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10 Best Xbox Controllers 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Xbox Elite Series 2 Core Wireless Gaming Controller – Black – Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Windows PC, Android, and iOS

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,463
Ergonomics
Button Layout
Connectivity

Most important from
45772 reviews

Ergonomics
The controller's slightly smaller design and improved grips enhance comfort and usability.
Button Layout
The blue letters on the buttons can be hard to read, especially for new players.
Connectivity
The braided USB-C cord ensures a stable, high-quality connection without disconnections.
Battery Life
The rechargeable battery life of up to 40 hours is impressive and convenient for long gaming sessions.
Customization Options
Adjustable hair triggers allow for customized trigger sensitivity.
Build Quality
The metal shafts of the thumbsticks prevent drift issues often seen with plastic ones.

The Xbox Elite Series 2 Core Wireless Gaming Controller is designed for serious gamers who value high performance and customization. One of its standout features is the ergonomic design, which ensures comfort during extended gaming sessions. The button layout is highly customizable, allowing you to swap thumbsticks, D-pads, and paddles to suit your personal gaming style. This level of customization is further enhanced by the Xbox Accessories app, which offers advanced configuration options like deadzone adjustment and button mapping to voice commands.

Additionally, you can save up to three custom profiles and quickly switch between them using the Profile button, which is a great convenience for those who play multiple types of games. Connectivity options are versatile, as you can connect via Xbox Wireless, Bluetooth, or the included USB-C cable. This makes it compatible with a range of devices including Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Windows PC, Android, and iOS. The rechargeable battery life is impressive, lasting up to 40 hours, and the controller comes with a USB-C cable and charging dock for easy recharging.

Build quality is robust, with refined components built to last. However, it is worth noting that the controller is relatively heavy at 1 pound, which might not be ideal for everyone. Additionally, while the customization options are extensive, they might be overwhelming for casual gamers who are not looking to tweak every aspect of their controller. This controller is best suited for dedicated gamers who are looking for a high degree of control and customization in their gaming experience.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,463
Ergonomics
Button Layout
Connectivity

Most important from
45772 reviews

Ergonomics
The controller's slightly smaller design and improved grips enhance comfort and usability.
Button Layout
The blue letters on the buttons can be hard to read, especially for new players.
Connectivity
The braided USB-C cord ensures a stable, high-quality connection without disconnections.
Battery Life
The rechargeable battery life of up to 40 hours is impressive and convenient for long gaming sessions.
Customization Options
Adjustable hair triggers allow for customized trigger sensitivity.
Build Quality
The metal shafts of the thumbsticks prevent drift issues often seen with plastic ones.
#2

Xbox Wireless Controller Ice Breaker Special Edition - Wireless & Bluetooth Connectivity - New Hybrid D-Pad - New Share Button - Featuring Textured Grip

Rating
9.7
Ergonomics and Build Quality
Wired vs. Wireless Connectivity
Button Layout and Customization

Most important from
22804 reviews

Ergonomics and Build Quality
Comfortable to hold for extended gaming sessions thanks to its ergonomic design and textured grips.
Wired vs. Wireless Connectivity
This controller delivers reliable wireless performance across Xbox, PC, Android, and iOS devices without fail.
Button Layout and Customization
Buttons and triggers are responsive with smooth, precise analog sticks that enhance control.
Compatibility
This controller delivers reliable wireless performance across Xbox, PC, Android, and iOS devices without fail.

The Xbox Wireless Controller Ice Breaker Special Edition offers a comfortable and stylish gaming experience with its textured triggers and rubberized grips, helping you keep control during long sessions. The new hybrid D-pad and the additional Share button make gameplay and sharing content easier and more intuitive. It connects wirelessly via both Xbox Wireless and Bluetooth, so you can switch smoothly between your Xbox console, PC, or cloud gaming without hassle.

Customizing button layout is simple using the Xbox Accessories app, allowing you to tailor the controller to your preferences. This model uses two AA batteries rather than a built-in rechargeable battery, which might be less convenient for some. Also, at around 14 ounces, it’s a bit heavier than some other controllers, which could be noticeable during extended play.

Compatibility is solid, covering the latest Xbox Series X|S consoles as well as Xbox One and Windows PCs. The textured grips and responsive triggers enhance the feel, though haptic feedback and trigger sensitivity improvements are modest rather than groundbreaking. This controller is a great choice if you want reliable wireless performance, easy device switching, and good ergonomics, especially if you don’t mind managing replaceable batteries.

Rating
9.7
Ergonomics and Build Quality
Wired vs. Wireless Connectivity
Button Layout and Customization

Most important from
22804 reviews

Ergonomics and Build Quality
Comfortable to hold for extended gaming sessions thanks to its ergonomic design and textured grips.
Wired vs. Wireless Connectivity
This controller delivers reliable wireless performance across Xbox, PC, Android, and iOS devices without fail.
Button Layout and Customization
Buttons and triggers are responsive with smooth, precise analog sticks that enhance control.
Compatibility
This controller delivers reliable wireless performance across Xbox, PC, Android, and iOS devices without fail.
#3

Xbox Wireless Controller Heart Breaker Special Edition - Wireless & Bluetooth Connectivity - New Hybrid D-Pad - New Share Button - Featuring Textured Grip

Rating
9.7
Ergonomics and Build Quality
Wired vs. Wireless Connectivity
Battery Life and Charging Options

Most important from
22804 reviews

Ergonomics and Build Quality
The controller fits perfectly in the hands with smooth, responsive buttons that enhance comfort during long sessions.
Wired vs. Wireless Connectivity
Connectivity is generally seamless, pairing easily with both Xbox consoles and Windows PCs.
Battery Life and Charging Options
Including batteries right out of the box adds convenience, eliminating the need for immediate additional purchases.

