The best controllers for Xbox Series X|S and One that you can buy in 2022

We present to you the best controllers 2022 for Xbox and PC and give you some tips on what to consider when making a purchase.

The controller is no longer just the exclusive toy of the console. PC gamers also rely not only on good gaming keyboards, but also on gaming controllers.

But which controller is worth it for whom the most? In our article, we present which controllers are very well suited for the PC and for Xbox, what advantages they offer, and what you should pay attention to when buying.

Especially for competitive gaming, the rule is: The faster the reaction times, the better your chances are. In our article, we present the following things:

• What should I consider when buying a controller?
• The best controllers for Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One
• XInput and DirectInput – What is that actually?

By what criteria did we select the controllers? We looked at the currently available controllers for Xbox and PC, examined reviews, tests, top lists, and experiences to present you the best controllers. Some of the devices were tested directly in our editorial team. This also contributes to the assessment.

The article was first published on April 26, 2020, and is regularly updated with new controllers. Last update January 12, 2022. We have added a new price-performance tip and removed one controller.

What should I consider when buying a controller?

This is how the controller purchase works: The following steps should be considered before buying a controller and weighed subjectively:

• Wireless or wired: First, you should consider whether you want a wireless or a wired controller: Wireless controllers are more flexible, but you may have to deal with input lag. With a wired controller, you are bound to the cable, but you do not have to recharge it in between and minimize lags.
• Calculate the budget: How much money do you want to invest? A controller does not have to be expensive to work well. However, more expensive ones are often significantly better built or rely on mechanical and thus more precise components.
• Preferred games: Those who enjoy playing shooters have different preferences than someone who prefers sports games or prefers to play MMOs.
• Ergonomics: How important is a good grip and easily reachable buttons? Are you willing to adjust or does everything need to fit immediately?
• Compatibility: Not every controller works with every system. PS4 controllers are often compatible with PC but not with Xbox One. Conversely, this problem exists as well.

Best controller for Xbox Series X and One under 50 Euros: PowerA Wired Controller For Xbox Series X|S

Weight: 210 grams | Connection: Wired | Cable length: 3.0 meters | Battery: Not available | Price range (according to Geizhals): 39.99 – 59.99 Euros

Who is the controller suitable for? If you are looking for an affordable alternative to the official Xbox controller, but do not want to miss out on the familiar layout, then take a look at the PowerA controller. The investment is also worthwhile for those looking for an inexpensive second controller for their console.

This is what the PowerA Wired Controller For Xbox Series X|S offers: You get the affordable controller currently in 15 different styles and colors. The cable is permanently connected to the controller and is not detachable. You can connect a headset or headphones via the headphone jack.

The PowerA controller also features the typical asymmetrical Xbox design, with the thumbsticks slightly offset. Depending on the color, the controller additionally offers a mute button for sound. With a weight of 210 grams, the controller is also lighter than the official model. Paddles or other additional features are not available with this controller.

This is what users say: On Amazon, the controller has a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars with more than 10,000 ratings. Buyers praise the pleasant ergonomics and good feel, reminiscent of the official Xbox controllers from Microsoft. Some criticize the poor build quality of the thumbsticks.

*Affiliate-Links. Wir erhalten bei einem Kauf eine kleine Provision von Amazon. Vielen Dank für Eure Unterstützung!

Best Xbox controller for Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S under 100 Euros – Microsoft Xbox Wireless Controller

Weight: 277 grams | Connection: Bluetooth, wired | Cable length: – | Battery: 2 replaceable AA batteries | Price range (according to Geizhals): 44 – 59 Euros.

Who is the controller suitable for? The Xbox Wireless Controller is especially suitable for gamers looking for a good D-Pad and precise thumbsticks. It is especially interesting for games like FIFA, as the buttons require a certain amount of pressure to trigger. Accidental triggering is unlikely.

This is what the Xbox Wireless Controller offers: The controller features a simple design and is available in several colors. At 277 grams, it is lighter than its competitors but also slightly larger. The D-Pad is precise, and the buttons only trigger under considerable pressure.

The enormous advantage of the Xbox Wireless Controller is that it can be easily connected to the PC via a USB adapter.

