Revamped and Ruling: The Ultimate Guide to Retro Gaming Controllers in 2023
Enhance your old school gaming experience with the ultimate selection of retro gaming controllers in 2023 Discover the best options that seamlessly blend nostalgia and functionality, leaving modern alternatives behind
With the increasing advancement of controllers in the realm of competitive gaming, not everyone is inclined to invest in top-of-the-line options. There are gamers who prefer the nostalgia of using their beloved older models with current systems, while others yearn for an immersive gaming experience that takes them back to the origins of gaming.
For those who desire to defy contemporary trends and opt for older models, retro controllers are a fantastic choice. While they may not possess genuine retro status, their retro style, shape, and button configurations offer an authentically old-school feel while delivering exceptional performance on the latest consoles and PC builds.
Choosing the best retro game controller depends on a few key factors:
What type of retro games will be played
Which systems the games will be played on
Whether wired or wireless is preferred
Once players decide on these things, they can easily pick out a great retro controller for their favorite pastime!
8BitDo SN30 Pro
Best Retro Gaming Controller Overall $45 at Amazon
Hyperkin Duke Wired Controller Cortana 20th Anniversary Limited Edition
Best Retro Gaming Controller for Xbox $90 at Amazon
8BitDo Pro 2 Controller
Best Retro Gaming Controller for PC $50 at Amazon
PowerA Wireless GameCube Style Controller
Best Retro Gaming Controller for Switch $60 at Amazon
Retro-Bit Official Sega Saturn USB Controller Pad (Model 2)
Best Retro Gaming Controller for Sega Games $20 at Amazon
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Retro-Bit Legacy 16 Wired USB Controller
Best Budget Retro Gaming Controller$13 at Amazon
The 8BitDo SN30 Pro is the ultimate retro gaming controller. With its classic SNES controller design and modern features like Bluetooth connectivity, it offers the best of both worlds. Featuring a complete button set, clickable joysticks, rumble vibration, motion controls, and a rechargeable battery via USB-C, this controller has it all. Say goodbye to tangled wires and enjoy a seamless gaming experience.
The 8BitDo brand is compatible with Nintendo Switch, Windows, MacOS, and Steam platforms. It is equipped with a 500mAh Li-on rechargeable battery and can connect via Bluetooth. Unfortunately, it does not support headset connectivity or programmable features. With a cable length of 41 inches and weighing 250 grams, it is relatively lightweight. One advantage of this brand is that it offers some modern functionality. Additionally, it is available in a range of retro colors.
Wide compatibility
Cons Won't work with Xbox or PlayStation consoles
Not exactly like original SNES controller
$45 at Amazon $45 at Walmart
Renowned within the retro community, 8BitDo is admired for its excellent range of accessories, particularly its top-tier retro controllers. The latest iteration of the SN30, set to be released in 2023, is equipped with a plethora of modern features that make it stand out. These include clickable joysticks, rumble vibration, motion controls, wireless Bluetooth connectivity, a rechargeable battery, a home button, and even a screenshot button.
Taking inspiration from the classic SNES controller, this retro gamepad showcases a similar design with its bulbous sides and satisfying clicky bumpers. As for color options, 8BitDo offers the controller in five different shades, including sought-after transparent variations in striking purple and green. With compatibility across various platforms such as Switch, Windows, MacOS, Android, and Steam, the SN30 enables gamers from all walks of life to immerse themselves in decades worth of retro titles.
Introducing the Hyperkin Duke Wired Controller Cortana 20th Anniversary Limited Edition – the ultimate retro gaming controller for Xbox. With its iconic Halo design, this special edition controller comes with a captivating Cortana montage displayed right on the Xbox button. The bumpers of the controller perfectly resemble black and white buttons, and it offers precise analog triggers for enhanced gaming control. Immerse yourself in the virtual world with the added 3.5 mm headset jack and vibration feedback, creating a truly immersive gaming experience. The detachable type-C USB cable ensures easy connectivity to your Xbox console. Whether you're a die-hard Halo fan or simply appreciate top-notch gaming accessories, this controller is the perfect choice for you.
