While the Xbox Core Controller stands out as our top pick for the best Xbox Series X controller, the gaming world is brimming with diverse options that cater to every type of player. Whether you're looking for something you can tailor to your playstyle, a budget-friendly option, or a high-end gamepad designed for competitive play, there's something for everyone. Our experts have dedicated hours to testing various controllers for the Xbox Series X/S, and here are five that we believe deserve your attention.
Our Top Pick### Xbox Core Controller
1Experience the iconic Xbox layout with this ergonomic controller featuring remappable buttons, a tactile D-pad, and versatile connectivity options.
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### Turtle Beach Recon Wired Game Controller
0A budget-friendly yet feature-rich wired controller with two extra configurable back buttons and on-controller audio customizations.
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### Xbox Elite Series 2
1A high-end controller offering extensive customization with swappable controls, tunable triggers, additional rear paddles, and fully remappable buttons.
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### Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra
0Elevate your gaming with a controller featuring a display for settings adjustments, hall effect sticks, tactile switches, and extra mappable buttons.
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### Scuf Instinct Pro
1Gain a competitive edge with this ergonomic controller boasting four rear paddles, interchangeable thumbsticks, and instant triggers.
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For the ultimate gaming experience, responsive controls, easy access to buttons, and a seamless connection to your Xbox are crucial. Once you've mastered the essentials, you can explore controllers that align with your unique gaming style. If customization is your priority, the Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra is an excellent choice. For those aiming to play like the pros, the Scuf Instinct Pro is a top contender. And if you're mindful of your budget, the Turtle Beach Recon offers a high-quality, feature-packed option for under $60.
With a plethora of Xbox Series X controllers on the market, you're not limited to the standard Xbox controller that comes with your console. Many of our recommendations are also compatible with gaming PCs, gaming phones, and other devices. If racing games are your passion, consider exploring the best racing wheels for Xbox. For fighting game enthusiasts, a top-tier fight stick might be the perfect addition to your setup.
*For those looking to save, don't miss out on our curated list of the best Xbox deals currently available.*
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1. Xbox Core ControllerOur Top Pick### Xbox Core Controller
1Enjoy the familiar Xbox layout on an ergonomic controller with remappable buttons, a tactile D-pad, and ample connectivity options.
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The Xbox Core Controller, which comes standard with the Xbox Series X, is a reliable choice that excels in its simplicity and effectiveness. Its comfortable and familiar design is versatile across various game genres, and with a few enhancements, you can enjoy improved grip, record gameplay, and easily remap buttons. Available in a variety of colors, it's a versatile choice for any gamer.
The controller uses Xbox Wireless for seamless connectivity with your Xbox, and its built-in Bluetooth support extends its compatibility to PCs and phones. The use of AA batteries might feel outdated, but you can opt for a USB-C connection, though this means sacrificing wireless functionality.
Despite minor drawbacks, the Xbox Core Controller remains a solid choice for Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and other platforms, thanks to its textured grip, hybrid D-pad, custom button mapping, and dedicated Share button.
*This controller is also our top pick for the best PC controller.*
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2. Turtle Beach Recon Wired Game Controller### Turtle Beach Recon Wired Game Controller
0Packing loads of features, including two extra configurable back buttons and on-controller audio customizations, this wired gamepad is an affordable standout.
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Our hands-on review of the Turtle Beach Recon Wired Game Controller highlights its impressive value at around $50. It includes all the standard Xbox controller features, plus two additional back buttons that allow you to activate controls without moving your thumbs from the analog sticks. These buttons can be configured to suit your preferences, including adjusting thumbstick sensitivity for enhanced accuracy.
The controller's solid build and ergonomic grips ensure a comfortable hold during intense gaming sessions. Its standout feature is the audio customization, which lets you fine-tune your gaming headset's EQ settings, including SuperHuman Hearing, to catch subtle audio cues. Adjusting the game/chat mix on the controller itself makes communication with teammates seamless.
