The Top 10 Ranked by Controller Quality (January 2021)

Based on reviews posted on popular review sites as well as from Nintendo 3DS XL's website, Nintendo 3DS XL performs very well in terms of controller performance relative to other video game console stores.

The review site tomsguide.com gives Nintendo 3DS XL excellent ratings for controller performance in a review posted on its website. Here's a brief quote from this review:

The C-Stick gave me an easy way to perform powerful Smash attacks in Super Smash Bros., and controlling the camera in Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate and Resident Evil: Revelations felt almost as natural as having a standard controller. Taking advantage of these right-analog-stick functions on older 3DS models requires a bulky and hard-to-find Circle Pad Pro attachment; the New 3DS offers dual-stick capabilities out of the box.

The review site pcmag.com gives Nintendo 3DS XL excellent ratings for controller performance in a review posted on its website. Here's a brief quote from this review:

The second control stick is the most notable change in the New 3DS XL's physical design. It adds a much-needed secondary analog control to the device. (For comparison, the original 3DS could be augmented with the Circle Pad Pro accessory, but it's a bulky, obscure gadget that doesn't work with 3DS XL systems.) The new stick is much smaller than the analog pad on the left side of the lower screen, which remains unchanged. Instead of a pad, the stick is more like the nub pointer controllers found in the middle of the keyboards of some notebook computers

Learn more at the company's website.

You can also check out the top 10 video game console stores for controller performance, or the overall best-performing video game console stores on our main review grid.

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— reviewed Nintendo 3DS XL on January 11, 2020, Read all 2 controller quality reviews.

Based on reviews posted on popular review sites as well as from Nintendo 2DS's website, Nintendo 2DS performs very well in terms of controller performance relative to other video game console stores.

One reviewer on techradar.com said Nintendo 2DS performs well on controller performance relative to its peers. You can read the full review here. From this review:

All the buttons found on the Nintendo 3DS are here except there's also been a slidable sleep button added to compensate for the lack of hinge-closing functionality. Meanwhile the home button has been blown up a bit and sits under the bottom display.

The review site expertreviews.co.uk gives Nintendo 2DS excellent ratings for controller performance in a review posted on its website. Here's a brief quote from this review:

The bottom corners sit snugly in the centre of your palms and the Circle Pad and ABXY buttons are perfectly positioned to lie directly underneath your thumb. Likewise, the trigger buttons are now much easier to reach than before as they lie more naturally underneath your index fingers compared to the cramp-inducing shape of the original 3DS.

Learn more at the company's website.

You can also check out the top 10 video game console stores for controller performance, or the overall best-performing video game console stores on our main review grid.

Looking for Nintendo 2DS coupons? Check out the latest deals here. Want more reviews on Nintendo 2DS? Read a more in-depth review of Nintendo 2DS on this page.

— reviewed Nintendo 2DS on March 9, 2020, Read all 2 controller quality reviews.

Based on reviews posted on popular review sites as well as from Microsoft Xbox Series X's website, Microsoft Xbox Series X performs very well in terms of controller performance relative to other video game console stores.

The review site bgr.com gives Microsoft Xbox Series X excellent ratings for controller performance in a review posted on its website. From this review:

It has a convenient Share button, the D-pad is brilliantly clicky, and the grip has been adjusted to make it more comfortable for long play sessions.

The review site indiewire.com gives Microsoft Xbox Series X excellent ratings for controller performance in a review posted on its website. Specifically, this reviewer pointed out the following:

In addition to the console, there’s the next generation of Xbox Controller, which is essentially a carbon copy of the version that shipped with the Xbox One S and X aside from three noticeable changes: a share button (for screenshots and recording video), a concave (and much clickier) directional pad, and textured grips along the controller’s handles and triggers

The review site tomsguide.com gives Microsoft Xbox Series X excellent ratings for controller performance in a review posted on its website. From this review:

From a quick glance the most notable change is the addition of a share button for sharing screenshots and recordings with a simple tap. You’ll then notice that the D-pad is a hybrid one: a concave disk that should deliver more precision, particularly if you play traditional beat-em-ups.

Learn more at the company's website.

You can also check out the top 10 video game console stores for controller performance, or the overall best-performing video game console stores on our main review grid.

Looking for Microsoft Xbox Series X coupons? Check out the latest deals here. Want more reviews on Microsoft Xbox Series X? Read a more in-depth review of Microsoft Xbox Series X on this page.

