by Nora Mar 19,2025
While the Xbox Core Controller reigns supreme as our overall best Xbox Series X controller, a world of excellent alternatives exists. Perhaps you crave customization, a budget-friendly option, or a high-end gamepad for competitive gaming. Our experts have rigorously tested numerous controllers for the Xbox Series X/S, and here are five worthy contenders.
TL;DR – Best Xbox Series X/S Controllers:
Xbox Core Controller
Turtle Beach Recon Wired Game Controller
Xbox Elite Series 2
Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra
Scuf Instinct Pro
Responsive controls, readily accessible buttons, and seamless Xbox connectivity are crucial for any top-tier Xbox Series X/S controller. Beyond the basics, find a controller that complements your playstyle. Want advanced customization? Consider the Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra. Aiming for pro-level performance? The Scuf Instinct Pro awaits. On a budget? The feature-rich Turtle Beach Recon delivers high quality for under $60.
The selection of Xbox Series X controllers extends far beyond the standard console offering. Many of our top picks also excel with gaming PCs, gaming phones, and more. However, for racing enthusiasts, the best racing wheels for Xbox are a worthwhile investment, while fighting game aficionados might prefer one of the best fight sticks.
For discounts on these controllers, check our current best Xbox deals.
Enjoy the familiar Xbox layout on an ergonomic controller featuring remappable buttons, a tactile D-pad, and versatile connectivity.
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Product Specifications
PROS: Works well across many devices; Impulse triggers.
CONS: Awkward share button.
The Xbox Series X includes the reviewed Xbox Core Controller. While not extravagant, its reliable performance is hard to beat. The comfortable, familiar design suits most games, and upgrades enhance grip, gameplay recording, and button remapping. Numerous color options are also available. Utilizing Xbox Wireless, it connects seamlessly to your Xbox, PC, and phone via built-in Bluetooth. The only drawback is the use of AA batteries. A USB-C connection is possible, but disables wireless functionality. Despite minor flaws, the Xbox Core Controller remains a solid choice for Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and other platforms, boasting textured grip, hybrid D-pad, custom button mapping, and a dedicated (though slightly awkward) Share button. Note: This is also our top PC controller pick.
This wired gamepad offers a wealth of features, including two extra configurable back buttons and on-controller audio customization, at an affordable price.
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Product Specifications
PROS: Great access to voice and audio options; Solid build quality.
CONS: Wired only.
Our review of the Turtle Beach Recon Wired Game Controller revealed impressive features at a low price. For around $50, it includes standard buttons, triggers, and sticks, plus two extra back buttons for controls without removing thumbs from analog sticks. These rear buttons are configurable, including thumbstick sensitivity adjustments. The Turtle Beach Recon provides a well-built, comfortable wired controller with ergonomic grips. Audio customization sets it apart; when connecting a gaming headset, you can adjust EQ settings (like SuperHuman Hearing) to enhance audio cues and easily adjust game/chat mix for teammate communication.
This high-end controller offers extensive customization with swappable components, tunable triggers, extra rear paddles, and fully remappable buttons.
See it at Amazon See it at Newegg
Product Specifications
PROS: Wireless charging; Comfortable grip.
CONS: Expensive.
Our hands-on testing of the Xbox Elite Series 2 revealed a premium controller ideal for serious gamers with a higher budget. All buttons are fully remappable, with four extra rear paddles altering face button functions or executing independent actions. Rear paddles, D-pad, and thumbsticks are magnetically attached for easy swapping. The Elite 2 offers even more customization via Xbox Design Lab. As a wireless option, its rechargeable battery lasts up to 40 hours. Beyond Xbox Wireless, Bluetooth connectivity and a USB-C port provide wired options for PC or phone use.
A display for adjustments and notifications, alongside hall-effect sticks, tactile switches, and extra mappable buttons, makes this controller stand out.
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Product Specifications
PROS: RGB lighting; Color display.
CONS: No swappable thumbsticks.
For a finely-tuned controller, the Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra excels. Remappable microswitch face buttons and four extra rear buttons allow for action assignments. Hall-effect, anti-drift thumbsticks with adjustable performance and interchangeable thumbsticks, along with trigger stops for actuation distance adjustment, are ideal for FPS games. Settings are modifiable via the companion app or the unique on-gamepad "Connected Command Display." This full-color screen displays phone notifications and allows on-the-fly setting adjustments, including profile swapping, button remapping, vibration intensity modification, and RGB lighting control. Despite the screen, the battery lasts up to 30 hours, and a quick-charging dock is included.
Scuf pushes controller boundaries with an ergonomic design, four rear paddles, interchangeable thumbsticks, and instant triggers.
See it at Scuf
Product Specifications
PROS: Comfortable feel; Extensive customization.
CONS: AA batteries.
The Scuf Instinct Pro provides a competitive edge. It features a design similar to the Core controller but adds four customizable paddles. A trigger switch enables faster response times, beneficial in shooters. Four interchangeable thumbsticks allow for personalized feel. The lightweight, ergonomic design ensures comfort during extended gaming sessions, and rear grips maintain a firm hold. However, wireless use requires AA batteries.
Best Xbox Series X|S Controller: Xbox Core Controller £54.99 at Currys PC World
Best Budget Xbox Series X|S Controller: PowerA Enhanced Wired Controller £34.99 at Amazon
Best High-End Xbox Series X|S Controller: Xbox Elite Series 2 £159.99 at Amazon
Best Tunable Xbox Series X|S Controller: Razer Wolverine V2 £74.99 at Amazon
Best Xbox Series X/S Racing Wheel: Thrustmaster TMX Force Feedback £249.95 at Amazon
Best Xbox Series X/S Flight Stick: Thrustmaster T-Flight HOTAS One £63.99 at Amazon
Best Customizable Xbox Series Controller: Thrustmaster Eswap X Pro £159.99 at Amazon
Several factors are key when choosing an Xbox controller. Connectivity is crucial; wired options offer lowest latency, while wireless dongles provide a strong alternative. Some controllers offer Xbox's wireless protocol for reduced latency and fewer mispresses, and Bluetooth connectivity enables PC or phone use. Customizability is another important factor; consider remapping buttons, changing component placement, adding extra buttons, or using trigger locks.
Yes, using an adapter like the Brooks Wingman Converter.
Yes, via USB ports, but not all games support this.
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