The best Xbox Series X controllers give you so many options these days, and unlike Sony's officially licensed PS5 controllers, there are new models launching all the time. If you want something with a traditional Xbox feel that's just a bit more comfortable for your larger hands, there are options out there. If you want an all-in-one competitive hypercontroller, there are some serious contenders you should know about. Even if you want some stunning RGB design-work, this list really is starting to have it all.
Thanks to Microsoft being, well, Microsoft, any and all Xbox controllers will also be best PC controller contenders. That means there are loads upon loads of gamepads available for you to choose from and a lot for me to test. Alongside the Victrix Pro BFG for Xbox, which is currently my top pick overall, there are some serious rivals to consider. PowerA, Turtle Beach, Razer, and GameSir are just a few of the brands out there constantly trying to earn the top spot on this list. In fact, a couple of the more recent attempts have come very close to doing so. Of course, the investment may decide things for you. Controllers don't come cheap these days, so you want to make sure whichever one you buy is the right one for you.
To help narrow things down, I've tried to apply "best for" use cases to each of the entries on this list. For example, if you're simply in need of a quick and easy replacement for the stock Xbox controller that came with your console, then "best budget" will see you through. If you're looking for more speed in your button presses, there's a "best for speed" alternative. Hopefully, this will make your search a bit easier and save you money on something you don't actually need.
The Quick List
With excellent customization options and a solid price point, the Victrix Pro BFG is the best gamepad out there for competitive players.
With some of the best back paddles ever put on a gamepad, and excellent customization options with the console, this is as good as it gets.
We'd recommend this over a straight replacement Core controller because it has some exceptional features and real comfort for a budget price.
The $150 Fusion Pro from PowerA gets you a lot of the benefits of the most expensive pro controllers on this list for around $50 less, making it a top-pick.
The Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra is great at a lot of things, but its feedback and rumble are surprisingly accurate for a controller without haptic feedback support.
The latest model of the Wolverine sports mechanical buttons found in Razer's gaming mice, meaning it's capable of some breathtaking speed when you're in a game.
While being one of the best pro controllers on the market for Xbox Series X, the Scuf Instinct Pro has the best range of colors and aesthetics to choose from.
Its ergonomics and classic offset feel mean that for the majority of players on Xbox Series X or S, this is all the controller you'll really need.
The broad shoulders and robust feel of this gamepad make it the best way to enjoy driving sims... that is, without forking out for a bespoke wheel and pedal setup.
As a long-term lover of pro controllers, I take great joy in keeping up with the world of Xbox gamepads. There's such a massive selection of great controllers for PC and Xbox that work just as well on either platform and as an enthusiast, I love testing the latest models out. That said, pro controllers aren't for everyone, so I'm determined to find you the perfect gaming tool for you and the games you play.
Recent updates
Tuesday, March 4, 2025: I've given this page a facelift, adding some easily scannable "buy it if" and "don't buy it if" boxes for each entry. I've also added some graph boxes where you can see some basic ratings for how each controller performs in a certain aspect. Lastly, I've separated the individual entries into copy that reflects the format of our reviews. Hopefully all of this makes it a bit easier for you to navigate and read the information on the page.
The best Xbox Series X controller overall
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Our favorite PS5 controller has made its way to Xbox, and its refreshed model for Microsoft's console might even be an improvement. In our eyes, this is one of the best gamepads ever made, so to say it's been improved on is a big deal. For competitive players, there is simply no better controller to choose right now. No matter the genre of game you play, the modular design of this controller means you can bend it to your will.
✅ You want something for competitive gaming: Four back buttons and a modular design makes this a super versatile performance pad for all sorts of gaming genres.
✅ Your budget is under $200 / £200: For $179.99 / £179.99, this is excellent value for money against the other officially licensed competition for Xbox.
✅ You want a wireless controller: The Victrix Pro BFG for Xbox was one of the first officially licensed gamepads to launch with wireless support on Xbox, after years of Microsoft stipulating they had to be wired-only.