### Xbox Elite Wireless Series 2 Controller Review
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3. Xbox Elite Series 2### Xbox Elite Series 2
1Get ample customizability on this high-end controller with swappable controls, tunable triggers, extra rear paddles, and fully remappable buttons.
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Our hands-on testing of the Xbox Elite Series 2 revealed it to be a premium choice for gamers willing to invest in a high-end controller. Every button can be remapped, and four additional rear paddles can be programmed to change the function of face buttons or perform unique actions within games. The magnetic attachment of the rear paddles, D-pad, and thumbsticks allows for easy customization, and the Elite 2's compatibility with Xbox Design Lab offers even more personalization options.
The controller features a built-in rechargeable battery that lasts up to 40 hours on a single charge, eliminating the need for AA batteries. It supports Xbox Wireless, Bluetooth, and USB-C connectivity, making it versatile for use with Xbox, PCs, and gaming phones.
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4. Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra### Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra
0A display for setting adjustments and notifications, alongside hall effect sticks, tactile switches, and extra mappable buttons, makes this controller a standout.
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Our review of the Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra highlights its advanced customization features. The controller's microswitch face buttons are remappable, and four additional rear buttons can be assigned various actions. Its hall-effect, anti-drift thumbsticks are adjustable for performance and come with interchangeable options, while trigger stops allow for fine-tuning actuation distance, ideal for FPS games. Most settings can be adjusted via the companion app, but the unique on-controller "Connected Command Display" offers on-the-fly adjustments, including profile switching, button remapping, vibration intensity, and RGB lighting customization.
Despite its wireless nature, the Stealth Ultra boasts a battery life of up to 30 hours, and it comes with a quick charging dock for convenience.
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5. Scuf Instinct Pro### Scuf Instinct Pro
1Scuf pushes the boundaries of its controller, offering an ergonomic design with four rear paddles, interchangeable thumbsticks, and instant triggers.
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Our testing of the Scuf Instinct Pro confirms it as the ideal choice for competitive gamers. It resembles the Core controller but includes four customizable paddles for enhanced gameplay. A switch near the triggers allows for mouse-click-like actuation, improving response time in shooters. The controller also features four interchangeable thumbsticks for personalized comfort.
The Scuf Instinct Pro's ergonomic design ensures comfort during extended gaming sessions, with rear grips providing a secure hold. However, it relies on AA batteries for wireless use.
### Best Xbox Series X|S Controller Xbox Core Controller
2£54.99 at Currys PC World
### PowerA Enhanced Wired Controller
2Best Budget Xbox Series X/S Controller£34.99 at Amazon
### Best High-End Xbox Series X|S Controller Xbox Elite Series 2
2£159.99 at Amazon
### Best Tunable Xbox Series X|S Controller Razer Wolverine V2
2£74.99 at Amazon
### Best Xbox Series X/S Racing Wheel Thrustmaster TMX Force Feedback
0£249.95 at Amazon
### Best Xbox Series X/S Flight Stick Thrustmaster T-Flight HOTAS One
0£63.99 at Amazon
### Best Customizable Xbox Series Controller Thrustmaster Eswap X Pro
0£159.99 at Amazon
When choosing an Xbox controller, several key factors should guide your decision. Connectivity is crucial; for the lowest latency, a wired controller is ideal. Wireless options, including Xbox's proprietary wireless protocol and Bluetooth, offer flexibility for use with various devices. Our guide on how to pair an Xbox controller with a PC provides more connectivity options.
Customization is another vital aspect. Some controllers allow button remapping and physical component swaps, like D-pads or thumbsticks. Additional features like rear buttons for shortcuts and trigger locks for faster actions can significantly enhance your gaming experience, allowing you to tailor the controller to your competitive needs.
Yes, it's possible to use a PS5 Dualsense controller with an Xbox Series X, but you'll need an adapter like the Brooks Wingman Converter to do so. This allows you to connect either a PS5 controller or a Switch Pro controller to your Xbox console.
Absolutely, you can use a gaming mouse and keyboard with your Xbox by plugging them into the console's USB ports. However, not all Xbox Series X games support mouse and keyboard input.
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