Navigating the ever-expanding world of game controllers can be a daunting task, especially when venturing beyond the familiar territory of first-party offerings. Brands like Victrix, 8BitDo, and Nacon have introduced a plethora of options, each vying for your attention. While dedicated guides exist for specific platforms like PlayStation 5, Xbox, and PC, the year has already delivered a fresh wave of excellent gamepads. This list highlights some of the most impressive controllers, based on hands-on testing and reviews, to help you make an informed decision. Whether you’re seeking a new primary controller or a reliable spare for friends and family, these are the gamepads to keep on your radar.
Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller
- Price: £74.99
- Compatibility: Nintendo Switch 2
The Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller, while not the most revolutionary in terms of design, stands out as a top-tier first-party controller. Nintendo has implemented subtle yet impactful enhancements that make it a joy to use. The build quality is exceptional, featuring exceptionally smooth thumbsticks. The inclusion of two remappable buttons on the rear offers a welcome addition, easily configurable via a quick menu on a per-game basis. The controller’s outstanding battery life, lasting approximately 40-50 hours, significantly surpasses that of the PlayStation DualSense. As a substantial upgrade over the Joy-Con controllers, it is a worthwhile investment for playing games.
Victrix Pro BFG Reloaded
- Price: £179.99
- Compatibility: PS5, Xbox, and PC (PS5 and Xbox versions sold separately)
The Victrix Pro BFG Reloaded represents an evolution of the original Pro BFG and is positioned as a premium PS5 controller, with an Xbox version on the horizon. This controller retains the innovative swappable pad modules that made its predecessor so customisable, allowing users to choose between symmetrical, asymmetrical, or southpaw stick layouts. The refined Fightpad module is also a standout feature, particularly for fans of fighting games. A key upgrade in the Reloaded model is the incorporation of Hall effect thumbsticks, designed to enhance the controller’s lifespan and address concerns about stick drift. Given its price point, this longevity is a crucial consideration.
8BitDo Ultimate 2
- Price: £49.99
- Compatibility: Xbox, Nintendo Switch, and PC (Xbox and Switch versions sold separately)
The 8BitDo Ultimate 2 is a notable improvement over the original Ultimate controller. While the first model remains a favourite for the Nintendo Switch, the Ultimate 2, available in versions for Xbox and Switch, brings several advantages. It boasts TMR (tunnelling magnetoresistance) thumbsticks, an enhanced version of Hall effect technology for improved durability. The addition of two extra remappable bumpers and digital trigger locks further enhances its appeal. The new RGB ring lighting around the thumbsticks is visually striking and customisable, though it does impact battery life slightly when used wirelessly. Overall, this is a superb controller with only minor drawbacks.
Revolution X Unlimited
- Price: £179.99
- Compatibility: Xbox and PC
The Revolution X Unlimited from Nacon offers a superior experience. Exclusively compatible with Xbox consoles and PC, it presents several notable upgrades. A standout feature is the integrated LCD display. Nacon has streamlined its functionality, using a single button for navigation and providing a simple menu for headset and microphone audio adjustments, quick button mapping, and wireless pairing. The display provides exactly what is needed without unnecessary additions.
Horipad Turbo
- Price: £29.99
- Compatibility: Nintendo Switch and PC
The Horipad Turbo, a budget-friendly Nintendo Switch controller from Hori, is a solid low-cost option. Its built-in Turbo button is a valuable asset for games in Nintendo Switch Online’s retro libraries, allowing users to hold down a button for repeated inputs. While its budget nature is evident in its lightweight, plastic build quality and the absence of wireless, gyro, or vibration support, it serves as a reliable spare for local multiplayer gaming. It is available in several officially licensed Nintendo-themed designs.