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. Whether you crave customization, seek a budget-friendly option, or desire a high-end gamepad for competitive play, there's a perfect controller waiting for you. Our experts have rigorously tested numerous controllers for the Xbox Series X/S, and below are five top contenders.

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

Xbox Core Controller
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Turtle Beach Recon Wired Game Controller
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Xbox Elite Series 2
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Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra
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Scuf Instinct Pro
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Responsive controls, readily accessible buttons, and seamless Xbox connectivity are crucial for any gamer seeking the best Xbox Series X/S controller. Once you've mastered the basics, explore options tailored to your preferred playstyle. Craving ultimate customization? The Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra awaits. Aspiring to pro-level performance? The Scuf Instinct Pro is your weapon of choice. On a tighter budget? The feature-rich, high-quality Turtle Beach Recon delivers exceptional value under $60.

With a plethora of Xbox Series X controllers available, don't limit yourself to the standard controller bundled with your console. 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, the best fight sticks offer a superior competitive edge.

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

Xbox Wireless Controller (2020)

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

Xbox Core Controller
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Experience the familiar Xbox layout on an ergonomic controller featuring remappable buttons, a tactile D-pad, and versatile connectivity options.

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 various games. Upgrades enhance grip, gameplay recording, and button remapping. Numerous color options are available. Utilizing Xbox Wireless, it connects seamlessly to your Xbox, PC, and phone via built-in Bluetooth. The main drawback is its reliance on AA batteries, although a USB-C connection is possible (disabling wireless functionality).

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 (though slightly awkwardly placed) are significant advantages. Note: This is also our top pick for the best PC controller.

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

Turtle Beach Recon Wired Game Controller
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This wired gamepad boasts an impressive array of features, including two extra configurable back buttons and customizable on-controller audio settings, all at an affordable price.

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 exceptional value. For around $50, it offers standard Xbox controls plus two extra back buttons for enhanced gameplay without removing thumbs from the analog sticks. These buttons are fully configurable, including thumbstick sensitivity adjustments. The controller features a robust, ergonomic design with comfortable grips. Audio customization is a standout feature, allowing adjustments to EQ settings (like SuperHuman Hearing) and game/chat mix via the controller.

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

Xbox Elite Series 2
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This high-end controller offers extensive customization with swappable components, adjustable triggers, additional rear paddles, and fully remappable buttons. Perfect for serious gamers with a larger budget.

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 revealed the Xbox Elite Series 2 to be a premium controller ideal for hardcore gamers. All buttons are fully remappable, and four extra rear paddles offer additional control options. Magnetically attached components (rear paddles, D-pad, thumbsticks) allow for easy swapping and personalized feel. The Xbox Design Lab further expands customization possibilities. The wireless controller boasts a rechargeable battery lasting up to 40 hours per charge, eliminating the need for AA batteries. Bluetooth connectivity and a USB-C port provide versatile compatibility with PCs and gaming phones.

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

Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra
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This controller stands out with its integrated display for setting adjustments and notifications, 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 tunability. Its remappable microswitch face buttons and four rear buttons offer extensive control customization. Hall-effect, anti-drift thumbsticks with adjustable performance and trigger stops for faster actuation are ideal for FPS games. Settings are adjustable via the companion app or the unique on-gamepad "Connected Command Display," a full-color screen showing notifications and allowing on-the-fly adjustments to profiles, button mapping, vibration intensity, and RGB lighting. Despite the screen, the battery lasts up to 30 hours, and a quick-charging dock is included.

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

Scuf Instinct Pro
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The Scuf Instinct Pro offers an ergonomic design with four rear paddles, interchangeable thumbsticks, and instant triggers for a competitive edge.

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 significant competitive advantage. Its design resembles the Core Controller but adds four customizable paddles and a trigger switch for faster response times. Four interchangeable thumbsticks allow for personalized feel. The lightweight, ergonomic build ensures comfort during extended gaming sessions, and rear grips enhance stability. However, wireless use requires AA batteries.

Where to Buy in the UK: (Pricing and availability may vary)

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:

Consider connectivity (wired for lowest latency, wireless dongles, or Bluetooth for PC/phone use), customization options (button remapping, additional buttons, trigger locks), and your budget.

Xbox Controller FAQ:

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

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