❌ You want Hall sensor thumbsticks out of the box: This controller sports potentiometer sticks, but there is the option to buy Hall modules later.
❌ You aren't interested in back buttons: The four back buttons on this controller are hard to ignore, so if you want something you won't accidentally press, maybe look elsewhere.
Design & Features: But what does that mean in practical terms? The facial components here can be lifted out and rotated, meaning you can finally have symmetrical thumbsticks on Xbox. You can also swap out the components entirely which is massive for fighting game fans - especially since there's a dedicated fightpad module in the box with six facial buttons.
This new Xbox version comes with all the same add-ons PS5 owners get, as well as integrated rumble motors and improved battery life. You don't get Hall sensor tech out of the box here, but if it ever becomes an issue for you, a Hall sensor thumbstick module is available for purchase, for an additional fee.
Performance: What you have here then, is a competitive Esports controller that now excels in competitive games as it did before, but has even more single-player potential thanks to its additional rumbly feedback. Combine that with the back buttons and it's an easy one to recommend to any player. It was also one of the first officially licensed Xbox controllers to get the wireless support he had been waiting on for years.
Compared to some of its rivals, the BFG for Xbox is priced really competitively too. It often works out about the same price as the Elite Series 2 when its at full price, and I've seen the BFG get discounted down to $150, making it an absolute steal. For under $200, you get so much value for money and a lot of versatility. It's that ability to change this gamepad to your liking that makes it the best overall pick on this list.
Read more: Victrix Pro BFG for Xbox review
Comfort | ★★★★ |
Ergonomics | ★★★★★ |
Pro features | ★★★★★ |
Longevity | ★★★★★ |
Battery life | ★★★ |
Add-ons | ★★★★★ |
Multiplayer potential | ★★★★★ |
Singleplayer potential | ★★★★ |
The best Xbox Series X controller for most players
To the surprise of absolutely no one, the Elite Series 2 is one of the best Xbox Series X controllers, even as it ages against the officially licensed competition on this list. It really is still the one to beat for most Xbox (and PC) users who like the traditional feel of this brand's controllers. Even despite its age, this controller is well worth buying, and with no word about an Elite Series 3 coming any time soon, there's no reason to hold off.
✅ You want a first-party controller: If you want Microsoft's homemade pro controller, this is the one to go for.
✅ You don't mind something older: If you can put up with something a few years older than other options on this list, you might also save some money.
✅ You want four magnetic back paddles: Magnetic back paddles are hard to beat for their speed and feel, and they're pretty uncommon on other controllers.
❌ You want Hall sensor thumbsticks: Stick drift could be a problem you run into, and there's no real counter.
❌ You don't need the attachments: If you aren't interested in the various attachments of the Elite Series 2, you could get the same great controller for cheaper by opting for the Core edition.
Design & Features: The one upside to the Elite Series 2 getting older is that it's much more prone to deals and discounts, and the more affordable Elite Series 2 Core is a nice route in if you aren't too fussed about the attachments.
Firing on all cylinders though, the full-fat Elite Series 2 is a force to be reckoned with. With four magnetic back paddles, there are few gamepads that can match the feel and comfort of this controller. The component pack also gives you some different thumbstick tops, and the tight tension on the potentiometer modules gives the controller a really speedy feel.
Performance: Besides the excellent versatility and comfort of this controller, the extended 40-hour battery life is one of the things that really sets it apart from others on the market. Some third-party controllers don't even have wireless support on Xbox, and if they do their battery lives don't tend to be this generous.
Where the Elite Series 2 does show its age slightly is in its potentiometer thumbsticks which have been reported to suffer from stick drift after a while. There's no ability to have Hall sensor tech here, which is worth considering if you want a long-term investment.
