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Gaming Controllers

Expert Picks for January 2026

Best Gaming Controllers

Stock controllers get the job done, but pro controllers change how you play. We compared controllers from elite paddles to fight sticksβ€”finding what gives real advantage versus gimmicks.

Last updated: January 28, 2026
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Best Overall Our top recommendation
Best Overall
Elite Series 2 Core

Microsoft

Elite Series 2 Core

4.5 (18,923 reviews)

The controller pros use.

Battery

40 hours

Pros

  • βœ“ Adjustable tension
  • βœ“ Mappable paddles

Cons

  • βœ— Paddles sold separately

Head-to-Head Comparison

ProductRatingPrice Action
Elite Series 2 Core
Elite Series 2 Core Best
Microsoft
4.5
$129 View
DualSense Edge
DualSense Edge
Sony
4.4
$199 View
Pro 2 Controller
Pro 2 Controller Value
8BitDo
4.6
$49 View
Reflex Pro
Reflex Pro
SCUF
4.3
$229 View
FUSION Pro 3
FUSION Pro 3
PowerA
4.4
$79 View

* Prices may vary. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

All Recommended Products

Best Overall
Elite Series 2 Core

Microsoft

Elite Series 2 Core

4.5 (18,923 reviews)

The controller pros use.

Battery

40 hours

Pros

  • βœ“ Adjustable tension
  • βœ“ Mappable paddles

Cons

  • βœ— Paddles sold separately
Premium Pick
DualSense Edge

Sony

DualSense Edge

4.4 (8,765 reviews)

Sony's pro controller with haptics.

Battery

12 hours

Pros

  • βœ“ Full haptics
  • βœ“ Replaceable sticks

Cons

  • βœ— Very expensive
Best Value
Pro 2 Controller

8BitDo

Pro 2 Controller

4.6 (12,456 reviews)

Pro features at budget price.

Battery

20 hours

Pros

  • βœ“ Works on everything
  • βœ“ Back buttons

Cons

  • βœ— No rumble on Switch
Reflex Pro

SCUF

Reflex Pro

4.3 (5,432 reviews)

Built for competitive play.

Paddles

4

Pros

  • βœ“ Four paddles
  • βœ“ Instant triggers

Cons

  • βœ— Very expensive
Budget Pick
FUSION Pro 3

PowerA

FUSION Pro 3

4.4 (7,654 reviews)

Wired means no latency.

Connection

Wired

Pros

  • βœ“ Wired reliability
  • βœ“ 4 back buttons

Cons

  • βœ— Wired only

Buying Guide: How to Choose Gaming Controllers

Pro Controllers

Back paddles keep thumbs on sticks.

Frequently Asked Questions About Gaming Controllers

Do they make you better?

Maybe 5-10% improvement for serious players.

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