Best Xbox Controllers In 2021 | GameSpot
Look, we won’t bury the lede–even after all these years, we still think the standard Xbox gamepad is the best Xbox controller available in 2024. It’s been our top pick as far back as the Xbox One, and we don’t see that changing anytime soon. It’s likely many Xbox players agree. However, that doesn’t mean it’s the only controller we recommend. In fact, there are many great alternatives depending on what kind of controller you need, including Xbox’s own premium pro-level pad, the Elite Series 2. There are also dozens of third-party options from brands like 8BitDo, HyperX, Razer, Turtle Beach, and more that vary in size, features, and price. So, we combed through them all to bring you our picks for the Xbox controllers available in 2024.
We’ve included picks for various controller categories, including niche considerations to make sure you find the best fit. For instance, if you prefer aligned joysticks or play a lot of games that work better with D-pad controls, the 8BitDo Pro 2 is a better pick than Microsoft’s controllers. If you are focused on competitive multiplayer, you may want to consider the Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma, which features ultra-quick actuation and other features aimed at improving multiplayer performance. Also, Xbox gamers might be nostalgic for the Duke–the ill-fated original Xbox controller that some folks fondly remember for some reason. Of course, Xbox is also home to the most inventive and important gaming controller of our time. The Xbox Adaptive Controller helps gamers with limited mobility enjoy more gaming experiences than ever before.
If you also own other platforms, we have roundups of the best controllers for PC, Nintendo Switch, and PS5.
Xbox Wireless Controller
Specs:
- Battery: 40 hours
- Hall effect sticks: No
- Headphone jack: Yes
- Pro features: None
- Connectivity: Xbox Wireless, Bluetooth, USB-C
- Supported platforms: Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PC
Pros:
- One comes bundled with every Xbox console
- Affordable
- Extremely comfortable to use
- Lots of color options
Cons:
- No extra features
- Runs slightly smaller than other controllers
No surprise here. The first-party Xbox Wireless Controller is the most obvious choice if you’re looking for a new controller. Slightly revised when the Xbox Series X|S launched, the “Core” model has some nice improvements that make an already great controller even better. It’s a tad smaller, has textured grips and triggers, and swaps the standard D-pad for an eight-way design that’s has a bit more click to it. One of the most notable additions is the Share button, which gives Xbox players an easy way to quickly snap screenshots and record footage.
The Xbox Wireless Controller is available in a wide variety of colors. For the price, you can’t beat it–and it’s not uncommon for this controller to be on sale. The Xbox Wireless Controller remains one of the most comfortable and solid controllers in 2023–across all platforms. All Xbox owners already have at least one, but this is definitely a controller that players wind up owning multiple of. It’s also a superb option for PC and mobile devices via Bluetooth.
Xbox Elite Series 2 Controller
Specs:
- Battery: 40 hours
- Hall effect sticks: No
- Headphone jack: Yes
- Pro features: Back paddles, swappable thumbstick and D-pad styles, more button mapping options, trigger locks
- Connectivity: Xbox Wireless, Bluetooth, USB-C
- Supported platforms: Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PC
Pros:
- Great pro-level features
- Customizable button layouts and components
- Comfortable design
- Includes lots of accessories
Cons:
- Expensive if you don’t need the extras
Though the standard Xbox controller is the “best” due to performance and price, if you want the highest-performing controller with an ultra-premium build, the Xbox Elite Series 2 is the clear winner.
Made with sturdier materials and weighted just enough to give it an unparalleled feel, the Xbox Elite Series 2 is one of those controllers that’s impressive before you even start gaming with it in your hands. It boasts textured hand and trigger grips as well as metal analog sticks and D-pads.
The analog stick caps and D-pads can be swapped on the fly with the included customization kit. Four additional stick caps (domed and different heights) are included in the hardshell carrying case. It comes with an eight-way D-pad and a standard cross model.
Other customization features on the actual controller itself include adjustable stick tension and trigger stops. An included tool lets you alter stick tension to your liking, and switches on the back of the controller allow you to lock triggers at three different pull distances.