Read more: Xbox Elite 2 controller review
Comfort | ★★★★ |
Ergonomics | ★★★★ |
Pro features | ★★★★ |
Longevity | ★★★ |
Battery life | ★★★★★ |
Add-ons | ★★★★ |
Multiplayer potential | ★★★★★ |
Singleplayer potential | ★★★★ |
The best budget Xbox Series X controller
The GameSir G7 SE was the first officially licensed controller for Xbox Series X to include Hall Effect Sensor thumbsticks. For those who might not know, these types of thumbsticks use tiny electromagnets and last far longer than the potentiometers you'll find in controllers up and down this list. Essentially, it means it's immune to stick drift. Considering this pad is on par, if not cheaper than the stock Xbox controller, you're getting so much value for money here.
✅ You want something cheap: A price tag of under $60 for a pro controller is a rare thing, especially in the officially licensed accessory world.
✅ You like a traditional Xbox feel: It's on the smaller side, but the shape and ergonomics of this gamepad are close to the traditional Xbox ones.
✅ You're looking for a spare, or something to replace your original controller: Since the G7 SE is about the same price as the stock Xbox controller, I'd argue this is a much better replacement since it gives you loads more features.
❌ You want wireless support: Perhaps the biggest drawback to this controller is that it has no wireless connectivity.
❌ You want something a bit bigger: The GameSir Kaleid, Kaleid Flux, and upcoming G7 Pro are probably better for those with larger hands.
Design & Features: Annoyingly, since it's a third-party controller made before 2024, there's no wireless support to be had here, and there are some pretty unruly thumbstick dead zones out of the box. Luckily you can play around with this by heading to GameSir's Nexus software on PC. There you can also play around with button assignments, vibration, and more. Speaking of vibration, it feels really subtle and precise with the G7 SE.
You get two back buttons here, which is the standard for any GameSir controller. Besides that, it has a smaller shape to it that feels authentic to the official Core controller that comes with your console.
Performance: An alternate accolade for the GameSir G7 SE could have been the best Xbox Series X controller for platforming because that's where I found it came into its own. Its two back buttons feel incredible - as is the norm with GameSir controllers, but the compact and tactile feel of the G7 SE means it feels great to use in sidescrolling or top-down titles.
For its budget price tag, the G7 SE offers a lot of value as well, because you're getting an awful lot of pro controller features for the price of a stock one. No matter what award you want to give this, the Game Sir G7 SE is one of the best Xbox Series X controllers - and one you should definitely consider buying over the regular Core controller that comes with your console.
Read more: GameSir G7 SE review
The best value Xbox Series X Controller
Where do I even begin with the PowerA Fusion Pro Wireless? If it weren't for the Victrix Pro BFG's slight edge in versatility, this may even steal the top spot on this list. It offers a four back buttons package with innovative design elements and loads of features, and it's only $150 - which is roughly $50 cheaper than other pads that offer this much utility. Oh yeah, and it has a stunning ghost RGB design that looks incredible.
✅ You want excellent value for money: It's not cheap at $149, but the value you get from this controller punches well into the $200 category.
✅ You want four back buttons: Not all controllers of this price come with four back buttons, and the ones on this controller are excellent.
✅ You like RGB: The lighting on this controller is in a league of its own, just take a look at it.
❌ You really aren't a fan of RGB: The ghost lighting here could make a believer out of anyone, but if you really hate RGB of any kind then look elsewhere.
❌ You want a modular design: While you can change aspects of this controller to suit you, it isn't the fully modular controller the BFG is.
Design & Features: If you've played around with PowerA's controllers before, you'll know that they pack some of the most robust build quality of any gamepads you can find. The shape and feel are very reminiscent of the traditional Xbox controller, but the amount PowerA does to jazz up that formula is so impressive.
There are Hall sensor thumbsticks, wireless support, a charging stand, four mappable back buttons, a massive 30-hour battery life, three-way trigger locks, a headset dial, up to three different profiles, and a carry case. Perhaps my favorite feature is its twisting thumbsticks which can grow and shrink to different heights without the need for swapping out parts.
