It's an exciting time for PC gaming, whether you've been lucky enough to get your hands on a Steam Deck already or you're still waiting on your pre-order to come in. While the Deck might not be the first handheld computer to market, it's still a very compelling piece of hardware with a wide feature set.
The Steam Deck is just a Linux gaming PC in a rather inventive shell, unlike a traditional gaming console. That means that in addition to having a growing array of software, you can also use a huge amount of off-the-shelf hardware and accessories with your Deck. And if you're planning to hook up your Deck to a TV for some couch gaming, then you're likely going to want a controller to sit back and get comfy with. Any controller listed here will work well connected via USB or Bluetooth—just don't forget to enable Bluetooth in your settings before connecting.
Xbox Core Wireless Controller
Microsoft has really standardized the PC controller landscape, with the standard Xbox button layout being the default for most games that feature controller support. Their current offering, branded as the Xbox Core Wireless Controller, is a great choice for any PC game with controller support. It has a textured outer shell for easy grip, textured shoulder, and trigger buttons and is more supported than just about any controller in the PC gaming market. The extra clicky d-pad on it might turn some off, but it's still a very accurate and easy-to-use controller.
Related: How to get game audio while running Windows on Steam Deck
PlayStation DualSense Wireless Controller
More PC games are beginning to offer either manual or automated options for fans of Sony's button legend, and Steam has had full native support for PlayStation controllers for some time now. The DualSense controller features a more rounded, easy-to-grip design than previous PlayStation controllers' generations. While widespread adoptions of the new features are still rolling out slowly on PC, a small number of PC games already support the adaptive trigger functions of the DualSense. Steam also has support for the touchpad, although it may need to be manually configured depending on how you want to use it. If you're a PlayStation controller fan, you don't need to wait until you can track down a PS5 to use the latest and greatest.
Switch Pro Controller
Since its debut alongside the console, the Switch Pro Controller has become the go-to controller for many gamers. It features large face buttons, gyro aiming, symmetrical stick placement, and a great ergonomic grip. And, like so many other controllers, it's fully supported on the Steam Deck. Many gamers who grew up with Nintendo's button layout tend to prefer the swapped button layout compared to the Microsoft layout, and the Pro Controller is a great way to get that on your Steam Deck.
8bitdo Pro 2
8bitdo makes great retro-inspired controllers, and they also work great for all types of gaming. The Pro 2 features a 1000mAh rechargeable battery (easily swappable for AA batteries), two back buttons, gyro functionality, and custom profile settings. The back features a slider switch for the different supported modes, and 8bitdo's custom mapping software is fully supported. Once connected to the software, you can customize the button mapping, rumble intensity, and even joystick dead zones. It might be third party, but the Pro 2 has all the features of its largest competitors for a much smaller price tag.
Related: Best Steam Deck Expandable Storage
Steam Controller
Valve actually produced their very own controller, originally meant to pair with their Steam Link hardware. It's a bit non-traditional both in features and grip, but it does offer some utility for games that don't yet have controller support. The touchpads on the Steam Controller, similar to the touchpads built into the Steam Deck, function as trackpads. This means with some finesse and software mapping, you can play games originally meant for mouse and keyboard controls. It's a bit difficult to get used to, but it's a great way to play strategy or other mouse-focused slower-paced titles once you've acclimated. This one is tricky to track down since Valve no longer produces it, but if you're after a convenient way to play any mouse and keyboard game from the couch, it's worth the effort.
Honestly, any controller you have lying around is likely to work with the Steam Deck, barring some ancient hardware. Even older controllers, such as the Xbox 360 controller, will plugin and work with little to no configuration. This means it's easy to choose the controller that best fits your needs and comfort level, and it gives you the freedom to try something different that isn't working for you.
For more hardware guides check out Best Wall Mounted PC Cases and Best Fight Stick in 2022 on Pro Game Guides.
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Justin is a retro and PC gaming enthusiast with a passion for emulation, benchmarks, and comparing controllers. You can usually find him installing Linux for the umpteenth time or exploring old DOS games.