What is the Best Game Controller for a PC?

When answering a question like the one above, the number of factors that come into play can be very extensive. And, as most of us probably instinctually know, the answer is also subjective. In other words, what is the best game controller for a PC in your opinion is going to be unlike the best game controller for a PC to your best gaming partners. Everyone has their own preferences, needs, and budget.

So, to give a more general answer to that question, we’ve put together a list of the steps you need to pick the ideal game controller for you and your PC gaming needs.

Games and Controls

As the experts over at PC Magazine explain, “You can’t play video games without a good control system. Maybe you want a keyboard and mouse for your shooters and strategy titles. Maybe you don’t mind using a touch screen for smartphone puzzles. Most games, though, play best with some form of dedicated controller. That’s why every major game console comes with a gamepad or two, and why they all can be connected to your PC with some tinkering.”

And yet, should you always stick with the native peripherals? That same group says no.

Instead, they say that you have to look at the full array and make choices from there. The options include:

Console Controllers

– These are the “native” controllers we mentioned earlier and include those that cam with your Nintendo Switch or your Xbox. They will be well-made, but some require hardwired connections via USB. Some may be too old to pair with a modern PC. Most agree that the Joy-Cons of the Nintendo Switch can work, but with a lot of “wrestling” to make it happen.

Third-Party Gamepads

– These are available as wired or wireless (Bluetooth) options, and are highly customizable. They can be quite sturdy and versatile and are often capable of the most desirable functions of native controllers, such as vibrations or shock features, gyroscopic functions, and basic functions like analog stick movement.

Retro Controllers

– Inspired by outdated systems these have a design like some of the earliest controllers and are more of a novelty than functional tools for active gamers.

Custom Controllers

– For the most dedicated gamers there are companies that are willing to do custom modifications on native controllers, adding buttons and functions to enable hours of intense play on very limited numbers of games (i.e. Fortnite or Call of Duty specific play).

So, if the idea of sticking with the mouse and keyboard of your PC makes you think that gaming may not be for you, reconsider the options.

At GControllers,

gamers of all levels can find excellent choices in PC Gamepad Compatible controllers capable of interacting with Android mobile devices and Nintendo Switch systems. Wireless and with built-in motion sensors and dual shock motors, they are an easy way to optimize gaming experiences whether on the go, at the computer, or using the Nintendo Switch to play even advanced games.