Xbox Wireless Controller, Carbon Black

There’s a reason so many PC games show Xbox button prompts by default. The standard Xbox Wireless Controller is the default gamepad for Windows, and this Carbon Black version works on Xbox Series X|S consoles, PCs and phones with almost no setup.

Connection is flexible. Plug in a USB-C cable for plug-and-play on console or PC, or go wireless using Xbox Wireless or Bluetooth, and it can quickly pair and switch between supported devices. That makes it easy to move from couch gaming on the console to a PC game on a laptop without buying a second controller. A 3.5mm jack on the bottom takes a wired headset for voice chat and game audio.

The hybrid D-pad is a highlight for fighting games and platformers, since it handles quick diagonal inputs better than a plain plus shape. Textured grips on the triggers, bumpers and back help it stay put in sweaty hands, and the Share button grabs screenshots and clips. You can remap buttons in the Xbox Accessories app. It doesn’t have back paddles, so competitive players who want extra inputs will need to look at a pro controller. As an everyday controller for Xbox and PC, it’s the safe, comfortable choice.