You’ve come to the right place if you are looking for the best PS4 controllers. While every PS4 console includes a DualShock 4 wireless controller as standard, it’s worth noting it’s not all that the gamepad options available for PS4.
Everyone has different preferences when it comes to controllers. Some people have larger hands than others, some prefer a minimalistic approach, and some like all the bells, whistles, and features of a professional-standard controller. There is no one-size-fits-all controller. Therefore, making the right choice is crucial. We’ve compiled a list of the top PS4 controllers right now. It includes both first- and third-party gamepads. They come in a variety of price points, designs, and performance options.
While the DualShock 4 is an excellent controller, it’s not the only one. Other brands may offer something different. Many have more sophisticated design features, such as lights and colors. Different ergonomic options are available, making gaming more enjoyable. Some will offer additional features, such as digital triggers that allow for faster reaction times in FPS gaming. Others might be more practical if you have a tight budget.
There are many options for PS4 controllers. If you need to replace or get a spare, it is worth looking beyond the DualShock 4 – although it is worth noting that they will not all work on PS5. Below are the best PS4 controllers available today. Find out which are the best PS4 controllers right now by continuing reading.
The Best PS4 Controllers
Sony DualShock4 Wireless Controller
SPECIFICATIONS
Connectivity via wireless
Are there customization options? No
Color: There are many colors to choose from, including black, green, blue, white, and red
Weight: 210g
When we are asked for replacement PS4 controllers, our first recommendation is the trusty DualShock 4.
DualShock 4 is small, lightweight, and wireless. You can also enjoy the built-in speaker and a variety of lightbar colors, touchpad, and motion sensors that enhance play.
You don’t have to be afraid of this. The console comes with a plain black design. You can jazz things up with a DualShock 4 in red, gold, or green.
It is possible to attach a gaming headphone to the controller, unlike the Xbox One pad. The battery life can be frustrating. The controller can hold a charge for approximately four to eight hours. You will need to top up the battery frequently so it is worth looking into a charging dock. They are micro USB-compatible.
Many of us have moved to USB-C, which means that there are fewer cables around the house. In our best PS4 accessories roundup, you can find out more about Sony’s official charging station.
The DualShock 4 is an excellent controller for a PS4 that just wants to play and doesn’t care about customization. It’s important to note that the DualShock 4 can only be used with PS5.
Scuf Impact
SPECIFICATIONS
Connectivity: Wireless and USB
Do you have customization options? Yes
Color: There are many options for color and patterns
Weight: 226g
Imagine that you took a Sony DualShock 4 to redesign it so that there are four paddle controls at the back that match the inputs from the face buttons. The result would be the Scuf Impact.
The EMR Scuf Impact can be used to map these paddles using a magnet on the back. A DualShock 4 is a better choice if you don’t care much about the paddles and the modifications you can make to it. It’s also a lot more affordable.
We found that switching to the pad was easy during our testing. Although the spacing is slightly different, the core features of DualShock 4 are identical with no noticeable or unusual-feeling parts.
The digital trigger version was reviewed, and it has extremely fast triggers that are optimized for FPS games. These are a big hit but not ideal for all types of games, especially racers. You can create your own Impact by doing some research.
The Scuf Impact, like the DualShock 4, won’t work with PS5 Games but it will work with PS4 games on Sony’s new hardware.
Nacon Revolution Unlimited Pro Controller
SPECIFICATIONS
Bluetooth and USB are two options for connectivity
Do you have customization options? Yes
Black color
Weight: 700g
The Nacon Revolution Unlimited Pro Controller will suit you if you own a PS4 and like the Xbox One controller design. It is more ergonomic and larger than the traditional DualShock controller in terms of design. It comes in a sleek black/gray design and offers many customization and button mapping options.
The Unlimited Pro was developed by Nacon, a company specializing in gaming accessories with eSports at heart. It is compatible with both PlayStation 4 and PCs.
This controller is officially licensed by Sony so it will work well for a long period. The Nacon Revolution Unlimited Pro Controller is an option for those who want a controller for PS4 with more features, but not too many, and who prefer a larger controller that is more durable.
