Best wireless controllers: for PC, Switch, Xbox, PlayStation
In the gaming world there are countless debates about games, consoles and everything in between but one thing unites all gamers and that is the wireless controller or gamepad. It doesn't matter whether you prefer gaming on a PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, smartphone or any other platform, playing with a good controller allows you to get the most out of your favourite games. Here are our top wireless controllers.
What are the best universal controllers?
Razer Wolverine ultimate
The Razer Wolverine Ultimate is one of the most powerful professional level controllers available. It stands out because of its weight and sturdiness, both of which make the gaming experience more intense. In addition to its constitution, it offers five interchangeable buttons, crosses and joysticks that allow you to customise the way you play to standards that other controllers cannot offer. This controller also features additional, fully customisable buttons and rear triggers.
There is a small panel located on the lower front part of the Razer Wolverine Ultimate that allows you to modify the RGB light, lock buttons and even synchronise the Bluetooth, to name but a few functions.
There are several versions that are compatible with PlayStation, Xbox, PC, Mac and even smartphones. It comes in at around $250-$150, depending on the model, and is available online on numerous platforms and also on the manufacturers website.
Nanco Revolution Unlimited Pro
Nanco Revolution Unlimited Pro is a professional level controller and is one of the most beautiful and well designed controllers on the market. Its main strength is the option it includes to have four different configuration profiles, making it quick and easy to change the key settings. This controller also features four hidden buttons on the back of the grip horns, making it possible to adjust to three different weights, at the players discretion.
The ideal console for playing with the Nanco Revolution Unlimited Pro controller is the PS5, even though its key layout is reminiscent of Microsoft controllers. Unfortunately the Nanco isn’t compatible with Xbox but does allow for gameplay on smartphones thanks to its Bluetooth connection system. It is available on Amazon for around $160/€140.
What are the best controllers for Xbox?
Xbox Elite Controller
This modern piece of engineering in the form of a controller offers a unique gaming experience for lovers of the traditional Xbox controller. Among its many features, the new centre crosshead is noteworthy as it has been transformed into a textured panel which improves diagonal movements among others. It also features 4 toggle buttons on the back, allowing you to adjust special options in countless games.
The Xbox Elite Controller has enhanced and customisable triggers, the option to add additional buttons and incorporates a tab to make switching between up to two configuration profiles quick and easy.
The controller is priced at around 200 dollars (180 euros) and it is possible to purchase it through the Microsoft website. In terms of compatibility, the Xbox Elite Controller works through Xbox Wireless, Bluetooth or USB-C cable, so you can play games on PCs, Xbox and any next-generation mobile phone.
Xbox One Controller
If you loved the previous controller but your budget won't quite stretch that far, the Xbox One Controller is a brilliant alternative for both its price and performance. One of the huge advantages of this controller is that in addition to its perfect compatibility with Xbox, it also works well with PCs and smartphones. In fact, this controller even has a special Steam compatibility system.
The Xbox One Controller is available in black and white at the modest price of 60 dollars (around 55 euros) at the Microsoft store, where you can also buy a small accessory that allows you to play with a wireless connection outside the bluetooth connection, at a speed of 2.4GHz.
What are the best controllers for PlayStation?
DualSense
There is the new DualSense wireless controller that was released alongside the PS5. It is one of the first controllers to include haptic feedback and adaptive triggers. The haptic feedback allows you to feel physical responses from your in-game actions. The adaptive triggers change the amount of force and tension within them as you interact with various in-game environments.You can customise your DualSense controller on the PlayStation store, choosing different colours and different designs. The DualSense controller can be found on the PlayStation store.
DualShock4
Neither new nor particularly unique in terms of features, Sony's DualShock 4 has however become a symbol both for its design and for being one of the most complete controllers on the market (despite its age).
Many users aren't aware, but this controller incorporates one of the best accelerometers and gyroscopes of its category, resulting in its great sensitivity. Thanks to its bluetooth pairing system, the DualShock 4 is suitable for PlayStation as well as for PC and mobile phones. This controller is priced around 67 dollars/60 euros, is available in a wide range of colours and on all large platforms and shops.
Newskill Arkadia
The Newskill Arkadia has similar features to the DualShock4 but comes in at a lower price point-around 56 dollars/50 euros. The biggest advantage of this controller is its connectivity, since it works perfectly with PS4, smartphones, Nintendo Switch (through its bluetooth 2.1 technology) and even PC, both wired and wireless. Newskill Arkadia can be purchased directly from the manufacturer's official website.
What is the best controller for PC?
Steam Controller
The Steam Controller is Valve's official controller, which makes it the ideal device to use for playing Steam games on your PC. The strength of this controller lies in its versatility in customisation of controls and keys as well as its ergonomic design, making it ideal for extended gaming sessions.
Another striking feature of the Steam Controller is its unique analogue stick. It also features two round panels that allow the second joystick or crosshead to be covered if necessary.
There is however some bad news concerning this amazing controller, as Steam have announced that they have discontinued it making it harder to get your hands on one as stocks are limited. The good news is however that Steam have announced a new controller with more new features.
Logitech F710
Logitech is a brand that does a great job managing both quality and price. The Logitech F710 controller is the perfect example of this featuring keys with a classic layout and analog stick, as well as its own software to configure the key layout, with the ability to then easily add mouse and keyboard.
Although smaller than others in its class, this controller doesn't have a rechargeable battery system, but instead uses standard batteries, which allows you to quickly change the power source without waiting for the charging process to complete.
The Logitech F710 is the cheapest controller on our list coming in at just 38 dollars/34 euros and is available at all major retailers and also on all major platforms (Amazon, etc.).
What are the best controllers for Nintendo Switch?
Nintendo Switch Pro
Nintendo's Joy-Con revolutionised the controller catalogue just a few years ago. The Japanese manufacturer is now back with the Nintendo Switch Pro, a versatile and agile controller that is equally compatible with PC or Mac (via USB-C cable or Bluetooth) and any Android smartphone (via Bluetooth).
Price wise it comes in at around 75 dollars/70 euros and it is available on all online platforms including Amazon.
8Bitdo Sn30 Pro
Nostalgic gamers and collectors will love the 8Bitdo Sn30 Pro that has the look and feel of old school controllers but will allow them to play the latest games on the market. This controller mimics the design of the SNES and includes a D-Pad cross and four buttons, plus rear triggers and two analogue joysticks.
The 8Bitdo Sn30 is available with a 2.4GHz connection and bluetooth system which is optimal for use with Windows, Mac, Raspberry Pi, Android and Nintendo Switch devices. Currently it is only available in the US through Amazon or Bestbuy and is priced at around 45 dollars/40 euros.