It depends on the game you play, but the best PS4 controllers in 2023 can give you a whole other experience in playing PS5. For those who play a PS4 game that has not gotten a next-gen update, these controllers will work fine on PS5. It also can give you a competitive edge in some games. TechTrends narrowed down a list of the best PS4 controllers to buy in 2023 to guide you in picking the ones that suit your requirements.
Since more and more PS5 controllers are coming out, you might not have to spend a lot of money to buy one of the best PS4 controllers in 2023 and get a sophisticated pair. Although the DualShock 4 is still on top of the list, there are other options available out there. Therefore, we have pulled together a list of the top PS4 controllers in 2023. Brands like Nacon and Razer released great controllers and granted official licenses. Since the Japanese console giant has released a pro gamepad, the DualSense Edge, the expensive PS4 controllers came down in price. They are still among the controllers that are worth considering, even for PS5 console; if you plan to play PS4 games with it. Now, without further ado, let’s get down to the list.
Best PS4 Controllers in 2023
Getting one of the best PS4 controller in 2023 means that you can expand your setup without the need to break the bank. Although the console is now replaced by PS5, there are still great games to be played by the PS4 controllers.
- Sony DualShock 4: The best PS4 controller for most players
- Terios Gaming Pro Controller: The best PS4 controller under $40
- Nacon Revolution Unlimited: The best wireless custom PS4 controller
- Nacon Asymmetric Wireless: Best PS4 controller with asymmetrical thumbsticks
- Razer Raiju Tournament: The best programmable eSports PS4 controller
- Thrustmaster eSwap Pro: Best PS4 controller for fast customization
- Hori Mini Wired Gamepad: The best PS4 controller for kids
1. Sony DualShock 4
Specifications:
- Wireless: Yes
- Powered By: Rechargeable Battery
- Battery Life: 4-8 Hours
Many have praised the DualSense as one of PS5’s strongest tools. Others, on the other hand, might miss the great feel and design of the DualShock 4. Due to that reason, we have put Sony DualShock 4 on the list of the best PS5 controllers in 2023. Although it might only be usable if you play PS4 games on PS5, it is still very comfortable and stood the test of time for sure. In addition, you can have it in a variety of colors and designs. Regarding the battery life, the DualShock 4 will typically work for 8 hours if it is fully charged, which is quite good. Therefore, you might one to consider it if it fits your requirements.
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2. Terios Gaming Pro Controller
Specifications:
- Wireless: Yes
- Powered by : 1200mAh rechargeable battery
- Battery life: 10 hours
One of the cheapest controllers in the market that you can get for under $40 is the Terios Gaming Pro Controller. Sometimes, it even goes on sale and reaches $23. Considering some of the great features it has, it is one of the best budget alternatives for those looking for the best PS4 controllers in 2023. They claim that the battery life will run for 10 hours, which appears to be true as it has a 1200mAh rechargeable battery. In addition, this great controller has full wireless compatibility with rumble, built-in speakers as well as a set of programmable buttons. Although the quality is not as high as the pricier alternatives, being able to have those features on a controller as cheap as this one is a bonus. It also comes in a range of colors, including black, blue, or orange.
3. Nacon Revolution Unlimited
Specifications:
- Wireless: Yes
- Powered By: Rechargeable Battery
- Battery Life: 7 Hours
One of the few PS4 pro controllers that has been licensed is the Nacon Revolution Unlimited. It is one of the greatest controllers in the market. This controller also works on PC and has a complete software that lets you customize all aspects of you game, even the nifty ring LEDs surrounding the stick can be customized. Moreover, you will be permited to make four custom profiles that will work on the controller itself. In other words, it is nice to go between games. In addition to that, there are four back buttons to use that are designed well to be in your grip, which is nice and has a familiar feeling for those who like the Xbox controller’s shape.
However, the audio port that is inside the controller might have a problem. While the problem cannot be pointed at directly, if you use a wired headset that gets connected to the controller itself, your friends might get poor mic audio quality. Despite that, this is one of the best PS4 controllers in 2023 to go for.
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4. Nacon Asymmetric Wireless
Specifications:
- Wireless: Yes
- Powered By: Rechargeable Battery
- Battery Life: 7 Hours
Many of the controllers on the list try not to have their design similar to that of DualShock 4. However, the Nacon Asymmetric Wireless Controller chose not to do that. You can see the design of the DualShock 4 on this controller and the only big difference is the gamepad’s analog sticks, which are asymmetrical. For those who believe the traditional PS4 controller layout was off-putting, this is very useful. You might want to consider it if you liked the Xbox One controllers.
