The best Xbox One controllers give you a lot of bang for your buck. Not only will they make it easier and better to play last-generation games, but they will also work with the Xbox Series X/S. Whether you’re looking for the extra buttons of a pro controller or just a new set of analogue sticks that haven’t been worn down by years of use, the list below should have what you need. The market for controllers is in an exciting place right now.
With the Xbox One generation, there was a lot of interest in making pro controllers that combine the comfort and ease of a gamepad with the competitive features of a mouse and keyboard. After Xbox’s Elite line came out, there were a lot of options to choose from, and Sony’s first pro controller, the DualSense Edge, just joined the crowd. Before we get into the specific pros and cons of each controller, it’s important to note that many of the options below will also serve as the best PC controllers. Below we have mentioned some of the best Xbox One controllers.
Best Xbox One Controllers
Xbox Core Wireless Controller
Specifications
| Platform | Xbox Series X|S, PC |
| Battery | Up to 40 hours |
| Connectivity | Wireless |
| Headset Support | Yes |
| Programmable | No |
The best Xbox One controllers has a smooth grip, joysticks with a light texture, and a weight that is well-balanced and rests easily between your hands. The controller’s mechanisms are also well-made, and as long as they are kept clean, they rarely need to be fixed or drift. This wireless controller is perfect for the average gamer, and it should last for years. Even though it’s a little basic, it’s not really a surprise that Microsoft has one of the best controllers on the market for their own system.
It has everything a gamer needs, from the quick share button to the hybrid d-pad to the 3.5mm jack for wired headsets. Two AA batteries can power the controller for up to 60 hours, or players can plug in the controller with a USB-C cord to keep playing while the batteries charge.
Pros
- Feels similar to the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller
- Xbox Accessories app enables many customization options
- Can be upgraded with an accessories kit
Cons
- Feels incomplete without rear paddles
- Somewhat slippery direction pad
Microsoft Xbox Elite Series 2
Specifications
| Platform | Xbox Series X|S, PC |
| Battery | Up to 40 hours |
| Connectivity | Wireless |
| Headset Support | Yes |
| Programmable | No |
A few years ago, Microsoft saw that people were getting into best Xbox One controllers and decided to get into the market themselves. The second version of its controller is very good. This thing is expensive, like a lot of pro controllers, but it’s official and has a lot of ways to customize it so you can get it just right.
This is the best controller for most people right now, if they are willing to pay. You can set up the rear paddles however you like, and the thumbsticks give you just the right amount of resistance.
Pros
- Excellent customization
- Extra buttons
Cons
- Expensive
- Has been known to have hardware problems
PowerA FUSION Wired Fightpad
Specifications
| Platform | Xbox Series X|S, PC |
| Connectivity | Wired |
| Headset Support | Yes |
When playing fighting games, thumbsticks don’t always cut it, and a good D-pad is a big help because it lets you control things more quickly. That’s where the PowerA Fusion Wired Fightpad comes in. It has a simple design that lets you focus your hands on the best Xbox One controllers. Even though it’s wired, it’s a very cheap and reliable choice, and you can use it with the Xbox Series X/S if you decide to upgrade.
As for the controls, the PowerA Fusion has a big D-pad on the left side with a three-way switch that lets it act like the thumbsticks on an Xbox controller. This makes it easier to move around in games.
Pros
- Good build quality and feel
- Removable, programmable rear paddles
- Swappable faceplate and analog sticks
- Includes lots of accessories
Cons
- Expensive
- Limited control customization options
- PC connectivity is limited
PowerA Enhanced Wired Controller
Specifications
| Compatibility | Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PC |
| Connectivity | Wired |
| Headset Support | Yes |
| Programmable | No |
The low-cost PowerA Enhanced Wired Controller for Xbox looks and works like the official product from Microsoft. The big difference is that it has a wired connection, so you are always connected to your console. It also has a D-pad with four directions, a volume dial, and two extra buttons that you can set up in any way you want. If you need an extra controller and want to keep costs low, this unit is a good choice.
Even though it doesn’t have back paddles, that makes sense given how cheap it is. This isn’t for a gamer who wants to do everything and more. It’s made for people who want to save money but still want to play games and maybe show off a little of their own style, since it comes in dozens of colors and patterns. This is one of the best Xbox One controllers.
Pros
- Two additional mappable buttons
- Less expensive than traditional controllers
- Volume dial with one touch mic mute
Cons
- Detachable 10-foot USB cable
- Lacks additional back paddles
Hyperkin Duke
Specifications
| Compatibility | Xbox One & Windows 10 |
| Connectivity | Wired |
| Headset Support | Yes |
| Programmable | No |
The Duke is a throwback for people who liked the more ambitious design choices of the original Xbox controllers, like the clear panels. This best Xbox One controllers has the same button layout as the original Xbox, but it also works with the Xbox One and has vibration feedback.
When you turn on the controller for the first time, the circular screen can play the animated startup from the original Xbox. If you want to relive some of the magic of old video games on your Xbox One, this controller is the perfect trip down memory lane you’ve been looking for.
Pros
- Xbox nostalgia
- Licensed by Microsoft
- No need for batteries
Cons
- Very bulky compared to modern controllers
FAQs
What is the coolest Xbox One controller?
- Xbox Elite Series 2.
- Xbox Core Controller.
- Razer Wolverine V2.
- MAYFLASH Arcade Stick F500 Elite.
- PowerA Fusion.
- Xbox Adaptive Controller.
What controller has no stick drift?
GuliKit (No Stick Drift KingKong 2 Pro Wireless Controller for Nintendo Switch, First Bluetooth Controller with Hall Effect Sensing Joystick, No Deadzone, Auto Pilot Gaming, and Motion Sense.
What is the most comfortable controller?
The best controller for PC gaming is Microsoft’s latest Xbox Wireless Controller, which is the same one you’d buy for an Xbox Series X or S. It’s comfortable and works with most games.