Perhaps most importantly, the Elite Series 2 has four removable back paddles that easily snap into place. These are located in just the right spots to make them feel natural to press.
You can use the Xbox Accessories App to remap inputs and save up to three unique controller profiles that can be cycled through on the fly. You can also tinker with rumble intensity in the app and create custom “shift” keys to add even more control inputs.
The controller and all of the spare components are conveniently stored inside the included carrying case. It comes with a USB-C cable that gives the Elite Series 2 an impressive 40 hours of battery life on a full charge.
The Elite Series 2 is roughly three times as expensive as the standard Xbox controller. It may not be worth it unless you are serious about online multiplayer games, but it’s arguably the best controller on the market today (for any platform).
Xbox Elite Series 2 Core Controller
Specs:
- Battery: 40 hours
- Hall effect sticks: No
- Headphone jack: Yes
- Pro features: button mapping options, trigger locks, upgraded D-pad, swappable thumbsticks
- Connectivity: Xbox Wireless, Bluetooth, USB-C
- Supported platforms: Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PC
Pros:
- More affordable than the full Elite Series 2
- Can be upgraded with more parts and features
Cons:
- Fewer accessories and customization options out of the box
The Xbox Elite Series 2 Core Controller released last year as a “budget” alternative to the standard Elite Series 2. It’s the same exact controller from a build perspective, but it does not come with the carrying case filled with swappable components.
What that means: no back paddles, extra analog sticks, or extra D-pad. However, it still has the built-in trigger stops and analog stick tension adjustment tool. The D-pad and included pair of sticks can be removed on the fly–just like the original Elite Series 2.
Essentially, this model will appeal to those who want the premium build of the Elite Series 2 without all of the customization.
Of course, you can buy all of the swappable accessories separately. Down the line, if you decide you want everything, you can pick up the Complete Component Pack for $60 to turn your Core controller into a standard Elite Series 2.
Alternatively–and this is probably the route to go for most users–you can pick and choose which accessories you want to buy and purchase them from third-party manufacturers. For instance, you can get Scuf’s excellent back paddles for $20, or you can buy paddles that look pretty much exactly the same as the official ones for around $10.
The Elite Series 2 Core controller now comes in red, white, and blue.
Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma
Specs:
- Battery: N/A
- Hall effect sticks: No
- Headphone jack: Yes
- Pro features: Six additional buttons, trigger stop switches, swappable thumbstick caps
- Connectivity: USB-C
- Supported platforms: Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PC
Pros:
- Lots of extra buttons
- Great customization options via Razer’s apps
- RGB Chroma lighting
- Comfortable ergonomics
Cons:
- Extra buttons may be overkill if you don’t need them
- Wired-only connection
Razer’s latest Xbox iteration of its Wolverine controller is the company’s best yet. The Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma is a marked improvement in terms of form factor. The L-shaped chassis design makes it comfortable for long gaming sessions, and it’s now easier than ever to manage the Wolverine’s plethora of inputs.
The Wolverine V2 Chroma has four back paddles that resemble triggers as well as a pair of extra shoulder buttons. Essentially, the Wolverine V2 Chroma is the best Xbox controller for those who like to customize their inputs. One of the hallmarks of the Wolverine line continues with the V2 Chroma: Mecha-Tactile buttons. The face buttons and D-pad have feedback that’s similar to clicking a mouse, and they also offer lightning quick response times.
The Wolverine V2 has interchangeable thumbsticks and comes dome-shaped and taller sticks. Additionally, it has trigger stops for the left and right triggers. Customizing your input layout and overall experience (creating profiles) is easy with Razer’s proprietary software that’s available on the Xbox and Windows Stores.
The only downside to the V2 Chroma is that it’s wired-only, though thankfully, it comes with a lengthy, detachable USB-C cord. There is also a Wolverine V2 wireless model with Bluetooth support, but it’s considerably more expensive and won’t have the same low-latency inputs as the wired V2 Chroma. That said, if you’re picking up an Xbox controller for competitive play, it makes sense to grab a wired controller when considering latency. We’d recommend the V2 Chroma for those who routinely play competitive multiplayer games.