Additionally, the comprehensive compatibility is a strong point: The controller works with the Xbox One X, Xbox One S, Windows 10, and Android. Games like PUBG or Call of Duty are also possible with this controller on Android. Furthermore, the Steam game client immediately recognizes the connected device. The controller also features a 3.5 mm headphone jack for headphones and headsets.

Besides the many available colors, it is also possible to have the controller engraved at Microsoft.

This is what users say: The Xbox Wireless Controller is rated 4.6 stars out of 13,405 reviews. Buyers praise the precise buttons and good compatibility, as well as the excellent support with Steam. Some complain about the poor build quality of the controller.

*Affiliate-Links. Wir erhalten bei einem Kauf eine kleine Provision von Amazon. Vielen Dank für Eure Unterstützung!

Design and engrave your own Microsoft Xbox controller.*

Alternative: Best controller for PC and Xbox Series X up to 100 Euros – Microsoft Xbox Wireless Controller

Weight: 277 grams | Connection: Bluetooth, “Xbox Wireless”, wired | Cable length: – | Battery: 2 replaceable AA batteries | Price range (according to Geizhals.de): 58.19 – 79.99 €

Who is the controller suitable for? If you have appreciated the previous Xbox Wireless Controller, you should take a look at the new edition. Microsoft has improved many things, and the controller now provides even better feedback. By the way, a controller comes with the Xbox Series X|S.

This is what the controller offers: A new Xbox controller is included with the Xbox Series X|S. However, if you want to play cooperatively on your new next-gen console or want a different color, you can purchase another one.

In direct comparison, especially the appearance has changed significantly since the launch controller of the Xbox Series X. How good the new Xbox controller is has been explained in detail here. In addition, three changes immediately stand out. The new controller offers the new share button, and the D-Pad has also been revised.

• Order Xbox Wireless Controller at MediaMarkt*

*Affiliate-Links. Wir erhalten bei einem Kauf eine kleine Provision von Amazon. Vielen Dank für Eure Unterstützung!

Best Xbox Series X Controller – Razer Wolverine V2

Weight: 274 grams | Connection: wired | Cable length: 3.0 meters | Battery: – | Price range (according to Geizhals.de): 103 – 128.48 €

Who is the controller suitable for? If you are looking for a high-quality controller that offers you particularly tactile buttons and feels comfortable in large hands, then you should take a look at Razer’s controller. However, you should note that the controller is wired.

This is what the Razer Wolverine V2 offers: The Razer Wolverine V2 is a wired gaming controller for Xbox Series X|S and PC. MeinMMO tested the Razer Wolverine V2. In our test, the controller delivers high precision. We particularly appreciated the mecha-tactile buttons and D-Pad.

The controller fits well in large hands but presents problems in small hands. This is mainly due to the mappable special buttons on the back of the device, which are difficult to reach.

This is what users say: The controller receives 4.2 out of 5 stars on Amazon with 135 ratings. The controller is praised for its good ergonomics, thanks to rubberized grips and its precise buttons. In particular, the rounded D-Pad and quiet buttons are highlighted.

*Affiliate-Links. Wir erhalten bei einem Kauf eine kleine Provision von Amazon. Vielen Dank für Eure Unterstützung!

Best Xbox One Controller with Paddles – PowerA Wired Controller Fusion Pro

Weight: No indication | Connection: Wired | Cable length: 3.0 meters | Battery: Not available | Price range (according to Geizhals): 119.00 Euros

Who is the controller suitable for? If you are looking for a controller that has similar qualities to the Xbox Elite Controller but is somewhat cheaper, then take a look at the Fusion Pro Controller from PowerA.

This is what the PowerA Fusion Pro offers: The Fusion Pro looks like an ordinary Xbox controller and is also an officially licensed Xbox controller. The controller is available in both black and white.

The Fusion Pro is highly configurable. The analog sticks and button rings are interchangeable, and all parts are hidden behind a magnetic front plate. At the back of the controller, you can adjust the trigger pull in up to three levels with a lever.

Also good is the “Pro Pack” which consists of four detachable paddles that can be configured. This makes the Fusion Pro one of the best controllers with paddles for those who do not want to spend a lot of money on the Elite Controller.

This is what users say: On Amazon, the controller is rated 4.1 stars based on 426 reviews. The high similarity to the Xbox Elite Controller and the great build quality are praised. Some criticize that certain headsets or individual microphones are not recognized.

