Wired controllers, while not as popular as wireless controllers, surprisingly offer many advantages to games that have become more clear in recent years. The reasons boil down to 2 primary factors: Price and Functionality. Wired gaming controllers tend to be cheaper and have fewer compatibility issues because they discount the need for a wireless adapter or connectivity. They also happen to offer invariably better input latency and do not have to deal with interference that some controllers might have to thanks to overcrowded transmission bands.

  • GameSir G7 SE Wired Controller
    GameSir G7 SE Wired Controller For Xbox
    Best Overall Wired Controller
    $43 at Newegg
  • nacon pro compact colorlight header
    Nacon Pro Compact Colorlight Controller
    Best RGB Wired Controller
    $40 at GameStop
  • PowerA Enhanced Wired Controller for Nintendo Switch
    PowerA Enhanced Wired Controller for Nintendo Switch
    Best Wired Controller for Switch
    $21 at Best Buy
  • 61v+DBukaML._SL1296_
    Turtle Beach Recon Wired Game Controller
    Best Wired Controller for Xbox
    $60 at Best Buy
  • Hori PlayStation Fighting Commander Octa
    HORI PlayStation 5 Fighting Commander OCTA
    Best Wired Controller for PlayStation
    $56 at Walmart
  • hyperx clutch gladiate
    HyperX Clutch Gladiate Enhanced Wired Controller
    Best Wired Controller for PC
    $35 at Newegg
  • MAYFLASH Universal Arcade Fighting Stick F500
    MAYFLASH Universal Arcade Fighting Stick F500
    Best Wired Fight Stick
    See at Amazon
  • Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma Wired Controller
    Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma
    Best Premium Wired Controller
    $120 at Walmart
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The best gaming controller offers enhanced customization and performance on PC, PlayStation, Nintendo Switch, and Xbox.

Simply put, a wired gaming controller is relatively inexpensive and simpler to handle than a wireless one, and given that some professionals, who generally do not have pricing constraints when it comes to their weapon of choice, sometimes favor running their controllers in wired mode, it seems to be a mainstay for gaming until wireless controllers are just as good in terms of latency (some do come incredibly close). Other perks are also in play. For one, you do not have to worry about losing your controller or making sure it has adequate charge.

Game ZXC's picks for the Best Wired Controllers

Our pick for the best wired gaming controller is the GameSir G7 SE. GameSir released the G7 SE in 2023, and in the process heralded in the industry’s current race to add Hall effect sensors to gaming controllers. Despite plenty of new players entering the field with third-party Hall effect options, GameSir’s G7 SE controller manages to offer excellent performance without breaking the bank. The controller isn’t the most stylish choice, but the simple white faceplate can easily be removed so that users can customize them separately either by themselves or with the help of a commissioned artist. The controller comes with ample texture around the handles and on the triggers and joysticks, so gamers get a more breathable and stable grip, even if the controller doesn’t quite advertise its comfortability with something like rubberized wraps.

The 10-foot long cord is lightweight and easy to manipulate, making it ideal for gaming from the couch while also helping to keep desks from getting too cluttered during games. The cord can also be removed, allowing for more compact storage. Players can customize the buttons on the G7 using their intuitive PC app, though the layout can be changed on the fly using the controller itself.

In Game ZXC’s review of the G7, we found that the Hall effect sticks are super snappy and immediately distinguishable from standard controllers. The triggers are just as responsive and reliable, even after months of use. Gamesir’s G7 SE controller has some of the most advanced tech packed in and, as a result, it’s the best wired gaming controller so far in 2024.

The limited edition Nacon Pro Compact Colorlight is our pick for the best RGB wired gaming controller. Game ZXC reviewed Nacon’s Colorlight, finding it to have a shockingly comfortable grip and seriously brilliant RGB lighting.

Even though most RGB controllers utilize the clear-shell design to show off their RGB lighting, Nacon’s attempt has a few unique advantages over the competition. Relying on six LEDs, rather than the more standard five, the Colorlight’s bulbs are able to display dual-toned colors, allowing for much more dynamic lighting than other RGB controllers.

Unfortunately, the cord is a bit heavier than standard wired controllers, but it’s easy to get used to and can be folded up quite well, even while in use somewhat. Other key features of the controller function as expected or better, such as the software Nacon uses for the Pro Compact, which is available on both PC and Xbox and is a breeze to use. The impressive array of 25 available colors actually shine true, plus there are four preset layouts with three different modes that gamers can play with to personalize design their lighting.

Along with changing the colors of each LED, players can also adjust the sensitivity of the triggers and joysticks, and remap the buttons to better suit different games. The super bright Nacon Colorlight is the best way to go for wired controller fans in search of excellent RGB gaming accessories.

Switch players who want a cool controller with their favorite characters on full display should look no further than the PowerA Enhanced Wired Controller. This wired gaming controller comes in a staggering 29 unique designs featuring fan favorites like Princess Peach, Tom Nook, and Pikachu.

