Best PS5 Controller 2021: PlayStation Controllers, Fight Sticks, And Racing Wheels
The PlayStation 5 ships with an incredible new first-party controller, the DualSense, and in 2021, it’s undoubtedly the best PS5 controller to own and buy multiples of, especially now that it comes in three different colors. But while compatible third-party PS5 controller options are currently somewhat slim, some of the best PS4 controllers are directly compatible with Sony’s next-gen console, while others can be used with backwards compatible PS4 games on PS5.
Whether you’re looking for the best PS5 controller for general use (spoiler: It’s the DualSense) or options for fighting games, racing games, and streaming Netflix, there are a handful of great controllers we recommend using with the PS5 from reliable brands like Logitech, Razer, and Trustmaster. Though this list will most certainly continue to grow and evolve as we get further into the PS5’s lifespan, here are the best PS5 controller options to consider so far. And for more great gamepads, see the best Switch controllers and best Xbox controllers for 2021.
Sony has yet to release any first-party PS5 controller options beyond the DualSense, which is the successor to the PS4’s DualShock 4. The DualSense is comfortable to hold for long gaming sessions and has slightly longer sides with curved back triggers for a grip that gently supports your hands and index fingers. It’s a major improvement over the DualShock 4 in terms of ergonomics.
In addition to just being a great-feeling controller, the PS5 DualSense wireless controller features haptic feedback, which, in plain terms, is just a fancy vibration feature–but in practice, it’s actually kind of magical when you play PS5 games that actually implement it well, like Astro’s Playroom and Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart. Adaptive triggers on the L2 and R2 buttons also provide realistic tension based on different situations, like the feeling of pulling back a bowstring or switching between different guns. The DualSense wireless controller has a built-in microphone for online play, and as with the DualShock 4, there’s a 3.5mm jack to directly plug in your PS5 headset for hearing other online players or just enjoying game audio.
The PS5 ships with one DualSense controller, of course, but if you’re picking up a second PS5 controller, it’s honestly not a bad idea to snag a second DualSense to switch to when the other is charging or for local multiplayer. The official PS5 DualSense charging station is worth picking up for this purpose as well. You can check out our PS5 review for more on why the DualSense is such an impressive next-gen accessory.
The Razer Raion is a wired PS4 controller that’ll work with backwards compatible PS4 games on PS5. Currently, it’s still the best fight pad for PlayStation games, featuring a clicky eight-way D-pad with a six-button layout that resembles a fight stick. The buttons are slightly larger than usual with Razer yellow switches for instantaneous inputs. You can even disable extra buttons you don’t need with a button lock function so you can avoid accidentally hitting the wrong inputs during tournaments. The Razer Raion is also light enough that it’s comfortable to hold in one hand and, with your other hand, tap the buttons piano-style. You won’t need to switch to a fully-featured controller for things like character customization either, thanks to a switch that lets you map the D-pad to the left and right analog sticks. While the lack of analog sticks and triggers means you can’t use the Raion with most games on PS5, it’s an awesome pickup for fighting games like Mortal Kombat 11, Tekken 7, and Injustice 2.
Our pick for the best PS4 fight stick continues over for the PS5 as well: the Victrix Pro FS. A premium option with PS5 compatibility, the Victrix Pro FS is made of sturdy aluminum with parts that feel extremely solid, including an accurate and satisfying stick and eight action buttons that are just as satisfyingly clicky. This PS5 fight stick also includes programmable buttons, customizable audio and lighting, and an easy access door to swap out components for modding. It’s also quite travel-friendly with handles, a plastic organizer to wrap the cable around, and a removable joystick that can be stored in the bottom. The Victrix Pro FS costs $350 (and its limited editions cost $400), so we recommend it mainly for hardcore fighting game fans–for a great mid-range option, check out the Razer Panthera Evo.
