by He has HBOs The Last of Us encourage you to play the PlayStation games(Opens in a new tab) inspired the show? Whether you’re a newbie gamer looking to buy a PlayStation 5 or a seasoned pro looking for a few upgrades, you’ll want the best possible add-ons. One of the most important? A controller.
Now is the best time to buy a PlayStation 5 controller
Just a few months ago, there would probably be no point in writing a summary of the best PS5 controllers, due to the fact that the popular console was almost inaccessible. You couldn’t find one(Opens in a new tab) unless you had a huge amount of luck on your side. Fortunately, you can now, without headaches.
It took over two years to see reliable stock of the new-gen console. It’s good timing: With the recent releases of flagship PlayStation 5 accessories like the PSVR2 and DualSense Edge(Opens in a new tab)with more PS5 exclusives coming in 2023, demand for consoles is likely to be high for the foreseeable future.
Why buy a controller when the PS5 already comes with one?
You really don’t need to buy another controller when you get your PlayStation 5. The DualSense controller that comes with the console is a solid choice and supports all the most important PS5 features. But, if you want a controller that lets you do more – namely alternate key mapping – you’re better off upgrading. And hey, having an extra controller on hand is always a plus.
Best gifts for gamers 2023: Consoles, accessories, new releases, and more
Not all brands are created equal
There are more options than ever for PlayStation 5 controllers, whether first or third party. It’s a double-edged sword, though – more choice also means there’s plenty of opportunity for illegitimate sellers to strike while the iron is hot. While sourcing for this roundup, I came across multiple retailers that gave me strange feelings when trying to buy one of their PS5 controllers (including sites like AimControllers(Opens in a new tab) and HexGaming)(Opens in a new tab).
I couldn’t fully confirm that these sites were scammy, because I was never able to get my hands on one of their products, but they definitely gave off those vibes. In the case of AimControllers, my editor and I were suspicious when we were asked for additional credit card and official ID information after ordering a controller, which we promptly canceled. With HexGaming, I couldn’t even get to the checkout page because the website is a hot mess.
All of this is to say that you should be wary of third-party sites and make sure to do your research before buying from one. My recommendation is to buy a PS5 controller directly from Sony, or from a brand that has an official license to make controllers for the PS5 (like Razer(Opens in a new tab) and SCUF)(Opens in a new tab). If you buy from a seller that is not trusted by other consumers or is not officially licensed, you may be getting a modded Playstation controller, which is probably not what you want.
What are the best PlayStation 5 controllers?
I’ve narrowed it down to six choices, and they’re all great for different reasons. Do you have a personal favorite? The Razer Wolverine V2 Pro(Opens in a new tab). The convenient remapping process, the comfort factor, the impressive response times, and the satisfying click of every button make it my new choice. Note that this recommendation is coming from someone who is fine with giving up the haptics and adaptive triggers that the PlayStation 5 has to offer. When I first got my PS5 I was very happy with those features, but after more than two years of having them, they’ve worn me out a bit and gone from a necessity to a nice to have. If you don’t have the new PS5, you might want to stick with the DualSense(Opens in a new tab) or DualSense Edge(Opens in a new tab) for a while to really experience the magic.
I tried the very popular SCUF Reflex Pro(Opens in a new tab) and PDP Victrix Pro BFG(Opens in a new tab), which is more niche but still worthy picks. No matter which one you decide on, one thing is for sure: There’s never been a more exciting time to shop for a PlayStation 5 controller.