Razer Raiju Ultimate Wireless PS4 Controller
SPECIFICATIONS
Connectivity: Wireless and USB
Do you have customization options? Yes
Black color
Weight: 370g
Razer Raiju Ultimate Wireless PS4 controller is one of the most advanced PS4 gamepads available. It’s more suitable for pros and seasoned gamers than it is for beginners. The Razer mobile app allows for advanced customization, including remapping and adjustment of sensitivity.
You can customize your experience with interchangeable thumbsticks and the built-in quick panel. Hair Trigger Mode is also available. You’ll enjoy a smoother gaming experience if you make use of the controller’s abilities.
The Raiju Ultimate controller is similar to the DualShock controller, but it’s chunkier. This makes it more suitable for people who prefer the Xbox One controller. Although the Raiju Ultimate is an excellent controller for PS4, it is not cheap. Before you invest, make sure that you are going to use advanced customizations.
Hori Mini Wired Gamepad
SPECIFICATIONS
Wired Connectivity
Are there customization options? No
Color: Black, Blue, and Red
Weight: 230g
The Hori Mini Wired Gaming Pad is perfect for small hands.
The Mini Wired is a colorful, neat design that looks retro and has a unique feel. The Mini Wired is plug-and-play, with a 10ft cable that allows you to connect the console from the stand. It is also 40 percent smaller than DualShock 4. Although the grip is not as strong, it’s still a great fit for those who need a small pad to keep in a bag or need a cheap backup.
This PS4 pad is small and lacks a few features such as a light bar or stereo headset jack, speaker, dual motors, or motion sensor. It’s a simplified version of the DualShock 4.
This controller won’t work in certain games. Sony claims that the Mini Wired Gamepad works with most PS4 games. The simpler games will work with the Mini Wired Gamepad, so don’t expect to be able to hack Assassin’s Creed Odyssey.
Nacon Asymmetric Wireless Controller
SPECIFICATIONS
Bluetooth and USB are two options for connectivity
Are there customization options? No
Black color
Weight: 390g
Nacon Asymmetric Wireless Controller for PS4 is a gamepad that allows you to enjoy the Xbox One controller experience on your PS4 (or PC). It is robust and well-built and has a more comfortable grip for long gaming sessions.
The name of the Nacon Asymmetric Wireless Controller is clear: it has offset analog sticks just like an Xbox One controller. This controller is a better option for people with dexterity problems or who simply want a larger controller because of its larger buttons and triggers.
There are some performance issues that you should be aware of. During our testing, we noticed some grating and no motion sensors. It is missing the light bar and speaker, which are essential features for certain games. It’s an excellent choice for dual-stick games that require a second pad.
What should I look out for when purchasing a PS4 controller
When you are looking for a new PS4 gaming pad, there are many options.
The budget is the first. The DualShock 4 controller can be purchased from Sony for $49.99/PS49.99 (although sometimes it is discounted in sales). While professional gamepads are more expensive and can cost over $200/PS200, budget options can still be found for as little as $20/PS20.
The gamepad’s price is often a reflection of the quality you get. It will be more responsive if it has additional features. You don’t have to spend more than $80/PS80 if you need finer controls, customization options, or other high-end accessories.
Consider whether you prefer a wireless or wired PS4 gamepad. DualShock 4 pads are wireless due to Bluetooth. There are also wired options. A wired controller has one drawback. You are tied to your console. However, you may notice a slightly faster response time.
Other considerations like weight or color are up to individual preference. The lighter the better if you have small hands, or need to control your children’s play,
Is a third-party controller compatible with PS4?
The majority of PS4 controllers that you can purchase will work with your PS4 at this time. There is the possibility that controllers not officially licensed by Sony could become obsolete if Sony updates their PS4.
Other than the DualShock 4, the only official licensed PS4 controllers are the Razer Raiju Pro Gaming Controller and Nacon Revolution Pro Controller.
Brands that are not licensed by the government, such as Scuf, or top gaming companies, need to be up-to-date. The riskiest options are the ones that are cheaper. Before you make a purchase, it is worth checking the reviews and product pages.