8BitDo Ultimate
Specs:
- Battery: N/A
- Hall effect sticks: Yes
- Headphone jack: Yes
- Pro features: Two extra rear buttons, custom button mapping, trigger/thumbstick sensitivity
- Connectivity: USB-C
- Supported platforms: Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PC
Pros:
- Affordable
- Lots of pro-level features for the price
- Anti-drift Hall Effect thumbsticks
Cons:
8BitDo makes some of the best controllers around, so it was great news when the manufacturer announced it would produce Xbox controllers. The 8BitDo Ultimate is a wired controller with a sleek look and excellent customization features. Its buttons, triggers, and sticks all feel great, and as of the most recent hardware revision, the sticks now feature Hall Effect sensors to prevent joystick drift. Best of all? It’s available for under $50, which makes it a steal considering what you’re getting here.
The 8BitDo Ultimate has two programmable back buttons and can store up to three custom profiles. You can download 8BitDo’s Ultimate software on your Xbox, PC, or smartphone to tweak several settings to get the controller operating the way you like it. You can change thumbstick and trigger sensitivity and adjust the force of the rumble. All of the buttons can be remapped using the software, too. You can cycle through your trio of profiles whenever you want with the press of a button, which makes this wired controller awesome for those who play multiple online games regularly.
8BitDo Pro 2
Specs:
- Battery: N/A
- Hall effect sticks: No
- Headphone jack: Yes
- Pro features: Two extra rear buttons, custom button mapping, trigger/thumbstick sensitivity
- Connectivity:
- Supported platforms: Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PC
Pros:
- Almost all the same features as the 8BitDo Ultimate, but at a lower price
Cons:
- Does not use Hall Effect sticks
- Wired-only connection
The 8BitDo Pro 2 was the first officially licensed Xbox controller released by the manufacturer. It has the same design as the Pro 2 that has been popular for the Nintendo Switch for years. As such, the analog stick layout mirrors PlayStation’s approach to controllers. If you play fighting games a lot, this stick and D-pad layout may be preferable. It’s also great for retro games or modern side-scrollers that play better with a D-pad. Outside of the reversed position and its retro-inspired form factor, the 8BitDo Pro 2 has the same great features as the 8BitDo Ultimate.
HyperX Clutch Gladiate
Specs:
- Battery: N/A
- Hall effect sticks: No
- Headphone jack: Yes
- Pro features: Two programmable rear buttons, trigger locks
- Connectivity:
- Supported platforms: Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PC
Pros:
- Detachable cable prevents damage
- Durable design
- Decent extra features given the price
Cons:
- Wired-only
- Some fancier options aren’t that much more expensive
HyperX’s new Clutch Gladiate controller is super impressive for the price (just $35). It has all of the inputs you’d find on a standard Xbox controller (including the Share button) and a superb ergonomic form factor.
The Clutch Gladiate has textured grips, a pair of remappable back buttons, dual trigger locks, and a pair of rumble motors. The D-pad is just a standard cross layout, but it’s responsive and has a nice feel.
Even without its suite of competitive-focused features, the Clutch Gladiate would be a good pick for those looking for a budget-friendly wired controller.
Turtle Beach Recon
Specs:
- Battery: N/A
- Hall effect sticks: No
- Headphone jack: Yes
- Pro features: Two remappable rear buttons, nhanced headset audio
- Connectivity: USB-C
- Supported platforms: Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PC
Pros:
- Feels very close to the standard Xbox controller
- Great audio enhancements
Cons:
- Wired-only
- Minimal pro-level features
The Turtle Beach Recon is another affordable pro-style controller that’s worth checking out. This officially licensed controller has a lightweight but sturdy design. Its face buttons look and feel nearly identical to the regular Xbox controllers. While the sticks are a bit looser, they still feel great. The Recon also has a pair of excellent back triggers with textured grips that are located in the perfect spot. The handle grips also offer an improvement on the regular Xbox controller. The D-pad is a bit underwhelming, as it has a rigid feel to it. On the plus side, you get all of the same menu buttons here, including the new Share button.
