If you are a gamer, then the best controller for esports games is important. Esports are competitive video game tournaments that have prize pools in the millions of dollars. Many people think it’s just about playing games but there is an intense amount of studying and strategy involved.
The top players spend hours practising to stay on top of their game while maintaining a full-time job or schooling. If you want to join the ranks of professional gamers, then you need to find out what equipment will give you an edge over your opponents.
There are many different controllers available with some being better than others depending on the type of game that’s being played.
List Of The 12 Best Controller For Esports and Prices 2022
Esports is a booming industry that takes players to the next level. Esports can be played on any device, but using a controller is the best way to ensure you’re playing at your best.
Whether you’re looking for an Xbox one controller or PS4 controller, we’ve different controllers from top brands like Razor and Hyperkin so that you can choose which type of controller will work best for your needs.
1. Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2
No doubt, Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 1 comes out as one of the best out there, that I thought it will be the best for a very long time. With Series 2, that is no more the case as this controller comes out better.
Other than its impression, the feeling and grip are solid and the buttons are more responsive as the sticks pressure can easily be changed. Furthermore, it’s Bluetooth compatible, features a rechargeable battery and comes with a recharging stand.
What We Like:
- You can charge the controller from the charging station.
- Long battery life of up to 40 hours on a full charge.
- Adjustable tension in the thumbsticks.
- Multiple connectivity options.
- Custom button mapping.
What We Don’t Like:
- It is pricey.
2. Sony DualSense Affordable Wireless Controller
The controller is constructed as a lot of thought has been put into the design in a way that it will be easy to hold while gaming for a long time. Also, the white portions of the Sony DualSense controller protrude about 1/3″ higher than the black striping. – Although it may look annoying, surprisingly, the while portions acts like a literal translation of where the hands should be when using the controller.
One thing that makes DualSense stand out from other controllers on this list is that it comes with a built-in microphone and headset jack; both of which makes communication seamless. In addition, it has a dedicated mute button you can use to switch voice capture on/off in moments.
Like the Xbox Elite Controller Series 2, the controller has a charging station where you can charge up to two controllers at the same time, without connecting them to the Playstation Console.
What We Like:
- It is comfortable.
- Easy to set up.
- Adaptive triggers.
What We Don’t Like:
- Below-average battery life.
3. PowerA Spectra Infinity Enhanced
The PowerA Spectra Infinity Enhanced is not a wireless controller for esports, but Sticks feel great. Easy to move but they spring back to the centre. The joystick buttons feel good and the triggers are adjustable. Also, it features AGR and AGL back buttons that can be customized by holding the program button for 3 seconds, which are well placed.
It is noteworthy that it comes with advanced gaming Buttons: two mappable Buttons on the back plus 3-way trigger Locks for super-precise throws.
What We Like:
- Budget-friendly controller.
- It comes with a precision-tuned analogue thumbstick.
- It requires no battery.
What We Don’t Like:
- The trigger locks are not too good.
4. Razer Wolverine Ultimate Gaming Controller
The Razer elite is a great controller, with very good design and outstanding materials, that it serves as a go-to controller for games like Rocket League or FIFA, without feeling strange. Unfortunately, the downside is that the extra paddles of that control are very close to the grip, so sometimes one can accidentally squeeze them.
And that is where Razer Wolverine Ultimate Gaming Controller comes in as the extra pallets it comes with are fixed, so they don’t interfere while you play games.
Compare to Xbox Elite Wireless Series 2 and Sony DualSense, this controller comes features an extra load of buttons for advanced gaming adventures like 4 Multi-Function triggers, the 2 remappable Multi-Function bumpers and a quick control panel.
What We Like:
- Interchangeable thumbsticks.
- Loud and satisfying face buttons.
- It comes with Integrated smart lighting
What We Don’t Like:
- The extra triggers at the bottom are hard to press.
- No wireless support.
- There is a need for a separate app to configure.
5. Astro C40 TR Gamig Controller For PS4
First off, this controller is an outstanding controller. Compare to the Xbox Elite Controller, Astro C40 TR Gaming Controller is a great alternative, but there is room for improvement. Other than coming out cheap, it is compact and has a carrying case that is water-resistant.
For the controller case, you can’t go wrong with the build materials chosen. And there is a Velcro strap to hold the charging cable. Furthermore, the inside is lined with similar material to what they use in making headphone earcups. It’s soft and thin, so it will wear down with time.
The controller itself is outstanding. The clicks are crazy good. The weight and feel are outstanding, but if you have small hands/palms you may struggle a little bit with this controller.
What We Like:
- Comfortable and easy to set up.
- Long battery life.
What We Don’t Like:
- Not ideal for someone with small hands.
6. Sony DualShock 4 Wireless Controller For PS4
Sony DualShock 4 is another lightweight game controller you’d want to check out as it offers not only great response time but also LEDs that change colours. Also, the touchpad is also good as triggers are sensitive enough for feedback.
Another thing about this esports wireless controller is that you can use it for PC gaming by running it with a third-party app “DS4Windows” to make it work on Windows. – This works either wireless or wired and you can as well get it charged using the micro-USB cable.
What We Like:
- Refined analogue sticks.
- Built-in speakers and stereo headset jack.