The Xbox Wireless Controller Heart Breaker Special Edition offers a colorful and eye-catching design that stands out with vibrant pinks, purples, and bright blues. It feels comfortable to hold thanks to textured triggers and rubberized grips, which help keep control during long gaming sessions. This controller supports both Xbox Wireless and Bluetooth connectivity, making it easy to connect not only to Xbox consoles but also to PCs and cloud gaming services. A handy Share button lets you quickly capture and share your gameplay moments without interrupting the action. You can also customize button functions through the Xbox Accessories app, allowing you to tailor the controller to your play style.

The controller uses two AA batteries for power, which might require frequent replacements or the use of rechargeable batteries, as opposed to having a built-in rechargeable battery. The new hybrid D-pad and improved trigger sensitivity enhance gameplay precision, although some users may find the controller slightly heavier than previous models. This controller suits Xbox gamers who want a stylish, comfortable, and versatile wireless controller that works across devices, but those preferring a rechargeable battery or a lighter feel may want to consider these factors before purchasing.

Rating
9.7
Ergonomics and Build Quality
Wired vs. Wireless Connectivity
Battery Life and Charging Options

Most important from
22804 reviews

Ergonomics and Build Quality
The controller fits perfectly in the hands with smooth, responsive buttons that enhance comfort during long sessions.
Wired vs. Wireless Connectivity
Connectivity is generally seamless, pairing easily with both Xbox consoles and Windows PCs.
Battery Life and Charging Options
Including batteries right out of the box adds convenience, eliminating the need for immediate additional purchases.

Buying Guide for the Best Xbox Controllers

Choosing the right Xbox controller can greatly enhance your gaming experience, whether you play casually with friends or are into more competitive gaming. There are many options available, each with different shapes, features, and technologies designed to suit different needs and preferences. Understanding the main factors that set controllers apart will help you find one that feels comfortable, performs well for the games you enjoy, and suits your play style.
Ergonomics and Build QualityErgonomics refers to how comfortable and easy the controller is to hold during long gaming sessions. This is important because a controller that feels awkward, too heavy, or too big/small can cause discomfort or fatigue. Build quality speaks to how sturdy and durable the controller is, which is crucial if you tend to play a lot or might drop it occasionally. Controllers can range from lightweight and compact to larger, more substantial designs, with different shapes for various hand sizes. To pick the right one, think about the size of your hands and whether you prefer something lightweight and portable or heavier and more solid; testing out a few in your hands at a store can really help here.
Wired vs. Wireless ConnectivityConnectivity determines how the controller links to your console or PC. Wired controllers connect directly with a cable, offering zero input lag and no need for batteries, which can be ideal for competitive play. Wireless controllers give you freedom to move around, but you'll need to consider battery life and the possibility of very minor delays in responsiveness, which usually aren’t noticeable for most players. If you like to play from far away or hate tangled wires, wireless might be best; if you’re particularly sensitive to delays or just want to skip recharging, go for wired.
Button Layout and CustomizationThis refers to the position and design of the buttons, triggers, and joysticks on the controller. Some controllers allow you to remap buttons or even physically swap pieces like thumbsticks, triggers, or paddles. For players who want a controller tailored just for them, or have unique accessibility needs, customization is very important. If you’re happy with the standard setup, a regular layout is fine, but if you find certain button placements uncomfortable or want more shortcuts for complex games, look for customization features.
CompatibilityCompatibility is about which platforms the controller works with, like different Xbox models, PCs, or mobile devices. Not every controller will work seamlessly with every device, and some require extra adapters or software. Think about where you’ll use the controller most—just one Xbox, or across other systems too—and make sure the controller supports all your needs to avoid frustration.
Haptic Feedback and Trigger SensitivityHaptic feedback gives you vibration and resistance effects that make games feel more immersive, while trigger sensitivity influences how the controller reacts to how hard or softly you press certain buttons. Basic controllers may offer simple vibration, while more advanced options have nuanced effects or adjustable triggers for added realism or advantage. If you play games that use these features, like racing or action games, advanced feedback and sensitivity settings can make gameplay more fun and precise. If you mainly play games where these effects don’t matter, you can look for simpler controllers.
Battery Life and Charging OptionsThis is how long the controller lasts before needing a recharge or new batteries. Some controllers use replaceable AA batteries, while others have built-in rechargeable batteries with USB or charging docks. Longer battery life means fewer interruptions, which is great if you game for many hours at a time. If convenience matters to you, look for controllers with easy charging methods, like USB-C or a charging stand; if you don’t mind swapping batteries, standard models work well too.

FAQ