So many new controllers were released this year, and not just re-skins of existing models, either! For controller fans, this was a great year to finally upgrade an aging controller or simply add a cooler version of an old favorite to their gaming arsenal. We reviewed over a dozen new controllers this year, covering press releases for even more, as special editions called our attention.
By now, everyone has heard about the incredibly accurate Hall effect sensors being added to almost every new controller. Unfortunately, this happened just as the market shifted to evenfaster and more reliable TMR sensors, now present in a handful of premium controllers and slowly making their way into more affordable brands’ lineups.
The controller market is in an arms race, and it seems to be benefitting gamers most of all, as third-party controllers are dominating many sectors. At the same time, we got a surprising controller release from Razer and some seriously unique designs from Xbox. Industry giants and relative nobodies are changing up their game at full speed ahead, making 2024’s top controllers a mixed bag of expansive features and value.
11PB Tails Crush Defender
Full Metal Gaming
ThePB Tails Metal Crush Defenderis a unique controller addition to the 2024 lineup, initially shaking things up by being the first controller to use TMR sensors for its joysticks. TMR joysticks are capable of a 1,000 to 2,000 Hz polling rate, which is at least twice as much as the standard 500 Hz you can expect from most Hall effect sensors. We reviewed this controller when it was released back in August, and found it to be one of the most impressive controllers to come out this year in terms of performance alone.
Of course, another big draw to the Crush Defender was its all-metal build, despite the heavy weight that it entails. That extra weight, along with the excellent grip design, makes it feel more immersive than other controllers. The controller comes with extra buttons and wireless compatibility with Switch, PC, and Android devices. The rugged metal look might be too much of a gimmick for some, but it is certainly unique and is backed by some impressive tech.
10Razer Wolverine V3 Pro
Here Come the Professionals
Although Razer has released controllers in the past, and premium ones at that, not many were prepared for them to drop one of the most advanced controllers in years in the middle of their annual product announcements. After reviewing the controller for a few weeks, theRazer Wolverine V3 Proproved to be absolutely superior to every other controller, and yet the price wasn’t set very high, comparatively. After all, at $200, it beats out theSCUF Instinct’s price tag.
Offering six remappable buttons, trigger stops, and Hall effect joysticks, the Wolverine V3 Pro isn’t missing much. Still, Razer went a step further and gave the four back paddles mouse click sensors, which are more responsive and provide a satisfying click with each press. The controller operates at a 1000Hz polling rate, and is among the fastest controllers for the Xbox Series X. It’s as if Razer said, “hold my beer,” to every other console controller company and then released the Wolverine V3 Pro, because this controller will likely be the very best console option for many months, if not years, even with TMR sensors on the horizon.
9PowerA Enhanced Wireless Controller
Super Cute Controllers for the Switch
PowerA is well-known for having excellent Switch controllers, as well as for offering a wide variety of designs. This year, they teamed up with Pokemon to create some of the cutest designs we’ve seen in a while, all with a beautiful pastel color scheme that stands apart from most gaming accessories. There are two versions of thePikachu Gardendesign available at Target: a Nano version witha running Pikachu, and standard one witha Pikachu eating fruit. Both of these controllers show off soft pinks and deep blue linework that just exude calming, cozy vibes.
Those with an Amazon Prime account can save on shipping if they choose another new Pikachu controller, thePokémon Blossom, which shows offPikachu in a bed of flowerssurrounded by violet smoke and a gray geometric pattern. Amazon also has the hilariously colorfulFortnite Peelycontroller that’s perfect for fans of the game, though it’s available through other retailers, too,such as Gamestop.
8BigBig Won Rainbow 2 Pro
From Zero to Hero
When BigBig Won arrived on the scene earlier this year, they were met with quite a bit of skepticism, even while beingtested for our review. However, the Rainbow 2 Pro exceeded all expectations and should be a go-to controller for anyone on Switch, PC, or mobile devices, especially if they like RGB lighting.
The super easy-to-use wireless dongle ensures stable connectivity with consoles and PCs, while the bluetooth is even easier and just as reliable with mobile devices. The controller is very customizable too, featuring swappable joysticks and D-pads, remappable buttons, and vibrant RGB lighting that can be personalized on the app.
