The best Xbox controller in 2023 isn’t really a surprise. The first-party Xbox Wireless Controller has remained a long-time favorite since the Xbox One era, and it looks like that won’t be changing anytime soon. Similarly, the best _premium_ Xbox controller is still the highly-regarded Elite Series 2\–now with different models to choose from. If you’re looking for pro-style customization features without spending too much, then there are a multitude of third-party Xbox controllers you should consider. We’ve compiled the best Xbox Series X|S controllers currently available.
Forget Xbox controllers; if you’re in the market for a new gamepad, there’s a plethora of third-party offerings from companies like 8BitDo, HyperX, Razer, and Turtle Beach, just to name a few. Put aside the ordinary and explore the extraordinary!
If you’re a fan of precision-tuned joysticks or play a lot of genres that benefit from D-pad controls, the 8BitDo Pro 2 is a more fitting option than Microsoft’s gamepads. But if you’re focused on competitive multiplayer, the Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma might be the way to go, with its ultra-responsive actuation and other enhancements geared towards improving your performance. Alternatively, Xbox fans might be feeling nostalgic for the Duke–the failed original Xbox controller that some still fondly recall for some reason. And, of course, Xbox is also the home of the most inventive and important gaming controller of our time: the Xbox Adaptive Controller, providing gamers with limited mobility the opportunity to enjoy gaming experiences like never before.
If you possess other consoles, you’ll find our top picks for the most suitable controllers for PC, Nintendo Switch, and PS5.