To elevate your Warzone gameplay, having the right controller is essential. With numerous options available, it's crucial to focus on features like customizable buttons, additional paddles, and quick-switch profiles to benefit the most. Fortunately, if you already own one of the best controllers for the PS5 or Xbox, you're likely equipped with one of the best controllers for Warzone too, as they typically include these key features. If not, then we're here to help
We've taken into account specifications, general reviews, and additional features to compile a list of the top controllers for the game. The aim here is to streamline your search for Warzone and, of course, Black Ops 6, ensuring you find the perfect gamepad, perhaps even while it's on sale, for your platform and enhance your gaming experience.
Best controllers for Warzone - Quick list
- DualSense Edge - a top-tier gamepad for the PS5
- Xbox Elite Elite Series 2 - a great alternative for Xbox
- Razer Wolverine Ultimate - the best choice for PC gameplay
- NACON Revolution 5 Pro - a superb option for PS4
- SCUF Instinct Pro - an excellent controller for competitive gameplay
- PowerA Spectra Infinity - a superb budget choice
DualSense Edge
Best PS5 controller for Warzone
- Amazon - $199.99 / £197.00
- PlayStation Direct - $199.99 / £209.99
- Walmart - $197.40
* prices are accurate as of the most recent update and are subject to change
Why we chose the DualSense Edge
The DualSense Edge is hands-down the best controller available for Sony gamers, so it's no surprise that it's also the best controller for Warzone players on PlayStation 5.
This controller has adjustable trigger lengths to make it easier to fire faster, and mappable buttons to make sure you can find the control scheme that works for you. You can also disable specific buttons to have full control of this gamepad.
Adding to this, it features back buttons that you can set up as you want, making it far easier to use your tactical or lethal equipment without moving your hands. That's especially important as any slight adjustments mean you might just lose out in a gunfight.
It's a beauty and a beast, and while it is a little pricey, something we highlight in our review, it's worth it if you're all about the PS5.
TL;DR - Reasons to buy
- Adjustable trigger lengths & remappable buttons: Allows for faster firing and customized control schemes for optimal gameplay.
- Back buttons for tactical use: Makes it easier to access equipment without hand adjustments, crucial for staying competitive in gunfights.
- Premium build: A high-quality controller tailored for PS5 gamers, offering top-tier performance despite the higher price.
Xbox Elite Series 2
Best Xbox controller for Warzone
* prices are accurate as of the most recent update and are subject to change
Why we chose the Xbox Elite Series 2
Until the Xbox Elite Series 3 appears, the Series 2 is easily one of the best controllers around, especially for Xbox gamers.
This controller has interchangeable thumbsticks and a D-pad, has back paddles you can program to some of your most-used controls for easier access, and has three profiles you can switch between to allow you to make specific control setups for sniping, close-combat, and even driving if you want.
It's also got a staggeringly good battery life and a very satisfying weight to it, and it can double up by being one of the best controllers for Warzone on PC as well seeing as it is instantly compatible with Windows devices.
That's a lot of upsides to what is, overall, an excellent Xbox gamepad.
TL;DR - Reasons to buy
- Interchangeable thumbsticks, D-pad & programmable back paddles: Offers customizable control setups for various gameplay styles, including sniping and close-combat.
- Three switchable profiles: Allows for quick access to specific control schemes for different gaming scenarios, such as driving or shooting.
- Long battery life & cross-platform compatibility: Provides extended playtime and works seamlessly with both Xbox and Windows devices.
Razer Wolverine Ultimate
Best PC controller for Warzone
* prices are accurate as of the most recent update and are subject to change
Why we chose the Razer Wolverine Ultimate
The Razer Wolverine Ultimate doesn't just sound like one of the X-Men; it's also an amazing controller.
That's because it has a great form factor, six remappable buttons and triggers, interchangeable thumbsticks, and a D-Pad for all your customization needs for a game like Warzone. It also has a hair-trigger mode to make it much easier to fire that little bit faster, and trigger stops, too, making it exceptional for FPS games in general.
As a bonus, too, it comes with some nice-looking RGB lighting, which doesn't exactly add anything in-game, but will at least make your setup look a little bit more visually appealing.
TL;DR - Reasons to buy
- Six remappable buttons & interchangeable thumbsticks: Offers extensive customization options for tailored control setups, perfect for Warzone and FPS games.
- Hair-trigger mode & trigger stops: Enables faster firing and enhanced precision, making it ideal for competitive shooters.
- RGB lighting: Adds visual flair to your setup, though it doesn’t impact gameplay.
NACON Revolution 5 Pro
Best PS4 controller for Warzone
* prices are accurate as of the most recent update and are subject to change
Why we chose the NACON Revolution 5 Pro
Here, we've got a mighty controller that's great on PC and PS5, but in a slightly rarer case, it is also amazing for PS4 gamers.
The NACON Revolution 5 Pro is officially licensed for PlayStation, which is reassuring, and has plenty of excellent features too. For starters, it has Hall Effect technology for the analog sticks, which helps make them far more accurate and eliminates stick drift. It also has trigger stops and removable buttons as well, making it an incredible option for most gamers.
So, not only is it great for the PS4, but it should also suit gamers with an eye to upgrade to the PS5 in the future. Not a bad idea if you're looking to future proof your setup!
TL;DR - Reasons to buy
- Hall Effect analog sticks: Provides greater accuracy and helps to eliminate stick drift, enhancing overall gameplay control.
