The Best Xbox Series X Controllers Worth Buying in 2025

While the Xbox Core Controller reigns supreme as our overall best Xbox Series X controller, the world of Xbox gaming offers a diverse range of excellent alternatives. Perhaps you crave customization, a budget-friendly option, or a high-end gamepad perfect for competitive play. Our experts have rigorously tested numerous controllers for the Xbox Series X/S, and below are five worthy contenders.

TL;DR – Top Xbox Series X/S Controllers:

Xbox Core Controller
See it at AmazonSee it at Target

Turtle Beach Recon Wired Game Controller
See it at AmazonSee it at Best Buy

Xbox Elite Series 2
See it at AmazonSee it at Newegg

Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra
See it at AmazonSee it at Turtle BeachSee it at Best Buy

Scuf Instinct Pro
See it at Scuf

Responsive controls, readily accessible buttons, and seamless Xbox connectivity are crucial for any top-tier Xbox Series X/S controller. Beyond the basics, find a controller that complements your play style. Want advanced customization? Consider the Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra. Aim for pro-level performance? The Scuf Instinct Pro is your weapon of choice. On a budget? The feature-rich Turtle Beach Recon delivers high quality for under $60.

The selection of Xbox Series X controllers extends far beyond the standard console bundle. Many of our top picks seamlessly integrate with gaming PCs, gaming phones, and more. However, if racing is your passion, explore the best racing wheels for Xbox; for fighting game enthusiasts, consider one of the best fight sticks.

For the best deals on these controllers, check out our current best Xbox deals.

Xbox Wireless Controller (2020)

(9 Images)

1. Xbox Core Controller: The Best Xbox Series X/S Controller

See it at AmazonSee it at Target

The familiar Xbox layout graces this ergonomic controller, featuring remappable buttons, a tactile D-pad, and versatile connectivity.

Product Specifications:
Connectivity: Wireless
Customizable Buttons: Yes
Bluetooth: Yes
Compatibility: Xbox, Windows, Android, iOS
Battery: AA PROS
Works well across many devices
Impulse triggers
CONS
Awkward share button

Your Xbox Series X purchase includes the reviewed Xbox Core Controller. While not extravagant, its effective design makes it hard to beat. The comfortable, familiar design suits most game types, and upgrades enhance grip, gameplay recording, and button remapping. A wide array of colors is also available.

Utilizing Xbox Wireless, the controller connects seamlessly to your Xbox, but also works with PCs and phones via integrated Bluetooth. The main drawback is the use of AA batteries, feeling somewhat outdated. A USB-C connection is available, but this disables wireless functionality.

Despite minor flaws, the Xbox Core Controller is a solid choice for Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and other platforms. The textured grip, hybrid D-pad, custom button mapping, and dedicated (though slightly awkward) Share button are significant selling points.

Note: This is also our top pick for the best PC controller.

(6 Images)

2. Turtle Beach Recon Wired Game Controller: Best Budget Xbox Series X/S Controller

See it at AmazonSee it at Best Buy

This wired gamepad boasts numerous features, including two extra configurable back buttons and on-controller audio customization, making it an affordable standout.

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 review highlighted the Turtle Beach Recon Wired Game Controller's excellent features at a low price. For around $50, it offers standard buttons, triggers, and sticks, plus two extra back buttons. These rear buttons are configurable, including thumbstick sensitivity adjustments.

The controller provides a well-built, comfortable design with ergonomic grips. Audio customization sets it apart; when connecting a gaming headset, you can adjust EQ settings (like SuperHuman Hearing) and the game/chat mix.

(10 Images)

3. Xbox Elite Series 2: Best High-End Xbox Series X/S Controller

See it at AmazonSee it at Newegg

This high-end controller offers extensive customization with swappable components, tunable triggers, extra rear paddles, and fully remappable buttons.

Product Specifications:
Connectivity: Wired/Wireless
Customizable Buttons: Yes
Bluetooth: Yes
Compatibility: Xbox, Windows, Android, iOS
Battery: Rechargeable (40 hours)
PROS: Wireless charging; Comfortable grip
CONS: Expensive

Our hands-on testing revealed the Xbox Elite Series 2 as a premium controller ideal for serious gamers with a higher budget. All buttons are fully remappable, and four extra rear paddles modify face button functions. The rear paddles, D-pad, and thumbsticks are magnetically attached for easy swapping. The Elite 2 is even more customizable via Xbox Design Lab.

As a wireless option, it features a rechargeable battery lasting up to 40 hours. Besides Xbox Wireless, Bluetooth connectivity and a USB-C port offer wired options for PCs or gaming phones.

(19 Images)

4. Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra: Best Tunable Xbox Series X/S Controller

See it at AmazonSee it at Turtle BeachSee it at Best Buy

This controller stands out with its adjustment and notification display, hall-effect sticks, tactile switches, and extra mappable buttons.

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 excels in customization. Its reliable microswitch face buttons are remappable, and four rear buttons are assignable. Hall-effect, anti-drift thumbsticks offer adjustable performance, and trigger stops adjust actuation distance. Settings are modifiable via the companion app or the unique on-gamepad "Connected Command Display."

This compact, full-color screen displays phone notifications and allows on-the-fly setting adjustments, including profile swapping, button remapping, vibration intensity modification, and RGB lighting control. Despite the screen, the battery lasts up to 30 hours, and a quick-charging dock is included.

(13 Images)

5. Scuf Instinct Pro: Best Competitive Xbox Series X/S Controller

See it at Scuf

The Scuf Instinct Pro pushes boundaries with its ergonomic design, four rear paddles, interchangeable thumbsticks, and instant triggers.

Product Specifications:
Connectivity: Wireless
Customizable Buttons: Yes
Bluetooth: Yes
Compatibility: Xbox, Windows, Android, iOS
Battery: Rechargeable
PROS: Comfortable feel; Extensive customization
CONS: AA batteries

The Scuf Instinct Pro provides a competitive edge with its design similar to the Core controller, but with four customizable paddles. A trigger switch enables faster response times, beneficial in shooters. Four interchangeable thumbsticks allow personalized feel.

The lightweight, ergonomic build ensures comfort during long gaming sessions, and rear grips maintain a firm handhold. However, wireless use relies on AA batteries.

UK Pricing and Availability

Xbox Core Controller £54.99 at Currys PC World
PowerA Enhanced Wired Controller £34.99 at Amazon
Xbox Elite Series 2 £159.99 at Amazon
Razer Wolverine V2 £74.99 at Amazon
Thrustmaster TMX Force Feedback Racing Wheel £249.95 at Amazon
Thrustmaster T-Flight HOTAS One Flight Stick £63.99 at Amazon
Thrustmaster Eswap X Pro Customizable Controller £159.99 at Amazon

Xbox Series X/S Controller Considerations

Connectivity is key. Wired controllers offer lowest latency. Wireless dongles are another good option, and some controllers use Xbox's wireless protocol for reduced latency. Bluetooth connectivity enables PC or phone use.

Customizability is also important. Consider remapping buttons, changing D-pad or thumbstick placement, or adding extra buttons or trigger locks.

Xbox Controller FAQ

Can you connect a PS5 controller to an Xbox Series X? Yes, but you'll need an adapter like the Brooks Wingman Converter.

Can you connect a mouse and keyboard to Xbox? Yes, via USB ports, but not all games support this.