One of the main reasons that this controller makes it to the list of the best PS4 controllers in 2023 is the way it fills that niche gap quite excellently, while also keeping the convenience that wireless play brings and working just like the DualShock 4. In addition to all of that, its comfort is quite satisfying as it feels great to hold and use it for a long time. However, there is one negative point, which is the fact that it needs a USB wireless dongle.
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5. Razer Raiju Tournament
Specifications:
- Wireless: Yes
- Powered By: Rechargeable Battery
- Battery Life: 19 Hours
Those players who are on the lookout for a competitive edge must take a look at this controller as one of the best PS4 controllers in 2023. The Razer Raiju Tournament is a premium eSports controller. Its weight is quite nice and the quality is outstanding, giving you that premium feel. Moreover, it provides players with programmable options courtesy of its Razer app. Syncing the app to the controller is quite simple with Bluetooth and then you can start working with it. You can tweak the function of each of those buttons in anyway you like. When it comes to versatility, this controller is among the top ones on the list.
Moreover, regarding the design, it has also been successful and it is not like the traditional DualShock 4. It has offset analog sticks and face buttons that offer very tactile feedback. The design delivers the best of both worlds thanks to its emphasis on the central touchpad as well as split D-pad. However, the sticks might not be as grippy as one may hope. The quality, on the other hand, is quite high, but so is the price.
Read more: Best Games of 2022; So Far
6. Thrustmaster eSwap Pro
Specifications:
- Wireless: No
- Powered By: USB
- Battery Life: N/A
Although Thrustmaster eSwap is mostly known for creating some of the greatest PC steering wheels out there, its first try to supplant the DualShock 4 controller is also one of the greatest. This is mostly due to the fact that it handles customization quite well, which allows players swap out various button modules considering their aesthetic and functional preferences. Moreover, there are plenty of buttons for extra configuration which can be found on the eSwap Pro’s backplate. This is perfect for those playing tournament who seek competitive edge. Moreover, the grip is quite satisfying, helping you handle things well when it gets competitive. We highly recommend it as one of the best PS5 controllers in 2023, which offers flexibility.
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7. Hori Mini Wired Gamepad
Specifications:
- Connectivity: Wired
- Customization options?: No
- Color: Black, Blue, Red
- Weight: 230g
For those with smaller hands, children, the Hori Mini Wired Gamepad is a great choice as one of the best PS4 controllers in 2023. Whether you believe that the regular controllers for PS4 are big or you need one for a kid, this is the controller to choose. The look is retro and feels like it as well. The cable for wired pad is 10ft and it is about 40% smaller compared with the DualShock 4. Moreover, it is amazingly portable and the grip is quite minimal. Since it is pretty small, it does not have a light bar, stereo headset jack, speaker, dual motors, or a motion sensor. Therefore, some games might not work when you are using this controller, but if you play the arcade-like titles or fight games, you can use it.
What is the best PS4 controller?
While many find the DualShock 4 the best option among the best PS4 controllers in 2023, others believe the Nacon Revolution Unlimited is pretty flexible and shows amazing functionality for PS4 games as well as PC. Moreover, it gives an asymmetrical feel which is appealing to Xbox players. Another one of the best option in pro controllers is the Razer Raiju Tournament, with tactile button feedback as well as an ergonomic design.
Is the DualShock 4 or 5 better?
This question really comes down to what preferences you have. The DualSense’s technology is definitely more versatile and upgraded. You can have more accurate and specific feedback with its haptic feedback and adaptive triggers. Others, on the other hand, like the fit, size and shape of the DualShock 4. It really depends on the game you play and you have to determine which works the best for your needs and preferences. However, keep in mind that the one that is more comfortable for you is the best choice.
How much should I pay for a PS4 controller?
The cost really depends on wat features you are looking for. You can have the DualShock 4 for $60 and sometimes, it goes as low as $40 on Amazon. However, if you are a competitive player looking for an edge, then the Razer Raiju Tournament might be better for you and it costs around $120.
Can you use a PS4 controller with PS5?
If you have bought a PS5 console, we have some good news for your PS4 collection. A PS4 controller can be used on PS5 console if the games you play are for PS4. However, if you want to play the new-generation titles, then you are going to need to use the DualSense that your console box has.
Why are DualShock 4 controllers so expensive?
The best controller, according to TechTrends, is the DualShock 4 and many PS4 players agree on it. It has plenty of useful features and the price is reasonable compared with the other options among the best PS4 controllers in 2023. Moreover, it is well worth the money you pay as you get the best one available in the market.
Are cheaper PS4 Controllers worth it?
Buying cheaper controllers are worth it as some of them work as well as those that have license. Therefore, if you have to stick to a budget and need a controller, they are a great choice with no need to sacrifice anything big. One of the key things to pay attention to when you are shopping for a cheaper alternative is battery life. More affordable controllers have shorter battery lives compared with the licensed ones and the price reflects that clearly.