best buying recommendations and 11 PC gaming controllers for all budgets

best buying recommendations and 11 PC gaming controllers for all budgets.

If your field of play is the computer and you want to change (or combine) the keyboard and mouse for the ergonomics, comfort and performance of a controller, in this controller buying guide to play on PC We analyze how the perfect gaming controller should be and we propose nine interesting models for all budgets.

How to choose a controller to play on PC

The dilemma when choosing a controller to play on PC is not very different in terms of specifications compared to consoles: it all starts with its compatibility. From here, the questions begin.

What do you play

The button, stick and trigger layout plays a big role in our performance in games based on the genres we play.

Although the choice of one or the other will not prevent you from playing any title, the arrangement or layout obeys two currents: if we play titles like ‘Grand Theft Auto’, ‘Overwatch’, ‘Call of Duty’, ‘Counter Strike ‘or the mythical’ Doom ‘, of first-person shots, the fps-type controls bet on the distribution of the two analog sticks diagonally, with the left stick located higher. The other option is to place the two analog sticks at the bottom of the remote, at the same height.

We see it with what are probably the two most iconic controllers on the market: the Sony Dualshock and the Xbox controller. In addition to being the most popular, the main difference between one and the other is the location of the levers and the D-pad.

Thus, while the directional pad design of the Dualshock is very responsive and comfortable for scrolling or fighting games, on Xbox controllers its larger and more ergonomic triggers are highly recommended for shooters. It is not only that they are the most popular controls, it is that other manufacturers follow those forms and distributions.

Although for tastes, colors, there is a certain consensus that Microsoft’s distribution is the most suitable, and it is that in general we like that what you use to move the character is at the same height as the action buttons. And that distribution with the use of the buttons of the Microsoft controls have become almost a standard that they have adopted in Steam or Epic

Beyond this essential base in layouts, in the high range we find models that are committed to offering a more personalized and immersive experience through additional functions and configuration. For example the Razer Wolverine Ultimate includes six additional configurable buttons, RGB lighting and a control panel.

Another aspect to consider is that the controller to play on PC have haptic / vibration feedback, a sensory feedback highly appreciated among players and one that the most basic controllers often suffer from.

How does it feel

That command that we are going to have hours and hours in our hands must be comfortable in several ways: in the button layout and shape, sensitivity and dimensions. Or what is the same, how it feels in the hand. Here it is not only a question of the size of our limbs, but also of sensations and preferences.

Thus, a too large control can prevent us from reaching the buttons comfortably, which affects competitiveness. And a small one can feel like a toy.

A forceful control can be heavy and our arms can even get tired after intensive use, although there are also people who opt for models that feel firm in hand. In the market it will be common to find models that range between 200 and 300 grams, but it is best to have tried them before to make the purchase.

Regardless of sizes and weights, others Determining factors for ergonomics are the shape and how is your grip. In this sense, it is important that it allows a firm but comfortable grip with textured and / or non-slip parts, that the position of our hands allows the passage of air to promote perspiration and that we can easily access buttons, sticks and triggers.

Only for the computer or multiplatform?

If you only play on the computer, the decision is simple, but if you do not play solely and exclusively on the PC, but you also have a console, it may be interesting to bet on a model that allows you to play on both devices.

With or without cable?

The bulk of controls high-end have wireless connectivity options via Bluetooth, but if we bet on more affordable models, we will probably find a cable that we will have to connect to our computer.

The choice, according to the consumer’s taste: while the wireless ones are more comfortable and allow us greater freedom of movement, we are exposed to from time to time having a connectivity problem and of course, having to replace the battery or recharge the battery.

Featured Models

Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2

• Weight: 345 g.
• Connectivity: USB-C, Bluetooth, 2.4GHz
• Drums: up to 40 hours

The Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 (158 euros) is a quality controller with a wide range of customization options and a great design suitable for Xbox and PC. This second generation also includes a cover that allows it to be charged.

It is not an affordable controller (triple the value of the Xbox controller), but if you are an intensive and demanding gamer who values ​​precision and customization, it is a great buy.

Astro C40 TR

• Weight: 320g
• Connectivity: 2.4GHz wireless and USB
• Drums:

The Astro C40 TR (199 euros) is a premium (third-party) alternative to the DualShock for the PlayStation, somewhat like the Xbox Elite to Microsoft’s console, offering a high-end experience with the Sony controller form factor.

One of the most striking aspects of the Astro C40 TR is its modular design, which allows you to exchange and move parts, so that for example you can exchange the thumbstick for the D-pad and achieve an asymmetric Xbox-style layout. Or put them as you feel most comfortable.

