Top 10 PC Game Controllers to Have
Gaming on PC is quite entertaining offering you the best of both the worlds. You can use any gaming peripheral including a controller. Today you can play many multi-platform games and today you’ll encounter a PC game better suited for this input method. The best part is that there’s a great selection of controllers to pick from. Whether you want a high-end or a budget-friendly controller, you will find anything. Here are the 10 PC Game Controllers you can get for enhancing your gaming experience.
1. DualShock 4 Wireless Controller
Released with the Sony PlayStation 4 in 2013, this DualShock 4 wireless controller is not only a good controller but also a great asset for any player.
It comes is enhanced functionalities. This time it has proper trigger buttons. It has impressive analog sticks and a comfortable button layout with two analog sticks parallel to each other.
This PS4 controller features a rechargeable battery also which cannot last as long as other wireless controllers. You need to ensure to download DS4Windows, connect the DualShock 4 to your PC, and now you’re ready to go. You can also button map and more.
2. Xbox Wireless Controller
This is the product of Microsoft and has kept the design intact for the newer Xbox One Wireless Controller.
It features Bluetooth connectivity as of 2016. With Microsoft’s Xbox Wireless protocol, you can quickly and easily connect it to your system. You can also connect the older versions of the controller without cables, but you’ll need the Xbox Wireless Adapter.
The size of the Xbox Wireless Controller isn’t too large or small. It comes with great triggers, and even the D-Pad gets some shine if you’re into retro games.
This is an affordable and reliable piece. Better to opt for Elite 2 Controller if you want a higher-end version with even more perks.
3. Logitech Gamepad F310
This gamepad of Logitech is one of the most cost-effect options. You can have 10 F310s for the price of one Astro C40 TR. But this does not demean its features anyways.
Because of its plug-and-play module, the F310 works with many PC titles. You can use Logitech’s Profiler software to adjust the buttons and overall controls. You can even mimic mouse and keyboard commands to make the Logitech peripheral the most versatile controller at this price tag.
It features amazingly responsive buttons. Their design is more like retro gamers and those coming from PlayStation. The small size and ergonomic design of the Logitech Gamepad F310, make it the best for people with smaller hands.
4. SteelSeries Stratus Duo
This is the latest tool in the gaming company’s line of PC-compatible controllers. The Stratus Duo features the physical design of the Xbox Wireless Controller and has the analog stick layout of the DualShock 4.
You can sync the controller to your PC using Bluetooth or with the included USB wireless adapter.
It is compatible with a variety of other devices including Android phones and VR headsets. It is ideal for the multiplatform gamer that wants an all-in-one solution. It is a bit expensive than many others, but the SteelSeries Stratus Duo is one of the best PC game controllers regardless.
5. Xbox 360 Controller for Windows
If you want to have something cheap and easy to use, Xbox 360 Controller for Windows is the best option.
This is there for quite some time. This is a great choice for those that want a no-hassle, plug-and-play experience. It works flawlessly on any Windows PC without installing any additional software.
The button layout is the standard Xbox design, which any Xbox or PC gamer must be familiar with. The thumbsticks and 8-directional D-pad are well-featured and responsive. This controller also comes with a headphone jack, allowing you to plug in your headset directly into the Xbox 360 controller.
It is not that ergonomic, as gamers with small hands might find it bulky and hard to hold for longer periods. If you do not fall in that category, the Xbox 360 controller for Windows is best for you best PC game controllers you can buy.
6. Retro-Bit SEGA Genesis controller
This retro controller is licensed by SEGA and it’s a great replica of the Arcade Pad for the Genesis. Great for old-school fighting games like Mortal Combat, the Retro-Bit controller features the classic 6-button layout. It also has a responsive D-pad and a start button. This is not too different from the original design. You won’t find any thumbsticks or shoulder triggers.
Still, the Retro-Bit SEGA Genesis controller is amazingly versatile. Its wired USB controller is compatible with both Windows and Mac PCs and a variety of other devices. It includes the SEGA Genesis Mini console. This controller is not having the flashy features of other controllers on the list, but it’s still a great tool.
7. Razer Wolverine Ultimate
This controller looks like an Xbox Wireless Controller that frequently visits nightclubs. Featuring Razer’s trademark Chroma lighting, which is in its full display around the Xbox button, with the D-Pad displaying a backlit green.
If the flashy lights do not bother you, it’s the customization that will keep you around. You can switch analog sticks with taller or shorter ones, and also swap the D-Pad, bumpers, and triggers. You can also download the Razer Synapse app for PC and remap the buttons and triggers, alter the sensitivity of the analog stick, and adjust the vibration intensity.
The Razer Wolverine Ultimate is a reasonable controller with a price to match. It is a niche choice best for those that play the mostly using controller.
8. Nintendo Switch Pro Controller
Yes, the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller could be an amazing option for PC gaming. If you’re playing using a wired connection, you can plug in the controller to your PC. For wireless play, things aren’t that straightforward. You’ll need the 8Bitdo Wireless USB Adapter if you plan to play games outside of Steam.
Irrespective of how you use the Pro Controller, Nintendo’s peripheral is a decent one. The offset analog sticks are great, and the D-Pad is nice for retro titles.
9. 8Bitdo SN30 Pro Plus
This Pro Plus controller appears to be something from the SNES era, yet works like a modern controller. That means a dual analog setup, triggers, face buttons, a direction pad, and four additional buttons for Start, Select, Home, and Capture. The button layout makes the SN30 Pro Plus a nice great controller for the Nintendo Switch.
Although, it’s also a great PC game controller with a calling card: flexibility. The SN30 Pro Plus works with Android, Windows, macOS, Steam, and even Raspberry Pi. It supports the 8Bitdo Ultimate Software, which allows you to remap the buttons, set macros, and adjust the sensitivity of the triggers and the analog sticks.
Its slim form factor coupled with its relatively affordable price tag is the best deal for you. The 8Bitdo SN30 Pro Plus is one of the choicest PC game controllers you can buy.
Synopsis
This was the list of top most and popular PC game controllers with different price tags. Whatever your choice and preference are, you can select one of the above and have a great time experiencing great gaming on PC.