Such excellent design is coupled with a ghost RGB which shines when you want it to, and goes completely unseen when the controller is switched off. It's like the swords of Middle Earth that glow blue when orcs are near, except it's a beautiful RGB pattern on a pro controller.
Performance: As you can imagine, the PowerA Fusion Pro Wireless performed really well in our review, earning it a five-star score. No matter the game you turn it to, it'll be comfortable, and useful, and it'll look and feel great at the same time. The trigger locks don't bring down the actuation level to the level most others do, but this is a double-edged sword. In some ways, it makes them a bit useless, and in others, it keeps some of the feel of a trigger pull while adding some speed. Overall, this is a fantastic controller for the money.
Read more: PowerA Fusion Pro Wireless review
Comfort | ★★★ |
Ergonomics | ★★★★ |
Pro features | ★★★★ |
Longevity | ★★★★ |
Battery life | ★★★ |
Add-ons | ★★★ |
Multiplayer potential | ★★★★ |
Singleplayer potential | ★★★★ |
The best Xbox Series X controller for game feel
The Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra Wireless controller is everything the Asus ROG Raikiri Pro from 2023 should have been. It has a small display on its face, and unlike the Asus pads, it's actually useful. More importantly, the Stealth Ultra Wireless is the first ever officially licensed third-party Xbox Series X controller to feature wireless connectivity with the console. That's a landmark achievement for any controller on this list and one that makes it our favorite third-party controller overall.
✅ You want great game feel: Haptic feedback and rumble can add a lot to your games, and this controller is set up to help you.
✅ You'd like a screen to help you navigate settings: Function buttons can be really annoying, and the screen on this controller helps you change settings easily
✅ You want four back buttons: They're placed horizontally, which doesn't always work out, but the back buttons here pull it off thanks to their clicky feel.
❌ You don't care about wireless support: If you're only ever going to play in wired mode, there's not much point in spending extra money on something like this.
❌ You use your D-pad a lot: The D-pad here works just fine, but its metallic panel isn't the best for accurate, intense platforming.
Design & Features: The design of this gamepad is no short of stunning. It's got some lovely RGB lines striking through its grips and face, that aforementioned display for customization, and some truly innovative back buttons. Its buttons are microswitch ones, its triggers, and thumbsticks have Hall Sensor tech inside them, and its vibration is punchy without being overbearing.
You get the usual connectivity here; a 3.5mm headphone jack and USB-C charging, but with your purchase you get a USB dongle and a small magnetic charging stand too. While you might not get the kind of assortments and attachments as some more Esports-specific controllers do, you do get some thumbstick toppers for your money, and these go a long way to correct the sub-par, slippy designs of the regular sticks.
Performance: What I love about this controller is that it does everything well. It isn't quite as good performance-wise as something from Victrix, but it isn't far off. Short of that, you'd be hard-pressed to find a gaming genre this controller isn't perfect for. What's more, its 30-hour quoted battery life is accurate, and thanks to the charging stand, I never have to worry about it running out of charge. It feels like the classic Xbox controllers people love, but it's got that Turtle Beach twist you'll know from a React-R gamepad which only adds to the experience of the games you play.
Overall, this is one of the best controllers for Xbox Series X that you'll find.
Read more: Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra review
Comfort | ★★★★ |
Ergonomics | ★★★★ |
Pro features | ★★★ |
Longevity | ★★★★ |
Battery life | ★★★ |
Add-ons | ★★ |
Multiplayer potential | ★★★★ |
Singleplayer potential | ★★★★ |
The best Xbox Series X controller for speed
The Razer Wolverine V3 Pro is by far and away the best controller this brand has ever produced. It evolves what was great about the former Wolverine models, prices it down from the PS5 version, and improves so much about the ergonomics and feel. Thanks to the utilization of mechanical buttons from Razer's gaming mice, this is capable of playing at extraordinary speeds.
