Valorant has finally made its way to consoles after being available on PC since June 2020. The first-person shooter has been developed by Riot, and it brings fast-paced, exhilarating action to PS5 and Xbox Series consoles. Of course, the game will be limited to 60 FPS or up to 120 FPS if your setup allows for it. But at a consistent 60 FPS, Valorant is just as fun on console as it is on PC. The controls have been adopted and there are a lot of presets to choose from.
That being said, you will need a solid controller to get the best experience playing Valorant. Since it involves a lot of quick stick movements, the standard included controllers for the PS5 and Xbox Series consoles are not the best for longevity. The good news is that there are a lot of third-party controllers that will perform better, if not just as well, in Valorant and, thanks to technological improvements in analog sticks, they will outlast the stock controllers.
Wired Vs Wireless Controller: Which is Better for Gaming?
Both wired and wireless controllers are excellent options for playing your favorite games, but which offers the better experience?
Here are the Best Controllers for Valorant on Console in 2024
Nacon Revolution 5 Pro
- Brand
- Nacon
- Platform
- PS5, PS4, PC
- Battery
- 10 hours+
- Connectivity
- RF, Wired
- Headset Support
- Yes
The Nacon Revolution 5 Pro is one of the most advanced wireless controllers yet for competitive PlayStation and PC gamers. Boasting Hall Effect technology on its analog sticks and triggers, this controller will provide accurate, drift-free inputs for years of gaming excellence. The Revolution 5 Pro ships with a large assortment of alternate analog stick tops, d-pads, and weights for a completely customizable feel. With the PC app, gamers can remap the controller's four back buttons and program profiles to toggle through on the fly.
Checkbox: control the expandable behavior of the extra info- Programmable
- Yes
- Extra Buttons
- 4
- Colors
- 2
- Cable Length
- 10 feet
- Weight
- Adjustable
- Incredible build quality
- Hall effect sticks and triggers
- Trigger stops for faster actuation
- On the pricier side
Those looking for a premium controller for their PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, or PC that checks all the right boxes should take a look at the NACON Revolution 5 Pro. It comes in a black and a white color option, with the white one sharing the PS5 theme. It is an expensive controller, but it justifies the cost with its excellent build quality, hall effect technology, and mappable buttons.
The NACON Revolution 5 Pro features the same layout as the standard Xbox controller, which can be a deal-breaker for some, but most gamers appreciate the asymmetric Xbox style layout of the analog sticks rather than the PlayStation style. So, the left analog stick and the D-pad have been swapped, but the PlayStation style button labeling is still present. What’s great is that both the sticks and triggers use Hall effect technology, which means they will be more accurate and have much better durability than the standard potentiometer-based sticks and triggers.
The NACON Revolution 5 Pro comes with trigger blockers, which means you can actuate the triggers at their default position or with a shorter press. It is also highly customizable, coming with three sets of weights, three stick sizes, three sets of stick heads, an external microphone jack, the ability to save up to four profiles, and more. This wireless controller can last for over 10 hours and can also be used in wired mode.
Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra Wireless Controller
- Brand
- Turtle Beach
- Platform
- Xbox, PC, Mobile
- Battery
- 30 hour
- Connectivity
- RF, Bluetooth, Wired
- Headset Support
- Yes
The Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra is one of the most technologically advanced wireless controllers to date. Xbox and PC gamers can receive notifications from social media or customize the controller's settings with an easy-to-read LED screen. The Stealth Ultra is also a pro-grade controller with drift-resistant Hall Effect analog sticks, four remapabble back buttons, and microswitches with instant responses to inputs.
Checkbox: control the expandable behavior of the extra info- Programmable
- Yes
- Extra Buttons
- 4
- Weight
- 246 grams
- Smart display with notifications and adjustments
- Charging dock
- 2.4GHz low latency connection
- Expensive
Amazon has a limited-time deal on the Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra controller, now available at the discounted price of $164.95.
Turtle Beach has been in the gaming peripheral space for a long time and its experience shows with the Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra controller for Xbox consoles. It is a premium Xbox controller that is packed with features. What sets it apart from the competition is the intuitive display and dock that comes with it. The Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra controller can provide a low latency 2.4GHz connection to your Xbox console via a transmitter that can be plugged in directly into your console or in the dock.
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The dock is a small, wired accessory that has a charging slot for the controller when it runs out of battery after 30 hours of gaming. You also get Bluetooth connectivity, so using the controller with an Android device or a smart TV is seamless. The display not only shows notifications, but lets you adjust the setting on the fly. The Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra is perfect for Valorant because it allows for adjusting dead zones and axis response modes, changing button mapping, and adjusting vibration intensity, along with other settings crucial for a competitive FPS.
