TOP 13 best gamepads for PC: rating 2024-2025 and which budget gamepad is better to choose

Initially, the gamepad was created as a manipulator to control the gameplay on the console.

But later this gadget was adapted for PC games, allowing you to abandon the keyboard.For certain genres, such control is more convenient, so the device quickly became popular.

We have compiled a rating of the best PC gamepads for 2024-2025 and tried to tell not only about the technical characteristics, but also about the pros / cons of each selected model.

Rating of the TOP 13 best gamepads for PC for 2024-2025

This rating includes the best wireless and wired gamepads for PC according to users and experts for 2024-2025.

How to choose a gamepad for PC and what to look for?

First of all, decide on gamepad view. It can be either wired or wireless. The first one is distinguished by a more stable signal and often with extended functionality (for example, on some models, the vibration response is only by wire), but at the same time, the possibility of moving away from the computer is limited by the length of the cable. A wireless gamepad allows you to play from anywhere in the room, but sometimes it can catch connection errors, plus you need to monitor the battery level or your own battery.

pay attention to controls. It's good when the gadget is equipped with two small joysticks, one of which is responsible for movement, and the second provides an overview of virtual reality. Such joysticks are useful for games where the process is conducted from the first person. For racing, one joystick is enough.

Number of control buttons determined by the modernity of the games for which the controller will be used. The average number for the latest game projects is 10-12 pieces. It's good when the buttons have flexible setting, which allows you to set "values" for the needs of the player.

When choosing a wired gamepad, be sure to consider cable length. One and a half to two meters are considered the optimal indicator.

And for wireless models, consider working hours from the battery and radius of action. The first parameter depends on the capacity of the batteries, the second should be chosen based on the size of the room where the PC is installed.

TOP 3 best PC gamepads by price/quality for 2024-2025

Microsoft Xbox Series

Gamepad from one of the leaders in the production of such gadgets, which received high user ratings for quality performance and functionality.

It is a wireless model with fast pairing and switching between devices, capable of providing a comfortable gaming experience from anywhere in the room. Two AA batteries act as a battery, there is a headset connector to always stay in touch with other game participants.

Users note the high quality of vibration feedback, which was previously characteristic only of modern wired models. A hybrid D-pad and 2 small but handy joysticks provide perfect control, while a variety of function buttons allow you to completely abandon the use of the keyboard. The signal is stable, does not break at the most inopportune moment, programs respond to commands instantly, without delay.

Main characteristics:

• Connection is wireless.
• Power supply - two AA batteries.
• Recoil by vibration signal - yes.
• Controls - 2 tiny joysticks, cross, 12 buttons.
• The supported API is XInput.
• Connecting a headset is possible.

Sony Dual Sense

A wireless gamepad that has been on the market recently and has already received high marks not only from experts, but also from buyers despite the high price.

The gamepad allows you to enjoy the game to the maximum due to modern haptic feedback, a built-in microphone and dynamically adaptive triggers. There is also a headset jack, the sound can be turned off with one press of a special button.

There is also a function key that activates the recording function, which you can then send to your friends.

The location of the main controls is familiar to every experienced player, which does not cause delays in control. The gamepad is tactilely pleasant, made of high-quality plastic, from which the palms will not sweat. There are all the necessary motion sensors, as well as a built-in speaker and its own battery with fast charging via the Type-C cable that is included.

Main characteristics:

• Connection is wireless.
• Power is your battery.
• Recoil by vibration signal - yes.
• Controls - 2 small joysticks, trackpad, cross, 16 buttons.
• The supported API is DirectInput.
• Connecting a headset is possible.

Gamesir G4s

Another ergonomic gamepad that can be connected not only to a PC, but also to an Android phone or PS3. Comfortable The handles fit comfortably in the palm of your hand and do not slip during active play.

The product is made of high-quality plastic, reliable buttons have a good power reserve and can withstand heavy loads without sticking or failing after several months of operation.. The gamepad is connected both with a wire and with the help of a connector and a built-in Bluetooth 4.0 module.

It has its own battery installed inside, it charges quickly and is able to provide long battery life. And the individual backlighting of the buttons allows you not to be distracted by control in low light conditions. Note that for convenience, the manufacturer has also taken care of a convenient holder for a smartphone or tablet if you want to play your favorite game not only on a PC.

Main characteristics:

• Connection is wireless.
• Power is your battery.
• Recoil by vibration signal - yes.
• Controls - 2 small joysticks, cross, buttons.
• The radius of action is 8 hours.