— reviewed Microsoft Xbox Series X on November 23, 2020, Read all 2 controller quality reviews.

Based on reviews posted on popular review sites as well as from Microsoft Xbox Series S's website, Microsoft Xbox Series S performs very well in terms of controller performance relative to other video game console stores.

The review site techradar.com gives Microsoft Xbox Series S excellent ratings for controller performance in a review posted on its website. From this review:

Triggers are shorter, controller is easier to grip thanks to new textured finish

The review site pcmag.com gives Microsoft Xbox Series S excellent ratings for controller performance in a review posted on its website. From this review:

It’s a large controller that features prominent grips and a matte plastic shell that feels good in the hands.

The review site laptopmag.com gives Microsoft Xbox Series S excellent ratings for controller performance in a review posted on its website. Here's a brief quote from this review:

The Series S controller’s smooth casing gives way to tiny raised dots along the back of the arms, trigger buttons and the bottom portions of the shoulder buttons for a nice textured grip.

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You can also check out the top 10 video game console stores for controller performance, or the overall best-performing video game console stores on our main review grid.

Looking for Microsoft Xbox Series S coupons? Check out the latest deals here. Want more reviews on Microsoft Xbox Series S? Read a more in-depth review of Microsoft Xbox Series S on this page.

— reviewed Microsoft Xbox Series S on November 23, 2020, Read all 2 controller quality reviews.

Based on reviews posted on popular review sites as well as from Sony Playstation 4's website, Sony Playstation 4 performs very well in terms of controller performance relative to other video game console stores.

The review site trustedreviews.com gives Sony Playstation 4 excellent ratings for controller performance in a review posted on its website. From this review:

If we ignore the distressing way that the rubber ring is wearing off the analogue sticks on our original PS3 pad, the Dual Shock 4 remains a fantastic controller. The sticks are now precise enough for the most demanding FPS veteran, the bumpers and triggers feel perfectly moulded, and every button seems to sit in the most natural place. The built-in headset socket is still a godsend, allowing you to plug in some headphones for quiet gaming without any hassle or expense.

The review site cnet.com gives Sony Playstation 4 excellent ratings for controller performance in a review posted on its website. Here's a brief quote from this review:

The PlayStation 4's beautiful graphics, smart interface, blazing performance, near-perfect controller and better indie offerings give it an edge over the Xbox One -- though that edge is ever-shrinking.

The review site productreview.com.au gives Sony Playstation 4 excellent ratings for controller performance in a review posted on its website. Specifically, this reviewer pointed out the following:

This Play Station 4 console is compatible to any television regardless of the brand. Controller and buttons are responsive. The graphics are so clear and the gaming experience is superb.

Learn more at the company's website.

You can also check out the top 10 video game console stores for controller performance, or the overall best-performing video game console stores on our main review grid.

Looking for Sony Playstation 4 coupons? Check out the latest deals here. Want more reviews on Sony Playstation 4? Read a more in-depth review of Sony Playstation 4 on this page.

— reviewed Sony Playstation 4 on January 11, 2020, Read all 4 controller quality reviews.

Based on reviews posted on popular review sites as well as from Sony Playstation 4 Pro's website, Sony Playstation 4 Pro performs very well in terms of controller performance relative to other video game console stores.

Based on a review posted on techradar.com, Sony Playstation 4 Pro was rated as fairly average for controller performance relative to competing video game console stores. Check out the entire review here. Specifically, this reviewer pointed out the following:

Plus, as we pointed out in the PlayStation 4 Slim review, the controller can also switch seamlessly between Bluetooth and wired mode when it's connected to the system via USB cable. While that might not sound like a huge addition, for a pro gamer it can mean the difference between a win (and a pot of esports prize money) or a loss.

The review site toptenreviews.com gives Sony Playstation 4 Pro excellent ratings for controller performance in a review posted on its website. Here's a brief quote from this review:

The Dualshock 4 controller comes as standard with your PS4 Pro, though you can buy additional controllers if you want to play local multiplayer games. This update to the classic PlayStation controller comes with an updated, ergonomic design and a dedicated share button, letting you instantly capture screenshots and share them to social media.

Learn more at the company's website.

You can also check out the top 10 video game console stores for controller performance, or the overall best-performing video game console stores on our main review grid.

Looking for Sony Playstation 4 Pro coupons? Check out the latest deals here. Want more reviews on Sony Playstation 4 Pro? Read a more in-depth review of Sony Playstation 4 Pro on this page.