✅ You want a competitive controller: Six extra back buttons and innovative design flourishes make this a serious mouse and keyboard rival.
✅ You like microswitches: This is packed with microswitch buttons, so if you aren't a fan of clicky buttons, maybe consider something else.
✅ You want something built to last: Between Hall sensor thumbsticks and a robust chassis, this is a controller that'll last you years into the future.
❌ You're on a budget: Razer controllers are always pricey, so if you can't afford the $200 price of this pad, look at something else.
❌ You want some RGB: This controller has more of a pro aesthetic to it, so if you'd rather have a flashy RGB controller, there are other options out there.
Design & Features: The traditional Wolverine build is still here, with chunky, rounded grips and broad shoulders. Four back buttons remain, although their placement now actually makes sense because they're integrated into where your fingers naturally grip the thing. You'll also get two additional bumpers, which adds a lot of versatility and potential for mapping. This is also the first Razer controller to feature wireless support on Xbox, as well as a carry case and some swappable thumbstick tops. The V3 is capable of a 1,000Hz polling rate when using a wired connection on PC as well, so there's lots of Esports potential here.
Performance: In practice, this is a much better controller than the Wolverine V2 Pro for PS5, and that's partly due to a much more robust build quality compared to the Sony-licensed hollow model. Wireless support on Xbox or PC is going to be a big win for people too, although be wary of anything that may block the signal because more than with any other controller I've tested recently, the V3 Pro can suffer in that respect.
Still, the unparalleled speed and feel of the microswitch and membrane buttons here really does make a difference. There are few pads that can keep up with the pace of this controller, so if you find yourself constantly a step behind your opponents, this is the product to choose. Even at an adjusted price from the PS5 option, it is still undeniably expensive at $200.
Read more: Razer Wolverine V3 Pro review
Comfort | ★★★★ |
Ergonomics | ★★★★ |
Pro features | ★★★★ |
Longevity | ★★★★ |
Battery life | ★★★★ |
Add-ons | ★★★★ |
Multiplayer potential | ★★★★★ |
Singleplayer potential | ★★★★ |
The best pro controller for color preferences
It's fair enough to be skeptical of the design-it-yourself Scuf Instinct. For starters, it's expensive. Incredibly expensive. But if you can move past that, you'll find a genuinely excellent Xbox Series X controller with the best back buttons we've ever used. These things are a revelation.
✅ You want to customize the colors of your gamepad: Scuf's online builder is amazing for being able to change every aspect of its gamepad aesthetics to suit you.
✅ You can afford it: There's no escaping the fact this is a pricey controller. Only consider if you have the budget for it.
✅ You play FPS games: Scuf designs its pads around competitive first-person shooters like Call of Duty, and they're popular in those games for a reason.
❌ You don't care about looks: If you want the best controller you can afford, and don't worry too much about its looks, then you can probably get better value somewhere else on this list.
❌ You're on a budget: There are plenty of cheaper alternatives out there.
Design & Features: Sure, you can mix and match designs ranging from simple color swaps to golden Japanese Koi art. It also has a satisfyingly ergonomic rubber coating at the front for better grip. Oh, and you can change the shape of the thumbsticks before checkout as well.
The trigger locks are right on the money as well. They enable much faster responses than you'd find from the console's standard controller; we're definitely not that quick on the draw in Halo the rest of the time. Even the thumbsticks feel bouncier and more taut than usual.
Performance: So, is the result worth the money? Should you buy one instead of the Elite Series 2? It's a subjective matter best left in your capable hands, but if you do decide to invest, you'll find a handset at the top of its game.
The savvy back button placement makes them so easy to activate in the middle of a Destiny firefight or Call of Duty battle. Because they form a shell of sorts around your index finger, all you need to do is press down or lift up to activate them. It's much more intuitive than other alternatives we've tried - and we've tried more than our fair share.
Being able to customize the look of a controller can make it feel individual to you, but it doesn't mean you're getting the best controller out there. If you can stomach the price and colorways are important to you, this is the one to consider.
