Which Is Best for PC Gaming?
Many PC gamers hide behind their mouse and keyboard while shuddering at the thought of using a controller for PC gaming. But the fact still remains that some games are just better played on a controller. Racing games, for example, are far more intuitive with a joystick or gyro. And if you’ve ever played FIFA on a mouse and keyboard, we’re sorry.
But what controller should you reach for when PC gaming? The Xbox Series X|S Wireless Controller, the PS5’s DualSense, and Nintendo’s Pro Controller excel in their respective fields. But how do they compare on PC?
Introducing the DualSense Controller
The PS5 DualSense controller is truly a remarkable piece of hardware. It comes decked out with all the latest technology, such as a touchpad, adaptive triggers, gyro, and a built-in microphone so you can deliver your witty replies to those trolls on COD even without a headset.
However, while the DualSense’s internal mic is cool, it can be problematic. There are a few reasons why you should avoid using the mic on your PS5 controller in-game, as it can take away from some other features this controller offers.
However, using this internal mic is less of an issue when using your DualSense on your PC. This is due to the fact that most of DualSense’s features aren’t supported by a lot of PC games.
The PlayStation DualSense Wireless Controller will grant you around 6 hours of gaming time before it needs recharging. It is also supported by Steam and a good amount of PC games. It will cost you $69.00, which is more on the pricier side, but it is a very luxurious and high-quality controller.
Introducing the Pro Controller
The Nintendo Switch Pro Controller is many gamer’s controller of choice and is packed with almost as many features as the DualSense. The Pro Controller features gyro, HD rumble, and Amiibo support.
It is worth noting that, like the DualSense, many of these features are unavailable while PC gaming. This is particularly true for Amiibo support, which can only be used on the Nintendo Switch. If you’re wondering what an Amiibo is, we do have a guide on Nintendo’s Amiibo if you want to learn more about them.
The Nintendo Switch Pro Controller is compatible with Steam and PC and has incredible battery life. The Pro Controller allows you to game non-stop for up to 40 hours (although breaks in between are seriously recommended!).
The Nintendo Switch Pro Controller is on the larger side, so it’s very ergonomic and comfortable for long gaming sessions. The Nintendo Switch Pro Controller costs $69.99, making it the most expensive controller on this list.
Introducing the Xbox Core Wireless Controller
Each of these three controllers holds its own space in the market because they all have their own strengths and weaknesses. But when comparing them for use in PC gaming, many of their fancy features become redundant.
| DualSense | Pro Controller | Xbox Core Wireless Controller | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $69.00 | $69.99 | $49.49 |
| Battery Life | 6 hours, built-in rechargeable | 40 hours, built-in rechargeable | 40 hours, 2x AA-size |
| Ergonomics | Good | Good | Great |
| Compatibility | Good | Good | Great |
When it boils down to it, the main things you’ll want to weigh up on are the price, ergonomics, battery life, and compatibility.
Which Controller Is Cheaper?
In terms of price, the Xbox Core Wireless Controller is the cheapest by far, costing around $20 less than both the Pro Controller and DualSense. Sure, you don’t get as many features with the Xbox Core Wireless Controller. But at the end of the day, most of these features become irrelevant for many games available on the PC.
To support features like adaptive triggers and Amiibo, the games would have to be specifically programmed to do so. Since most PC games are designed to be played with a mouse and keyboard, this type of support is often not included. Therefore, you would be much better off skipping the features and saving $20 by purchasing the Xbox Core Wireless controller for PC gaming.
Which Controller Has the Best Battery Life?
When it comes to battery life, the Nintendo Pro Controller provides the best experience, offering a whopping 40 hours of playtime.
The Xbox Core Wireless Controller matches this, but since it relies on two AA batteries which one might not always have on hand, it loses out to the Pro Controller in this category. The last thing you want mid-boss fight is for your batteries to run out, only to discover that you have none left.
Which Controller Is More Comfortable?
The Pro Controller and Xbox Core Wireless Controller both have the most intuitive button layout, with the analog stick parallel to the A, B, Y, and X buttons. They are also both larger than the DualSense, minimizing cramping and offering a more comfortable grip.
All three controllers feel great to use for long periods, but the Xbox Core Wireless Controller is often considered the top of the range in terms of comfort. Its larger size and intuitive button layout provide a more stable and comfortable gaming experience.
Which Controller Is the Most Compatible With PC?
The Xbox Core Wireless Controller is superior when it comes to compatibility. It is fully functional with most PC games, allowing you to quickly connect your controller and start gaming without a second thought.
The DualSense and Pro Controllers are also compatible with a wide range of PC games but nowhere near as many as the Xbox Core Wireless Controller. They can also require button remapping, which makes the process slower and less intuitive.
Which Controller Is Best for PC Gaming?
The Xbox Core Wireless Controller is easily the best choice if you are looking for a new controller to play your PC games with. Since many PC games strip the DualSense and Pro Controller of many of the features that raise its price, the Xbox Core Wireless Controller is the most cost-efficient.
It also takes the cake for the most important category when it comes to PC gaming—compatibility. When you are looking for a PC controller, the last thing you want is to mess around remapping your buttons before you can play or perhaps not being able to connect your controller at all.
So when it comes down to what controller has the best compatibility, battery life, comfortable feel, and price point, the Xbox Core Wireless Controller wins this competition by a landslide.
Enjoy PC Gaming With Your New Favorite Controller
There are so many incredible controllers on the market, and finding the best one for you can be overwhelming. All three of these controllers have their niche that they fit into perfectly. But when it comes to PC gaming specifically, the Xbox Core Wireless Controller is the best choice.
Hopefully, with the help of this guide, you have found your next favorite controller for PC gaming—just make sure to keep some extra batteries on hand.