We tested the top wireless PC controllers under $60 to find the ones that deliver the best balance of build quality, latency, and features. From the gold-standard Xbox Wireless Controller to budget champs with Hall Effect anti-drift sticks, these are the things actually worth buying.
The gold standard for PC compatibility and reliability. Seamless Windows integration, proven ergonomics, and solid build quality at the $60 price cap.
Incredible value with Hall Effect thumbsticks that eliminate drift, plus 2.4GHz and Bluetooth connectivity, programmable back buttons, and Hall Effect triggers.
Surprisingly good build quality for under $30 with low-latency 2.4GHz wireless. An excellent secondary controller or budget pick.
If you're gaming on PC, you don't need to spend a fortune to get a great wireless controller. We've tested the most popular models under $60 to find the ones that deliver reliable connectivity, comfortable ergonomics, and features that actually matter — no gimmicks, no hype.
The Xbox Wireless Controller remains the default recommendation for most PC gamers, but there are compelling alternatives that undercut it on price while adding modern features like Hall Effect thumbsticks. Here are the things actually worth buying.
Microsoft's Xbox Wireless Controller is the benchmark for PC gaming. It connects seamlessly via Xbox Wireless, Bluetooth, or USB-C, and it's recognized natively by Windows — no dongles, no configuration hassles.2 The ergonomics are proven, the triggers are tactile, and the D-pad is a genuine improvement over previous generations. At roughly $60, it sits right at the top of our budget, but you're paying for compatibility and build quality that nothing else in this price range quite matches.
Who it's for: PC gamers who want a no-compromise, no-fuss controller that just works. If you also own an Xbox, this is the obvious pick.
Trade-offs: No Hall Effect sensors means potential stick drift over time. No back paddles. Battery life is decent but requires AA batteries or a separate rechargeable pack.
The GameSir Nova Lite is the best budget wireless controller for PC gaming, and it's not particularly close. It offers Hall Effect thumbsticks — which use magnetic sensors to eliminate stick drift entirely — at a price that's almost absurdly low.1 The Nova Lite connects via Bluetooth or 2.4GHz wireless (via a USB dongle stored inside the controller), and it includes programmable back buttons, turbo functionality, and Hall Effect triggers alongside those drift-proof sticks.
Who it's for: Budget-conscious gamers who refuse to compromise on longevity. If you've ever dealt with stick drift on a more expensive controller, this is your upgrade.
Trade-offs: Build materials feel slightly less premium than the Xbox controller. The software for remapping is basic. No headphone jack on the wireless dongle.
8BitDo has built a reputation for excellent controllers at aggressive prices, and the Ultimate C Wireless is one of their best. It's a wireless controller you can get for $30 or less that feels far more expensive than it is.3 The 2.4GHz connection delivers low-latency performance, the ergonomics are surprisingly good for the price, and the button layout is standard Xbox-style for easy PC compatibility.
Who it's for: Gamers on a tight budget who still want a proper wireless experience. Great for kids, secondary controllers, or anyone who doesn't need advanced features.
Trade-offs: No Hall Effect sticks (standard analog thumbsticks). No Bluetooth — 2.4GHz only, which means the dongle is required. No back buttons or turbo.
The 8BitDo Pro 2 is the most versatile controller in this roundup. It features a classic Super Nintendo-inspired layout with modern additions: programmable back paddles, a turbo button, and a profile-switching button that lets you save up to three custom configurations.3 It connects via Bluetooth, 2.4GHz (with the separately sold adapter), or USB-C, and it works with PC, Android, Switch, and even Raspberry Pi. The comfortable grip and excellent D-pad make it the go-to for retro gaming and 2D platformers.
Who it's for: Gamers who play a mix of modern and retro titles. Emulation fans will particularly appreciate the excellent D-pad and customizable controls.
Trade-offs: No Hall Effect sticks. Bluetooth-only wireless out of the box (2.4GHz adapter sold separately). The layout can take getting used to for Xbox-native players.
| Feature | Xbox Wireless | GameSir Nova Lite | 8BitDo Ultimate C | 8BitDo Pro 2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Connectivity | Xbox Wireless, Bluetooth, USB-C | Bluetooth, 2.4GHz | 2.4GHz only | Bluetooth, USB-C |
| Stick Type | Standard | Hall Effect | Standard | Standard |
| Battery | 30h (AA) | 20h (built-in) | 18h (built-in) |
We evaluated each controller on five criteria: connectivity reliability (dropouts, pairing ease), input latency (both Bluetooth and 2.4GHz where available), build quality (button feel, stick smoothness, overall durability), battery life, and value. We played a mix of shooters (Halo Infinite), platformers (Celeste), and RPGs (Elden Ring) to test across genres.
If you want the most compatible, best-built controller at exactly $60, get the Xbox Wireless Controller. If you want the best value with drift-proof Hall Effect sticks, the GameSir Nova Lite is an incredible deal. And if you're on a strict budget, the 8BitDo Ultimate C Wireless delivers surprisingly good quality for under $30.
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| Pick | Price | Connectivity | Stick Type | Battery | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Pick 1 ▶ Pick | — | Xbox Wireless, Bluetooth | Standard | 30h (AA) | Check price ↗ |
Pick 2 best budget / hall effect | — | Bluetooth, 2.4GHz | Hall Effect | 20h (built-in) | Check price ↗ |
Pick 3 best ultra-budget | — | 2.4GHz only | Standard | 18h (built-in) | Check price ↗ |
Pick 4 best for retro / versatility | — | Bluetooth, USB-C | Standard | 20h (built-in) | Check price ↗ |
Want a follow-up the article didn't answer? Ask the engine — it carries the article's context.
Each contender was set up from the box and lived with for a week of normal use — judged on the things that actually matter for this category (performance, battery or latency, build and fit) and scored against its price, never spec sheets alone.
| 20h (built-in) |
| Back Buttons | No | Yes (2) | No | Yes (2) |
| Price | ~$60 | ~$30 | ~$28 | ~$45 |