Read more: Scuf Instinct Pro review
Comfort | ★★★★ |
Ergonomics | ★★★★ |
Pro features | ★★★★ |
Longevity | ★★★ |
Battery life | NA |
Add-ons | ★ |
Multiplayer potential | ★★★★★ |
Singleplayer potential | ★★★★ |
The best basic Xbox Series X controller
The stock Xbox Series X controller has a massive range of colors and designs to choose from, not to mention some beautiful limited editions as well. Beyond aesthetics, it has a cult following for its ergonomics and classic offset feel in the hands. For the majority of players on Xbox Series X or S, this is all you'll really need. Just keep in mind there are better options out there functionality-wise.
✅ You don't need pro features: If you only need a basic controller and want the traditional Xbox feel, look no further.
✅ You want color options: The Xbox controller comes in lots of unique colors and designs.
✅ Back buttons aren't your thing: There's no problem with using a regular controller. They've done the job until now, right?
❌ You want a bit more bang for your buck: You can get a pro controller for the same price, if not cheaper than this today, so don't limit yourself.
❌ You want stick drift immunity: There's no block to stick drift with this controller, which is worth thinking about if you're going to spend the money.
Design & Features: This time around we have USB-C charging which is faster than Micro-USB (if you use a rechargeable pack at least) and there's a 'hybrid' D-pad that takes its cues from a more premium Xbox controller that we'll mention later. Like with many other players, we have found the big inclusion to be the share button which was missing all of the last generation (while the DualShock 4 had it from the start) - which does exactly what it should, enabling you to take snaps or clips and share media easily.
Performance: Predictably, we've found it to work smoothly and beautifully via cable or the usual pairing mode, and it's got that excellent performance and comfort by default. It will be very familiar to Xbox One owners from the last generation but there are subtle tweaks that do make it an objectively better controller.
However, there's an overwhelming reason why this iteration is easy for us to recommend and why it is similar to the previous generation's - if it isn't broken, you don't fix it. This is a traditional Xbox controller, and that's all a lot of people ever need. It's comfortable, allows for speedy performance in the right hands, and does the basics well.
Just keep in mind that you don't get much value for your money as a result. There are other pro controller out there today under $60 that give you a whole host of features, more practical wireless support, and work with Xbox. Moreover, if you've been burned by stick drift before, Hall sensor options might be more appealing.
Read more: Our impressions of the Xbox Series X controller
Comfort | ★★★ |
Ergonomics | ★★★★ |
Pro features | ★ |
Longevity | ★★ |
Battery life | ★★★ |
Add-ons | NA |
Multiplayer potential | ★★★ |
Singleplayer potential | ★★★★ |
The best Xbox controller for driving games
The Thrustmaster eSwap X 2 is the latest version of Thrustmaster's modular pro controller. This version brings the family into the modern era with USB-C but doesn't do much to change the formula besides. This is a broad, robust, and comfortable controller to use for longer sessions, but not one we'd recommend for most multiplayer games.
✅ You play a lot of driving games: This is clearly a controller that's been designed for driving experiences with excellent triggers and easy modular swapping.
✅ You have larger hands: This is a larger controller, and it definitely suits someone who wants more room to play with.
✅ Comfort is king: Besides the back buttons, this is a super comfortable controller to use in longer sessions.
❌ You play a lot of FPS games: While the sticks and triggers are decent, the back buttons really let down the performance of this controller in competitive FPS games.
❌ You don't care about swapping out facial components: You can find comfortable controllers without overspending on a modular design.
Design & Features: You can get a lot of utility out of what Thrustmaster has designed here, and if you're familiar with previous versions of the eSwap range, you'll know what to expect. The toolless modular design lets you tug facial components out, snap others in, and enjoy your controller as you see fit. That's even easier than Victrix makes it, which deserves praise. We'd recommend checking out additional facial modules to really upgrade this controller, especially the funky racing wheel module from the Thrustmaster eSwap XR.
