Top Xbox Series X Controllers to Buy in 2025

Although we consider the Xbox Core Controller as the best overall choice for Xbox Series X, there are numerous alternatives that cater to different preferences, from customization to budget considerations and high-end options for competitive gamers. Our experts have meticulously tested a wide range of controllers for the Xbox Series X/S, and here are the 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 Scuf

For the best Xbox Series X/S gaming experience, you need a controller that offers responsive controls, easy access to all necessary buttons, and a seamless connection to your console. Once you've mastered the essentials, you can explore options that suit your unique play style. If customization is your priority, the Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra is an excellent choice. For a competitive edge, consider the Scuf Instinct Pro. If you're on a budget, the Turtle Beach Recon offers a feature-rich experience for under $60.

The variety of Xbox Series X controllers means you're not limited to the standard option that comes with your console. Many of our recommendations also work seamlessly with gaming PCs, gaming phones, and other devices. For racing enthusiasts, exploring the best racing wheels for Xbox might enhance your gameplay, while those interested in fighting games could benefit from the best fight sticks.

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. See it at AmazonSee it at Target

Product Specifications

• Connectivity: Wireless
• Customizable Buttons: Yes
• Bluetooth: Yes
• Compatibility: Xbox, Windows, Android, iOS
• Battery: AA

PROS

• Works well across many devices
• Impulse trigger

CONS

• Awkward share button

The Xbox Core Controller is included with every Xbox Series X purchase. It's not fancy, but its reliable performance makes it hard to beat. Its comfortable and familiar design is suitable for various game types, and with minor upgrades, you can enhance grip, record gameplay, and easily remap buttons. It's available in numerous colors to match your style.

The controller connects effortlessly to your Xbox via Xbox Wireless and supports Bluetooth for use with PCs and phones. Its use of AA batteries might feel outdated, but you can opt for a USB-C connection, though this means losing wireless capabilities.

Despite minor drawbacks, the Xbox Core Controller remains a solid choice for Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, and other platforms. Its textured grip, hybrid D-pad, custom button mapping, and dedicated Share button (though slightly awkward) are notable features.

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

0With a host of features including two extra configurable back buttons and on-controller audio customizations, this wired gamepad is a standout affordable option. See it at AmazonSee it at Best Buy

Product Specifications

• Connectivity: Wired
• Customizable Buttons: Yes
• Bluetooth: No
• Compatibility: Xbox, Windows
• Battery: N/A

PROS

• Great access to voice and audio options
• Solid build quality

CONS

• Wired only

Our hands-on review of the Turtle Beach Recon Wired Game Controller highlighted its impressive features at a budget-friendly price. For around $50, it offers all the standard buttons, triggers, and sticks, plus two extra back buttons that allow you to keep your thumbs on the analog sticks while activating controls. These buttons can be configured for various functions, including adjusting thumbstick sensitivity for better precision.

The Turtle Beach Recon is a well-built, comfortable wired controller with ergonomic grips for a firm hold. Its audio customization options are particularly noteworthy. When paired with a gaming headset, you can experiment with EQ settings like SuperHuman Hearing to catch subtle audio cues, and easily adjust the game/chat mix for seamless communication with teammates.

10 Images3. Xbox Elite Series 2

Best High-End Xbox Series X/S Controller

### Xbox Elite Series 2

1Enjoy extensive customization with swappable controls, tunable triggers, extra rear paddles, and fully remappable buttons. See it at AmazonSee it at Newegg

Product Specifications

• Connectivity: Wired
• Customizable Buttons: Yes
• Bluetooth: Yes
• Compatibility: Xbox, Windows, Android, iOS
• Battery: Rechargeable (40 hours)

PROS

• Wireless charging
• Comfortable grip

CONS

• Expensive

In our hands-on testing, the Xbox Elite Series 2 proved to be a premium choice for gamers with a higher budget. All buttons can be remapped, and four additional rear paddles can change the function of face buttons or have their own actions within games. The rear paddles, D-pad, and thumbsticks are magnetically attached for easy swapping, and the controller is further customizable through Xbox Design Lab.

The Elite Series 2 features a rechargeable battery lasting up to 40 hours on a single charge, eliminating the need for AA batteries. It supports Xbox Wireless, Bluetooth, and USB-C connectivity, making it versatile for use with PCs and gaming phones.

Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra – Photos

19 Images4. Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra

Best Tunable Xbox Series X/S Controller

### Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra

0Featuring a display for settings adjustments and notifications, hall effect sticks, tactile switches, and extra mappable buttons, this controller stands out. See it at AmazonSee it at Turtle BeachSee it at Best Buy

Product Specifications

• Connectivity: Wireless
• Customizable Buttons: Yes
• Bluetooth: Yes
• Compatibility: Xbox, Windows, Android
• Battery: Rechargeable (30 hours)

PROS

• RGB lighting
• Color display

CONS

• No swappable thumbsticks

The Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra elevates customization to new heights. Its microswitch face buttons are remappable, and the four extra rear buttons can be assigned specific actions. The hall-effect thumbsticks resist drift and can be fine-tuned, while trigger stops adjust actuation distance, ideal for FPS games. These settings can be adjusted via the controller's companion app or the unique "Connected Command Display" on the gamepad.

This full-color screen displays phone notifications and allows on-the-fly adjustments, including profile swapping, button remapping, vibration tuning, and RGB lighting modifications. Despite its wireless nature, the battery life lasts up to 30 hours, and it comes with 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 an ergonomic design, four rear paddles, interchangeable thumbsticks, and instant triggers. See it at Scuf

Product Specifications

• Connectivity: Wireless
• Customizable Buttons: Yes
• Bluetooth: Yes
• Compatibility: Xbox, Windows, Android, iOS
• Battery: Rechargeable

PROS

• Feels comfortable
• Lots of customization

CONS

• AA batteries

The Scuf Instinct Pro is our top pick for gamers seeking a competitive edge. It resembles the Core controller but includes four customizable paddles and a switch near the triggers that allows them to actuate like a mouse click for faster response times, crucial in shooters. Four interchangeable thumbsticks let you find the perfect feel for dominating opponents.

The Scuf Instinct Pro's lightweight, ergonomic design ensures comfort during extended gaming sessions, and its rear grips provide a secure hold. However, when used wirelessly, it relies on 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 Amazon

What to look for in a Xbox Series X/S controller

When shopping for an Xbox controller, consider several key factors. Connectivity is crucial; wired options offer the lowest latency, while wireless dongles and Xbox’s proprietary wireless protocol provide less latency and fewer mispresses. Many of our picks also support Bluetooth, making them suitable for use with PCs and phones. Check out our guide on how to pair an Xbox controller with a PC for more connectivity options.

Customization is another vital aspect. Some controllers allow you to remap buttons or change the placement of the D-pad or thumbsticks. Additional features like rear buttons for shortcuts and switches to lock triggers can enhance your gameplay, offering endless possibilities to tailor your controller to your preferences.

Xbox Controller FAQ

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

Yes, you can use a PS5 Dualsense controller with an Xbox Series X, but you'll need 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?

Absolutely, you can connect a gaming mouse and keyboard to your Xbox using the console's USB ports. However, not all Xbox Series X games support mouse and keyboard input.