*Affiliate-Links. Wir erhalten bei einem Kauf eine kleine Provision von Amazon. Vielen Dank für Eure Unterstützung!

Best customizable Xbox One Controller – Xbox One Controller Scuf Prestige

Weight: 267 grams | Connection: Bluetooth | Cable length: 3 meters | Battery: internal, fixed battery | Price range (according to manufacturer): From 159 Euros

Who is the controller suitable for? If you are looking for a controller that can be almost fully customized to your needs, then you should take a look at the Scuf Prestige. This controller can be freely configured on the manufacturer’s website.

This is what the Scuf Prestige Controller offers: The Scuf Gaming controller focuses on individuality: On the company’s own site (via scufgaming.com), you can assemble your own controller according to your preferences. The buyer has a wide range of options to choose from: from colors, grips to the material of the thumbsticks – there are no limits to customization.

Also successful are the “paddles” on the back of the controller. The Scuf Impact is currently one of the best Xbox One controllers with paddles available alongside the Xbox Elite Controller.

Customization can become quite expensive. The base price is 159 Euros, which is no small sum. With each additional customization, such as different thumbsticks, special grips, or triggers, additional costs are incurred. However, for those who are not deterred by the price, they receive a fantastic controller that is tailored to their needs like no other controller.

Best Wireless Controller for Enthusiasts and Xbox Series X – Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2

Weight: 345 grams | Connection: Bluetooth/2.4 GHz | Cable length: 2.7 meters | Battery: built-in rechargeable battery | Price range (according to Geizhals): 155 – 199 Euro

Who is the controller suitable for? If you are looking for a controller that focuses on great quality and high battery life and is also comfortable to hold, then take a look at the Xbox Elite Controller. This offers not only great workmanship but also guaranteed support for the Xbox Series X.

What does the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 offer? The Elite Series 2 mainly offers an enormous range of accessories. Alongside the controller, it includes a USB-C charging cable, charging station, 6 thumbsticks, 4 paddles, 2 D-Pads, and a tool to adjust the thumbsticks. The package is rounded off by a travel case.

Unlike the Elite 1, the Elite 2 no longer has a battery compartment, but a built-in battery. This offers a runtime of about 30 to 40 hours. Thanks to the extensive accessories, there are many customization options, which is extremely practical.

On the downside, the price of around 180 Euros and the relatively high weight stand out. The Elite 2 weighs about 350 grams and is therefore significantly heavier than comparable controllers. Otherwise, buyers receive one of the best controllers on the market.

This is what users say: On Amazon, the controller is rated 4.2 stars out of 1921 reviews. Buyers praise the high battery life, good grip, and great handling. Some complain about the lack of quality control by Microsoft, as some users experience unresponsive or stiff buttons.

*Affiliate-Links. Wir erhalten bei einem Kauf eine kleine Provision von Amazon. Vielen Dank für Eure Unterstützung!

Best Xbox Controller for People with Limited Mobility: Xbox Adaptive Controller

Weight: 552 grams | Connection: Bluetooth and USB-C | Cable length: – | Battery: internal, built-in battery | Price range (according to manufacturer): From 89 Euros

Who is the controller suitable for? The Xbox Adaptive Controller is designed for people with limited mobility. The controller is therefore primarily aimed at these players.

This is what the Microsoft Xbox Adaptive Controller offers: Microsoft refers to its Adaptive Controller as “a central hub for devices to make gaming accessible.” The controller does not resemble an ordinary controller in the slightest:

The base station looks like a rectangular box and features two very large buttons, a D-Pad, and menu buttons. The Adaptive Controller also does not need to be held in the hands, but can instead be placed on a table in front of the player.

Although other controls such as switches, buttons, mounts, and joysticks can be connected via USB to the station, these must be purchased separately.

General Tips for Controllers

What are XInput and DirectInput? XInput and DirectInput are two input methods on PC. They support the input of the controller on the PC and pass it to the game. DirectInput is mainly used by older games, while XInput is the current state of technology.

If you primarily want to play old games on PC, you should ensure that they also support DirectInput. Windows supports both standards, but the games also need to be capable of using the commands.

Are you more on the PC than on the console? Then you prefer a good gaming mouse over a controller? In our buying guide, we present to you the best gaming mice available in 2022.