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, a world of excellent alternatives exists. Perhaps you crave customization, a budget-friendly option, or a high-end gamepad for competitive gaming. Our experts have rigorously tested numerous controllers for the Xbox Series X/S, and here are five top contenders.

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

Xbox Core Controller

Turtle Beach Recon Wired Game Controller

Xbox Elite Series 2

Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra

Scuf Instinct Pro

Responsive controls, easy button access, and seamless Xbox connection are crucial for any great Xbox Series X/S controller. Beyond the basics, find a controller that matches your playstyle. Want advanced customization? The Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra delivers. For pro-level performance, the Scuf Instinct Pro is your weapon of choice. On a budget? The feature-rich Turtle Beach Recon is a high-quality option under $60.

With a vast selection of Xbox Series X controllers, don't limit yourself to the standard console bundle. Many of our picks excel on gaming PCs, gaming phones, and more. For racing enthusiasts, explore the best racing wheels for Xbox. Fighting game fans might prefer one of the best fight sticks.

Looking for controller discounts? Check out our best current Xbox deals.

Xbox Wireless Controller (2020)

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1. Xbox Core Controller

Best Xbox Series X/S Controller

Xbox Core Controller

Enjoy the familiar Xbox layout on an ergonomic controller with remappable buttons, a tactile D-pad, and ample connectivity options.
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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, included with the Xbox Series X, offers a comfortable and familiar design suitable for most games. Upgrades provide enhanced grip, gameplay recording, and easy button remapping. Numerous color options are available. Xbox Wireless ensures seamless Xbox connection, while built-in Bluetooth extends compatibility to PCs and phones. The use of AA batteries is a minor drawback, although a USB-C connection (with loss of wireless functionality) is an option. Despite minor flaws, 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 are key selling points. Note: This is also our top PC controller pick.

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2. Turtle Beach Recon Wired Game Controller

Best Budget Xbox Series X/S Controller

Turtle Beach Recon Wired Game Controller

This wired gamepad boasts numerous features, including two extra configurable back buttons and on-controller audio customization, all at an affordable price.
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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 highlights the Turtle Beach Recon Wired Game Controller's impressive features at a low price. For around $50, it offers standard Xbox controls plus two extra back buttons for enhanced gameplay. These buttons are customizable, and thumbstick sensitivity is also adjustable. The controller's ergonomic design and comfortable grips ensure a firm hold. Standout audio customization options, including SuperHuman Hearing and game/chat mix adjustments, enhance the gaming experience.

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3. Xbox Elite Series 2

Best High-End Xbox Series X/S Controller

Xbox Elite Series 2

This high-end controller offers extensive customization with swappable controls, tunable triggers, extra rear paddles, and fully remappable buttons.
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Product Specifications
Connectivity: 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 reveals the Xbox Elite Series 2 as a premium controller ideal for serious gamers with a larger budget. Full button remapping, four extra rear paddles, and magnetically attached components (D-pad, thumbsticks) allow for extensive personalization. Further customization is available via Xbox Design Lab. The wireless controller boasts a rechargeable battery (up to 40 hours), eliminating the need for AA batteries. Bluetooth and USB-C connectivity ensure compatibility with PCs and gaming phones.

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4. Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra

Best Tunable Xbox Series X/S Controller

Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra

This controller stands out with its on-board display for adjustments and notifications, hall-effect sticks, tactile switches, and extra mappable buttons.
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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 tunability. Remappable buttons, four extra rear buttons, hall-effect thumbsticks (with adjustable performance), and trigger stops for faster actuation are key features. A companion app and an integrated full-color display allow on-the-fly setting adjustments, including profile swapping, button remapping, vibration intensity modification, and RGB lighting control. Despite the display, the battery life is claimed to be up to 30 hours, and a quick-charging dock is included.

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5. Scuf Instinct Pro

Best Competitive Xbox Series X/S Controller

Scuf Instinct Pro

The Scuf Instinct Pro offers an ergonomic design with four rear paddles, interchangeable thumbsticks, and instant triggers for a competitive edge.
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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 advantage with its ergonomic design, four customizable paddles, and instant-actuation triggers (for faster response times). Interchangeable thumbsticks further enhance customization. The lightweight, ergonomic build ensures comfort during extended gaming sessions. The rear grips provide a secure hold. However, wireless use relies on AA batteries.

Where to Get the Best Xbox Controllers in the UK

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

What to Look For in an Xbox Series X/S Controller

Consider these key specifications when choosing an Xbox controller:

• Connectivity: Wired offers lowest latency; wireless dongles are a solid alternative; Bluetooth enables PC/phone use.
• Customizability: Button remapping, component swapping (D-pad, thumbsticks), additional buttons, and trigger locks enhance personalization.

Xbox Controller FAQ

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

Can you connect a mouse and keyboard to Xbox? Yes, via USB ports (game support varies).