The main perk of the the Recon is that it has built-in audio features when using a 3.5mm headset (it doesn’t have to be a Turtle Beach headset). Dubbed “Superhuman Hearing,” the audio tech can help you identify the nature of sounds and where they came from in competitive multiplayer games. You also get full control of your game/chat mix, EQ, and other general audio settings directly on the controller.
The Recon plugs into your Xbox via the included USB-C to USB-A cable. Overall, the Recon falls just short of the 8BitDo in terms of feel and performance, but it’s still a solid controller and the audio features are unique for sure.
Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra
Specs:
- Battery: 30 hours
- Hall effect sticks: Yes
- Headphone jack: Yes
- Pro features: Four programmable back buttons; built-in OLED screen and on-control settings menu
- Connectivity: Bluetooth, USB-C
- Supported platforms: Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PC, Android
Pros:
- OLED screen pairs to phone and allows you to adjust controller and headset settings
- Includes charging dock
- Hall effect sticks come standard
Cons:
- Build quality below expectations for the price
- Pro features lag behind competitors
The Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra is a slick-looking pro controller with a bunch of great features you won’t see on other gamepads. The main draw is its built-in 1.5-inch OLED screen used to adjust various controller settings on the fly, including button mapping, analog stick senstiivity, headphone EQ mixing, and RGB lighting modes. The screen doesn’t use touch controls and instead features a toggle that lets you use the buttons and thumbsticks to navigate the menus. You can even pair the controller to your Android device or iPhone to get notification pop-ups on the screen.
The Stealth Ultra also has a few other pro controller features like four programmable back buttons and adjustable trigger throws, though its lacking features seen on other gamepads of similar price, most notably the lack of swappable parts like alternate D-pad or thumbstick styles. That said, the buttons are responsive and clicky and perform well in a variety of games and genres.
The Stealth Ultra supports wireless 2.4Ghz and Bluetooth wireless or wired USB-C connections. It comes with a 10-foot USB-C cable, charging dock, 2.4Ghz USB dongle, and a mesh carrying case. You also get four rubberized thumbstick pads.
Thrustmaster eSwap S/X
Specs:
- Battery: 20 hours
- Hall effect sticks: Yes, but sold separately
- Headphone jack: Yes
- Pro features: Modular design, back buttons, adjustable trigger sensitivity and thumbstick options
- Connectivity: Wireless (Bluetooth); Wired (USB-C)
- Supported platforms: Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PC
Pros:
- Modular design makes it perfect for a wide range of games and genres
- Tons of customizability
- Great design and ergonomics
Cons:
- Hall Effect sticks cost extra
PDP’s Victrix Pro BFG has been one of our favorite controllers on PlayStation, and now that an Xbox version is available, it easily takes this category. The controller comes with multiple modules you can swap to on the fly that change its layout and functionality. You get the standard dual thumbsticks, d-pad, and four facebuttons by default, but this can be changed to a six-button layout that’s perfect for fighting games. There are also multiple D-pad options included, and you can modify the thumbsticks with different stick lengths, thumb cap styles, and directional gates. You can even rotate the left stick’s position to have a parallel thumb placement like on a PlayStation controller.
In addition to the modular design, there are other customization options like four programmable back buttons and adjustable trigger sensitivity. While the standard Victrix Pro does not feature Hall Effect sticks, you can purchase an upgrade module separately.
The $180 price tag is high, but it’s worth it. Few controllers offer the depth and breadth of customization that the Victrix Pro BFG provides.
Xbox Adaptive Controller
Specs:
- Battery: Up to 25 hours
- Hall effect sticks: N/A
- Headphone jack: Yes
- Pro features: N/A
- Connectivity: Xbox Wireless, Bluetooth, USB-C
- Supported platforms: Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One
Pros:
- Huge range of peripheral support and accessibility features for those who need it
- Lots of customization options
Cons:
The Xbox Adaptive controller is much different than the rest of the control options in this round-up. It’s intended first and foremost as a device that helps those with limited mobility play games. It works with a wide range of assistive devices that users can plug in and assign to specific controller inputs to give them the ability to play any game on the two platforms.
