Whiletop-tier gaming controllerscontinue to hone their designs closer to perfection, plenty of players just want a gamepad that works well. It’s relatively easy to findgaming controllers under $100, but there’s no need to be thrifty to find an excellent controller for under $50. Budget-savvy gamers can thread the needle between absolute budget options and high-end devices to find an affordable controller outfitted with all the bells and whistles they need to compete.
Game Rant’s picks for the Best Gaming Controllers under $50
GameSir G7 SE Wired Controller For Xbox
The G7 SE Controller is a licensed Xbox controller featuring Hall Effect sticks and tons of customization options. With two extra buttons and four on-board profiles, remapping the button layout is quick and easy. The GameSir Nexus app allows for further customization of the controller’s haptic feedback and input sensitivity. The only Xbox controller to have Hall Effect joysticks, this wired controller is one of the most cutting-edge options available.
The Gamesir G7 controller is one of the newest Xbox gaming controllers on the market and the only one to offer advanced Hall Effect joysticks, making it the best gaming controller under $50 in 2023. Additionally, by implementing Hall Effect technology, this design eliminates friction-based wear and tear by utilizing magnetic sensors. Even the Xbox Elite Series 2 controller doesn’t offer stick drift protection through Hall Effect stick sensors.
This wired gaming controller is supremely comfortable too, offering a lightweight build and plenty of grippy textures throughout the design. Gamesir’s G7 controller is also extremely customizable, with a simple app ready to change just about every setting and a magnetic faceplate ripe for artistic application. Coming in at just under $45, the price beats out most Xbox controllers while providing players with more advanced functionality and durability than any other option.
Find out more about why the Gamesir G7 wired controller is one of the absolute best byreading Game Rant’s recent review.
Turtle Beach REACT-R Game Controller
The Turtle Beach REACT-R is a game controller designed for Microsoft’s Xbox game consoles. This controller is licensed for Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, Xbox One, and Windows. It features Turtle Beach’s game-enhancing audio controls, a Superhuman Hearing feature for the sound settings, and two mappable quick-action buttons. The ergonomic design of the controller includes textured grips for better grip even when the action gets intense and palms sweaty. It also hides inside a powerful and immersive vibration feedback motor.
Most wired controllerscan be had for less than $50, but the Turtle Beach REACT-R controller packs in a lot of features for being under $40. Compatible with both Xbox and PC, it should come as no surprise that the controller is a particularly enticing offering for players who use wired headsets.
As such, there are audio controls on the gamepad ready to enhance in-game audio with more precision than most other options. While plenty of controllers and headsets allow for audio customization through apps, the REACT-R controller allows players to adjust the chat mix, mute their mic, and activate “Superhuman Hearing”, a software enhancement that makes quiet sounds, such as footsteps or reloading, much louder and clearer.
Along with the advanced audio controls, gamers get much of what is expected of modern controllers. Each handle and the triggers have excellent texture wraps, though the joysticks are a little bare, only providing a familiar concave shape and some texture around the edge. The two programmable buttons on the back also come with some texture and are easy to remap. Fans of wired gaming peripherals, or the Turtle Beach brand in general, will have few complaints about the REACT-R controller.
GameSir T4 Cyclone
The GameSir T4 Cyclone wireless switch controller is compatible with Switch, Windows 10/11, Android, iOS, and Steam Deck. Hall Effect joysticks offer zero dead zone and anti-drift joystick performance, while Hall effect analog triggers allow users to switch from regular triggers to fast trigger mode when playing FPS or RPG games. The 2 macro back buttons can be assigned to a single button or a set of buttons, even allowing users to execute complex combo motions with ease. With motion controls and three connectivity options, this controller is packed with features.
GameSir wowed the world with its release of the first Xbox controller with Hall effect joysticks, but since then they have been expanding their lineup and can now offer a wireless controller perfect for gamers on Switch, PC, and mobile devices.
The T4 Cyclone may not be compatible with Xbox consoles, but with an extremely low-latency wireless dongle and bluetooth connectivity, lots of players can get these advanced controls for less than $50. Plus, the included USB-C cable allows for an even lower latency connection ideal for competitive gaming.
Along with the Hall effect joysticks, the more common Hall effect triggers offer up to a 0.1mm accuracy. The entire controller is very responsive, and with GameSir’s app, customizing the sensitivity is easy. The app also makes it easy to change the two back buttons, though they can also be remapped using the controller itself.
Switch playability isn’t just tacked on either, with the T4 Cyclone including motion controls too. With a battery life of up to 25 hours and USB-C connectivity, the GameSir T4 Cyclone is the best wireless gaming controller under $50 for most players not using an Xbox or Playstation.
PowerA Spectra Infinity Enhanced Wired Controller
The PowerA Spectra Infinity is an officially licensed controller for the Xbox Series X and S. Offering 20 color presets and three lighting zones, players can give it a unique look. Featuring excellent performance in games and a three-way trigger lock system players can take their games to the next level!