In general, this is a controller that really suits a pair of larger hands thanks to its broad shoulders and longer grips. Its facial buttons have a smaller actuation that can be good for speed, but don't add much in the way of feel.
Performance: Where the eSwap X 2 really stands out is in driving games, and third-person action adventures. Particularly in the former, the triggers lend themselves to a light touch and the thumbsticks have a looser tension that helps with precise cornering. The angular shoulder buttons are a stand-out in third-person games and are another ergonomic plus with this gamepad that sits well in larger hands.
For all the ergonomic points this gets right, the tiny back buttons really should have evolved this time around. With so many iterations of this controller across Xbox and PS4, you'd think that one of the biggest points of frustration would have been remedied with this version. It really is a shame, because better back buttons would elevate this as a gamepad to use in a wider range of genres.
Read more: Thrustmaster eSwap X 2 review
Comfort | ★★★★ |
Ergonomics | ★★★ |
Pro features | ★★★ |
Longevity | ★★★★ |
Battery life | NA |
Add-ons | ★★★★ |
Multiplayer potential | ★★★ |
Singleplayer potential | ★★★ |
Best Xbox Series X controller: FAQs
What is the best third party alternative to the Xbox Elite 2?
We'd argue that the best Xbox Series X controller overall is the Elite Series 2 - there simply isn't a better all-round alternative. However for competitive players, Scuf's controllers are an excellent go-to. We list the Scuf Instinct Pro as the best Xbox Series X controller for eSports thanks to its superb back buttons and great overall build quality. You also have the added benefit of customizing the design for yourself.
What is the best Xbox Series X controller for FPS?
In our eyes, the best Xbox Series X controllers for competitive multiplayer shooters are ones with four back buttons (or more). This is because they allow you to assign more in-game functions to other digits, freeing up your thumbs to keep you moving and looking. The Official Elite Series 2 is a fantastic choice for these sorts of games since you can also set custom deadzones. The Scuf Instinct Pro and Razer Wolverine V2 are also solid third party choices.
Is the Xbox Series X controller different to Xbox One?
The Xbox Series X Core controller does differ from the original model released with the previous generation console. The most noticeable change is the redesigned D-Pad, offering a concave approach to ensure diagonal inputs are a lot smoother. The Xbox Series X controller also makes use of a low latency connection with Series X consoles and adds a Share button to the face. The newer gamepad also charges via USB-C, carries a slightly smaller form factor, and replaces the shiny plastic covering of the Xbox One model with a matte finish.
What is the Xbox Series X controller compatible with?
The official Xbox Series X controller is compatible with the new generation of consoles, the Xbox Series S, all Xbox One models, PC, Android, and iOS. If you use GamePass via your Smart TV, the Xbox Series X controller may also be compatible with that too, but check the specific TV models to be sure.
What is the best Xbox controller in the world?
The best Xbox Series X controller overall is the Microsoft Elite Series 2, but we'd recommend the majority of players check out the Xbox Wireless controller. It works smoothly and has all the features any casual gamers would need. The most affordable Xbox Series X controller, however, has to be the Turtle Beach React-R. It presents features which are typically only present in much more expensive controllers.
How we test Xbox Series X controllers
In brief, every controller that we have had our hands on is used in a series of different video games to accommodate for most genres. This means that we'll test the responsiveness of the sticks, face buttons, bumpers, triggers, and any other additional features found on the unit. If a controller is wired or relies on rechargeable batteries, then the duration of the lifespan is tested, too. The same can be said for any specialist software, such as drivers, that may be included with the gamepad as well.
For more on how we test controllers at GamesRadar+ check out our full article, and for something more representative of our holistic approach to the latest gear, check out our Hardware Policy.
We're also rounding up plenty more Xbox Series X accessories (and all the best Xbox One accessories if you're after something a little cheaper), like the best Xbox steering wheels and the best Xbox Series X hard drives.
