13 cool gamepads for PC, consoles and mobile devices

2024 Author: Malcolm Clapton | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-17 03:44

Enjoy the convenience of controllers - and no longer want to play with the keyboard or touchscreen.

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1. Defender Omega

• Connection type: USB.
• Supported Platform: Windows.

Ultra budget controller for PC in DualShock 3 design, which is suitable for the novice gamer, child or just "trying out". The button layout is standard. It is connected, of course, with a cable (its length is 1.8 m). A pleasant bonus is the presence of a vibration response.

2. Defender Redragon

• Connection type: USB.
• Supported platforms: Windows, PS3.

Another inexpensive USB gamepad of the original shape, in which the features of the DualShock 4 are guessed. The classic layout is complemented by the Home and Turbo buttons. The latter simulates quick clicks, allowing you to fire bursts even from non-automatic weapons. In addition, vibration feedback is present.

3. Mocute 050

• Connection types: Bluetooth, USB.
• Supported platforms: Windows, Android, iOS.

An affordable universal gamepad designed primarily for use with a smartphone and with a built-in bracket for attaching gadgets. The design and layout of the device is closer to the Xbox controller, but smaller in size. "Horns" have notches for a better grip, sticks and buttons are moderately elastic and press well.

4. Defender Blast

• Connection types: USB, Bluetooth.
• Supported platforms: Windows, PS3, Android.

An affordable all-in-one wireless gamepad from a popular brand of computer accessories. It fits comfortably in the hands, has all the necessary buttons and two analog sticks. For mobile gaming, a removable smartphone holder is provided.

5.8BitDo Zero 2

• Connection type: Bluetooth.
• Supported platforms: Steam, Windows, macOS, Raspberry Pi, Nintendo Switch, Android.

Miniature wireless controller from a renowned manufacturer of gaming accessories. Positioned as a Nintendo Switch gamepad, it is also compatible with a host of other platforms. Well suited for use with emulators of retro consoles, simple mobile and PC games.

6. Hori Horipad

• Connection type: USB.
• Supported platforms: Nintendo Switch, Windows.

Dedicated controller for Nintendo Switch that also works with a PC. An affordable analogue of the proprietary Pro ‑ controller, but with a cable connection. The set includes two interchangeable sockets for the D-pad, one of which can be conveniently stored on the back of the controller. A nice bonus that compensates for the lack of wireless communication is a 5 m cable.

7. Logitech F310

• Connection type: USB.
• Supported Platform: Windows.

Well known to more than one generation of gamers, the classic wired controller for PC. The standard layout is complemented by the ability to create profiles for different games and customize using Logitech software. Supports any game projects - from the oldest to the latest.

8.8BitDo M30

• Connection types: USB, Bluetooth.
• Supported platforms: Windows, macOS, Nintendo Switch, Android.

One of the few, if not the only, six-button gamepad that's perfect for emulating Sega Mega Drive games. It exactly repeats the original controller of the aforementioned console - right down to the plastic and tactile sensations. Modern additions include just a couple of keys, auxiliary buttons for Nintendo Switch and USB-C charging.

9.8BitDo SN30 Pro

• Connection types: USB, Bluetooth.
• Supported platforms: Windows, macOS, Nintendo Switch, Android.

The most popular gamepad from 8BitDo, which belongs to universal wireless controllers and is compatible with any device except iPhone and iPad. It looks just great. Despite its retro Super Nintendo design, it has two analog sticks and all the buttons you need for modern games, including two pairs of keys.

10. Sony DualShock 4 v2

• Connection types: USB, Bluetooth.
• Supported platforms: Windows, macOS, PS4, Android, iOS, tvOS.

The standard of a wireless gamepad is the original controller from PlayStation 4. Works with almost any device, although it is fully disclosed only with the native console. The strengths of the DualShock 4, in addition to versatility, are considered to be impeccable ergonomics, built-in speaker, headset connectivity, as well as exclusive features like lightbar and touchpad.

11. Microsoft Xbox One Crete

• Connection types: USB, Bluetooth.
• Supported platforms: Windows, Xbox.

Surely competing with the Sony gamepad is the Xbox One controller. With native support in Windows, it's the perfect choice for PC gaming without the hassle. The device is distinguished by high quality materials and a comfortable design, as well as the presence of strong vibration feedback, a headset connector and a textured surface of the case, which improves grip.

12. Nintendo Switch Pro Controller

• Connection types: USB, Bluetooth.
• Supported platforms: Nintendo Switch, Windows, macOS, Android.

An advanced gamepad from Nintendo for those who want to play comfortably when connected to a TV. The controller has a very comfortable shape and, according to many users, lies better in the hands than the remotes from the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One. Thanks to the built-in NFC module, it quickly connects to devices. A modern USB-C port is used for charging.

13. Microsoft Xbox Elite

• Connection types: USB, Bluetooth.
• Supported platforms: Windows, Xbox.

The most expensive, yet most advanced controller with the most customization options for demanding gamers. The set includes three pairs of interchangeable sticks with different heights and shapes of pads, as well as a faceted and regular cross-pieces. In addition to the standard buttons on the back of the gamepad, there are four detachable petals to which you can assign different game actions.

Impulse triggers and vibration output power are configured in a dedicated application. There you can also turn on the limitation of the trigger travel to speed up shooting in shooters. The only drawback of the controller is that it does not work from the built-in battery, but from ordinary AA-batteries.