— reviewed Sony Playstation 4 Pro on January 11, 2020, Read all 3 controller quality reviews.

Based on reviews posted on popular review sites as well as from Nintendo Switch's website, Nintendo Switch performs very well in terms of controller performance relative to other video game console stores.

The review site tomsguide.com gives Nintendo Switch excellent ratings for controller performance in a review posted on its website. From this review:

The controllers in the box are accompanied by a few accessories. These include the Joy-Con straps, which slide onto the sides of the controllers to give you a more secure grip when you're using the motion controls, as well as more comfortable shoulder buttons if you're using single controllers. There's also the Joy-Con Grip, which lets you slide both controllers into a more familiar game pad shape. This may be good for players who are used to PlayStation or Xbox controllers. But despite playing on a PlayStation 4 for most of this console generation, I rarely use the Grip. Using the Joy-Cons separately is surprisingly comfortable.

The review site digitaltrends.com gives Nintendo Switch excellent ratings for controller performance in a review posted on its website. Specifically, this reviewer pointed out the following:

The analog on the right Joy-Con is basically in the center of the controller, which makes it difficult to get a grip on the stick. The player with the left Joy-Con definitely has an advantage if a game uses the thumbstick. If you need a controller in a pinch, it might be a better option to use a spare GameCube controller — thanks to a recent update, they’re compatible.

Learn more at the company's website.

You can also check out the top 10 video game console stores for controller performance, or the overall best-performing video game console stores on our main review grid.

Looking for Nintendo Switch coupons? Check out the latest deals here. Want more reviews on Nintendo Switch? Read a more in-depth review of Nintendo Switch on this page.

— reviewed Nintendo Switch on January 11, 2020, Read all 5 controller quality reviews.

Based on ratings published by trusted online review sites as well as information from Microsoft Xbox One S's website, Microsoft Xbox One S performs average to better than average in terms of controller performance compared to other video game console stores.

Based on a review posted on theverge.com, Microsoft Xbox One S was rated as fairly average for controller performance relative to competing video game console stores. Check out the entire review here. Specifically, this reviewer pointed out the following:

I briefly mentioned the controller above but we should get into it: it’s really good.

Based on a review posted on whathifi.com, Microsoft Xbox One S was rated as fairly average for controller performance relative to competing video game console stores. Check out the entire review here. Specifically, this reviewer pointed out the following:

Touch-sensitive controls have been swapped for buttons. The awkward, side-mounted USB socket from the original has been swung round to the front of the console, alongside an IR blaster.

Learn more at the company's website.

You can also check out the top 10 video game console stores for controller performance, or the overall best-performing video game console stores on our main review grid.

Looking for Microsoft Xbox One S coupons? Check out the latest deals here. Want more reviews on Microsoft Xbox One S? Read a more in-depth review of Microsoft Xbox One S on this page.

— reviewed Microsoft Xbox One S on January 12, 2020, Read all 3 controller quality reviews.

Based on reviews posted on popular review sites as well as from Google Stadia's website, Google Stadia performs very well in terms of controller performance relative to other video game console stores.

One reviewer on techradar.com said Google Stadia performs well on controller performance relative to its peers. You can read the full review here. Specifically, this reviewer pointed out the following:

In terms of face buttons, you’ve got a clicky D-Pad that feels moderately responsive, a set of four lettered buttons in the same layout as the Xbox One, and four special function buttons: menu (start), options (select), Google Assistant and the Capture button that saves screenshots to your account and, one day, will connect to YouTube Gaming.

Learn more at the company's website.

You can also check out the top 10 video game console stores for controller performance, or the overall best-performing video game console stores on our main review grid.

Looking for Google Stadia coupons? Check out the latest deals here. Want more reviews on Google Stadia? Read a more in-depth review of Google Stadia on this page.

— reviewed Google Stadia on January 12, 2020, Read all 2 controller quality reviews.

Based on reviews posted on popular review sites as well as from Microsoft Xbox One X's website, Microsoft Xbox One X performs very well in terms of controller performance relative to other video game console stores.

The review site techradar.com gives Microsoft Xbox One X excellent ratings for controller performance in a review posted on its website. Here's a brief quote from this review:

Controller-wise the new machine is packing a new darker gamepad which, for all intents and purposes, is exactly the same mechanically as the one that currently ships with the Xbox One S. You can't fix what isn't broken, apparently. If controllers are a bit too imprecise for your liking, Xbox One X will support keyboard and mouse controls sometime in the near future. It's not the first console to do so (that award goes to the Dreamcast), but the feature will be welcomed by gamers who prefer this more accurate and responsive control scheme.

