- No gamer wants to be tethered to their fun box of choice, and that's why a good Bluetooth controller should always be in one's arsenal.
- With cutting-edge technology and unmatched ergonomics, the Xbox Wireless Controller is the best you can buy. We also have four other favorites to recommend.
Ask any gamer what their most important tool is and the answer might surprise you. You'd assume the gaming console, system, or platform itself, but it's the controller that can make or break a gaming session.
Wired controllers are great and have their uses - pros prefer them to cut down on latency, for instance - but it's always worth having a good Bluetooth controller in reach. There are no wires to entangle and trip over, and you can't risk your console flying off its stand when your dog runs a random marathon around the house.
You can use Bluetooth controllers to play video games on PC, Mac, and even some consoles such as the Nintendo Switch. A Bluetooth controller is also the de facto choice for those looking to game on their smartphones, many of which are designed for this very purpose.
These controllers have their downsides, including the need to manage battery power and dealing with potential connection issues. We'd argue that the convenience more than makes up for those concessions, and a good Bluetooth controller mitigates these pains, anyway. Let's look at the best of the bunch.
Note: We didn't focus on video game consoles because they deserve their own buying guides, which we are currently working on. However, the controllers that come with consoles are generally terrific.
Here are the best Bluetooth controllers you can buy:
- Best Bluetooth controller overall: Xbox Wireless Controller
- Best Bluetooth controller for computer gaming: Steam Controller
- Best Bluetooth controller for iPhone and iPad: SteelSeries Nimbus
- Best Bluetooth controller for Android: BEBONCOOL Wireless Controller
- Best Bluetooth controller for retro gaming: 8BITDO SN30 Pro
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