It features 20 ports for you to plug any kind of thumbstick, switch, button, and any other assistive device you want into it–19 of those are 3.5 mm ports, while the other two are USB 2.0 ports. There’s also a 3.5mm audio output port for headphones or a headset. It’s compatible with Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and PC, and there’s quite the dedicated community behind it, discovering new ways to use the adaptive controller–you can even utilize a Bluetooth adapter to get it working with the Nintendo Switch.
The Adaptive controller may not be for everyone, but thanks to its ability to effectively bridge the gap between gamers with limited mobility and the games they want to play, there’s no doubt in our minds that it’s the most important controller on this list.
Hyperkin Duke
Specs:
- Battery: N/A
- Hall effect sticks: No
- Headphone jack: Yes
- Pro features: N/A
- Connectivity: USB
- Supported platforms: Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PC
Pros:
- Nostalgic design
- Works great with modern games
Cons:
- Limited features
- Not much to offer for those who don’t have nostalgia for the original Xbox Duke controller
The Hyperkin Duke was made purely out of nostalgia for the original launch Xbox controller from way back in 2001–it was this hulking gamepad with oddly shaped and offset face buttons. So there wasn’t much surprise when it was quickly surpassed by the Controller S, which became the standard design moving forward. But if you have larger hands, the Duke might be a better fit.
Hyperkin has made a name for itself by recreating retro gaming experiences through its wide range of hardware, and its Duke controller very much resembles the original Xbox controller in terms of size and button layout, but with a few modern touches. While original Xbox controllers had black/white buttons instead of left/right bumpers, Hyperkin incorporated small bumpers so the Duke would make sense for playing today’s games. The huge logo on the center of the controller is a screen that also acts as the home button–when you power on, the screen displays the old Xbox splash screen. Otherwise, it’s a faithful recreation of the Duke that now works through USB for Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and PC.
Hyperkin X91
Specs:
- Battery: N/A
- Hall effect sticks: No
- Headphone jack: Yes
- Pro features: N/A
- Connectivity: USB
- Supported platforms: Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PC
Pros:
- Nostalgic design
- Works great with modern games
Cons:
- Limited features
- Not much to offer for those who don’t have nostalgia for the original Xbox Duke controller
In addition to Hyperkin’s wide array of retro gaming hardware that lets you play old games easily, it has a few retro-inspired accessories. One of those is the Hyperkin X91, an Xbox Series X controller that’s scrunched down into a SNES-like form factor. Despite the small size of this gamepad, everything you need in a controller is there and it all works surprisingly well. From the analog sticks to the face buttons, the X91 recreates the full controller feel almost perfectly. One downside is that the triggers can feel a bit squishy as opposed to the smooth feel of the triggers on a DualShock or regular Xbox controller.
And if you have a gaming laptop and play on the go often, the X91 is the perfect size for travel. Unfortunately, this controller only works through wired USB. While that means you don’t have to worry about battery life, having a thick cord connected can make it a bit clunky to have around. The form factor may also make it slightly more difficult to be precise with the analog sticks since there isn’t much you can grip to keep the controller steady. However, if you need a small, fully-featured gamepad for less intense games, the X91 is a fine choice.
8BitDo M30
Specs:
- Battery: N/A
- Hall effect sticks: N/A
- Headphone jack: Yes
- Pro features: None
- Connectivity: USB-C
- Supported platforms: Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PC
Pros:
- Six-button layout is great for retro games, side-scrollers, and fighting games.
Cons:
- Lack of thumbsticks and other features limits its use for modern games
If you find yourself playing lots of retro games, platformers, or indie games that require precise D-pad inputs–or you just want playing old games to feel more authentic–then we recommend 8BitDo’s M30. This wired USB controller is designed to look like the classic Sega Genesis controller, sporting a D-pad, six face buttons, and shoulder triggers. However, it’s bulkier than the Sega Genesis pad (in a good way), and a slightly altered shape for more ergonomic handgrips. It also includes Xbox Guide, share, and options buttons found on the normal Xbox controller, as well as a toggle that lets you map left or right thumbstick inputs to the D-pad for navigating menus.
