generation’s, but the most significant change is the D-pad, which now features an eight-directional rocker. That makes it excellent for fighting games and platformers where agile movement is most needed. The new central Share button also makes sharing content a cinch.

On the subtler end, the Core controller is slightly smaller than the Xbox One controller, giving younger gamers a better handle. The only real downside is that the Core controller, bafflingly, still runs on two regular double AA batteries.

Xbox Elite Series 2 Core Wireless Controller

Compared to a standard controller, the Elite Series 2 is a significant upgrade in every way. This Xbox controller is solidly built and ultra-durable, with excellent grippy textures and a USB-C rechargeable operation. But the main draw is the customization.

Inside the included carrying case, the Elite Series 2 has six different thumbsticks, four rear paddle buttons, and two different D-pads. This customization is easy to pull off thanks to a profile switcher in the form of a switch on the controller’s back shoulder.

Enhanced Wired Xbox Controller (Series X/S)

If you’re willing to forgo Bluetooth, we recommend the PowerA Enhanced Wired Controller as an affordable option.

This Xbox controller is comfortable and ergonomic, and features a 3.5mm stereo headset jack, just like the Xbox Core controller. The included 10-foot USB cable is detachable, making it easy to store. It even has two programmable back buttons on each controller grip for added utility.

For gamers on a budget, this controller by PowerA is a great option for stocking up. Its USB cable may be too long for some, however, and some users say the headset controls aren’t always responsive.

FUSION Pro 3 Wired Controller

With a similar look to a standard Xbox controller, the FUSION Pro 3 features rubberized grips and a removable set of four programmable paddles on the rear. The triggers also have three preset limits, allowing you to quickly get that first shot off. You can also choose domed or concave interchangeable thumbsticks and two faceplates. And to sweeten the package, there’s a carry case.

While it naturally won’t hold a candle to the exceptional yet pricey Elite 2, and some users report stick drift, the FUSION Pro 3’s generous feature package makes it a serious contender for pros on a budget.

Wolverine Ultimate Officially Licensed Xbox One Controller

Standard Xbox controller options may leave something to be desired for any seriously competitive gamer. That’s where Razer’s Wolverine Ultimate comes into play. Like the Elite Series 2, the Wolverine Ultimate comes in a carrying case with various swappable thumbsticks and D-pads.

But it’s in the button layout that the Wolverine Ultimate stands out, with two additional shoulder buttons on the top, four paddle buttons on the back, and trigger sensitivity switches. Combined with a profile switcher and audio controls at the bottom, the Wolverine Ultimate offers a diverse range of controls in a tight package.

Recon Controller Wired Xbox Controller

Connect any 3.5mm headset and a wealth of sound options are at your fingertips, including superhuman hearing, mic monitoring, and specialized audio presets. The controller claims to enhance the sound of subtle footsteps or noises your opponent makes, which could turn the tide of any Warzone or Fortnite duel.

The Recon also features a Pro-Aim Focus mode, letting you adjust thumbstick sensitivity in-game, making it useful during sniping or freekick situations. The prongs also include ergonomic cooling grips to help reduce hand clamminess during gaming.

It’s a controller with many features for not very much, although the intricate design might not be for everyone.

Recon Cloud Wired Game Controller with Bluetooth

Are you a cloud gamer? This wired controller from Turtle Beach holds your phone in place while you game away on Xbox Game Pass. Its ergonomic grips have a pattern that keeps your hands cool and still offers vibration for in-game feedback.

The controller also has a module for controlling audio, just in case you’re playing online and need to shift your headset’s volume. Rechargeable with a claimed battery life of up to 30 hours, this controller is a solid choice for anyone gaming on the go.

Users say the controller has an excellent feel in hands and the programmable buttons are useful. Some, however, say the adjustable smartphone clip feels cheap and isn’t phone case-friendly.

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