Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Thumbsticks movement Improved performance and fit The Xbox Elite controller adapts to your hand size and play style with configurations that can improve accuracy, speed, and reach with thumbsticks of different shapes and sizes. Download the 'PC drivers for Xbox One Controller' from here: 'Show compatible hardware,' then select 'Microsoft XBox One Controller.
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Having the right controller in your hands is a critical step towards gaming domination. Microsoft’s own Xbox One controllers are excellent and always a safe purchase, but the days of all third-party Xbox controllers being cheapy monstrosities only fit for your little brother are over. You can easily find a third-party controllers for your Xbox One needs that offer comfort, quality, customization, and more, often at a lower price than the stock Xbox One controller.
Better still, there are some PC games that just don't work with mouse and keyboard. It's hard to believe, but it's true. Thankfully the Xbox One controllers also work with Windows, and if you have the Xbox One controller wireless PC adapter, you don't even need a USB cable.
To help you sort it out the wide selection of Xbox One controllers we've compiled a list of the best controllers for the Xbox One. These will appeal to both serious gamers and those who just want to explore other options.
TL;DR – These are the Best Xbox One Controllers:
1. Microsoft Xbox One Elite
Best Xbox Controller
This isn't just the best Microsoft Xbox controller, this might be the best controller, ever. It's a shame there's no first-party equivalent to the Xbox Elite controller on PS4, because this thing is a beast. Like all Xbox controllers, it works with PC either wired, or wirelessly with the Xbox One wireless PC adapter. It's built like a tank and extremely customizable. If you're looking for the ultimate controller—period—this is it.
2. Official Xbox Controller
Next Best Overall Xbox Controller
It's really hard to beat the classics, and the Xbox controller that comes packed in the box with every Xbox One is a solid choice. You can buy the recharging kit and add extra life to your controller without the need to swap batteries constantly, or you can just toss a pair of double-As in there and have at it. Available in a host of colors, the Xbox Wireless controller is a great mix of price and familiarity.
3. Razer Wolverine Tournament Edition
Best Third-Party Xbox Controller
- UK users: See it on Amazon (UK)
The Razer Wolverine Tournament Edition delivers a focus on build quality and customization options targeted at hardcore gamers. It comes with four programmable buttons and a quick control panel for functions like toggling between profiles or muting the volume to avoid annoying your roommate or spouse. Stiff analog sticks and rubber grips are designed to endure long gaming sessions without causing you to lose your grip.
4. Horipad Pro
Another Great Xbox One Licensed Controller
- UK users: See it on Amazon (UK)
The Horipad Pro is an officially licensed controller that features extra paddles on the rear that you can map to your preference. The glossy design sets it apart from its rivals, although you may need to keep a rag handy for wiping of all those fingerprints. It’s wired, which saves you the hassle of keeping it charged, but may be a drawback depending on your specific gaming setup.
5. PowerA Fusion Pro
Best Customizable Xbox One Controller
Xbox One Wireless Controller Driver
- UK users: See it on Amazon (UK)
The PowerA Fusion Pro has all the style and pro features of an elite controller, drawing comparisons to Microsoft's own Xbox One Elite Controller. As mentioned it has a pretty great build, and configurable paddles so you can tweak the gaming experience to be just the way you want.
6. NFL Face-Off Xbox Controller
Best Xbox One Controller for Sports Fans
- UK users: See it on Amazon (UK)
Representing your favorite NFL team is often a year-round endeavor. To help you in your crusade, the PDP Face-Off Controller can be outfitted with a faceplate from your favorite team, or it can be made to look like a football if you want to keep your options open. I mean... why someone would want a controller with the look and texture of a football we can only guess. But we wanted you to be aware that it was an option.
Xbox and PC Compatibility
The biggest advantage Xbox One controllers have over the DualShock 4 or Nintendo Switch Pro Controller is they work right out of the box with your Windows PC. While it's true most PC games are best enjoyed using a gaming keyboard and high-quality gaming mouse, an ever-increasing number of games are designed around the controller and not the traditional WASD control scheme PC gamers know and love.
With an Xbox One controller, you just plug it into your Windows computer and you're good to go. The DualShock 4 can also be used with Steam, and since the overwhelming majority of PC games are played on Steam, it works for most people. But not all gamers will have the ease of plug and play with a non-Xbox One controller, so it's definitely your safest bet. Xbox One controller compatibility also makes swapping between Windows Play Anywhere games like Cuphead, Forza Horizon 4, Gears of War 4 and more much easier.
To use an Xbox One controller on your PC requires you have Windows. There are Linux and Mac solutions, too, but they require more work. Getting your Xbox One controller up and running on PC is as simple as using a Micro USB cable to connect it to your gaming laptop or gaming desktop. You can also grab a Microsoft Xbox One wireless controller adapter or if your computer has Bluetooth, you can pair it as you'd pair any other Bluetooth device.
Windows might take a second or two to update the drivers, but that's it. You just hook your Xbox One controller to a PC and you're good to go from there. Keep in mind, if you move back and forth between PC and Xbox One, you'll need to pair the controller whenever you switch between the two.
Take Control
Of course, Xbox One traditional-style controllers are pretty great, and our guide to the best should help you in most gaming situations. But what about specialty controllers? For example, are you playing fighting games on a regular controller? If so, you're doing yourself an enormous disservice. It's possible to practice and get really good with one of these controllers, but for dominance in the fighting game community, you really need to pick yourself up a dedicated fight stick.
For driving games, like the excellent Forza Horizon 4, you're going to want a racing wheel. It's up to you to decide if you want to go all-in with dedicated pedals, gear shift, and racing chair. Same with flight sticks. You can make the experience as immersive as your budget allows. The best part about buying a dedicated controller like a fight stick or racing wheel is they have the same compatibility as the traditional Xbox One controllers. Your fight stick will work on your PC the same as it works on your Xbox One X, same as the others.
Microsoft Xbox One Controller Driver Wccftech Mac
Also, be sure to check out more of our expert tech roundups like our guide to the best 4K TVs for gaming, the best PlayStation 4 controllers, or jump-start your streaming career with one of the best capture cards for streamers.