PowerA is a fan-favorite gaming controller brand and for good reason: they make excellent controllers at an affordable price. The PowerA Spectra is one of the best RGB controllers on the market overall, offering players bright backlighting with five shades per color that are ready to be displayed across three distinct zones.
Since this gaming controller under $50 is wired, there’s no need to worry about batteries being run down by the customizable RGB. Plus, the wired connection is compatible with PC and either Xbox orNintendo Switch, depending on which version gamers pick. Both versions feature a 3.5mm headset jack and two remappable buttons on the back, while the Xbox version additionally offers built-in mic control. The smooth shell and all-around high-quality build ensure lasting durability to support players for years to come.
PXN P50L Wireless Switch Pro Controller
The PXN P50L is a Switch Pro controller, which is compatible with Switch, iOS, and PC. The controller supports both wireless and wired connections via Bluetooth and USB cable. It comes with a standard button layout and an ergonomic design that is comfortable to hold. There are two vibration motors, offering feedback on both Switch and PC. The 550 mAh battery gives the controller up to 20 hours of gameplay time.
The PXN P50L might be one of the cheapest wireless controllers on the market, but for players who want plenty of customizability, it’s tough to beat without spending more than $50. Although the connectivity isn’t the best, gamers who aren’t playing competitive games won’t notice any issues.
Meanwhile, with both on-board and app-based customizability available, plus three colors to choose from, players can really make the P50L controller their own. The two buttons on the back could be bigger, but they’re as responsive as players expect and just as easy to remap. Using the mobile app, gamers can change the sensitivity, tactile feedback, or take the long way around to remap the extra buttons.
Despite being listed for less than $20, the PXN P50L is shockingly impressive for non-competitive gameplay. Compatible with Switch, PC, and mobile, most gamers on a budget who value customizability should add the P50L to their gaming setup.
PDP REMATCH Enhanced Wireless Pro Controller
Officially licensed by Nintendo, the PDP REMATCH Enhanced Wireless Pro Controller is perfect for Switch players. Featuring a built-in, rechargeable battery with up to 40 hours of play time on a single charge, this controller offers players a 30-foot wireless connection so they can play comfortably from the couch. Players can customize their gameplay with dual programmable back buttons, while the expert design provides excellent performance and maximum comfort for all-day play.
PDP’s Rematch Enhanced wireless controller has been a staple of Nintendo fans since it was released, and its low price is only part of the reason. Known for its affordable controllers, PDP once again offers players a lightweight Switch gamepad that’s built to last, though thanks to some cost-cutting solutions.
Foremost among these caveats is the fact that the controller just feels cheap. The plastic shell is smooth and has basically no curves to help create a comfortable grip. Regardless, the lightweight and bulbous buttons make it easy to play with for long periods of time. Plus, with its 40-hour battery life, players can really get away with gaming marathons using this controller.
PDP’s Rematch Enhanced controller is often on sale for less than $40, though some of their most exciting designs are only available with the wired version of the same controller, which is usually even cheaper at around $20. Featuring two programmable buttons on the back and a 30-foot range, this controller is ideal for Nintendo fans who either want something simple and cheap or would prefer a controller with their favorite character on it without breaking the bank.
GameSir X2s Type-C Controller
Gamesir X2s Type-C is designed to work seamlessly with iPhone 15 series, Android, HarmonyOS, Folding Screen and other Type C mobile phones. Supporting Apple MFi, Android games, Cloud gaming, game emulators, XboxGame PASS, Stem/Moonliaght streaming, and PS Remote Play, players can enjoy almost any game they want! Featuring Hall Effect Triggers and sensing joysticks, the X2S is perfect for smooth and responsiven gameplay, even in FPS and action games.
GameSir seems to be dominating the affordable controller market right now, and their last-gen mobile controller, the X2S, is a prime example. This simple retractable mobile controller is designed to work with USB-C phones, such as Androids and the iPhone Series 15, even including foldable phones.
Of course, this GameSir controller utilizes their innovative Hall effect joysticks and triggers, though some players report having latency issues when using some apps. However, non-competitive gamers likely won’t run into any issues.
The basic style may not be for everyone, but it does have a bit of a nostalgic look with its gray and purple color scheme. Considering that most mobile controllers that connect to phones directly are often upwards of $80, players on a budget will get what they need out of the GameSir X2S.
FAQ
Q: How much is a good gaming controller?
Typical prices for a good gaming controller range from around $40 to around $70.
Q: Which controller has the least stick drift?
Controllers with Hall Effect joysticks have the least amount of stick drift, but they can be hard to track down. In general, controllers with higher durability will have the least stick drift.
Q: Are generic controllers worth it?
Generic or third-party brand controllers can be a worthwhile investment, depending on what a player is looking for. Budget-wise, they often can’t be beat, but typically one or more performance aspects are sacrificed to lower the overall cost.
Q: Are controllers better for FPS games?
While controllers are much more comfortable to use for FPS gaming, most professional players prefer to use a mouse and keyboard setup in order to have as much precise control as possible.
