The 10 Best Bluetooth Game Controllers
This wiki has been updated 23 times since it was first published in November of 2017. For when a touchscreen or a normal keyboard and mouse setup just don't suit the game you're playing and a wired gamepad is too restrictive, a Bluetooth-enabled controller can come to the rescue. They come in a variety of button layouts and configurations with rechargeable or replaceable batteries and, often, the ability to connect via USB cable or a 2.4-gigahertz dongle. When users buy our independently chosen editorial selections, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.
1. Xbox Wireless
2. GameSir T4 Pro
3. 8Bitdo Sn30 Pro+
Editor's Notes
July 03, 2020:
Game controllers can be a tricky bunch sometimes. For example, we were forced to remove a popular entry from Steelseries because its simply receives abysmal marks from users in the long term, despite appearing to be a high-quality device at first glance, and despite coming from a popular and often respected manufacturer. Similarly, Bluetooth itself can be sketchy sometimes, thanks in large part to Windows' poor driver implementation. If you're going to go the Bluetooth controller route, it's worth finding a good adapter, whether you need one that plugs into a USB port or you have a PCI-e slot available.
With that out of the way, it should be no surprise that the two leading controllers made the list. The base version of the Xbox Wireless (NOT the Elite model, which has been widely panned) is regarded as one of the best controllers not just for consoles, but in all of gaming history, and it's natively supported by both Windows and Android. It's about as durable and reliable as a controller can get. Similarly, the Sony DualShock 4 is a high-end piece of equipment, though not every user will find iut as easy to install and use as they do the Xbox model. Recently, though, reports have been much more kind to the DualShock as far as ease of use.
There are also plenty of quality third-party models. The 8Bitdo Sn30 Pro+, 8Bitdo Lite, and 8Bitdo Zero 2 all have just about the best pedigree possible for such aftermarket options, with the Sn30 doing an excellent job both functionally and ergonomically and the Lite and Zero 2 delivering a reliable and fun experience in smaller form factors.
Another well-known aftermarket manufacturer is GameSir, whose GameSir T4 Pro and GameSir G4s both mimic the Xbox controller and even offer force feedback that's on a par with the vibration of the OEM controller.
Special Honors
GameSir Official This is one of the most lauded manufacturers of gamepads, and on their website you can find a range of easy-to-use, ergonomic, and reliable models for both smartphones and PCs. Some models are even offered with a significant amount of customization options. gamesir.hk
Scuf Custom While they're often even more expensive than brand-name controllers from console manufacturers Scuf's products are of high quality and offer quite a few customization options to choose from. There's also a variety of interchangeable paddles and optional designs meant to accommodate different consoles and playstyles. scufgaming.com
4. Nyko Core Wireless
5. GameSir G4s
6. 8Bitdo Lite
7. 8Bitdo SN30 Pro Original
8. Flydigi Wasp 2
9. Sony DualShock 4
10. 8Bitdo Zero 2
Building PCs, remodeling, and cooking since he was young, quasi-renowned trumpeter Christopher Thomas traveled the USA performing at and organizing shows from an early age. His work experiences led him to open a catering company, eventually becoming a sous chef in several fine LA restaurants. He enjoys all sorts of barely necessary gadgets, specialty computing, cutting-edge video games, and modern social policy. He has given talks on debunking pseudoscience, the Dunning-Kruger effect, culinary technique, and traveling. After two decades of product and market research, Chris has a keen sense of what people want to know and how to explain it clearly. He delights in parsing complex subjects for anyone who will listen -- because teaching is the best way to ensure that you understand things yourself.