Based on a review posted on toptenreviews.com, Microsoft Xbox One X was rated as fairly average for controller performance relative to competing video game console stores. Check out the entire review here. Specifically, this reviewer pointed out the following:

The latest revision of the Xbox One controller has also seen some improvements. The controller is still wireless and battery powered, requiring two AA batteries. The controller can also be connected to the console via a micro USB cable. The improvements have come in the form of alterations to the shoulder bumpers, which used to operate on an awkward hinge that made them difficult to press down. The newer revision of the controller also features an audio port, allowing you to connect a headset directly into the controller.

Learn more at the company's website.

You can also check out the top 10 video game console stores for controller performance, or the overall best-performing video game console stores on our main review grid.

Looking for Microsoft Xbox One X coupons? Check out the latest deals here. Want more reviews on Microsoft Xbox One X? Read a more in-depth review of Microsoft Xbox One X on this page.

— reviewed Microsoft Xbox One X on January 11, 2020, Read all 2 controller quality reviews.

Based on ratings published by trusted online review sites as well as information from Nintendo Switch Lite's website, Nintendo Switch Lite performs average to better than average in terms of controller performance compared to other video game console stores.

Based on a review posted on theverge.com, Nintendo Switch Lite was rated as fairly average for controller performance relative to competing video game console stores. Check out the entire review here. From this review:

But the new D-pad is responsive and comfortable.

Learn more at the company's website.

You can also check out the top 10 video game console stores for controller performance, or the overall best-performing video game console stores on our main review grid.

Looking for Nintendo Switch Lite coupons? Check out the latest deals here. Want more reviews on Nintendo Switch Lite? Read a more in-depth review of Nintendo Switch Lite on this page.

— reviewed Nintendo Switch Lite on January 12, 2020, Read all 2 controller quality reviews.

Based on reviews posted on popular review sites as well as from Nintendo 2DS XL's website, Nintendo 2DS XL performs very well in terms of controller performance relative to other video game console stores.

One reviewer on wired.com said Nintendo 2DS XL performs well on controller performance relative to its peers. You can read the full review here. Here's a brief quote from this review:

The controls on the New 2DS XL all feel satisfying and responsive, and there's NFC built in so you can use Amiibo figurines with compatible titles.

One reviewer on nintendolife.com said Nintendo 2DS XL performs well on controller performance relative to its peers. You can read the full review here. Here's a brief quote from this review:

Opening up the New 2DS XL reveals a familiar control arrangement. The big alteration when compared to the other New 3DS systems is the movement of the Home button (now located below the pleasantly springy D-Pad); everything else is the same, right down to the placement of the C-Stick "nipple", just above the face button cluster.

Learn more at the company's website.

You can also check out the top 10 video game console stores for controller performance, or the overall best-performing video game console stores on our main review grid.

Looking for Nintendo 2DS XL coupons? Check out the latest deals here. Want more reviews on Nintendo 2DS XL? Read a more in-depth review of Nintendo 2DS XL on this page.

— reviewed Nintendo 2DS XL on January 16, 2020, Read all 2 controller quality reviews.

Based on reviews posted on popular review sites as well as from Sega Genesis Mini's website, Sega Genesis Mini performs very well in terms of controller performance relative to other video game console stores.

One reviewer on businessinsider.com said Sega Genesis Mini performs well on controller performance relative to its peers. You can read the full review here. From this review:

All of this is plenty to run the games within without issue, and the controllers provide instantaneous response because they're wired. However, we'd love for those six-foot controller cords to be a few feet longer, given how living rooms and dens are arranged these days.

Based on a review posted on cnet.com, Sega Genesis Mini was rated as fairly average for controller performance relative to competing video game console stores. Check out the entire review here. Here's a brief quote from this review:

The three-button Sega controllers and their D-pad bring back memories, but also felt clunky and not always perfect for the games: Controlling Ecco the Dolphin's flips, or getting Earthworm Jim to angle a shot, sometimes got frustrating.

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You can also check out the top 10 video game console stores for controller performance, or the overall best-performing video game console stores on our main review grid.

Looking for Sega Genesis Mini coupons? Check out the latest deals here. Want more reviews on Sega Genesis Mini? Read a more in-depth review of Sega Genesis Mini on this page.

— reviewed Sega Genesis Mini on January 10, 2020, Read all 2 controller quality reviews.