PowerA is well-known in the gaming community for having affordable and reliable accessories, and the Enhanced wired controller is one of their leading models. Featuring two remappable buttons on the back, this controller can support more advanced players who like to hotkey moves for MMOs and RPGs. There could stand to be a bit more texture on the controller, but the contoured shape is comfortable enough for most players. Additionally, the joysticks and triggers are very durable, with few user reviews mentioning issues down the line.

Prices vary based on the chosen design, but most are marked down from $28, with certain limited edition controllers being available for the still very reasonable price of $33. This great price, combined with PowerA’s dependable construction, licensed designs, and reliable connectivity make the PowerA Enhanced Wired Controller the best wired controller for the Nintendo Switch.

In-line with many wireless controller options, the Turtle Beach Recon wired controller is a bit pricey, but for Xbox fans who really prefer wired connections, it’s more than worthwhile. Turtle Beach is best known for their gaming headsets, so it only makes sense that the Recon controller pays a lot of attention to audio support.

On-board audio controls allow players to not only perform basic changes, such as volume control and muting, but also more advanced customization like EQ levels.There’s also the “Superhuman Hearing” button, which amplifies footsteps, reloading, and other quiet sounds. There’s even mic monitoring included, making it easy to really enhance even budget-level headsets, especially given the ubiquitous 3.5mm jack included. Overall, gamers who enjoy excellent audio, but who may not be able to afford a premium sound system or headset will be especially pleased by Turtle Beach’s wired controller.

Along with impressive internals, the Recon features excellent ergonomic design, with rubberized texture wraps going around each handle and providing decent breathability. Tactile texture is also placed on the joysticks, triggers, and the extra two buttons on the back too, making it difficult to miskey. Those two extra buttons can also be customized on the fly and tied to any one of four profiles. There are some reports of stick drift developing, but given its mid-range price and plethora of extra features, Xbox fans will have little to complain about if they go with the Turtle Beach Recon wired controller.

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The HORI PlayStation 5 Fighting Commander OCTA is a PlayStation-centric controller that offers a premium wired experience for those of us who do not like DualSense's shortcomings as a fightpad at its current price point. That is not to say that it doesn't have its quirks - build quality complaints and a somewhat unstable PC mode at times, but overall, the good significantly outweighs the bad for this pro-grade controller that sacrifices an analog stick for a more fightpad-centric design.

Additional buttons are always welcome, but the OCTA has a different take here: It pushes the R1 and R2 onto the front surface of the controller itself, making it one of the best retro-grade controllers currently available on the PlayStation product line. The ability to customize the controller down to sensitivity via the bundled companion app does add considerable value as the controller will inevitably age over time; Alternatively, it could be used to set profiles for different games such as Tekken, and Street Fighter.

Best Retro Gaming Controllers in 2023 Thumb
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All in, the HORI PlayStation 5 Fighting Commander OCTA is not everyone's cup of tea, nor is it professing to be such. It does however fill the void on the PlayStation by offering an affordable and stellar retro-grade controller that goes beyond the basics of competing with a fightstick for the fighting genre. And based on personal experience, controllers like these take a heavy beating if they are fighting centric which means it is built to last, even if the build quality could do with a minor overhaul at its price point.

hyperx clutch gladiate
Best Wired Controller for PC
HyperX Clutch Gladiate Enhanced Wired Controller

The HyperX Clutch Gladiate Enhanced Wired Controller is a comfortable and powerful accessory for PC and Xbox players. Featuring trigger stops and programmable buttons, gamers can customize their experience without having to download extra software. The long cord and durable construction ensure that players will enjoy this high-quality controller through hours-long gaming sessions.

Brand
HyperX
Battery
N/A
Connectivity
Wired
Headset Support
3.5mm Headset Jack
Extra Buttons
2
Pros
  • Compatible with both PC and Xbox One/Series X
  • A 10 Ft braided wire means that there is plenty of distance between the couch and the console
  • Comes with a 2 year warranty
Cons
  • Programmable buttons can lag on Xbox
  • Trigger locks could be better
See at Amazon$35 at Newegg$35 at HyperX

HyperX’s newest wired controller packs a surprising punch, considering its low cost. It’s an excellent choice for PC gameplay due to its responsive and durable hardware. Additionally, the Clutch Gladiate offers strong vibration haptics, tactile buttons, and joysticks that are unlikely to drift anytime soon. The extra reprogrammable buttons are easy to use and trigger stops offer more opportunities to enhance gameplay during competitive matches. This mid-range wired PC controller is great for competitive play overall, and it can also be used with the Xbox to continue the fun on console.

The long cord is uniquely designed to be easily folded away when playing at a PC desk, without struggling to reach console players on the couch. During Game ZXC's review period for the Clutch Gladiate, the controller proved to be a convenient option across platforms and game genres. The reprogrammable buttons can still be changed on the fly when playing on console, allowing players to cater their controller to different games across platforms. While it isn't perfect on the Xbox, it is still one of the best wired PC controllers available, especially at such an affordable price.