TOP 3 best wireless gamepads for PC

Sony DualShock 4 v2 CUH-ZCT2E

Fast and incredibly accurate wireless gamepad that provides comfortable control of the game process on the distance from the PC, without misfires and delays.

In the center of the device is a modified touch panel with a light panel color indicator. There is a button to quickly record your favorite gaming moments that you want to share with friends and netizens. Thanks to this button, you can also broadcast a game without connecting additional equipment.

Pleasant, high-quality plastic and comfortable handles provide an ideal grip of the gamepad, hands do not get tired even after a long game. The wireless connection is stable, the connection does not break, there is no freeze. The battery acts as a battery, capable of holding a charge for a long time. Ergonomically improved analog sticks and side buttons provide precise control, with instant PC or console response.

Main characteristics:

• Connection is wireless.
• Power is your battery.
• Recoil by vibration signal - yes.
• Controls - 2 small joysticks, cross, trackpad, 18 buttons.
• The supported API is DirectInput / XInput.
• Connecting a headset is possible.

Logitech G Wireless Gamepad F710

A modern yet affordable wireless gamepad in a classic form factor with no more than old and very popular versions.

As a basis, a case made of high-quality plastic is used, which is not scratched and tactilely pleasantly felt in the palm of your hand. Connecting to a PC is achieved by placing a nano-receiver in a USB port, which provides fast data transfer at a frequency of 2.4 GHz, conducting a gaming process with virtually no delays, failures or interference.

Dual vibration feedback provides high-quality feedback, allowing you to feel every shot, push or explosion in virtual reality.The gamepad is suitable for both the latest games and classic ones, and the pleasant backlighting of the main control buttons will also please. And a special Big Picture mode provides connection to a TV for viewing content, games and other purposes.

Main characteristics:

• Connection is wireless.
• Power supply - two AA batteries.
• Recoil by vibration signal - yes.
• Controls - 2 small joysticks, 10 buttons, cross.
• The supported API is DirectInput / XInput.
• Headset connection - no.

SVEN GC-3050

Inexpensive wireless gamepad in a classic black case made of high-quality plastic. Suitable for various simulation games, provides convenient and stable control of the game process.

There are 13 functional buttons on the case, a high-quality cross and two joysticks that are convenient in terms of ergonomics. The rubberized handles of the gamepad provide a comfortable grip and protect it from slipping during active actions.

This model is powered by its own battery. Joysticks have eight positions, all commands from the gamepad are performed smoothly and accurately, without distortion or slip. Both analog and digital modes are available, with stable signal transmission and reception, and vibration feedback will provide high quality feedback.

Main characteristics:

• Connection is wireless.
• Power is your battery.
• Recoil by vibration signal - yes.
• Controls - 13 buttons, cross, 2 small joysticks.
• The supported API is DirectInput / XInput.
• Headset connection - no.

TOP 3 best wired gamepads for PC

Logitech G Gamepad F310

Classic gamepad with wired connection, the length of the cable allows you to comfortably fit in front of the PC, without embarrassment in movements.

The case is plastic, classic black, with a recognizable placement of keys for control. The gamepad is easy to connect and set up for any game, suitable for both familiar classics and the latest innovations. It is possible to connect to a TV through a special Big Picture system.

But the main difference of this model was the unique D-manipulator with four switches. While the standard D-pads most commonly used on these models have a single point of inclination that can cause control to be inaccurate and cause overlays in gameplay, this D-pad slides smoothly over four separate switches, thus creating a feeling of fast response and high sensitivity.

Main characteristics:

• Connection is wired.
• Recoil by vibration signal - yes.
• Controls - 10 buttons, cross, 2 small joysticks.
• The supported API is DirectInput / XInput.
• Headset connection - no.

Defender Omega

Wired gamepad, which is very often recommended by experts as a "training" equipment for a beginner.

The quality of the plastic and the design of the body provide a comfortable fit in the hands without additional stress on the joints, thereby reducing the manifestation of hand fatigue. This model is connected to a PC using a long USB cable that comes as standard with the device.

A big plus of this gadget will also be the affordable price. At the same time, all the necessary functionality for convenient control of the gameplay is preserved. The presence of two joysticks allows you to use the gamepad for any game, even the latest innovations. And high-quality vibration feedback provides a complete immersion in virtual reality events, allowing you to feel every push, jump or explosion displayed on the screen.

