Controllers aren’t just for console players. In fact, thebest gaming controllerstend to be one of the most comfortable and ergonomic ways to play, regardless of your device. Although the accuracy of a keyboard and mouse setup may be greater for first-person shooters, even PC gamers tend to ditch the standard KBM setup from time to time for titles that simplyplay better with a controller.
Outstanding ergonomics aside, gaming controllers are also favored for the potential depth of customization. When in the hands of a confident DIYer, a controller can be customized to upgrade looks, sound, and even performance. Even then, upgrading your controller doesn’t always require technical experience or dismantling. With some of the upgrades found in this list, you may completely change the look, feel, and performance of your controller in less than five minutes, for under $20.
8 Accessories to Upgrade Your Gaming Controller
eXtremeRate Anti-Skid Sweat-Absorbent Controller Grip
Also known as Game Rant’s choice for the best overall controller grip, this anti-skid and sweat-absorbent controller grip by eXtremeRate stands as one of the easiest ways to significantly improve the comfort and feeling of your most commonly used controller. Available in a handful of artistic prints and colors, this affordable grip can be used to both customize your standard controller and make it much more sweat-absorbent during a long gaming session. Although this listing is for an Xbox One controller, you can also get the same controller grip for aPS5 DualSense controller.
PlayVital Cute Demon Silicone Cover
Silicone cover skins are one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to alter the look of your primary controller. Unlike shell skins, these covers fit over your gaming controller and require no technical experience to install. Although there are hundreds of options available, this demon silicone cover skin by PlayVital is one of the most unique options out there. This cover is packed with details, like the flames on the grip and the demon around the home button. Once again, although this listing is for an Xbox One controller, you can get aPS5 DualSense compatible version here.
KontrolFreek Precision Rings
Those who play a lot of first-person shooters with a controller should consider getting a set of precision rings to improve performance. These donut-shaped cushions slip around your controller’s thumbsticks and add differing levels of resistance to prevent you from over-shooting a target, even at high in-game sensitivities. These precision rings by KontrolFreek come at three different resistance levels: soft, medium, and hard. These precision rings are compatible with all major controller models including Xbox, PS4/5, Switch Pro, and Scuf controllers.
eXtremeRate Replacement Controller Joystick
For those with a bit more technical confidence, replacement thumbsticks are another way to add customization to your primary gaming controller. These glow-in-the-dark replacement thumbsticks are for Xbox controllers, but there are plenty of options available supporting major gaming controller models. Although installing these replacement thumbsticks requires some dismantling of the controller, installation is extremely easy and eXtremeRate provides a tool to make the job even easier.
KontrolFreek FPS Freek Galaxy Purple
Thumb grips are one of the best ways to improve aim and accuracy on a gaming controller, and these FPS Freek Galaxy Purple thumb grips by KontrolFreek are one of the best options on the market. Although not as budget-friendly as some other upgrades on this list, these thumb grips can be purchased for under $20. These thumb grips are best for those who play a lot of FPS games and are known to increase your K/D average by about 26%.
eXtremeRate Strong Version Whole Clicky Kit
Clicky kits can take your controller to the next level by improving the function of major buttons and shortening the trigger distance, so shots can be fired faster and more accurately. Although this mod requires disassembly and some technical confidence, eXtremeRate provides the tools you need and a how-to video to make the process as easy as possible. Although this clicky kit is made for PS5 DualSense controllers, you can get kits forXbox controllersandSwitch Pro controllers.
eXtremeRate Wood Grain Patterned Front Housing Shell Faceplate
If you want a custom controller design that looks seamless, a shell faceplate is one of the best upgrades you can get. Unlike silicone covers and vinyl-printed skins which look distinct from the controller, these shells are designed to replace the original faceplate and come in a variety of prints and colors. However, due to the nature of shell faceplates, they do require some disassembly to install. This wood-grain pattern shell faceplate, however, comes with all the tools you need for installation and also provides a simple instructional video to follow along with.
PS5 Controller Charger Kits
Although not exactly an upgrade for a controller, a good controller charging kit is a necessity for console gamers. Especially for those who play couch co-op games and often use more than one controller. This charger kit by OIVO is a budget-friendly choice for the PS5 that looks great and functions well. It features LED indicators that display controller charging status and blue accent lighting that looks amazing alongside a PS5.
How To Get The Most Out of Your Gaming Controller
Regardless of the model of controller you own, or the console you prefer to play on, chances are your controller could use some upgrades. Things like controller grips, precision rings, thumb grips, and silicone skins are good ways to improve your controller without spending a lot of time or money on the upgrade, but there are plenty of options to choose from. When deciding what upgrades are necessary for you to get the most out of your controller, consider the following:
Best Upgrade For Customization
Silicone covers are amazing for altering the look of your controller, while also adding grip, comfort, and protection. This cute demon cover by PlayVital uses a unique design to completely overhaul the controller, turning a standard Xbox controller into a piece of art.
There are hundreds of silicone covers available boasting different colors, styles, prints, and controller compatibility. For example, those using a PS5 controller can considerthis glow-in-the-dark silicone cover by PlayVitaland those using a Nintendo Switch Pro controllercould opt for this one.
Best Upgrade For Accuracy
If you play any type of competitive game on a controller, a good thumb grip is an absolute necessity. These grips work by increasing the height of the thumbsticks to help relieve wrist and thumb fatigue, while also adding increased accuracy and control. The FPS Freek Galaxy thumb grips by KontrolFreek are ideal for those who play FPS shooters. Those who use this thumb grip see an average 26% increase in their K/D after using it for some time.
Best Upgrade for Charging
A charging station is an invaluable addition to any gamer’s setup, as it not only helps multiple wireless controllers charge at once but also provides a dedicated space to keep your gaming setup organized. This charging station for the PS5 perfectly matches the aesthetic of the console by adding blue LEDs and a similar color scheme and looks amazing side by side with the console. Although this charging stand is for the PS5, there are plenty of amazing options out there that suit a variety of consoles and controllers.
FAQ
Q: What is the top gaming controller?
The Xbox wireless controller is a favorite for console and PC gamers because of its compatibility and ergonomic comfort.
Q: Why do PC gamers use controllers?
Controllers are often used by PC gamers for vehicle-based games like Outer Wilds or Rocket League because of the level of control an analog thumbstick provides.
