7 Best Budget PC Gaming Controllers Under $50

While the mouse-and-keyboard combo reigns supreme for some genres, many titles warrant the intuitive comfort of a gamepad. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or just getting started, having the right controller can make all the difference. But who says you have to empty your pockets for a top-notch gaming experience? If you’re on the lookout for the best budget PC gaming controllers, you’ve come to the right place.

We’ve rounded up a stellar lineup of budget-friendly PC gaming controllers that deliver on performance. From ergonomic designs to customizable buttons and options of the wired and wireless variety, we’ve got your gaming needs covered. And the best part is that all these controllers are available for under $50. So, without wasting any time, let’s look at the best budget PC gaming controllers you can buy right now.

But first, you might want to check out the following:

• The top gaming mice for FPS games.
• The most suitable wireless gaming headsets under $100 for gamers.
• These affordable gaming keyboards for your gaming PC.

1. Logitech F310

• Connectivity: Wired
• Customizable Buttons: Yes
• Headset Connection: No

To start, the controller’s design mirrors Sony’s PlayStation gamepad layout, placing the joysticks down low. The upper left side houses the D-pad, and you’ll find the XYAB buttons on the upper right side. While the build quality isn’t extraordinary, the controller feels rigid in the hand.

What makes the Logitech F310 stand out is its support for both X-input and DirectInput settings. In the world of modern gaming, XInput is the go-to, but if you’re delving into older games on your PC or using an emulator, the DirectInput settings come in handy. Conveniently, you can switch between these modes using the toggle at the back of the controller.

While the controller itself is plug-and-play, you can download and use the Logitech Gaming software from the official website to customize the buttons. However, do 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.

2. EasySMX Wireless Controller

• Connectivity: Wired/Wireless
• Customizable Buttons: Yes
• Headset Connection: No

You get a total of four programmable keys on the controller, which are located on the backside. The programmable toggles can also be used to record macros, which can come in 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. This also allows you to use the controller in wired mode while it charges. Or, you could connect it wirelessly via the supplied USB dongle.

Speaking of which, customers appreciate that, even in wireless mode, the controller shows no noticeable input lag. 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.

3. 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 compared to the official Xbox controller. However, this is mainly because it’s of the wired variety. 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.

But that’s not all. If you prefer to have a bit more fancy setup, PowerA also offers the PowerA Spectra Infinity Enhanced controller. These controllers are available in either White or Black colorway, with RGB lighting through them. Alternatively, if you prefer more control over your trigger sticks, there’s the PowerA Advantage Wired Controller. It comes with 3-Way Trigger Locks, allowing you to customize the travel distance of the triggers as per your liking.

4. 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.

5. HyperX Clutch Gladiate RGB

• Connectivity: Wired
• Customizable Buttons: Yes
• Headset Connection: Yes

The first thing that will grab your attention is the controller’s mesmerizing translucent shell. It showcases the controller’s inner workings, 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.

6. 8Bitdo Ultimate 2.4g

• Connectivity: Wired/Wireless
• Customizable Buttons: Yes
• Headset Connection: No

Dressed in three eye-catching colors – Pink, White, and Black- the 8Bitdo Ultimate gaming controller looks great and packs many cool features up its sleeve. There’s a custom profile-switching button that lets users sift between three profiles on the fly. Plus, 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. According to customers, it’s easily one of the best companion software for budget gaming controllers.

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. The charging dock makes charging the controller a lot easier and adds to your setup’s aesthetics.

8Bitdo Ultimate also has a more expensive version that adds Bluetooth connectivity and Motion Control. It also doubles up as a great controller for the Nintendo Switch, if that’s what you want. However, as far as PC gaming is concerned, this variant should suffice for most folks out there.

7. Razer Wolverine V2

• Connectivity: Wired
• Customizable Buttons: Yes
• Headset Connection: Yes

One of the standout features of the Wolverine V2 is its design. It promotes a natural grip with enhanced comfort, and the non-slip rubber grips allow for extended gaming sessions. Similar to most gaming controllers, the Wolverine V2 also features added programmable buttons. However, it has them at the front of the controller for easier reachability.

The controller also comes with a Hair Trigger Mode that greatly reduces travel distance to the main triggers. As for the buttons and the D-Pad, they make use of the Mecha-Tactile switches. With a reduced actuation distance of 0.65mm, not only are these highly responsive, but they also deliver tactile feedback. The Razer Wolverine V2 is also an officially Xbox-licensed controller and is customizable via the Razer Controller Setup for Xbox or via the Razer Synapse for Windows PCs.

However, if you want more customizability with the signature Razer Chroma RGB lighting, you can check out the Wolverine V2 Chroma controller. On the other hand, if you fancy multi-platform compatibility, the Official Luna Wireless Controller is also often on sale, retailing for under $50 during festive sales.

Game Better with These Budget Gaming Controllers for PC

A couple of years ago, opting for a budget controller meant having to compromise on plenty of features. Thankfully, that’s no longer the case. Each of these best budget PC gaming controllers offers a winning combination of affordability and functionality, proving that great gaming experiences can come at a reasonable price. Remember, the most important factor is finding a controller that feels comfortable and responsive to you. Try them out if possible, read reviews, and don’t be afraid to experiment to find the perfect budget gamepad for your PC gaming journey.