This remote has its own software for Windows where you can create and edit profiles, adjust the sensitivity, remap the buttons and equalize the sound output through its jack.

Razer Wolverine Ultimate

• Weight: 272g
• Connectivity: USB

The Razer Wolverine Ultimate (129 euros) is a PC controller with a striking absence for its quality and price: wireless connectivity, since we will have to connect it using a long and robust 3-meter braided cable. But if it is not a problem, its proposal with a high level of customization, for example shares with the Elite the possibility of exchanging thumbsticks and the D-Pad

Among its assets, some buttons with a magnificent response in touch and sound in the style of a mouse, six extra configurable buttons and chroma lighting. Suitable for Xbox and PC (with apps to configure it on each platform).

Sony DualShock 4

• Weight: 210g
• Connectivity: micro USB and Bluetooth
• Drums: 1000mAH Li-ion (8 hours)

Sony’s Dualshock is an institution and a good option to play on PC that we can connect to the computer without problem. This is a light and versatile controller with precision thumbsticks

Apart from its consolidated symmetrical design and construction quality, we can use it without the need for cables, a very attractive functionality for its price, relatively affordable compared to other top-level alternatives.

Xbox Wireless Controller

• Weight: 281g.
• Connectivity: Bluetooth
• Drums: two AA batteries

Betting on the official Xbox Wireless Controller (59 euros) from Microsoft is going over the top with a consolidated and contrasted layout thanks to the polished design with its improved crosshead and its sensitive joystick.

A solvent control that offers a satisfactory experience in terms of performance and grip at a very attractive price for its benefits.

Steam controller

• Weight: 287g
• Connectivity: microUSB or 2.4GHz wireless
• Drums: 500mAh rechargeable or two AA batteries (40h)

The Steam Controller (99 euros) – which Steam has stopped manufacturing but is still on sale – is a great option to play with a controller even for titles that are not compatible.

Its design is peculiarly ergonomic, with huge grips that you almost wrap around the controller, it has dual trackpads, HD haptic response, double-press triggers, rear buttons and fully customizable control templates for a precise experience adjusted to your liking.

SteelSeries Stratus Duo

• Weight: 287g.
• Connectivity: 2.4GHz USB dongle and Bluetooth
• Drums: 20 hours

The Stratus Duo (69.99 euros) from SteelSeries is a command that stands out for its versatility in terms of multiplatform: in addition to PC, we can play on mobile and tablet on iOS or Android or on Oculus Go, Samsung Gear VR. Of course, if we want it for the mobile, the support is sold separately.

It also stands out for its solid construction and the precision of its keypad, although it is somewhat bulky in hand.

Hori Onyx Plus

• Weight:
• Connectivity: Wireless (2.4 GHz) and microUSB
• Drums: 5 hours

The Hori Onyx Plus (42.95 euros) with a fantastic value for money suitable for both PC and PlayStation, of which it has an official license.

This controller offers a design that straddles the official PS and Xbox controllers: the use of buttons and a touch pad from the Sony console with the asymmetric design and robust shapes of the Microsoft one. Can be used both with and without cable, has vibration and headphone jack

PowerA Spectra

• Weight: 290g
• Connectivity: microUSB

The PowerA Spectra (26 euros) is a remote control that makes itself visible thanks to integrating 15 LED colors that allow up to 255 color combinations with different modes and brightness and a very attractive metal housing available in various colors.

Leaving aside aesthetics, we are facing a remote control with cable (yes, 3 meters) solvent and complete for its price, with two customizable buttons on the back, three trigger lock positions, vibration motors and connection of stereo headphones. Officially licensed by Xbox and suitable for both PC and Microsoft consoles

Thrustmaster GP XID PRO

• Weight: 240g
• Connectivity: USB

The Thrustmaster GP XID PRO (24.99 euros) is a good affordable alternative to Xbox controllers, with which it shares design and ergonomics. It features two high-precision mini-sticks, two progressive triggers to gain control, a cross-shaped gamepad, 12 digital action buttons, and a Windows Live shortcut button. With braided cable for durability.

Logitech F310

• Weight: 181g
• Connectivity: USB

If what you are looking for is an affordable command but that of the size, the Logitech F310 (21.99 euros) is a very light option, with cable (almost two meters) and a versatile design for those who do not want to complicate.

It does not offer the response in terms of touch and sensitivity of the basic Xbox or Sony controls, but its price is almost a third and they are a good alternative for those who will suffice with a basic model.

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