Although Microsoft has been working hard to turn the Xbox Series X into a truly revolutionary platform that plays host to a number of amazing and entertaining exclusive releases, there is something the company has always done well. Ever since the Xbox 360’s inception, many players have been madly in love with the Xbox controller, an intelligently-designed and comfortable peripheral that sees only minor changes (for the better) with each generation.
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But official Xbox Series X controllers can be a bit expensive. It’s worth the cost, as these durable controllers are very well-made and should last players a while if they take care of them. That said, accidents happen, and it’s possible to lose a controller in an instant. For those that don’t have the funds readily available to simply replace the official controller at a higher cost, there are a wide array of options on the market from third-party sellers that mimicthe look and feel of Xbox’s iconic device. Those that need a new controller, are looking for a new style, or need extra controllers for at-home multiplayer, should consider these unofficial Xbox Series X compatible controllers.
5Turtle Beach Recon
Although wireless controllers are great for freedom when gaming, it can be frustrating to keep them charged. Many modern controllers have pretty extensive battery life, but players that are looking to move away from batteries and secure something wired should consider the Turtle Beach Recon. This controller looks a bit different than the original Xbox Series X controller but still maintains the iconic and comfortable shape that Microsoft developed. What really helps to set this controller apart form the pack are its features.
Turtle Beach is best known for its audio devices and headphones, which is why the company inserted some seriously powerful sound technology into this peripheral. Players can use an equalizer to change their sound, mute their microphone with the push of a button, and gain an edge over their opponents by activating the Superhuman Hearing setting, which mixes the audio to help players hear footsteps and other sounds better.
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4Razer Wolverine V2
Players that want more performance out of their controller can opt for the Razer Wolverine V2.Razer has been busy creating tons of different devices and items for players, from headsets and mice to gaming chairs and controllers, and everything else in between. Most of their items are geared toward giving players an edge over the competition and the Razer Wolverine V2 is no exception. The expertly crafted device offers faster trigger pulls thanks to its Hair Trigger mode, and has extra durable tactile buttons that have increased longevity.
It’s customizable thanks to its remapping and additional bumper buttons. It has a built-in 3.5mm audio port and a thick durable cord. What really sets this device apart from its competitors is the slightly re-designed shape. It’s ergonomically crafted to give players a better grip and feel, with triggers and adjustable thumbsticks that help improve precision.
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3PowerA Enhanced
A budget option, the PowerA looks and feels like an Xbox Series X controller but won’t cost gamers nearly as much. Although it’s a wired controller, it does have a 10-foot-long cord that connects to a port on the top of the device, giving it a “quick release” style disconnect. This works great for those that have larger pets, children, or siblings that may accidentally run through the outstretched cord. The quick-release will keep both the controller and system safe from damage. The PowerA feels great and comes in a wide array of different colors and designs.
It even has some additional features, like two small buttons on the back that players can remap, as well as a microphone and headset controller to quickly mute a mic when needed. Those that want the feeling of an Xbox Series X controller without having to charge it constantly or shell out extra money for it should be happy with the PowerA Enhanced.
2Thrustmaster eSwap X Pro
There are tons of different games out there andwith the wide world of Indie games now availableat players' fingertips, there is even more to choose from. Some of these games work much better with a D-Pad than thumbsticks, as many avid fighting game fans will attest. Those that want to be able to switch between a comfortable D-Pad and a tactile Thumbstick on the fly should take a look at the Thrustmaster eSwap X Pro. Although the controller is a bit pricey, it offers much more modularity than most controllers currently on the market. Thanks to its swappable components, players can try out different configurations to see what feels more comfortable to them.
Thanks to the modular design, there are many swappable parts to give players more visual control over their controller too, with unique designs and even glowing components available. The Thrustmaster eSwap X Pro also features a removable braided cord, making it possible to replace the cord should it go bad without affecting the controller itself.
1SCUF Instinct Pro
Although many of the third-party options on this list are meant to be lower-cost alternatives to Microsoft’s Core Xbox controller, there are some on the market that are a bit more expensive and geared toward competitive gamers that want a bit more customization and response from their peripherals. One such company is SCUF, who developed the Instinct Pro Xbox Series X/S (and PC) controller to improve on Microsoft’s already amazing formula.
The result is an enhanced Xbox Series X controller with four paddles on the back that can be customized to serve an array of purposes. Players can set profiles to quickly swap between games and paddle configurations. An upgraded grip, microphone muting button, and easily customizable thumbsticks and faceplate round out this higher-priced controller. It even has a button that will swap the tactile feedback on trigger pulls, switching between traditional and “fast” for a better response.
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