The Best PC Gaming Controllers

The Xbox controller is a design that has stood the test of time. It's comfortable, robust, and most importantly of all, affordable. The D-pad, triggers and button layout are familiar to swathes of gamers, and the offset analogue sticks are well-placed for comfort. The controller can be connected to the PC via a wired or wireless connection and will also accept a stereo headset via the onboard 3.5mm audio jack. Connection: Wired and Bluetooth Note: AA Batteries, rechargeable battery pack available separately

Building on the Xbox Wireless Controller, the Elite introduces several impressive features. Physically, the controller benefits from customisable rear paddle triggers, trigger locks, adjustable-tension thumbsticks, and the choice between traditional and faceted D-pad controls. Fine-tuning and two customised profiles are available via the companion software, allowing controls to map and suit personal preference. If price is no object, the Elite is the very best PC gaming controller available. Connection: Wired with USB-C and Bluetooth Note: Built-in rechargeable battery

With the Sony DualShock 4 controller, gamers can control their catalogue in comfort and style. The motion control features work on many PC games, including with shooters like Doom, Sniper Elite, and Destiny 2 - ideal for those looking to access the functionality of a controller layout without scarifying all of the fine-tuned precision and fluidity of a gaming mouse. Connection: Wired and Bluetooth Note: Built-in rechargeable battery, motion controls

The Switch Pro Controller is an impressive thing for both Switch and PC users. The controller is very comfortable and well-sized, and it carries gyroscopic controls for fluid refinement of in-game controls. If a gamer is looking for motion controls, comfort, and offset analogue sticks, the Switch Pro is the answer. Connection: Wired and Bluetooth Note: Built-in rechargeable battery, motion controls

This offering from 8BitDo is ideal for those who like nothing more than booting up a ROM for a little retro nostalgia. Based on the classic SNES Nintendo controller, the SN30 has an iconic in-hand feel and layout. A few nice mod-cons are thrown in, including Bluetooth connectivity to both Xinput and DirectInput, rechargeable battery, 6-axis controls, rumble, and compatibility with Nintendo Switch, Android and iOS, as well as PC. Connection: Wired and Bluetooth Note: Built-in rechargeable battery, motion controls

The joy of flight sims is in the name - itu2019s a simulation, immersing gamers in a digital facsimile of the real thing. For anyone spending their free hours flying LA to Tokyo in Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 or dogfighting Eurofighters in Ace Combat 7, this Thrustmaster flight stick is the dream ticket. The joystick has interchangeable heads, throttle and rudder controls, and a throttle quadrant featuring 16 buttons and two navigational axes. Itu2019s also compatible with a range of other Thrustmaster flying sim peripherals for future expansions. Connection: Wired

It isn't pretty, but the Logitech F710 controller is host to an array of features. It has a pleasant grip, dual-vibration motors and a D-pad with individual switches under each button for improved responsiveness. It works particularly well with the Steam Big Picture interface and supports both Xinput and DirectInput. Wireless connection comes via the provided 2.4GHz nano-receiver, which plugs straight into a free USB port. Connection: Wired and Bluetooth Note: Built-in rechargeable battery

While we would argue that button-mashing is always a valid tactic, fighting games are also a bastion for walking move-set databases with excellent muscle memory. Whether jumping into the classics like Street Fighter or with the newer titles like Mortal Kombat 11, an arcade fight stick is the best weapon in the peripheral arsenal. The Mayflash F300 is a fine example of such a controller, offering up the traditional eight-button layout (with a few turbo functions - which is definitely not cheating). Connection: Wired

The Xbox Adaptive Controller is a considered and well-executed device, helping those with disabilities access the very best that gaming has to offer on both Xbox and PC. The controller allows users to arrange external triggers and controllers (sold separately) to best suit their individual preferences and requirements. The controller is remappable to create multiple controller profiles. Connection: Wired and Bluetooth Notes: Requires adaptive kit

The Logitech Adaptive Gaming Kit provides the external triggers and buttons for Microsoft's Xbox Adaptive Controller. Logitech's kit is comprehensive, offering 12 buttons and triggers, including light touch buttons, variable triggers, and small and large buttons. The kit also comes with two hook-and-loop gaming boards to keep peripherals locked in place once arranged. Notes: Requires Microsoft Xbox Adaptive Controller