Key takeaways
- Best overall: Sony DualSense Wireless Controller ($64 – $75).
- Best value: Xbox Wireless Controller ($54 – $65).
- Check compatibility with your console, PC and phone before buying.
In this article
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There are hundreds of game controllers on sale, and many look the same on paper. We compared the models that matter in the US and gave each one a clear verdict: buy, consider or skip.
Prices are typical ranges, not live prices. The button on each pick opens the current price.
Quick answer
- Best overall: Sony DualSense Wireless Controller ($64 – $75)
- Best value: Xbox Wireless Controller ($54 – $65)
Game controllers compared
| Product | Verdict | Score | Typical price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sony DualSense Wireless Controller | Buy | 8.8/10 | $64 – $75 |
| Xbox Wireless Controller | Buy | 8.6/10 | $54 – $65 |
| 8BitDo Ultimate 2 Wireless Controller | Buy | 8.5/10 | $59 – $69 |
| Sony DualSense Edge Wireless Controller | Skip | 6.7/10 | $179 – $219 |
Our picks in detail
Sony DualSense Wireless Controller
PS5 owners · Verdict: Buy · Score: 8.8/10 · Typical price: $64 – $75
Why we like it: Immersive haptics and adaptive triggers.
Pros: Excellent haptic feedback · Adaptive triggers · Works on PC and Mac
Cons: Battery life is average · Stick drift reports over time
Buy it if you own a PS5 and want a spare controller, or want great haptics on PC.
Skip it if you play mostly on Xbox or Switch.
Xbox Wireless Controller
Xbox and PC · Verdict: Buy · Score: 8.6/10 · Typical price: $54 – $65
Why we like it: Comfortable, reliable and works everywhere.
Pros: Very comfortable shape · Works on Xbox, PC, phones and tablets · Share button and textured grips
Cons: Uses AA batteries by default · No built-in rechargeable battery
Buy it if you play on Xbox or Windows PC and want a comfortable, familiar controller.
Skip it if you hate swapping AA batteries; it needs batteries or a rechargeable kit.
8BitDo Ultimate 2 Wireless Controller
PC and Switch value · Verdict: Buy · Score: 8.5/10 · Typical price: $59 – $69
Why we like it: Hall-effect sticks and a charging dock.
Pros: Drift-resistant TMR/Hall-effect sticks · Charging dock included · Extra back buttons
Cons: Not for PS5 or Xbox consoles · Software is basic
Buy it if you want a controller with drift-resistant sticks for PC or Switch at a fair price.
Skip it if you want PS5 haptics or official Xbox console support.
What to check before you buy
- Check compatibility with your console, PC and phone before buying.
- Hall-effect sticks resist stick drift better than standard ones.
- Back buttons and adjustable triggers help in competitive games.
What to skip
Common mistake: Buying a wired controller for a couch setup far from the console.
We would also skip these at their usual prices:
- Sony DualSense Edge Wireless Controller ($179 – $219) – Skip it if you want value or long battery life; it costs nearly three times a DualSense and runs out faster.
When to buy
The deepest discounts usually arrive during the big summer sales in July, the October sales events and Black Friday through Cyber Monday in late November. Third-party controllers can be great value; check reviews for build quality.
Compare more options
Search game controllers on Amazon See top-rated game controllers on Amazon
Related reading
Frequently asked questions
What are the best game controllers in the US?
Our top pick is Sony DualSense Wireless Controller (typically $64 – $75). For the best value, choose Xbox Wireless Controller (typically $54 – $65).
What should I check before buying game controllers?
Check compatibility with your console, PC and phone before buying. Hall-effect sticks resist stick drift better than standard ones.
When is the best time to buy game controllers in the US?
The deepest discounts usually arrive during the big summer sales in July, the October sales events and Black Friday through Cyber Monday in late November.
What is the most common mistake when buying game controllers?
Buying a wired controller for a couch setup far from the console.