A gamer can only be as good as their peripherals, and we had several great candidates for Best Controller 2024.
Many peripheral companies have an array of video game controllers available. Whether you’re looking for Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, Xbox, PC or Retro, there is definitely an option for you somewhere. We looked at a wide variety of options for Best Controller 2024, which included so many different options like wired, wireless, Bluetooth or dongle, large controllers and small ones. Brands like GameSir, HyperX, Sony and more make up the list of winners for Best Controller 2024.
Best Controller 2024:
GAMESIR T4 KALEID WIRED CONTROLLER
Writer: Zubi Khan
The first thing you’ll notice about the GameSir T4 Kaleid is its striking translucent design, which may not be for everyone. Still, if you’re like me and have fond memories of tech from the early 2000s, you’ll more than likely appreciate GameSir’s take on what is clearly (no pun intended) based on a modern Xbox controller.
Outside the general shape, sticks and button denominations, the similarities end with an Xbox pad, as the GameSir T4 Kaleid is a wired controller, sporting two additional bumper-style buttons on the back in addition to a macro switch for programming shortcuts and turbo functionality. Unlike an Xbox controller, the GameSir T4 Kaleid also supports gyro-aiming on the Nintendo Switch and PC via the GameSir app.
The GameSir T4 Kaleid is a feature-rich controller that works well both on PC and Switch while hovering around a price point that won’t break the bank.
- 🎮 Ultimate Personalization: The transparent body of the GameSir T4 Kaleid allows for ultimate lights personalization. With customizable LED lighting, you can create a unique gaming experience that is tailored to your preferences. Stand out from the crowd with a controller that is as unique as you are.
- 🎮 Versatile Compatibility: Compatible with PC, Switch, and Android TV box, the GameSir T4 Kaleid is the perfect controller for gamers who play across multiple platforms. With just one controller, you can seamlessly switch between devices, making it a must-have accessory for any serious gamer.
HYPERX CLUTCH GLADIATE
Writer: Khari Taylor
My quality experience with HyperX’s first dedicated Xbox offering, the HyperX Clutch Gladiate, has all but convinced me that back buttons are essential to core gamers, wired or wireless. Outside of my go-to Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2, I’ve dabbled with other wired, back-button offerings from NACON and 8BitDo. Still, the HyperX Clutch Gladiate is the first I’ve tried that executes the feature so well while keeping the controller itself fairly inexpensive.
The HyperX Clutch Gladiate retails for only $34.99 USD, making it a very attractive wired Xbox controller option when compared to the pricier alternatives from 8BitDo and NACON, and even giving PowerA’s closest equivalent, the Enhanced Wired Controller for Xbox Series X|S, a serious run for its money. “Pro-Lite,” “Pro-Adjacent,” “Enhanced,” whatever you want to call it; if you’re looking to expand your gameplay horizons with some back-button action, the HyperX Clutch Gladiate is a delightfully affordable way to do it.
The HyperX Clutch Gladiate is a well-made, “pro-adjacent” Xbox controller aimed at core gamers looking for a bit of the added functionality found in higher-end gamepads but at a fraction of the cost and complexity.
- Officially Licensed by Xbox: The HyperX Clutch Gladiate is fully compatible with Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S consoles, as well as PC.
- Faster Trigger Pulls with Dual Trigger Locks: Set the lock position for short pulls to execute actions faster, or keep the longer pulls for trigger actions that need more finesse.
PB TAILS CHOC 2.0 CONTROLLER
Writer: Dayna Eileen
A good wireless controller is vital to any console gaming setup. Though many companies focus on the Xbox and PlayStation varieties, you don’t often see them compatible with Nintendo Switch. The PB Tails CHOC 2.0 Metal controller was a very unique-looking option for the Switch, and I just had to know how the jagged edges felt in my hands.
The CHOC 2.0 rings up at $55 USD, which is about $15 cheaper than the Nintendo branded pro controller. So not only is the PB Tails CHOC 2.0 controller more affordable, but I find it more comfortable, less bulky and far more interesting to look at. The designs are incredibly creative and bright; tie that in with everything else I’ve raved about, and the PB Tails CHOC 2.0 controller is a tough contender to beat.
The PB Tails CHOC 2.0 controller is compact, comfortable and convenient. Despite a few drift issues, I wouldn’t change a thing.
TURTLE BEACH STEALTH ULTRA CONTROLLER
Writer: Matt Keith
The Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra is a high-performance controller designed for Xbox and PC. This exceptional controller aims to provide a superior gaming experience for consumers by providing some of the highest-end features available on a third-party controller. Featuring lag-free wireless technology, Hall effect thumbsticks, a full-colour Connected Command Display and a quick charge dock with a 30-hour battery life, Turtle Beach is aiming its sights on becoming the gold standard in the controller market.
The Stealth Ultra Controller for Xbox is an exceptionally well-designed and crafted controller. Turtle Beach has gone above and beyond regarding function and quality of life features. It is the Cadillac of controllers and offers everything needed for high-performance gaming. While it does come with a high price point of $199.99 when you consider the price tag of other elite-level controllers, the Stealth Ultra raises the bar on what we can expect from a third-party controller.
The Stealth Ultra Controller for Xbox is an exceptionally well-designed and crafted controller. Turtle Beach has gone above and beyond regarding function and quality of life features.
- Patented, On-Board Social Media Notifications
- Hall-Effect Thumbsticks for Long-Lasting, Smooth Control
PLAYSTATION ACCESS CONTROLLER
Writer: Zubi Khan
Sony is the latest company to jump into the world of adaptive devices with their Access Controller, which has been designed specifically for use with the PlayStation 5. Akin to the Xbox Adaptive Controller I looked at back in 2018, the PlayStation Access Controller feels like a thoughtful evolution of Microsoft’s offering, giving the player a more customizable experience that ultimately allows the Access Controller to feel more like an actual controller than simply a bridge that enables the user to connect their own peripherals to.
In summary, the PlayStation Access Controller takes cues laid out by others in the accessibility space and runs with it, providing users with a genuinely thoughtful and encompassing device that not only acts as a bridge for use with external peripherals but also a great controller in its own right, allowing those who can’t use a traditional controller the means to jump in easily.
The PlayStation Access Controller raises the bar on accessibility-focused devices for the console space, making it an essential buy for those who can’t use a standard controller.
- Adaptable play styles – Swappable button and stick caps: Configure the Access controller’s button layout to suit your range of mobility and switch between the included stick caps to find the shape and texture that works best for you. Adjustable stick length: Lengthen or shorten the control stick’s extension arm, then lock it down at your ideal length for comfort and convenience.
- Built for easy access – Place the controller wherever play is most comfortable for you: from any 360° orientation, on different flat surfaces, a wheelchair tray, or attached to an AMPS pattern mount*. * AMPS is an industry-standard mounting screw pattern for attaching devices to equipment, including accessibility.