Main characteristics:

• Connection is wired.
• Recoil by vibration signal - yes.
• Controls - 2 small joysticks, a cross, 10 buttons.
• The supported API is DirectInput.
• Headset connection - no.

HORI Battle Pad Zelda

A very convenient version of a gamepad from a popular manufacturer with a classic body shape and anti-slip texture on handles, providing a reliable and completely comfortable grip of the device.

The increased size of the D-pad allows you to adjust the control of your character without taking your eyes off the screen, and the convenient and, most importantly, familiar placement of the keys with a soft stroke will provide the fastest commands with an instant response.

The long cord does not restrict movement.The connection is very simple, it does not require lengthy settings and downloading third-party software. Note that this model is no longer in production and you can get it only through the remains in store warehouses or buy it from hand. However, many users hope that the manufacturer will take into account the high ratings from customers and start production again, making the release of this gamepad massive.

Main characteristics:

• Connection is wired.
• Vibration feedback - no.
• Controls - buttons, 2 small joysticks, a cross.
• Headset connection - no.

TOP 2 best gamepads for PC with MAC compatibility

SteelSeries Nimbus + Wireless Controller

A very popular gamepad that won the hearts of experienced players with an increased battery capacity that provides battery life up to 50 hours.

And a new, high-performance wireless module allows you to achieve not only instant connection to devices, but also the fast data transfer required for accurate and fast response to control commands.

The controller supports many games available on iPhone, iPad, iPod, as well as Apple TV and Mac. There is also a mount for a smartphone or tablet, allowing you to play on the go. There are separate buttons for navigation and L3/R3 keys for additional input and placed on joysticks. The manufacturer did not forget about the feedback available due to the vibration response.

Main characteristics:

• Connection is wireless.
• Power is your battery.
• Recoil by vibration signal - yes.
• Controls - buttons, cross, 2 small joysticks.
• Working time - 50 hours.
• Headset connection - no.

Microsoft Xbox One Controller

A classic gamepad in its execution with the ability to connect a headset and wireless communication with various consoles including iOS, Mac, Android, Xbox One.

The device is equipped with two small sensitive joysticks and a high-quality d-pad, as well as eleven function keys. Motion sensors allow you to work even with the latest innovations in the gaming industry, and economical battery consumption largely depends on the quick auto-off when the gamepad is not in use by the owner.

The device does not heat up, the buttons work almost silently, the data transfer rate is at a high level, protecting against interference and delays. High-quality vibration feedback provides fast feedback, which creates a feeling of complete immersion in virtual reality. Not only wireless connection is available, but also with a USB cable, which is included as standard.

Main characteristics:

• Connection is wireless.
• Power supply - two AA batteries.
• Recoil by vibration signal - yes.
• Controls - 2 small joysticks, a cross, 11 buttons.
• The supported API is XInput.
• Connecting a headset is possible.

TOP 2 best budget gamepads for PC

Defender Game Master G2

Inexpensive gamepad in a classic case, with a recognizable arrangement of buttons and a D-pad. Connects to PC via cable included in the package.

Comfortable, tactilely pleasant, the plastic case is not scratched by every careless movement. An excellent choice for a novice player, with reliable and smooth operation, without unnecessary features that often have to overpay for.

The gamepad is also suitable for fans of various shooters, as it is equipped with all the necessary keys: Turbo, Auto, Clear. Thoughtful, optimized shape of the handles takes the pressure off the palm and fingers, the gamepad is comfortable to hold and does not slip out even during the most furious battles.

Main characteristics:

• Connection is wired.
• Vibration feedback - no.
• Controls - cross, 10 buttons.
• The supported API is DirectInput.
• Headset connection - no.

CBR CBG 905

One of the most affordable gamepads right now, which, despite the very budget price, has everything you need functionality for a comfortable gaming experience. It connects to a personal computer via a long wire, the main controls are a classic cross and ten function buttons.

Good quality plastic, although inferior in tactile sensations to other, more expensive models. The gamepad has a classic shape, it is comfortable to hold, it does not slip out of your hands.A great option for classic shooters and simple isometric games, it transmits a signal quickly, there are no delays in the response of the gaming system.

Main characteristics:

• Connection is wired.
• Vibration feedback - no.
• Controls - cross, 10 buttons.
• The supported API is DirectInput.
• Headset connection - no.

Useful video

How to choose a gamepad for PC: