I can't use asymmetrical gaming controllers — here's what I'd recommend instead, along with some other favorites

The Thrustmaster eSwap X2 controller on a wooden surface
(Image credit: Future/Rob Dwiar)

I couldn't properly use an Xbox console until one particular controller came out this generation, and ever since I've held a special place for it in my gaming heart.

Even as a gaming hardware reviewer for years, prior to the Thrustmaster eSwap X Pro controller that released a little after the Series X and S launched, I really struggled with any Xbox controller due to having slightly different hands. A controller that could be turned into the layout I need, symmetrical, was a revolution. You can't get that original one anymore, but the eSwap X2 and eSwap X2 H.E. variants are excellent new iterations.

Browse the full Amazon Prime Day sale

Since then, I've had hands-on with a whole load of other controllers that are absolutely brilliant for a multitude of reasons.

From ol' reliables like the standard DualSense, to another modular belter in the Victrix Pro BFG range, and from premium first-party pads like the excellent DualSense Edge, to Pro-focused controllers like the SCUF Omega there's more choice than ever — and I've rounded up some of my absolute favorites below for your perusal ahead of the Amazon Prime Day deals this week.

Some of my favorite controllers for PS5, Xbox, and PC available right now


More Prime Day deals in the US


Google logo on a black background next to text reading 'Click to follow TechRadar'

Follow TechRadar on Google News and add us as a preferred source to get our expert news, reviews, and opinion in your feeds. Make sure to click the Follow button!

CATEGORIES
Rob Dwiar
Managing Editor, TechRadar Gaming and Streaming

Rob is the Managing Editor of TechRadar Gaming and Streaming, a video games journalist, critic, editor, and writer, and has years of experience gained from multiple publications. Prior to being TechRadar Gaming's Managing Editor, he was TRG's Deputy Editor, and a longstanding member of GamesRadar+, being the Commissioning Editor for Hardware there for years, while also squeezing in a short stint as Gaming Editor at WePC just before joining TechRadar Gaming. He is also a writer on tech, gaming hardware, and video games but also gardens and landscapes, and has written about the virtual landscapes of games for years.

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.