Along with all the traditional Xbox buttons, there are four extra mappable buttons on the back, along with toggles for the adjustable trigger stops. The Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra is an excellent choice for any gamer looking to improve their FPS skills in games like Valorant and others.
PDP Victrix Pro BFG Wireless Controller for PS5
- Brand
- PDP
- Platform
- PlayStation, PC
- Battery
- 20 Hours Wireless
- Connectivity
- Wireless Adapter, USB-C Wired Mode
- Headset Support
- Yes With 3D Support
PDP’s Victrix Pro BFG wireless PS4|5 controller delivers on a lot of promises but at a high price. Completely modular and packed with high-end specs, this wireless PC controller is ready for pro gaming across multiple genres.
Checkbox: control the expandable behavior of the extra info- Programmable
- Yes
- Extra Buttons
- Yes
- Impressive level of modularity and customizability
- 5 trigger stops
- Comes with alternate modules in the box
- Missing rumble features
One major aspect that holds the stock Xbox and PS controllers back is the lack of customizability (Xbox Elite and DualSense Edge controllers offer some level of customizability). This is where the PDP Victrix Pro BFG comes in. It has both Playstation and Xbox versions, and both of them are available in black and white colors. The overall shape resembles an Xbox Series controller, which is a good thing. It is comfortable to hold, and all the buttons are easy to reach.
The PDP Victrix Pro BFG is a modular controller and what it means by that is you can switch the orientation of the joysticks, buttons, and D-pad. So, you can have a PS style layout or an Xbox style layout, or even a hybrid layout. In the package, you get a reversible left module, a six-button fight pad module, a standard right module, three different D-pads, four interchangeable sticks, and four gates. There are also four mappable buttons on the back, but there is no screen at the front like the Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra.
The controller can be used in both wired and wireless modes. It comes with a braided USB Type-C cable that enables even faster inputs. Along with the four mappable buttons on the back, you also get a Clutch Trigger mechanism that brings five trigger stop settings for each trigger.
PowerA Wired Controller for Xbox
- Brand
- PowerA
- Platform
- Xbox Series X|S
- Connectivity
- Wired
- Headset Support
- Yes
- Programmable
- Yes
The PowerA Wired Controller for Xbox Series X/S is designed with great ergonomics for a comfortable gaming experience and an intuitive button layout for efficient gameplay. It features a standard 3.5 mm stereo headset jack. The controller also includes immersive dual rumble motors that enhance the tactile feedback during gameplay.
This controller comes with a detachable 10 feet USB cable that provides enough length for a comfortable gaming distance and includes a hook-and-loop closure for storage. The controller also boasts two Advanced Gaming Buttons that are mappable, allowing for customization and a more personalized gaming experience.
- Cable Length
- 10 Feet
- Very affordable
- Dual rumble motors
- Lightweight and ergonomic
- No wireless connectivity or RGB lighting
- May feel cheap compared to original Xbox controller
PowerA is known for its budget-friendly alternatives to the stock Xbox controller, and this wired version is the perfect budget-friendly offering that offers the same comfort, ergonomics, and button layout of the standard Xbox Series controller. You also get dual rumble motors and haptic feedback in the triggers. Its similarities to the original Xbox controller are what make the PowerA Wired Controller the best budget option on the market.
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It is a wired controller, and that’s to be expected at this price point. It comes with a 10-foot cable that should allow you to sit as far as you want from the console. The 3.5mm jack is present here as well, so you can get your game audio into the headphones wherever you sit. There are also multiple color options to choose from, including Black, Blue, Red, White, and Violet.
Even though it is a budget offering, there is a Windows-based app that lets you test and calibrate the controller so you can make sure there is nothing holding you back in Valorant. There is no RGB lighting or extra mappable buttons on this controller, but if you have a slightly higher budget, you can take a look at the PowerA Advantage Wired Controller or the Advantage with Lumectra wired controller.
Sony DualSense Wireless Controller
- Brand
- Sony
- Platform
- PS5, Android, iOS
- Connectivity
- Bluetooth, USB C
- Headset Support
- Yes
Sony's DualSense is not only compatible with iOS and Android phones, but it also features an upgraded design that looks great and feels comfortable when playing, thanks to its textured grips. It features a headset and built-in microphone that allows gamers to use commands in compatible titles or chat with friends online.
Checkbox: control the expandable behavior of the extra info- Ergonomic and stylish design
- Adaptive triggers
- Supports wired operation
- Not as cheap as other budget options
- Battery life is not satisfactory
There aren’t too many budget-friendly options when it comes to PS5 compatible controllers, at least not as many as for Xbox consoles. This makes the standard PlayStation DualSense Wireless Controller the best budget option for the PS5. Of course, it perfectly matches the aesthetic of the PS5 and most owners already have one, if not more, as it is shipped with the console.