- Trigger stops & removable buttons: Offers customizable options for tailored gaming experiences, perfect for FPS and other genres.
- PS4, PS5, and PC compatibility: A versatile controller licensed for PlayStation, ideal for PS4 gamers planning to upgrade to PS5.
SCUF Instinct Pro
Best competitive controller for Warzone
* prices are accurate as of the most recent update and are subject to change
Why we chose the SCUF Instinct Pro
The SCUF Instinct Pro is a great competitive controller, as highlighted in our review, and it works not only on PC but Xbox consoles and mobile too.
This controller has remappable back paddles, which are amazing once you get used to them, have instant triggers to allow you to fire and aim faster, and come in a few different colors.
It's also really comfortable, which is a big win if you're someone who likes to game for long periods because you won't have to worry about hand cramps or anything like that slowing you down.
It comes with two additional thumbsticks as well, which is great for everyone because the world just needs more thumbsticks.
TL;DR - Reasons to buy
- Remappable back paddles & instant triggers: Enhances control and reaction time, allowing for faster aiming and firing in competitive games.
- Comfortable design: Ideal for long gaming sessions, preventing hand cramps and ensuring continuous comfort.
- Versatile & customizable: Works on PC, Xbox, and mobile, with additional thumbsticks and multiple color options for personalization.
PowerA Spectra Infinity
Best budget controller for Warzone
* prices are accurate as of the most recent update and are subject to change
Why we chose the PowerA Spectra Infinity
If you're looking for a budget controller for Warzone, the PowerA Spectra Infinity is a standout option. Offering great value without skimping on features, it's highly rated in our review for delivering an impressive gaming experience.
The controller's vibrant RGB lighting offers hundreds of color combinations and three unique spectra modes, adding a personal touch to your setup. More importantly, it excels in functionality with three trigger locks for faster response times and two remappable rear buttons for customization, helping you tailor it to your playstyle.
With its precision grip for a comfortable hold during intense sessions, the PowerA Spectra Infinity combines style, practicality, and performance. It's a fantastic choice for Warzone players who want quality without the hefty price tag.
TL;DR - Reasons to buy
- RGB lighting: Offers customizable color combinations for a personalized setup.
- Three trigger locks & two remappable rear buttons: Provides faster response times and customizable controls for an enhanced gameplay experience.
- Precision grip & budget-friendly: Ensures a comfortable hold during long sessions, delivering great performance at an affordable price.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
We've answered some of the most frequently asked questions to help your search.
Do you need a controller for Warzone?
Absolutely not. While you'll typically use one on a console, most modern platforms can be played using a keyboard and mouse, which some prefer as they provide greater precision and accuracy in moving and aiming.
However, most will find using a controller easier if you're playing on PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X.
Do pro Warzone players use controllers?
It depends entirely on the pro. Some are all about controllers, because maybe they grew up with a console instead of a PC, and don't want to take the initial skill hit of switching to a keyboard and mouse.
Others would never use a controller because they think it's not as good as a keyboard and mouse. We're somewhere in the middle. Ultimately, if you find you do better with a controller, then use a controller. It's also a lot easier to use a controller when you're playing from a less rigid position too, which is a big win.
Is a controller better for Warzone?
Playing on PC brings with it an assumption of using a keyboard and mouse, and that being superior. We say it's not actually so simple, and there are a few factors to consider.
While lifelong PC gamers might do better with KBM, if you're newer to PC gaming, or just no good with a mouse, then a controller can help out a lot. Plus, you get a little bit of aim assist too, so it can be a big boon for some players.
Are wireless controllers better than wired ones for playing Warzone?
The debate between wireless and wired controllers for playing games like Warzone often centers around latency and convenience. Each type has its advantages and disadvantages depending on what aspects of gaming are most important to you.
On the wireless side, they offer greater freedom of movement. You can play from a distance without worrying about cable length, which is perfect for those who like to play from a couch or prefer not to deal with tangled wires. Without cables, your gaming setup looks neater too, and is easier to manage, especially if you play in a living room or a multi-use space.
By contrast, wired controllers can sometimes offer the fastest response time because they connect directly to the console via a cable, reducing the delay between pressing a button and seeing the action on the screen. You don't need to worry about charging a wired controller either, which is handy for marathon Warzone sessions.
The thing is, wireless controllers are close to providing next to no latency these days through more advanced wireless and Bluetooth technology. A wired controller also limits where you play, depending on the length of the cable. Therefore, we'd recommend a wireless device for most players, although it all depends on your personal preference.
How important is controller ergonomics for long Warzone sessions?
Controller ergonomics are crucial for long Warzone sessions as they directly impact player comfort and performance. An ergonomic design ensures that the controller fits comfortably in hands, reducing strain and fatigue during extended gameplay. Proper ergonomics can help maintain a natural hand position too, preventing discomfort and potential repetitive strain injuries. This is especially important for intense games like Warzone, where prolonged periods of high concentration and quick reactions are required.
Additionally, an ergonomic controller can enhance your overall gaming experience by improving grip and control. Features such as textured surfaces, adjustable thumbsticks, and well-placed buttons can significantly affect gameplay precision and responsiveness. By reducing hand fatigue and providing a comfortable grip, an ergonomic controller allows players to focus better and perform at their best for longer periods, essential for competitive gaming and long Warzone sessions.