The video game controller is one of the most important parts of a great gaming experience. While the quality of the games and the console hardware are vital, for gameplay to be at its best you need quality video game controllers.
The standard controllers that come with for today’s consoles are good options. But, you may want to try out some alternatives, especially if you aren’t a fan of the default control layout.
We’ll look at a couple of options for each major console, and even throw in some options for mobile gaming.
Xbox One & Xbox Series X/S
Microsoft often receives praise for the design of its game console controllers. But there are a couple of alternatives you may want to consider.
Xbox Elite Wireless Controller: The Choice for Avid Gamers
In addition to the standard controllers for the Xbox One and Series X/S consoles, Microsoft makes a higher-end option called the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller. This controller is built for a premium gaming experience, with adjustable thumbsticks and highly precise controls.
PowerA Enhanced Wired Controller for an Affordable Extra
You never know when you’ll have an extra guest over for an impromptu gaming session. The PowerA Enhanced Wired Controller for Xbox is the perfect backup video game controller because of its lower price. The overall form factor mirrors that of the official Xbox controller, so if you’re comfortable with the standard controller then you’ll feel right at home holding the PowerA Enhanced controller.
Playstation 4 & Playstation 5
Whether you have a Playstation 4 (PS4) or have been one of the lucky few to get your hands on the coveted Playstation 5 (PS5), there are great video game controllers to choose from.
The Scuf Infinity4PS Pro Offers a Smooth Experience for Hardcore Gamers
The Scuf Infinity4PS Pro is a PS4 controller for serious first-person shooter (FPS) gamers. This unit has the same layout as Sony’s own default Dual-Shock video game controllers but includes additional features to fine-tune the experience.
The Infinity4PS Pro features two full-length removable paddles on the back of the controller that you can map to any button, allowing for more precise control. The triggers are fully adjustable to find just the right sensitivity for different games. As an added bonus, the thumbsticks are interchangeable so you can customize their look.
The Aim PS5 Controller Provides Color Customization
Sony’s own Dual Sense Wireless Controller for the PS5 is great, but users are stuck with little control over the color. Sometimes you want a fun, personalized video game controller, and that’s exactly what the Aim PS5 Controller is going for. Their website includes a “configurator” that allows you to choose the color of nearly every aspect of your controller
You can choose different colors for:
- The main shell
- The D-Pad
- Buttons
- Thumbsticks
Nintendo Switch
Nintendo has a history of iconic video game controllers, from the basic rectangular Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) controller to the “dog bone” shaped Super Nintendo controller. The Nintendo Switch has its default Joy-Cons included, and Nintendo offers a Switch Pro Controller, but we’re going to focus on a couple of fun third-party options.
PowerA Wireless GameCube-Style Controller
One of the most beloved controllers in Nintendo’s history was its uniquely designed Gamecube controller. The button layout was a bit strange compared to the Xbox and Playstation controllers at the time, but it quickly became popular among Nintendo gamers. The boomerang shape was unique and loved by many.
PowerA has brought a near-identical copy of this controller to the Nintendo Switch with their Wireless Gamecube-Style Controller. If you love the design of the Gamecube controller, you’ll love PowerA’s offering here for your Nintendo Switch.
Hori Switch Split Pad Pro
The Nintendo Joy-Cons are a good design, but they are a little on the small side. The Hori Switch Split Pad Pro fixes this by providing a similar style to Nintendo’s own Joy-Cons, but with larger grips and buttons. This makes it much easier to use your Switch in handheld mode, which is a feature many gamers appreciate.
Mobile Gaming
As smartphones become more powerful, the quality of their games increases. Mobile games aren’t limited to simple taps on the screen. Instead, full-fledged premium games are available on iPhone and Android, which makes mobile video game controllers a must for the gamer on the go.
Backbone One for iPhone
For iPhone gamers, it’s hard not to love the Backbone One mobile controller. The design is similar to Nintendo’s Joy-Cons, clamping to the sides of your phone. With the controller attached, your phone looks a lot like a small Nintendo Switch. The Backbone One is iPhone only, but it supports the following game platforms:
Razer Kishi for iOS & Android
Don’t worry Android users, there’s a great option for you too. The Razer Kishi has versions compatible with both iOS and Android. Razer is a household name among gamers, and the quality of its hardware lives up to its reputation.
The Razer Kishi is another Joy-Con style controller that holds your phone in between the two halves. It will fit virtually any phone and users praise these video game controllers for very low latency, which is critical for fast gaming action.
The Kishi supports the following platforms:
Quality Video Game Controllers Add to the Gameplay Experience
The controller you use adds a lot to the gameplay experience. Whether you’re an Xbox, Playstation, Nintendo, or smartphone gamer, there are plenty of great video game controllers for you to use. Try a few out, and see what feels right for your gaming needs.
