A couple of years ago, opting for a budget controller meant compromising on plenty of features. Thankfully, that’s no longer the case, and even budget gaming controllers offer a winning combination of affordability and functionality. In this post, we’ve rounded up a stellar lineup of budget-friendly PC gaming controllers that deliver on performance.
Logitech F310
- Connectivity: Wired
- Customizable Buttons: Yes
- Headset Connection: No
Since its debut in 2010, the Logitech F310 has consistently held its position as one of the finest wired controllers for your PC. Even today, it stands out as one of the most affordable gaming controllers available. Despite its economical price, this controller packs in a plethora of features. To start, the controller’s design mirrors Sony’s PlayStation gamepad layout, placing the joysticks down low.
The build quality isn’t extraordinary; the controller feels rigid in the hand. While the Logitech F310 itself is plug-and-play, you can download and use the Logitech Gaming software from the official website to customize the buttons. However, keep in mind that the official support for this software has ended, so you might run into crashes on modern Windows PCs. That said, the controller should still run fine.
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EasySMX Wireless Controller
- Connectivity: Wired/Wireless
- Customizable Buttons: Yes
- Headset Connection: No
The EasySMX wireless controller should be your pick for a budget-friendly and versatile gaming controller. It works seamlessly with Windows PC and a variety of other platforms. What’s more, it also throws in programmable buttons for that extra touch of customization. The controller has four programmable keys on the back. The programmable toggles can also be used to record macros, which can be handy for various games. The EasySMX Wireless Gaming Controller comes with a built-in battery that can easily be charged via the device’s USB-C port
The USB-C connector also allows you to use the controller in wired mode while it charges. Or, you could connect it wirelessly via the supplied USB dongle. The good thing is that the controller shows no noticeable input lag even in wireless mode. That’s a pretty sweet deal, especially considering the price tag. Just a heads up, though: the dongle is on the bulkier side, reminiscent of those old-school pen drives. So, before you plug in the USB receiver, double-check that there’s enough room around the USB port.
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PowerA Enhanced
- Connectivity: Wired
- Customizable Buttons: Yes
- Headset Connection: Yes
Microsoft officially licenses PowerA controllers for use with both Xbox and Windows PCs, ensuring reliability and seamless compatibility. The design mirrors the official Xbox controller but with a bonus – two extra programmable buttons on the backside for that personalized touch. You can easily program these extra buttons on the fly using the added program button on the rear end.
Feel-wise, it’s a tad lighter than the official Xbox controller. However, this is mainly because it’s wired. Instead of a heavy battery inside, you get a handy detachable USB-A to USB-C cable. The PowerA Enhanced controller also boasts a 3.5mm headset port. That means you can effortlessly connect your headset or microphone directly to the controller, minimizing cable clutter in your setup.
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Turtle Beach Recon
- Connectivity: Wired
- Customizable Buttons: Yes
- Headset Connection: Yes
The Turtle Beach Recon has practically all the features you could ask for in a budget controller and then some. You get a stellar design that’s based on the official Xbox controller. At the same time, the design adds more functionality to the controller, including two programmable quick-action buttons with seamless profile switching. Add to that, the controller has an ergonomic cooling grip handle on the surface. This allows you to game for extended sessions without your hands getting sweaty.
Turtle Beach is also known for making some of the best budget gaming headsets out there. Interestingly, the Recon controller offers a 3.5mm headset jack at the bottom coupled with an audio console at the top of the controller, too. So, you can make use of a bunch of EQ presets to hear enemy footsteps and gunshots better. As for gaming features, it packs in the unique Pro-Aim Focus Mode. As noted by the folks over at IGN, this is a great feature that mimics a DPI sniper button on gaming mice, offering greater accuracy by adjusting the right stick’s sensitivity.
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What We Don’t Like
HyperX Clutch Gladiate RGB
- Connectivity: Wired
- Customizable Buttons: Yes
- Headset Connection: Yes
Just because you’re shopping on a budget doesn’t mean you should compromise on the RGB flair. The HyperX Clutch Gladiate RGB brings RGB lighting and a translucent design that looks great and offers solid performance. The highlight of this controller is the mesmerizing translucent shell which showcases the inner workings, thus adding a cool cyberpunk vibe to your setup
The RGB LEDs within shine brightly; you can even choose from three different lighting patterns and seven colors. The controller is also Officially Licensed by Xbox, similar to the PowerA controllers on this list, for guaranteed compatibility with Windows PCs. Apart from the looks, the Clutch Gladiate RGB also has plenty of gaming features in its arsenal. Similar to the Turtle Beach Recon, this HyperX controller allows you to set the lock position for the triggers.
While it’s restricted to just two levels, the feature is available for both left and right triggers. The controller also offers two programmable buttons, dual rumble motors, and a 3.5mm stereo headset port. Pool everything together, and it’s easily one of the best budget controllers for PCs on the market.
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What We Don’t Like
8Bitdo Ultimate 2.4g
- Connectivity: Wired/Wireless
- Customizable Buttons: Yes
- Headset Connection: No
8Bitdo is known for making premium controllers for Windows, and the 8Bitdo Ultimate is one of their best affordable wireless controllers. It has an attractive design and a beautiful and functional charging dock. It’s also compatible with multiple platforms, so you can use the same controller across your PC and other gaming devices. Plus, it packs many cool features.
First, there’s a custom profile-switching button that lets users sift between three profiles on the fly. Second, it offers two Pro back paddle buttons that are fully customizable. Note that you’ll have to use the Ultimate Software app on your PC to do that. Similar to the Logitech F310, the 8Bitdo Ultimate also comes with compatibility for both X-Input and D-Input. Add to that; the controller is fully compatible with other platforms, such as the Steam Deck, as well as mobile gaming platforms like Android and iOS.
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Last updated on 02 August, 2024
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