The PlayStation 5 ships with a wonderful new first-party controller, the DualSense. In 2022, it’s the best PS5 controller to own and buys multiples of, especially now that it comes in six different colors. There aren’t many third-party PS5 controller options for gaming, but Scuf Gaming has created a decent premium option, the Scuf Reflex. Also, some of the greatest PS4 controllers are backward compatible with PS5 games, while others are not.
The best PS5 controllers for general use, fighting games, racing games, and Netflix streaming come from reputable manufacturers like Logitech, Razer, and Thrustmaster. Though this list will undoubtedly grow and evolve as the PS5’s life cycle progresses, here are the finest PS5 controller options to date. And for more amazing gamepads, see the best Switch and Xbox controllers for 2022.
DualSense Wireless Controller for PS5
Sony has yet to produce any PS5 controllers other than the DualSense, which replaces the DualShock 4. The DualSense has longer sides with curved back triggers for a grip that softly supports your hands and index fingers. Ergonomically, it outperforms the DualShock 4.
In addition to right being a great-feeling controller, the PS5 DualSense wireless controller has characteristic haptic feedback, which, in plain terms, is just a fancy vibration feature—but in practice, it’s magical when you play PS5 games that execute it well, like Astro’s Rec room and Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart. Adjustable triggers on the L2 and R2 buttons also create real tension based on different scenarios, like the feeling of pulling back a bowstring or switching between different weaponry.
There’s a 3.5mm jack on the DualSense wireless controller to immediately plug in your PS5 headset to hear other online gamers or enjoy game audio. The PS5 comes with one DualSense controller, but if you want a second PS5 controller, get a second DualSense to use while the first is charging or for local multiplayer. The official PS5 DualSense charging station is also worth picking up. See why the DualSense is such a great next-gen attachment in our PS5 review.
Scuf Reflex Premium PS5 Controller
Currently, we only endorse one third-party controller for PS5 games: the Scuf Reflex. Adaptive triggers, haptic feedback, and integrated game audio are retained in this great high-end PS5 controller but with more flexibility for competitive gaming.
The Scuf Reflex’s key feature is its four ergonomic back paddles placed in natural finger positions. You don’t need to alter your grip to use both DualSense controllers. This feature is useful for shooters and other competitive multiplayer games. These paddles can be remapped, and up to three settings can be stored and accessed through a back button.
Also, the concave analog sticks grip better than the conventional DualSense sticks. But you don’t have to use the standard thumbstick. The Reflex includes interchangeable sticks for long or short domed designs. Three models exist: Reflex, Pro, and FPS. The Reflex Pro has a better grip than the DualSense controller. The $260 Reflex FPS adds trigger locks to both RT and LT and back buttons.
The FPS model swaps adaptive triggers for trigger stops, so we recommend the Reflex Pro if you prefer DualSenses adaptive triggers. The Scuf Reflex is now out of stock, but Scuf says more will be available soon. The black/gray faceplate will soon be replaced by colorful alternatives like blue, red, and orange.
Razer Raion PS5 Fight Pad
The Razer Raion is a wired PS4 controller that works with PS5 games. It has a clicky eight-way D-pad with a six-button configuration that mimics a combat stick. Smaller buttons with Razer yellow switches for quick inputs.
You can even disable unnecessary buttons with a button lock option to avoid making mistakes during tournaments. The Razer Raion is also light enough to grasp in one hand while tapping the buttons piano-style with the other.
The D-pad can be mapped to the left and right analog sticks, eliminating the requirement for a full-featured controller for character customization. While the Raion lacks analog sticks and triggers, it’s a great selection for fighting games like Mortal Kombat 11, Tekken 7, and Injustice 2.
Victrix Pro FS PS5 fight stick
Our favorite PS4 battle stick pick for the PS5 is the Victrix Pro FS. Made of robust metal, and the Victrix Pro FS is a premium alternative with PS5 compatibility. It has a precise and pleasant stick and eight clicky action buttons. Components may be swapped out easily using this PS5 combat stick’s quick access door.
It has grips, a plastic organizer for the wire, and a removable joystick that may be stowed at the bottom. A nice mid-range alternative is the Razer Panthera Evo, which costs $350 (and $400 in a limited edition).
Logitech G923 PS5 racing wheel
The Logitech G923 is a solid, budget-friendly option widely accessible on Amazon and other retailers (the Thrustmaster T300 RS GT is another popular choice, but it’s regrettably sold out everywhere). The Logitech G923 is a wonderful beginner’s racing wheel that works with racing games on PlayStation and PC.
TrueForce technology provides high-definition force feedback for increased racing realism. The problem is that TrueForce only works with Grid, Assetto Corsa Competizione, iRacing, Gran Turismo Sport, Showrunner, and Dirt Rally 2.0 right now.
An adjustable dual-clutch, 24-point selector, and progressive brake spring help enhance vehicle control. The G Hub software also lets you produce multiple profiles and modify wheel sensitivity. Though not the most expensive PS5 racing wheel on the market, it is a reliable, inexpensive, and easily accessible wheel built of robust aluminum.
Thrustmaster T.Flight HOTAS 4 PS5 flight stick
Owing to backward compatibility, the Thrustmaster T.Flight HOTAS 4 will work with backward-compatible flight simulations on PS5, such as Star Wars Squadrons and Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown. This officially approved $90 flying stick is a better entry-level flight stick. The T.Flight HOTAS 4 is simple to set up and use, featuring twin rudders, detachable throttle, and adjustable resistance to customize your flying experience.
The Hori HOTAS flying stick adds an integrated headset connector, vibration motor, and throttle resistance, but its build quality doesn’t match the premium price tag. This is another wonderful choice (especially if you’ve used flight sticks before), but it’s tougher to find.
PS5 PlayStation Media Remote for streaming movies and TV
The PS5 is a terrific option for watching movies and TV shows because it can stream material in 4K and play 4K Blu-ray discs. (A 4K TV is required for this.) The PlayStation Media Remote is a no-brainer purchase for anyone who uses the PS5 for media streaming. A pause, rewind, and fast forward button are also included. The media remote can turn on the PS5 and explore its menus, similar to the DualSense but with a PS5 interface. The PlayStation Media Remote for PS5 is $30.