Regardless, the PlayStation DualSense Wireless Controller brings adaptive triggers and improved haptic feedback, along with all the features that were present in the previous generation controller. You get up to 12 hours of playtime, which is not the best, but you can use the controller in wired mode. You will need to go into the settings and change the “Communication Method” to “Use USB Cable”. This does somewhat mitigate the short battery life concerns, but it involves a few extra steps, so it’s not ideal.
There is an LED light that goes around the touchpad, which has also been improved with this generation. The speakers have been improved as well and the 3.5mm headphone jack is present at the bottom, where it should be. There is also a dedicated mute button on the controller itself.
Sony offers the PlayStation DualSense Wireless Controller in many different colors, but not all of them may be available through all retailers.
Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma
- Brand
- Razer
- Platform
- Xbox Series X|S, PC
- Connectivity
- Wired
- Headset Support
- Yes
- Battery
- N/A
The Wolverine V2 Chroma combines supreme comfort with maximum functionality using its industry-leading tech, like its mecha-tactile action buttons.
The Wolverine V2 features a crisp RGB trim that adds color to the controller and delineates between the sleek top and the high-quality, textured handles. In addition, the simple dapple-style texture wraps fully around the handles, unlike other options that contour their surface to account for different grip styles.
- Programmable
- Yes
- Extra Buttons
- 8
- Mecha-Tactile buttons and D-Pad for faster actuation
- Customizable RGB lighting
- 6 multifunctional remappable buttons
- Only compatible wth Xbox and PC
When it comes to premium wired controllers, the Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma stands at the top not just because of its intuitive and gaming forward features, but also its excellent build quality. There are two color options: black and white, and even though it is a wired controller, the USB Type-C cable is detachable. Razer has paid special attention to the ergonomics and tweaked the grip design for better hand support and easier access to all the buttons.
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It comes with the company’s Mecha-tactile action buttons and D-pad, which have reduced travel for faster actuation, which should give you the advantage in Valorant. They are also highly durable, and Razer has rated these buttons for a 3-million tap life cycle. Along with all the standard buttons, there are six additional mappable buttons and all of them can be customized through the Xbox app.
The triggers have stop switches to reduce travel and have faster actuation. The thumbsticks are interchangeable and Razer includes a shorter and a taller stick. Being the Chroma version of the controller, it comes with support for customizable RGB lighting that can also be controlled through the Xbox app.
There is a cheaper version of this controller without the RGB lighting called the Razer Wolverine V2. It has only two extra mappable buttons, no customizable thumbsticks, and a four button D-pad instead of a circular D-pad on the Chroma variant.
How to Find the Best Controller for Valorant on Consoles
Valorant is a first-person shooter that demands fast reaction times, low latency inputs, and easy to access buttons. That being said, there are a few factors to consider when making the purchase decision:
Compatibility
First and foremost, you will need to make sure that the controller you are looking at is compatible with the console you own. Most controllers are compatible with either Xbox Series or PlayStation consoles, and not both. These controllers typically work with PCs regardless of their console compatibility.
Connection Type
You can either get a wired or a wireless controller to play Valorant on the Xbox Series or PS5 consoles. While there are plenty of good, wired options on the market for Xbox users, options for PlayStation users are fairly limited. With wireless controllers, the options open up quite a bit and there are several high-performing controllers for both Xbox and PS5 consoles. The issue with wireless controllers is the need to recharge often but the cable-free nature, in some cases, takes priority. The NACON Revolution 5 Pro and the Turtle Beach Ultra are the best wireless options for PS5 and Xbox Series consoles respectively.
Battery Life
If you decide to go in for a wireless controller, make sure to either go for one with the most battery life or shorter battery life but the ability to use it in wired mode. The standard PS5 controller does not have the best battery life but can be used with a cable. The NACON Revolution 5 Pro can last for over 10 hours, which is not great, while the Turtle Beach Ultra can last up to 30 hours.
Budget
You do not need to invest a lot of money to get the best experience in Valorant. Budget options like the PowerA Wired Controller for Xbox Series X|S are good enough and come with all the basic features you would need. You can get cheap controllers for the Xbox Series consoles, but there aren’t too many budget-friendly options for the PS5.
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FAQ
Q: Does Valorant on consoles have crossplay?
Yes, Valorant supports crossplay across consoles which means PS5 gamers can battle with Xbox Series players online.
Q: Can I play Valorant on PS4?
Unfortunately, Valorant is only available on PS5 and Xbox Series consoles.