The controller market is oversaturated these days with premium options from Microsoft and third parties, all vying for console and PC gamers' attention and wallets. We've tested countless variants, but nothing shames the original.
Despite being over a decade old, the original Xbox wireless controller, refined for the Xbox One and later the Xbox Series X|S, remains one of the best options for players. It's one of the most straightforward options, thanks to cross-compatibility with Xbox and most Windows PC games.
Its iconic layout is solid and comfortable, and now, its somewhat contrasting $59.99 MSRP has taken a fortuitous nosedive, down by 33% to a much more affordable $39.99 at Best Buy — and that includes a USB-C cable for wired play, skipping any need for batteries!
Is the official Xbox controller worth buying?
The original Xbox wireless controller debuted in 2013 alongside the Xbox One. Since then, Microsoft has refined its controls and design to keep up with modern tech and remain compatible with Xbox Series X|S to great success.
Its lightweight design makes it easy to carry and even store for portable travel. Plus, its ergonomics make it feel comfy to hold and help reduce the risk of wrist strain after several hours of use, something even I can attest to.
The official Xbox wireless controller has a polling rate of 125Hz, a serviceable rating that helps it read player inputs and provide satisfying feedback. It has a respectable wireless range of 20 feet, 30 hours of battery life, and a "Share" button to help players capture screenshots or gameplay clips and share them.
That said, the Xbox Wireless Controller has a few minor drawbacks. It needs a separately sold USB dongle to connect wirelessly to a PC, it has no internal batteries, and its polling rate is somewhat subpar compared to its expensive third-party competitors like the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro (with an MSRP of $199.99) or the Hyperkin Competitor (with an MSRP of $49.99), which both have 250Hz on console and 1000Hz on PC.
However, if you just want a simple Xbox controller to help you rack up kills in Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 or conquer enemies in Clair Obcsur: Expedition 33 without murdering your budget, then the Xbox Wireless Controller is for you. Besides, the bundled USB-C cable makes wired play on a PC possible, so you aren't out of options there.
This official pick is still regarded as one of the best Xbox controllers, and is now available with an early Black Friday 33% discount for $39.99 at Best Buy.
FAQ
Does the official Xbox controller suffer from stick drift?
Many controllers can exhibit stick drift, which can force a console reset or require updating the controller's firmware via the Xbox console settings or the Xbox Accessories PC app. If that doesn't work, try cleaning the buttons or analog sticks with isopropyl alcohol, as they may be clogged up with dirt or dust.
What platforms is the Xbox wireless controller compatible with?
It is compatible with Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Windows PC, Android, and iOS.
When does Black Friday start?
Black Friday will start on November 28, 2025, the last Friday of the month.
When will Cyber Monday start?
After Black Friday concludes on December 1, 2025, Cyber Monday will begin festivities for shoppers.
Follow Windows Central on Google News to keep our latest news, insights, and features at the top of your feeds!
You must confirm your public display name before commenting
Please logout and then login again, you will then be prompted to enter your display name.
