The best Xbox Series X and Series S controllers of 2022

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If you just want a good standard wireless controller for Xbox Series X or Xbox Series S, start with the one that comes in the box. Available in multiple colors, Microsoft’s Xbox controller may not be the best controller in terms of features, but it’s comfortable, with nice button action, and can last up to 40 hours of active play on a few AA batteries. And if you prefer to have battery-powered devices, there are a few options available – I used HyperX’s ChargePlay Duo, which locks the controller into place for charging. There’s a 3.5mm jack on the front edge next to the expansion port for connecting accessories like a chat keyboard that fits between the grips or audio controls for your headset. You can also remap this Xbox wireless controller’s buttons, flip the sticks, and use other customizations with the Xbox Accessories app.

You are receiving price alerts for 1. Microsoft Controller for Xbox Series X and S

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We like the PowerA wired controller as a good, inexpensive option when you need an extra Xbox controller for guests or one to use while your wireless controller is charging. There are two additional buttons on the bottom of the controller that can be mapped on the fly, as well as a 3.5mm jack on the front for headphones. Just above the jack on the top is a volume and chat mute switch, as well as a diamond texture on the bottom for a better grip. Also, like many of PowerA’s controllers, it comes in multiple colors, though prices jump a bit between variants.

You are receiving price alerts for 2. PowerA Enhanced Wired Controller for Xbox

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Packed with features is an understatement when it comes to the Wolverine V2 Chroma. The ABXY buttons and D-pad all use Razer Mecha-Tactile switches. They feel amazing, with crisp response and a satisfying mouse-like click. There are also six additional buttons: two upper bumpers and four lower triggers. The bottom triggers are especially nice because the design makes them feel like the paddles you’d find on other pro controllers, but with a sturdier design like the rear triggers. There are also locks for the rear RT/LT triggers. Slide the switches and they cut travel distance in half for quick shots.

The Razer Wolverine also includes a couple of additional thumb caps: one taller concave cap for accuracy, one domed cap for faster movements. There are also RGB lights, and you can use Razer’s Synapse app for Xbox or PC to change them and remap the controller’s buttons.

You get price alerts for 3. Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma

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A good choice for smaller hands or anyone who simply prefers a more compact controller. The grips are sculpted in a way that makes the controller comfortable to use even with larger hands and are textured which keeps the grips from slipping or sticking to my palms.

While it may not have the removable USB cable, extra buttons, or interchangeable thumbsticks found on the company’s more expensive Revolution X Pro controller, it does have some features I didn’t expect at this price point. For example, there’s an app for the controller that lets you remap its buttons and adjust its sticks, trigger sensitivity, and vibrations. A switch at the bottom lets you switch between your custom profile and classic mode.

There is a 3.5mm headphone jack on the front edge, which is not unusual. But RIG includes a license to support Dolby Atmos for headphones to give you a more immersive gaming experience, including Cyberpunk 2077, Gears 5, Borderlands 3 and Forza Horizon 4. Pair it with RIG’s own 500 Pro HX Gen 2 headphones and you can really improve your gaming experience for around $100.

You are receiving price alerts for 4. RIG Nacon Pro Compact

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This wireless Xbox controller has it all. Can be used wired or wireless. The thumbs can be changed for more precision or faster speed. Holding the controller, your fingers fall naturally between two pairs of repositionable paddles. The controller stores three profile configurations for the paddles and is preset for FPS, sports and racing games; a button at the bottom allows you to quickly switch between them. Redirection can be done on the fly, so there is no need for an additional app. There are also switches for the triggers so you can change them from a long pull to a quick click.

And then there’s the look. You can choose everything from button color to thumbstick style to whether you want to install Rumble. Scuf also has a variety of faceplates in different colors and designs. Price is the only real downside here, starting at $210 and going up from there depending on your customizations.

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