Xbox One Controllers: Get in the Game
Ask any gamer and they’ll tell you: your choice of gaming controller can mean the difference between winning and losing, between elation and endless frustration. Between gloating and mockery. Whether you need to replace a worn-out controller, pick up a few spares for when your friends come over to play some co-op, or take your skills to the next level with a specialty controller, we’ve got you covered. Read on to learn which Xbox One controllers are the best choice for your battle station.
Official Xbox One Controllers
For both casual and more serious gamers, the official Xbox One wireless controller is the first and only choice. Not only is it optimized to work seamlessly with Xbox One, Xbox One S, and Xbox One X consoles, it also features a lot of other unique perks as well.
The ergonomic design and textured grips make it great for marathon gaming sessions, and the Impulse Triggers provide precise vibration feedback to your fingers for added realism. Official Xbox One controllers also have built-in expansion ports, so you can plug in an accessory, such as a mini-keyboard, which makes chatting in-game or searching for movie titles quick and easy.
One of the most popular features of official Xbox One controllers is their compatibility with Windows 10. Yep, that’s right—with an Xbox Wireless Adapter (a simple USB dongle) you can use the controller to play games on your Windows 10 PC, laptop, or tablet.
Specialty Xbox One Controllers
If you want to go the unofficial route, you’ll have a wide variety of choice. Most basic unofficial Xbox One controllers have fewer bells and whistles overall, but they tend to be more budget-friendly as well, making them great for families with kids. These controllers are usually wired, as opposed to wireless, so you’ll want to consider how far the controllers will be from the Xbox One console during use.
Many third-party controllers offer highly specialized layouts and functions for specific types of games and styles of play. For instance, you can get controllers designed especially for use with fighting games, or controllers with extra buttons that can be mapped to perform specific in-game functions. In the heat of battle, every second counts, so specialized controllers can be worth the investment if you’re a serious gamer.
Xbox One Elite Wireless Controller
For those who want to take their gameplay to the pro level, the official Xbox Elite wireless controller is a must-have. Made from high-quality premium materials and designed for maximum control and comfort, the Elite controller is made for hardcore gamers who demand precision and reliability.
It features reinforced rings around each thumbstick to minimize wear and ensure smooth in-game action, as well as hair trigger locks that let you fire faster than ever in split-second shooter games. Optional interchangeable paddles can also be added to the back of the controller to give you more control at your fingertips. Plus, you can customize the entire controller with a downloadable companion app, which gives you the ability to tweak everything from button sensitivity to custom mapping.