MAYFLASH Universal Arcade Fighting Stick F500
Best Wired Fight Stick
MAYFLASH Universal Arcade Fighting Stick F500

Looking for an affordable arcade fight stick that supports multiple consoles and is durable? The MAYFLASH Universal Arcade F500 offers the above features and lots more. The stick also supports vibration, meaning that plugging in a wrist strap will let users feel the action, literally. It comes with a headset port, a mic mute button, and a cable storage unit.

Brand
MAYFLASH
Connectivity
USB
Platform
Switch, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, Xbox 360, PS4,
Cable Length
3-meter USB cable
Weight
6.53 lbs
Pros
  • Compatible with modern consoles
  • Arcade-like experience
  • Comes with a vibration wrist strap that offers an immersive experience
  • Offers great value for an entry-level price
Cons
  • Not good for other game genres besides fighting games.
  • The buttons' quality could be improved on
See at Amazon

Although this controller's use case is severely limited to fighting games, it's highly affordable and reliable. The F500 fighting stick supports consoles like Xbox Series X/S and handheld consoles like the Nintendo Switch and Steam Deck. It comes with an acrylic panel, a joystick, eight buttons, a cabinet for storing the USB cable, and more.

Aside from the USB port which connects to the console, the F500 also gets a headset port, a button for muting the mic, and a vibration wrist strap port. Sold separately, the MAYFLASH plug-and-play wrist strap is designed to help you feel the rumble of your favorite fighting game. Buyer reviews praise the F500 for delivering great value, despite being a budget product.

Gamers who much prefer wired controllers over wireless ones and who have a bit of extra money to spend will get everything they need out of the Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma. This pricey controller is about as expensive as the Xbox Elite Series 2 wireless controller, and offers about as many customization options.

There are a few things that help the Wolverine V2 Chroma stand out against the Elite Series 2, aside from the obvious connectivity difference. Along the sides of the controller are RGB strips, which have a pretty bright glow and can be changed to any of the millions of colors available through the Razer Controller Setup for Xbox App. However, the controller can be used on both Xbox consoles and PC, giving players the chance to bring their premium wired controller to even more battles.

The controller includes a wild number of extra buttons, allowing players to remap four buttons on the back and two on the top, for a total of six additional inputs. The back buttons are full paddles, meaning they’re a little easier to press than standard options, though the rest of the buttons are just as responsive. You can also swap out the thumbstick caps for bigger or smaller sizes.

Although the asking price is too high for many gamers, those dedicated to wired gaming, especially gamers who frequently play more involved games such as MMOs, RPGs, and MOBAs, won’t find a better premium controller than the Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma.

How to Choose the Best Wired Controller for You

While wired controllers do have their perks, they compete in an increasingly competitive controller market where technology improvements have pushed wireless controllers such as the Xbox Elite Series 2 within a stone's throw of the latency gains being touted on wired units, even as they buff up on battery timings as well as phone applications to tweak their performance. In the end, it is a fight between price and functionality versus convenience, even as wireless controllers inch ever closer to eventually replacing the need for a wired controller altogether. Until we are there, however, there is an understandable market for wired controllers and users who prefer them over their wireless counterparts.

When choosing a wired controller, consider these factors:

  • Compatibility: What console or platform do I want to use this controller on?
  • Budget: What is the price range I am looking to spend on a controller?
  • Aesthetics: What do I want my controller to look like?
  • Build Quality / Ergonomics: What materials should my controller be made from?
  • Button Layout: What games do I want to play with this controller?
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FAQ

Q: Are wired controllers better than wireless controllers?

Yes and No. Not all controllers are created equal but wired controllers generally tend be easier to locate, do not need frequent recharging or AA batteries to sustain themselves and have better input latency, making them a top choice for professional gamers and enthusiasts. They do however make a tradeoff when it comes to wireless connectivity which can also be considered lesser flexibility.

Q: Can I use my wireless controller in wired mode?

Most wireless controllers do have a wireless mode, generally enabled by using their charging cable. There are no real consequences of using these in wired mode.

Q: Are Wired Controllers Cheaper Than Wireless Controllers?

Overwhelmingly, yes. But there are cheap wireless controllers also available that compete with wired controllers at similar price points.

Q: Do wired controllers work better on PC?

Technically, yes. Wired controllers traditionally have lower latency than their wireless counterparts, although with some budget options this will not be true. However, on average it is true that wired controllers communicate more quickly with a PC than wireless controllers. While the difference is just milliseconds long, sometimes those milliseconds matter just enough for a change.

Q: Can wireless controllers be wired?

Yes, some wireless controllers have optional cords that can attach directly to PC and console. Typically, these cords are provided as an alternative power source in case of dead batteries.