{"id":11506,"date":"2025-11-26T20:40:00","date_gmt":"2025-11-26T20:40:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/nextlevelnews.co.uk\/blog\/2025\/11\/26\/the-best-controllers-for-playing-pc-games\/"},"modified":"2025-11-26T20:40:00","modified_gmt":"2025-11-26T20:40:00","slug":"the-best-controllers-for-playing-pc-games","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/nextlevelnews.co.uk\/blog\/2025\/11\/26\/the-best-controllers-for-playing-pc-games\/","title":{"rendered":"The Best Controllers for Playing PC Games"},"content":{"rendered":"
\n
<\/section>\n

No matter how much you may prefer a mouse<\/a> and keyboard<\/a> for PC gaming, some games and genres are just built with gamepads in mind \u2013 and play much better with one as a result. That’s why I’ve tested dozens of gamepads during my PC-centric career, and why I feel confident in recommending the nine picks below. Whether you’re looking for something simple and inexpensive for occasional use, or something altogether more advanced for competitive or accessible play, you should find at least one great option here.<\/p>\n\n

TL;DR \u2013 These Are the Best PC Controllers:<\/h2>\n\n
<\/section>\n\n
<\/section>\n\n

1. Xbox Core Controller<\/h2>\n

Best PC Controller<\/h3>\n\n
\n
<\/section>\n\n
<\/section>\n
<\/section>\n

Although the Xbox Core Controller doesn\u2019t necessarily revolutionize the standard Xbox controller we once knew and loved, it does offer some necessary updates that PC gamers will appreciate, which we\u2019ve highlighted in our Xbox Core Controller review<\/a>. The new cosmetics are a nice touch; the all-black Xbox button, for instance, matte bumpers and triggers, and an overall more comfortable design. There are also a ton of Xbox controller colors<\/u><\/a> to choose from.<\/p>\n

The controller’s hybrid D-pad is extra responsive and allows for an easier distinction between the cardinal and diagonal inputs, which is ideal for those who love fighting games. Of course, the rest of the buttons and sticks remain reliable and consistent, and the textured grip on the triggers, bumpers, and back case keep the controller in hand even during heated moments. All of these improvements mean a new level of precision and control. There\u2019s also now a dedicated Share button that makes capturing screenshots and video clips a breeze. <\/p>\n

Many of the Xbox Core Controller\u2019s buttons, triggers, and sticks can be customized via the Xbox Accessories app when downloaded from the Microsoft Store on PC, and you can save profiles to avoid the hassle every time you switch games. Remapping can also be done using Steam; however, there will be more limitations than when using an Xbox Series X|S. Connecting to a PC is simple, as USB-C support provides a plug-and-play solution. For wireless connectivity, Bluetooth is available or Xbox Wireless via a dongle with supported devices. The Core Controller’s biggest flaw is that it uses AA batteries; you can shell out some extra dough for a rechargeable battery pack. <\/p>\n\n<\/section>\n

2. PowerA Advantage Wired Controller<\/h2>\n

Best Budget PC Controller<\/h3>\n\n
\n
<\/section>\n\n
<\/section>\n
<\/section>\n\n

During our hands-on testing of the PowerA Enhanced<\/u><\/a> wired controller, we found it to be an excellent and affordable PC controller option. PowerA\u2019s updated model, the Advantage, makes some meaningful improvements without increasing the price tag. It comes with a removable 10-foot USB-C cable, a significant upgrade from the MicroUSB on the Enhanced model, for seamless PC connection. Unfortunately, wireless and Bluetooth connectivity are still excluded from this budget gamepad, but you do get a 3.5mm jack to plug in a great gaming headset<\/u><\/a>. <\/p>\n

The PowerA Advantage sticks to the familiar shape and feel of the Xbox Core Controller, featuring all the typical Xbox controls, even taking a page out of the Xbox Elite Controller\u2019s book with two small, easy-to-reach buttons on the underside for shortcuts; it\u2019s slightly less robust, but still punches far above its price class. The backside of the grips feature a slight texture, although it\u2019s not enough to add significantly more control like rubberized grips can. Dual rumble motors and impulse triggers are even available for better immersion. And don\u2019t worry, they\u2019re accurate and subtle. <\/p>\n

What makes this controller a true standout is the three-level trigger stop switches, which are not available on the PowerA Enhanced model and are a rarity in controllers of this price range. It’s a boon for fans of FPS who want to step away from the mouse and keyboard occasionally without shelling out tons of dough for a pro-level controller. The thumbsticks are shorter and feature a good amount of tension. While those sticks are great for precision, the extra force required can be a hindrance in certain games. The rest of the buttons are responsive and reliable, putting it on the level of a first-party controller. <\/p>\n