While the lack of thumbsticks will limit its use for most modern games, it would pair well with the Sega Classics collection or Rare Replay, not to mention numerous indie platformers. It’s also great for fighting games, including modern titles like Street Fighter 6, thanks to its six-button layout and lag-free inputs.
8BitDo Arcade Stick
Specs:
- Battery: 30 hours
- Hall effect sticks: N/A
- Headphone jack: Yes
- Pro features: N/A
- Connectivity: Bluetooth, 2.4Ghz, USB-C
- Supported platforms: Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PC
Pros:
- Simple design
- Modable
- Multiple connection options
- Affordable
Cons:
- Components aren’t as robust as high-end sticks
- Comparatively fewer features
- Some players may find it too small
While fight sticks aren’t required for fighting games–and won’t magically make you a footsie pro–they do make for a more authentic arcade experience, and can even make nailing super moves or combos a little more comfortable. Unfortunately, most good-quality fight sticks are prohibitively expensive, especially for curious newbies looking to try them out.
Luckily, the 8BitDo Arcade Stick is an excellent fight stick that costs just a few dollars more than a standard Xbox controller. It features premium buttons with great response time, though you can also swap out the buttons and joysticks with components from other fight sticks, giving it some decent modding potential. It’s also smaller than many other fight sticks, which some players may prefer over the bulkier options out there.
The 8BitDo Arcade Stick supports wireless Bluetooth and 2.4Ghz connections, or you can plug it in via a USB-C cable. It also has a 2.3mm audio jack, so you can plug in a gaming headset or pair of headphones.
Overall, the 8BitDo Arcade Stick is a solid, streamlined fight stick that works great for new fighting game fans and casual players.
Mayflash F500 Elite
Specs:
- Battery: N/A
- Hall effect sticks: N/A
- Headphone jack: Yes
- Pro features: N/A
- Connectivity: USB-C (Bluetooth required separate dongle)
- Supported platforms: Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Xbox 360, PS5, PS4, Nintendo Switch, PC, Android
Pros:
- Sturdy, well-balanced, and durable
- High-quality Sanwa buttons and joystick
- Moddable
- Huge range of console support
Cons:
- Missing L3/R3 inputs
- Some players may want something more portable
- Wireless connection requires a separate dongle
The Mayflash F500 Elite is a hefty stick aimed at hardcore fighting game fans. It features a standard four-way joystick and eight-button setup, plus an additional octagonal joystick gate you can swap to. There’s also a row of smaller buttons and toggles to handle necessary functions like a home/guide menu button, share button, turbo mode, and D-input/X-input switch if you also play on PC. The only major inputs missing from the default layout are L3/R3 stick clicks. All the parts are Sanwa components, and the chassis is supported by two metal plates that provide durability and balance.
While the Mayflash F500 Elite sports a simple, almost industrial design by default, the top panel features a removable clear acrylic screen for adding your own custom art. There is also a storage container for holding the included USB cable, and you can open up the chassis if you want to swap out the default buttons and stick with other components.
The Mayflash F500 Elite may be our pick for the best premium fight stick for Xbox Series X|S, but thanks to regular firmware updates, it also supports a staggering number of other systems, including Xbox One, Xbox 360, PS5, PS4, PS3, Nintendo Switch, PC, and Android. However, some consoles and wireless connections require a separate dongle.
PowerA MOGA XP-Ultra
Specs:
- Battery: 40-60 hours
- Hall effect sticks: No
- Headphone jack: Yes
- Pro features: Remappable back buttons
- Connectivity: Bluetooth
- Supported platforms: Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PC, Android, iOS
Pros:
- Long battery life
- Module design that can fit multiple gameplay styles, including remote play
Cons:
- More expensive than other remote-play options
- Lacking features compared to pro controllers of similar price
It would be awesome if Microsoft made a dedicated remote play handheld device like the PlayStation Portal, but alas, Xbox fans must rely on third-party options. Luckily, there’s the Moga XP-Ultra from PowerA, a chameleon controller you can use to play Xbox almost anywhere. The controller features three modular parts, starting with the mini-pad features all the face buttons, D-pad, shoulder triggers, and thumbsticks found on a standard Xbox controller. This slots into the handgrip, which adds two additional remappable back buttons. The final piece is a clip that attaches your smartphone to the XP-Ultra.
