Top Xbox Series X Controllers to Buy in 2025

While we consider the Xbox Core Controller to be the best overall controller for the Xbox Series X, there are numerous other excellent options available. Whether you're looking for a controller that you can customize to your liking, a budget-friendly choice, or a high-end gamepad designed for competitive gamers, our team has rigorously tested a variety of controllers for the Xbox Series X/S. Here are the top five that we believe are worth your attention.

TL;DR – These Are the Best Xbox Series X/S Controllers:

Our Top Pick### Xbox Core Controller

1See it at AmazonSee it at Target### Turtle Beach Recon Wired Game Controller

0See it at AmazonSee it at Best Buy### Xbox Elite Series 2

1See it at AmazonSee it at Newegg### Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra

0See it at AmazonSee it at Turtle BeachSee it at Best Buy### Scuf Instinct Pro

1See it at ScufFor those seeking the best Xbox controller for the Series X/S, responsive controls, quick access to essential buttons, and a seamless connection are key. After mastering the basics, you can explore options that align with your preferred playstyle. If customization is your priority, consider the Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra. For a professional gaming experience, the Scuf Instinct Pro is ideal. Budget-conscious gamers will appreciate the Turtle Beach Recon, which offers a feature-rich and high-quality experience for under $60.

With the variety of Xbox Series X controllers on the market, you're not limited to the official Xbox controller that comes with your console. Moreover, many of our recommendations are also compatible with gaming PCs, gaming phones, and other devices. If you're into racing games, you might want to explore the best racing wheels for Xbox, and for fighting games, the best fight sticks could be a great addition.

If you're looking for discounts on any of these controllers, check out our picks for the best Xbox deals happening now.

Xbox Wireless Controller (2020)

9 Images1. Xbox Core Controller

Best Xbox Series X/S Controller

Our Top Pick### Xbox Core Controller

1Experience the familiar Xbox layout with an ergonomic design, remappable buttons, a tactile D-pad, and versatile connectivity options. The Xbox Core Controller comes standard with the Xbox Series X, and its straightforward, effective design makes it hard to beat. It's comfortable and versatile, suitable for various game types, and with minor upgrades, you can enjoy enhanced grip, record gameplay, and remap buttons effortlessly. It's available in numerous colors.

Using Xbox Wireless, the Xbox Core Controller connects seamlessly with your Xbox and is also compatible with PCs and phones via built-in Bluetooth. The only minor drawback is its reliance on AA batteries, though you can connect a USB-C cable for wired use, sacrificing wireless capabilities in the process.

Despite these minor flaws, the Xbox Core Controller remains a solid choice for your Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and other platforms. Its textured grip, hybrid D-pad, custom button mapping, and dedicated Share button (which some might find slightly awkward) make it a well-rounded option.

Note that this is also our pick for the best PC controller to buy.

Turtle Beach Recon Controller – Photos

6 Images2. Turtle Beach Recon Wired Game Controller

Best Budget Xbox Series X/S Controller

### Turtle Beach Recon Wired Game Controller

0This wired gamepad offers an array of features at a budget-friendly price, including two extra configurable back buttons and on-controller audio customization. Our hands-on review of the Turtle Beach Recon Wired Game Controller found it to be a great value at around $50. It includes all the standard Xbox controller features plus two additional back buttons, allowing you to execute commands without moving your thumbs from the analog sticks. These buttons can be configured to your preference, including adjusting thumbstick sensitivity for enhanced accuracy.

The Turtle Beach Recon is well-built and comfortable to hold, with ergonomic grips for a secure hold during intense gaming sessions. Its standout feature is the audio customization. When connected to a gaming headset, you can experiment with various EQ settings, including SuperHuman Hearing, to catch audio cues you might otherwise miss. Adjusting the game/chat mix on the controller also makes communication with teammates seamless.

10 Images3. Xbox Elite Series 2

Best High-End Xbox Series X/S Controller

### Xbox Elite Series 2

1This high-end controller offers extensive customization with swappable controls, tunable triggers, extra rear paddles, and fully remappable buttons. Our hands-on testing of the Xbox Elite Series 2 revealed it to be a premium choice for hardcore gamers with a higher budget. You can remap all buttons and utilize four additional rear paddles to change the function of face buttons or assign new actions. The magnetic attachment of rear paddles, D-pad, and thumbsticks allows for easy swapping, and the Elite 2 is even more customizable thanks to Xbox Design Lab.