Plus, this incredible controller is seriously affordable, at just $50 when on sale and $64 normally. Players can even opt to get a charging dock included and still spend less than $80! Given all of the included extra features, the customizability, and the premium internals, it’s one of the best value controllers to have been released in 2024.
Versatility for Game Pass Players
PowerA has a good reputation for a reason, and their2024 MOGA XP-ULTRAbrought a lot of innovation to the table, particularly for players with a Game Pass subscription. The controller can be used in three ways, pairing with Xbox, PCs, Android, and even some smart TVs. Additionally, the center of the controller can be removed, giving players an extremely compact gamepad that’s ideal for fighting games and retro gamers.
A convenient phone clip makes mobile gaming a cinch, especially since the clip is designed to prioritize the safety of the phone, even during bumpy rides. The entire controller is fairly compact to begin with too, making it fit perfectly into almost any bag or backpack. The strong connectivity is expected of a PowerA controller, but still, this unique, versatile design is one of the best mobile gaming controllers around, especially if you also play on Xbox.
6GameSir X4 Aileron
Compact and Capable Mobile Gaming
Taking notes from much more expensive brands, such as Razer, GameSir’s split-design mobile controller is one of the best to come out in 2024. Built in two separate pieces that connect magnetically,the GameSir X4 Aileronis super compact and offers a reliable bluetooth connection. As expected, there are also Hall effect sensors throughout and the split design allows devices to stay relatively cool.
GameSir has proven that they’re a capable brand, despite their affordable prices. Acting as a bit of an outlier, the X4 Aileron is about as expensive as its competition, but it has just as much to offer and earns its place in the big leagues.
5Microsoft Xbox Wireless Controller Sky Cipher Special Edition
Something Borrowed, Something Blue
Xbox has been releasing new color schemes and designs for their core wireless controllers all year, but one in particular stood out for its retro-inspired, yet totally futuristic style. Releasedjust this past August, the Sky Cipher controller is the first modern Xbox controller to have a fully transparent faceplate (the phantom magenta edition going opaque halfway down).
This stunning controller has a metallic sheen to it, with the blue cover showing off a matching internal cover that outlines the board below and the screws that hold everything in place. The rubber grip on the back of the controller is much higher quality than most other Xbox controllers, and again the vibrant blue pops here, slightly lighter than the rest of the body. Any Xbox fans who love a beautiful controller should absolutely not pass over the Sky Cipher edition.
4Flydigi Apex 4
Fancy PC Controller
A recent addition to the controller market,the Flydigi Apex 4 was reviewed by Game Rantjust last month, receiving decent praise. The customizable controller comes with expected features, including extra buttons and a 1,000 Hz polling rate, but there are other additions that are unique to the $160 gamepad.
For instance, an LCD screen, which can be used for a variety of things from adjusting your triggers to displaying fun GIFs. Although it isn’t as ergonomic or lightweight as other high-end controllers, it’s a great option for those who want a fancy controller for PC or mobile gaming.
3Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra
Long-Lasting Turtle Power
Perfect for console gamers looking for a futuristic gamepad, the Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra is a departure from the company’s normal audio fare. Despite this, the controller comes with a ton of features you’d expect from a $200 controller. An LCD screen, swappable joysticks, and RGB lighting are just some of the treatsyou’ll enjoy with Turtle Beach’s offering.
The wireless controller is compatible with Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Windows PC, and Android, and can last up to 30 hours on a single charge. Even if you run out of juice at some point, you may always recharge using the included dock.
2SCUF Envision Pro
Fantastic Grip
Those looking to go pro may want to turn to the Scuf Envision Pro, which only offers connectivity with PCs right now. It’s not durable enough to be a daily driver, but with advanced controls and super-low latency, it’s ideal for competitions. Plus, it looks like something that’s ready for competition-level gaming.
The back of the controller comes with a fantastic rubber grip wrapped around it, giving players a soft, ergonomic grip. SCUF’s software, iCue, allows players to customize the controller a bit, by either changing up the RGB lighting or re-assigning button functions. It comes at quite a high price, but given the large number of programmable buttons with mechanical switches, along with strong connectivity, many players will find it more than worthy of their time.