- Multiple connectivity options.
What We Don’t Like:
- It can easily get damaged.
7. Nintendo Switch Pro Controller
Other than producing good games, Nintendo sure knows how to make great controllers. And Nintendo Switch Pro Controller is one of its products you won’t want to miss out on. It has a good battery life and fit perfectly in the hands while gaming.
Though it comes out expensive, looking at the features and performance of the controller, the price can be justified.
What We Like:
- Comfortable.
- Good build quality.
What We Don’t Like:
- It’s pricey.
8. Nacon Controller EsportsPro V3 PS4 Playstation
The customization options is one thing that makes Nacon Controller Esports V3 stand out and it comes with variable shaft sizes and domed thumbstick; this makes it a step ahead of the Sony DualShock 4. Compare to the Razer Wolverine the buttons on the back are easy to reach.
What is more with the NACON customization feature is that you can change the thumbstick and triggers sensitivity, change light settings and assign a function for every button. With these features, the Nacon is the one to get if you want a controller built for competition, but if you are going to use a wired headset, look for other alternatives.
What We Like:
- Smart led indicators.
- Interchangeable stick heads
- Dual connectivity.
- It works with PC and PS4.
What We Don’t Like:
- Unlike Razer Wolverine Ultimate, you can only customize using the software.
9. Razer Wolverine Tournament Edition Chroma
The Razer Wolverine Tournament Edition Chroma is another wired controller on this list as you need to rely on the detachable cable to get it powered. At the price, it can be said to be quite expensive, but looking past the connectivity problem will make you enjoy the feel of the ABXY buttons.
Just like the Nacon Controller EsportsPro V3 PS4 and Xbox Elite Controller Series 2, this controller can be customized, beyond what stock controllers offer.
As if that is not enough, the Razer Wolverine Tournament Edition Chroma is made to work with both PC and Xbox One, and it can be used as soon as it comes outbox.
What We Like:
- Ultra-fast responses.
- M1 and M2 buttons are convenient to use.
- Software for customisation is very easy to use.
What We Don’t Like:
- The thumb-sticks are not replaceable.
10. Thrustmaster eSwap X Pro Gaming Controller
Thrustmaster eSwap X Pro seems weight and well designed as it does not fall off while gaming. Another thing that’s interests you is the very short actuation and bumpers that feels like mouse buttons; these contribute to how quiet they are and easy to press, except the bumpers that are a bit noisy when click.
Like the PowerA Spectra Infinity Enhanced Wired Controller, the unit is wired but uses a detachable cord that gets it braided securely into the front of the controller. Compare to other gaming controllers listed on here, nothing seems unique, except the swappable thumbstick placement.
What We Like:
- High precision, with fast response time.
- Customisable and easy to set up.
What We Don’t Like:
- Expensive.
- It uses only a wired connection.
- The design is nothing attractive.
11. EasySMX 2.4G Wireless Controller for PS3
To start with you won’t have any difficulty using the EasySMX 2.4G Wireless Controller with a PC operating on Windows 7, and you don’t have to carry out any settings to use it. In addition to working with PS3, you won’t have a problem using it with your personal computer, Laptop, Android as it supports OTG.
No doubt, it comes out sturdy and gives the Xbox controller vibes. Unfortunately, the switch must be docked for the controller to work, so your USB goes into the Nintendo Switch dock. And you can as well make use of the adapter that plugs into your switch via USB C.
Despite its affordability, EasySMX 2.4g Wireless Controller comes with amazing features that many in the same price range can’t offer. One of such features is the 2.4G wireless transmission technology that ensures seamless communication and gaming. – It can reach up to 10 meters (32.8 feet), which makes it possible to play games from the far side of your room.
Another thing you’d enjoy about this esports gaming controller is the 2 x 1800 mAh AA batteries that it comes with, which enables the controller to work for up to 20 hours at a single charge. Amazing right?
You will fall in love with the dual vibration feedback features powered by an Asymmetric vibrating motor; this will make it possible for you to feel different vibrations levels playing games that involve collision, explosions and headshots.
What We Like:
- Great battery life.
- Anti-slip design.
- Affordable, yet quality.
- Connectivity is fast.
What We Don’t Like:
- The design is too simple.
12. Thrustmaster Hotas Warthog (Windows)
The build quality is beyond expectations, and the level of control and realism is fantastic, however, plug and play HOTAS as soon as the game loads, you may be disappointed as this gear needs setting up in almost all simulators, and that’s even if they already support this gear. Hence, you need to get the scripts and have them activated with the Thrustmaster setup.
Other than difficulty setting up this PRO gamer controller, the sheer amount of switches and buttons are what you’ll want to try out as they’d help in creating an immersive gaming experience.
What We Like:
- Control Panel with 5 Programmable LEDs.
- It is easy to use.
- The control pane has a weighted base.
What We Don’t Like:
- Lousy gimbal.
Conclusion
I hope you’ve learned a few tips on choosing the ideal gaming controller and know which of the best controller for esports and their prices out there?
And if you are a beginner who is just getting started with esports, it won’t hurt to read our previous content on different gaming equipment buying guides.
Did I miss out on any gaming controller that you think is worthy of being on this list? Kindly make use of the comment box to let us know.