While the Xbox Core Controller reigns supreme as our overall best Xbox Series X controller, the world of Xbox gaming offers a diverse range of excellent alternatives. Perhaps you crave customization, a budget-friendly option, or a high-end gamepad perfect for competitive play. Our experts have rigorously tested numerous controllers for the Xbox Series X/S, and here are five worthy contenders.
TL;DR – Top 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, effortless button access, and seamless Xbox connectivity are crucial for any gamer seeking the ultimate Xbox Series X/S experience. Once you've mastered the basics, explore options tailored to your playstyle. Desire advanced customization? The Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra awaits. Aim for pro-level performance? The Scuf Instinct Pro is your weapon of choice. Budget-conscious? The feature-rich Turtle Beach Recon delivers exceptional quality for under $60.
The vast selection of Xbox Series X controllers means you're not limited to the standard controller bundled with your console. Many of our top picks seamlessly integrate with gaming PCs, gaming phones, and more. However, for racing enthusiasts, the best racing wheels for Xbox are a must-have, while fighting game aficionados will appreciate a top-tier fight stick.
For the best deals on these controllers, check out our current selection of top Xbox deals.
Xbox Wireless Controller (2020)
1. Xbox Core Controller: The Best Xbox Series X/S Controller
Experience the familiar Xbox layout on an ergonomic controller boasting remappable buttons, a tactile D-pad, and extensive connectivity options.
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Product Specifications:
Connectivity: Wireless
Customizable Buttons: Yes
Bluetooth: Yes
Compatibility: Xbox, Windows, Android, iOS
Battery: AA
PROS: Works well across many devices; Impulse triggers
CONS: Awkward share button
The Xbox Core Controller, included standard with the Xbox Series X, offers a comfortable and familiar design suitable for most games. Upgrades provide enhanced grip, gameplay recording, and easy button remapping. A wide array of colors is also available. Utilizing Xbox Wireless, it connects seamlessly to your Xbox, PC, and phone via Bluetooth. The only drawback is its reliance on AA batteries (though a USB-C connection is possible, disabling wireless functionality).
Despite minor flaws, the Xbox Core Controller remains a solid choice for Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and other platforms. Its textured grip, hybrid D-pad, custom button mapping, and dedicated Share button (albeit slightly awkwardly placed) are key selling points. Note: This is also our top pick for the best PC controller.
2. Turtle Beach Recon Wired Game Controller: Best Budget Xbox Series X/S Controller
This wired gamepad boasts a wealth of features, including two extra configurable back buttons and customizable on-controller audio, all at an affordable price.
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Product Specifications:
Connectivity: Wired
Customizable Buttons: Yes
Bluetooth: No
Compatibility: Xbox, Windows
Battery: N/A
PROS: Great access to voice and audio options; Solid build quality
CONS: Wired only
Our review of the Turtle Beach Recon Wired Game Controller highlighted its impressive feature set at a low price point. For around $50, it offers standard buttons, triggers, and sticks, plus two extra back buttons for enhanced control without removing thumbs from the analog sticks. These buttons are fully configurable, including thumbstick sensitivity adjustments.
The Recon provides a well-built, comfortable wired controller with ergonomic grips. Its standout feature is its audio customization options. When paired with a gaming headset, users can adjust various EQ settings, such as Superhuman Hearing, and easily control game/chat audio mix.
3. Xbox Elite Series 2: Best High-End Xbox Series X/S Controller
This high-end controller offers extensive customization with swappable components, adjustable triggers, extra rear paddles, and fully remappable buttons.
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Product Specifications:
Connectivity: Wireless
Customizable Buttons: Yes
Bluetooth: Yes
Compatibility: Xbox, Windows, Android, iOS
Battery: Rechargeable (40 hours)
PROS: Wireless charging; Comfortable grip
CONS: Expensive
Our hands-on testing revealed the Xbox Elite Series 2 as a premium controller ideal for serious gamers with a larger budget. All buttons are fully remappable, with four extra rear paddles offering additional control options. Magnetically attached rear paddles, D-pad, and thumbsticks allow for easy swapping and personalized feel. Further customization is available through Xbox Design Lab.
As a wireless controller, the Elite Series 2 features a rechargeable battery lasting up to 40 hours on a single charge, eliminating the need for AA batteries. In addition to Xbox Wireless, it offers Bluetooth connectivity and a USB-C port for wired use, ensuring compatibility with PCs and gaming phones.
4. Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra: Best Tunable Xbox Series X/S Controller
This controller stands out with its integrated display for settings and notifications, hall-effect sticks, tactile switches, and extra mappable buttons.
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Product Specifications:
Connectivity: Wireless
Customizable Buttons: Yes
Bluetooth: Yes
Compatibility: Xbox, Windows, Android
Battery: Rechargeable (30 hours)
PROS: RGB lighting; Color display
CONS: No swappable thumbsticks
The Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra excels in tunability. Its remappable microswitch face buttons and four extra rear buttons provide extensive control customization. Hall-effect, anti-drift thumbsticks with adjustable performance and trigger stops for actuation distance are ideal for FPS games. Settings are adjustable via the companion app or the unique on-controller Connected Command Display.
This full-color display shows phone notifications and allows on-the-fly adjustments to settings, including profile switching, button remapping, vibration intensity, and RGB lighting. Despite the screen, the battery reportedly lasts up to 30 hours, and a quick-charging dock is included.
5. Scuf Instinct Pro: Best Competitive Xbox Series X/S Controller
The Scuf Instinct Pro offers an ergonomic design with four rear paddles, interchangeable thumbsticks, and instant triggers for a competitive edge.
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Product Specifications:
Connectivity: Wireless
Customizable Buttons: Yes
Bluetooth: Yes
Compatibility: Xbox, Windows, Android, iOS
Battery: Rechargeable
PROS: Comfortable feel; Extensive customization
CONS: AA batteries
The Scuf Instinct Pro, designed for competitive gaming, features a design similar to the Core controller but with added features like four customizable paddles. A trigger switch enables faster response times, beneficial in shooters. Four interchangeable thumbsticks allow for personalized feel.
Its lightweight, ergonomic build and rear grips ensure comfortable, extended play sessions. However, wireless use requires AA batteries.
UK Pricing & Availability:
Xbox Core Controller - £54.99 at Currys PC World
PowerA Enhanced Wired Controller - £34.99 at Amazon
Xbox Elite Series 2 - £159.99 at Amazon
Razer Wolverine V2 - £74.99 at Amazon
Thrustmaster TMX Force Feedback Racing Wheel - £249.95 at Amazon
Thrustmaster T-Flight HOTAS One Flight Stick - £63.99 at Amazon
Thrustmaster Eswap X Pro Customizable Controller - £159.99 at Amazon
Choosing Your Xbox Series X/S Controller: Key Considerations
Connectivity is paramount. Wired controllers offer lowest latency, while wireless dongles and Bluetooth provide versatile options. Customizability is another key factor, with options for button remapping, component swapping, additional buttons, and trigger locks.
Xbox Controller FAQ
Can you connect a PS5 controller to an Xbox Series X? Yes, but you'll need an adapter like the Brooks Wingman Converter.
Can you connect a mouse and keyboard to Xbox? Yes, via USB ports, but not all games support this input method.
