Bruce Dias 
Choosing the best gaming controller for your PC can significantly enhance your esports gaming experience. With so many options available, it’s essential to consider several factors before making a purchase.
This guide will walk you through the key considerations so you can choose the best controller for PC gaming that perfectly fits your needs and playstyle.
Is PC Gaming Better with a Controller?
The age-old question: keyboard and mouse or controller? It’s a surprisingly even match, with each input method offering distinct advantages in PC gaming.
Keyboard gamers appreciate the dedicated buttons for singular functions, providing unparalleled precision and speed. Especially in games with in-game chat, the gaming keyboard and mouse combo is a clear winner for quick communication. It’s hard to argue against the sheer number of readily available inputs.
Of course, controller players immediately benefit from the ergonomic grip, which often feels more natural than spreading your fingers across a keyboard. Controllers centralize buttons within easy reach, making actions feel more intuitive. Additionally, less frequently used hotkeys can be layered using trigger keys, maximizing the controller’s functionality. It’s all about what feels right in your hands.
Types Of Games That Might Do Better On A Keyboard
- First-person shooters (for aiming precision)
- Rhythm Games (for multiple simultaneous inputs)
- Real-Time Strategy Games (for macro management and camera control)
- MMORPGs (for managing abilities and hot bars)
- MOBA Games (for precise targeting and quick spellcasting)
Types Of Games That Might Do Better On A Controller
- Fighting Games (for precise combos and movement)
- Racing Games (for analog control of steering and throttle)
- Platformers (for fluid movement and precise jumps)
- Sports Games (for intuitive control of players and actions)
- Third-person action Games (for camera control and character movement)
How to Choose a Gaming Controller for PC
1. Thumbstick Precision
Thumbstick precision is paramount for accurate aiming and movement. Stick drift is a common issue where the character moves without input and is more prevalent in lower-end models after prolonged use. Higher-quality controllers offer more precise thumbsticks, minimizing drift and maximizing accuracy.
Thumbstick sensitivity also plays a crucial role. Customizable sensitivity can be a game-changer, allowing you to fine-tune your aiming for different scenarios. Of course, how you handle your controller over time can also affect your thumbstick sensitivity. Roughhousing your controller can make it less sensitive to registering inputs when gaming, and it can even lead to stick drift.
A PC gaming controller with customizable sensitivity means you can tailor the responsiveness to your specific needs straight away.—snipers get to benefit from lower sensitivity for fine-grained aiming, while run-and-gun front liners might prefer higher sensitivity for quick turns and rapid adjustments.
2. Latency
In fast-paced shooters and competitive titles, a split second can cost you during a 1v1—that’s where latency, the delay between input and action, comes in.
Ideally, you should always go for a wired PC gaming controller since they offer the lowest latency, eliminating any lag associated with wireless connections. However, for players who still prefer a cable-free setup, you can look out for controllers that feature Wireless 2.4GHz USB Type-A dongles for ultra-low latency PC gaming, providing near-wired performance.
3. Button Sensitivity
Controller buttons can sometimes feel loose, and a weak tap might not register as a skill input. On the other hand, buttons that are too stiff might accidentally trigger your actions when you only meant to hover over them. If you’re too busy worrying about your button sensitivity, you won’t be able to make quick reactions when it counts.
The ideal balance is a tactile response that allows for both immediate action and prevents accidental presses.
Like keyboards, higher-end PC gaming controllers often feature tactile switches beneath the buttons, providing a distinct feel for each press and allowing you to gauge how far you’ve pressed the button without triggering a response.
4. Customizable Keybinds
Mapping keyboard controls to a controller can feel restrictive, especially given the limited number of buttons compared to a keyboard. Esports games, in particular, demand quick access to various functions, from weapon switching and quick commands to emotes.
If customizability is important to you, look for PC gaming controllers with extra function buttons or customizable button layouts. This way, you won’t have to remap your keys for every new game, allowing you to jump right into the action.
For the PC Gamer: The Razer Wolverine V3 Pro
Bring your A-game to your esports showdowns with the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro. Although primarily an Xbox controller, the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro boasts seamless PC compatibility, allowing you to experience its exceptional features and performance outside your console.
This wireless esports controller lets you compete against the world’s best without any hardware limitations.
Here’s what makes this PC gaming controller stand out:
- 6 Remappable Buttons: The Wolverine V3 Pro boasts 4 mouse-click back buttons and 2 claw grip bumpers, all ergonomically placed and rubberized for enhanced control.
- Razer™ Pro Hypertriggers: Toggle between shorter trigger pulls for instant actuation and longer trigger pulls for ultra-precise analog control via a convenient slide lock.
- Hall Effect Thumbsticks: Experience thumbsticks with anti-drift accuracy. Choose between shorter thumbstick caps for quicker response times or longer caps for more precise control.
- Pro-Level Customization: Customize thumbstick sensitivity, button layouts, and vibration sensitivity to create a truly immersive and intuitive gaming experience.
- PC Tournament Mode: Lock in for high-octane matches with the Wolverine V3 Pro’s dedicated Tournament Mode, enabling 1000Hz polling rates for lightning-fast responsiveness.
So What’s the Perfect Controller for PC Gaming?
Ultimately, the best controller for PC gaming is the one that feels best in your hands and complements your playstyle. There’s no single “best” option, as personal preference plays a huge role. Consider the types of games you play most frequently.
If you’re a competitive FPS player, low latency and precise thumbsticks are paramount. If you enjoy a variety of genres, a versatile controller with customizable keybinds and comfortable ergonomics is key.
Don’t be afraid to try out different controllers if possible, read reviews, and consider the factors we’ve discussed. Whether you prioritize wired connectivity, wireless freedom, or a balance of both, the right controller is out there waiting to elevate your PC gaming experience. So, do your research, find your perfect match, and game on.
Get free delivery on your gaming gear with no minimum spend—only at Razer.com.
