Having one of the best controllers for Warzone is often an overlooked way of improving your first-person shooting skills. Features like customizable buttons, back paddles, and adjustable trigger lengths can improve everything from your precision to your overall reaction times, helping you stay one step ahead. Finding all of that, though, isn't as easy as you might think.
Fortunately, this list takes into account all the aforementioned features along with general reviews, price, and more to help you find that perfect gamepad for Warzone and full Call of Duty titles like Black Ops 6. From PlayStation gamepads like the DualSense Edge to alternatives for Xbox and PC, there's a controller listed below to suit every Warzone player, no matter the platform.
Quick List: Best Controllers for Warzone
- 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
- PXN P5 - A superb budget choice
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 and remappable buttons
- Premium build tailored to PS5 gameplay
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, and programmable back paddles
- Three switchable profiles
- Long battery life and cross-platform compatibility
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 and interchangeable thumbsticks
- Hair-trigger mode and trigger stops
- RGB lighting adds a visual flair
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
- Trigger stops and removable buttons
- PS4, PS5, and PC compatibility
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 and instant triggers
- Comfortable design that's ideal for longer sessions
- Versatile and customizable with PC, Xbox, and mobile compatibility
Why we chose the PXN P5
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly controller for Warzone that doesn’t skimp on performance, the PXN P5 is a standout choice. After testing it myself, I can confidently say it punches well above its price tag, delivering features you’d typically find in premium gamepads—without the premium cost.
Priced at under $30 (at the time of writing), the PXN P5 offers an impressive gaming experience. One of its biggest strengths is the Hall Effect joysticks, which provide ultra-smooth, drift-free aiming—an absolute game-changer for locking onto targets in fast-paced firefights.
The hair triggers are another highlight, allowing for rapid responses when aiming and shooting. Plus, the four customizable back buttons help keep your thumbs on the sticks, giving you an extra edge in high-stakes moments.
The PXN P5 also supports multiple platforms, including PC, mobile, and Nintendo Switch, and comes packed with motion controls, turbo mode, and a companion app for fine-tuning your setup.
The only real downside? The D-pad could be a bit more tactile, but that’s a small trade-off considering everything else this controller brings to the table.
TL;DR - Reasons to Buy
- Hall Effect joysticks bring smooth, drift-free aiming for precise target tracking
- Hair Triggers and back buttons offer aster response times and customizable controls for an edge in gameplay
- Works with PC, mobile, and Nintendo Switch
Factors to Consider When Buying a Controller for Warzone
- Responsive Thumbsticks – Low dead zone sticks for precise aiming and smooth movement.
- Paddle or Back Buttons – Extra programmable buttons for quicker actions without taking thumbs off the sticks.
- Adjustable Triggers & Bumpers – Hair triggers for rapid shooting and customizable resistance.
- Ergonomic Grip & Comfort – A well-designed, non-slip grip for extended gaming sessions.
- Low Input Lag – Wired or high-performance wireless connectivity for faster response times.
- Customization & Modularity – Remappable buttons, swappable sticks, and trigger sensitivity tuning.
- Reliable Battery Life – Long-lasting rechargeable battery or wired option to avoid mid-game interruptions.
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 professional 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.
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.
Final Thoughts
Whether you're a casual player or a competitive Warzone gamer, the right controller can significantly elevate your gameplay experience. There's a controller for every playstyle and platform here, so choose the one that suits your needs, and dominate the battlefield with upgraded precision and accuracy!