The Xbox Elite Series 2 features a built-in rechargeable battery that lasts up to 40 hours on a single charge, eliminating the need for AA batteries. With Xbox Wireless, Bluetooth connectivity, and a USB-C port for wired use, it's versatile enough for use with your PC or gaming phone.

Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra – Photos

19 Images4. Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra

Best Tunable Xbox Series X/S Controller

### Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra

0With a display for setting adjustments and notifications, alongside hall effect sticks, tactile switches, and extra mappable buttons, this controller stands out. Our review of the Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra found it to be highly customizable. Its microswitch face buttons are remappable, and the four extra rear buttons can be assigned actions. The hall-effect, anti-drift thumbsticks are adjustable for performance and come with interchangeable options, while trigger stops allow for customized actuation distances, ideal for FPS games. Many settings can be modified using the controller's companion app, or you can use the on-gamepad "Connected Command Display."

This compact, full-color screen on the Stealth Ultra displays phone notifications and enables on-the-fly adjustments, including profile swapping, button remapping, vibration intensity tuning, and RGB lighting modifications. Despite being a wireless controller, Turtle Beach claims the battery lasts up to 30 hours, depending on usage. It also includes a quick-charging dock for convenience.

Scuf Instinct Pro

13 Images5. Scuf Instinct Pro

Best Competitive Xbox Series X/S Controller

### Scuf Instinct Pro

1Scuf pushes the boundaries with its controller, offering an ergonomic design with four rear paddles, interchangeable thumbsticks, and instant triggers. Our testing of the Scuf Instinct Pro found it to be the best for competitive gaming. It resembles the Core controller but includes four customizable paddles and a trigger switch for faster response times, ideal for shooters. The interchangeable thumbsticks allow you to find the perfect feel for dominating opponents.

The Scuf Instinct Pro's design is impressive, featuring a lightweight and ergonomic build to prevent fatigue during extended gaming sessions. The rear grips ensure a firm hold, but wireless use requires AA batteries.

Where to Get the Best Xbox Controllers in the UK

### Best Xbox Series X|S Controller Xbox Core Controller

2£54.99 at Currys PC World### PowerA Enhanced Wired Controller

2Best Budget Xbox Series X/S Controller£34.99 at Amazon### Best High-End Xbox Series X|S Controller Xbox Elite Series 2

2£159.99 at Amazon### Best Tunable Xbox Series X|S Controller Razer Wolverine V2

2£74.99 at Amazon### Best Xbox Series X/S Racing Wheel Thrustmaster TMX Force Feedback

0£249.95 at Amazon### Best Xbox Series X/S Flight Stick Thrustmaster T-Flight HOTAS One

0£63.99 at Amazon### Best Customizable Xbox Series Controller Thrustmaster Eswap X Pro

0£159.99 at AmazonWhat to look for in a Xbox Series X/S controller

When choosing an Xbox controller, several key factors should guide your decision. Here are the important specifications to consider:

Connectivity is crucial for your gamepad. For the lowest latency, a wired controller is ideal. A wireless dongle is another reliable option, and some of our picks use Xbox's own wireless protocol for reduced latency and fewer mispresses. Bluetooth connectivity allows the controller to be used with PCs and phones, and you can find more ways to connect in our guide on how to pair an Xbox controller with a PC.

Customization is another key aspect. Some controllers allow you to remap buttons or physically change the placement of the D-pad or thumbsticks. Others offer additional buttons on the back for shortcuts, or switches to lock triggers for quicker actions. With some gamepads, the customization options are vast, allowing you to tailor the controller to your gaming style and dominate the competition.

Xbox Controller FAQ

Can you connect a PS5 controller to an Xbox Series X?

Yes, it is possible to use a PS5 Dualsense controller with an Xbox Series X, but you will need to purchase an adapter like the Brooks Wingman Converter to do so. This adapter also works with the Switch Pro controller.

Can you connect a mouse and keyboard to Xbox?

Yes, you can use a gaming mouse and keyboard with your Xbox by plugging them into the console's USB ports. However, not all Xbox Series X games support mouse and keyboard input.