You can mix and match these components to suit your needs. The mini-pad and full controller modes are perfect for playing on your console or PC, and both modes work great with the smartphone clip, turning the device into a portable gaming handheld that can play Android games or stream them via remote play or Xbox Game Pass Ultimate cloud streaming.
That versatility comes with tradeoff, namely that the XP-Ultra’s focus on modular, remote play-friendly design means its more expensive compared to standard controllers. And while it has a couple programmable back buttons, it’s lacking in other pro-level features that one would expect at this price point. However, the XP-Ultra’s battery life is excellent, and since the mini-pad features rumble feedback, impulse triggers, and a 3.5mm audio jack, you can get a fully-featured gameplay experience in all configurations whether you’re playing at home or on the go.
Backbone One
Specs:
- Battery: N/A
- Hall effect sticks: No
- Headphone jack: Yes
- Pro features: None
- Connectivity: USB-C or Lightning port
- Supported platforms: Android, iOS (remote play via Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PS5, PS4, PC)
Pros:
- Easy set up
- Highly portable
- Supports a wide range of phone models, consoles, and streaming apps
Cons:
- No rumble, trigger feedback, or other features
- Only usable as a remote play device
Smartphone controller grips are great. They easily slot onto your Android or iPhone and turn it into a gaming handheld with a similar form factor to a Nintendo Switch or Steam Deck. While there are many such devices out there, our favorite is the Backbone One.
The Backbone One is available in multiple models: the standard version features ABXY button labels and layouts familiar to Xbox players, and a version with PlayStation-style button labels, though both versions work with Xbox games. You can get both versions in either a USB-C model that supports Android and iPhone 15 devices or newer, or a lightning port model that works with older iPhone models.
While the standard Backbone One is probably better for Xbox players, the good news is all model are comfortable and feel like premium controllers. The also all work with Xbox remote play, Game Pass Ultimate cloud streaming, and other apps like Amazon Luna, GeForce Now, or remote play from PS5 and Steam. Of course, the backbone One won’t work as a standard controller with your Xbox or other consoles and it lacks features from the standard Xbox pad (not to mention no pro-level features), but the high build quality, comfort, and wide range of support make it our go-to for a dedicate remote play option on a budget–for Xbox or otherwise.
Logitech G923
Specs:
- Battery: N/A
- Hall effect sticks: N/A
- Headphone jack: Yes
- Pro features: N/A
- Connectivity: USB-C
- Supported platforms: Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PC
Pros:
- Comfortable steering wheel
- Immersive ThrustForce rumble
- Includes the Dual Clutch pedals
Cons:
- Fewer features than more expensive wheels
- There are similar models available for slightly less
- Some games do not support its extra features
If you want the best possible experience while playing racing games on the Xbox Series X|S, then you need a solid racing wheel. And while there are several good third-party options, the Logitech G293 is our pick.
The Logitech G293 is a simpler device than other racing wheels, but that’s part of why we picked it. It may not be “the best” in any one specific category, but it’s great in just about all of them. It’s relatively easy to set up, comfortable to use, and provides a surprising level of immersion for something that costs less than high-end models.
The G293 features Logitech’s TrueForce technology–which is essentially additional rumble within the steering wheel that vibrates to simulate the feeling of driving over rocks, bumps, and other materials on the road. It also comes with the Dual Clutch pedal module you can use for acceleration, breaks, and shifting. While these features add additional layers of immersion to gameplay, they’re only supported by a handful of Xbox and PC games. Luckily, the G293 wheel is compatible with plenty of other games even if TrueForce or the Dual Clutch pedals aren’t supported.
While we recommend the Logitech G293 overall, the Logitech G920 is a solid backup choice that sports similar features and components, but at a cheaper price point.
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