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, seek a budget-friendly option, or desire a high-end gamepad for competitive play. Our experts have rigorously tested numerous controllers for the Xbox Series X/S, and below are five top contenders worthy of your consideration.
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 connection are crucial for any gamer seeking the best Xbox Series X/S experience. Once you've mastered the basics, explore options tailored to your preferred playstyle. Desire advanced customization? The Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra is your answer. Aiming for pro-level performance? The Scuf Instinct Pro delivers. On a budget? The feature-rich, high-quality Turtle Beach Recon offers exceptional value under $60.
With the vast array of Xbox Series X controllers available, don't limit yourself 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 the precision of a top-tier fight stick.
For the latest discounts on these controllers, explore our curated selection of the best current Xbox deals.
Xbox Wireless Controller (2020)
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1. Xbox Core Controller
Best Xbox Series X/S Controller
Enjoy the familiar Xbox layout on an ergonomic controller featuring remappable buttons, a tactile D-pad, and extensive connectivity options. See it at Amazon See it at Target
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 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 and, thanks to built-in Bluetooth, works with PCs and phones. The main drawback is its reliance on AA batteries, although a USB-C connection is possible (though this disables 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 (though slightly awkwardly placed) are significant selling points.
Note: This is also our top pick for the best PC controller.
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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 on-controller audio customization, making it an affordable standout. See it at Amazon See it at Best Buy
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, this gamepad includes standard buttons, triggers, and sticks, plus two additional back buttons for controls without removing thumbs from the analog sticks. These rear buttons are fully configurable, including thumbstick sensitivity adjustments. The Turtle Beach Recon provides a well-built, ergonomic controller with comfortable grips. Its standout feature is its audio customization. When connected to a gaming headset, users can adjust various EQ settings, such as SuperHuman Hearing, and easily control the game/chat audio mix.
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3. Xbox Elite Series 2
Best High-End Xbox Series X/S Controller
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: Connectivity: Wireless/Wired; 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 to be a premium controller ideal for serious gamers with a larger budget. All buttons are fully remappable, with four additional rear paddles offering alternative face button functions or independent actions. The rear paddles, D-pad, and thumbsticks are magnetically attached for easy swapping. The Elite 2 is even further customizable via Xbox Design Lab. As a wireless option, its rechargeable battery provides up to 40 hours of playtime. In addition to Xbox Wireless, Bluetooth and USB-C wired connections are available, making it compatible with PCs and gaming phones.
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4. Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra
Best Tunable Xbox Series X/S Controller
This controller stands out with its integrated display for adjustments and notifications, hall-effect sticks, tactile switches, and extra mappable buttons. See it at Amazon See it at Turtle Beach See it at Best Buy
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 rear buttons offer extensive 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 screen shows phone notifications and allows on-the-fly adjustments to profiles, button mapping, vibration intensity, and RGB lighting. Despite the screen, the battery lasts up to 30 hours and includes a quick-charging dock.
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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. See it at Scuf
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 Core controller-like appearance with added customization. Four easily accessible, customizable paddles enhance gameplay, while a trigger switch enables faster response times. Four interchangeable thumbsticks allow personalized feel. The lightweight, ergonomic design ensures comfort during extended play, and rear grips enhance stability. However, wireless use relies on AA batteries.
Where to Buy the Best Xbox Controllers in the UK
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
What to Look for in an Xbox Series X/S Controller
Connectivity is key. Wired controllers offer lowest latency. Wireless dongles are also excellent, with some controllers using Xbox's wireless protocol for reduced latency and fewer mispresses. Bluetooth connectivity allows PC or phone use. Customizability is another important 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, using an adapter like the Brooks Wingman Converter.
Can you connect a mouse and keyboard to Xbox? Yes, via USB ports (though not all games support this).
