The Best Wireless Gaming Controllers for PlayStation 4
The controller is to the gamer as the hammer is to the carpenter, so it's essential to work with the best. After all, you don't want to be left with a dead battery in the middle of a virtual firefight. When you're buying a new controller, you want one that provides accuracy, precision, comfort, and durability. We scoured the many options on the market and present our list of the best wireless controllers for the PS4 below. Read on and get ready to win.
What to Look For
We wanted to recommend the best of the best, so we looked for controllers with top-tier designs that boasted long battery lives, comfortable grips, responsive inputs, and fair prices. Our favorite was the DualShock 4, which sets the gold standard for battery life, joystick accuracy, and smooth-firing trigger buttons. But for those that want the most comfortable gaming experience possible, you can’t go wrong with the lightweight design from Usergaing, which offers top-notch ergonomics. There’s a lot to consider, so read on.
PlayStation DualShock 4 Wireless Controller
The undefeated champion
In our humble opinion, the DualShock 4 is the best PlayStation 4 controller design ever released, and it’s a significant improvement over the previous generations of DualShock controllers. The battery lasts much longer, so you do not have to worry about recharging as often. The thumbsticks are more durable, too, and they have the perfect amount of grip to them. The R and L buttons are springier and super accurate, as well. For many gamers, the DualShock 4 is the pinnacle of controller hardware, and one quick game of Rocket League will prove why.
Pros
- These controllers are famous for their durability. Even after hundreds of hours of gameplay, the thumbsticks don’t drift, and the triggers are as springy as ever.
- The thumbsticks are especially sensitive to small adjustments.
- On a full charge, the battery can last as long as eight hours, especially if you lower the rumbling to save power.
Cons
- They can produce some static noise in certain wireless headphones.
Usergaing Wireless Controller for PS4/Slim/Pro
That natural feel
This is a top-notch wireless controller from Usergaing. It really fits snugly in your hands, and the grip is terrific. In fact, the handles are ergonomic, and the control sticks have a slightly grippy texture to them. For gamers whose hands sweat during gaming sessions, this texture easily helps you maintain control. Better yet, the trigger buttons, D-pad, and buttons all have an incredibly satisfying click to them, which proves responsive and accurate during a game.
Pros
- Some gamers may prefer these analog sticks over those on the original PlayStation-brand controllers since they seem to offer a bit more grip and accuracy.
- The vibration is nuanced and well-distributed across the handles.
- Considering the price, this controller is a great choice for those on a tight budget.
Cons
- Those who are used to heftier controllers may find it too lightweight.
Terios Gaming Controller for PS4 Pro, PS4 Slim, PC
A lot of bang for a bargain
This option from Terios is another great way to score a quality controller without spending a fortune. The most impressive part of these controllers lies in the responsiveness of the triggers and buttons, which boast imperceptible latency. The joysticks are equally as sensitive, with input accuracy that rivals expensive, premium options.
Pros
- These controllers are available in a range of color options and designs, so you can choose the one that matches your gaming style.
- The battery life can last several hours before needing a recharge. With the haptic feedback disabled, it may last as long as 14 hours.
Cons
- The force of the springs in the triggers can wear down and lose resistance over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will these controllers work on older models of the PlayStation 4?
Yes, many of these controllers will work on any model of the PlayStation 4, though very few will also work with older PlayStations such as PlayStation 3. Make sure to check the product listing for compatibility.
Will these controllers work on other systems besides the PlayStation 4?
Some of these controllers will work with PCs, tablets, Android devices, and even iPhones. Again, the product page of the controller will tell you which systems it is compatible with.
What does dual shock mean?
Dual shock refers to two motors, one in each handle of the computer, which generate haptic feedback. They vibrate when certain things happen in the game to make the game more visceral and fun.
About the Author
Why Trust Us
With the constantly shifting landscape in the world of technology, GameRevolution seeks to provide gamers and tech-enthusiasts with the information they need to select the right products for their needs. Since 1996, our experts have used their knowledge on all the latest gadgets – everything from headphones to standing desks – to help millions of people navigate specs and answer common questions.