Brand: Hyperkin
Platform: Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PC
Connectivity: USB-C cable
Headset Support: 3.5mm
Programmable: No
Cable Length: 6ft
Weight: 1.95lbs
Pros: Classic, broad design of Xbox controller
Compatibility: Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, and Windows
Animated power button
Cons Somewhat expensive
Not many color options
$90 at Amazon
The Hyperkin Duke wired controller offers a nostalgic gaming experience, particularly with its limited edition Cortana version. Resembling the original Xbox controller but with enhanced comfort, this sleek controller is perfect for revisiting beloved games from the early 2000s.
Featuring the iconic animated startup screen at its center, the Hyperkin Duke Xbox controller is truly a sight to behold. The rumble packs have been upgraded to deliver high-quality haptic feedback, and the inclusion of a 3.5mm jack allows players to chat seamlessly, regardless of the age of their game. Additionally, with precise analog triggers and a detachable USB-C cable, players can enjoy the retro aesthetics along with modern specifications.
Introducing the 8BitDo Pro 2 Controller: The Ultimate Retro Gaming Experience for PC
Experience the perfect blend of nostalgia and cutting-edge technology with the 8BitDo Pro 2 retro controller. As the newest iteration of their highly acclaimed gaming accessory, this controller offers an array of advanced features, including rumble and motion controls.
Connectivity is a breeze with the Pro 2 controller, thanks to its seamless Bluetooth integration. Whether you're gaming on Apple devices, Nintendo Switch, PC, Android, Steam Deck, or even Raspberry Pi, this versatile controller has got you covered.
Say goodbye to interruptions during your gaming sessions, as the Pro 2 boasts an impressive 20-hour battery life. No longer will you have to worry about constant recharging, allowing you to stay immersed in the gaming world, even on the go.
Upgrade your gaming experience today with the 8BitDo Pro 2 Controller and embrace the best of retro and modern gaming all in one sleek package.
Brand: 8BitDo
Platform Compatibility: Apple, Switch, PC, Android, Steam Deck, Raspberry Pi
Battery Life: Up to 20 hours
Connectivity: Bluetooth
Headset Support: Not available
Programmable: Yes
Additional Buttons: 2
Available Colors: Black, White, Gray
Weight: 8 ounces
Pros: Allows customization of buttons with 3 profiles, while maintaining a comfortable design that exudes a retro vibe.
Includes motion controls for Switch
Cons Not quite a replica of any retro controller
Can sometimes have connection issues
$50 at Amazon
Retro gaming on PC offers a wide range of available titles, without many limitations. 8BitDo once again fulfills the desires of retro gamers with their Pro 2 controller. With a design reminiscent of both the NES and PS1 controllers, the Pro 2 is a comfortable and straightforward choice for extended gaming sessions.
The Pro 2 is a retro controller that surpasses others in terms of advanced features. It boasts wireless Bluetooth connectivity, haptic feedback, motion controls, and a remarkable 20-hour battery life.
Furthermore, this controller is fully customizable, equipped with two paddle buttons at the back and three profile slots. Although the motion controls are exclusively compatible with the Switch, the remaining functionalities of the controller seamlessly work with PC, Android, and iOS devices.
The PowerA Wireless GameCube Style Controller is the ultimate choice for Switch users who crave the nostalgic feel of gaming in the 2000s. It has established itself as a beloved controller in Super Smash Bros. tournaments. With its iconic octagonal gated sticks, oversized A button, and unique bean-shaped X and Y buttons, this officially licensed Bluetooth wireless controller for Nintendo Switch faithfully captures the essence of the original GameCube version. Furthermore, it boasts improved features such as larger shoulder buttons and D-pad, as well as the incorporation of left shoulder and system buttons for seamless compatibility with all Nintendo Switch games.
Is it wireless? Yes, it is compatible with Switch and PC systems. The brand is PowerA and it comes in the color option of purple. The battery of this device lasts up to 30 hours. It can be connected via Bluetooth and supports motion controls and system buttons. It weighs 7.2 ounces. Unfortunately, it does not have headset support or programmable buttons.
Classic button layout with octagonal joysticks
Cons Somewhat limited PC compatibility
Only one color option for wireless
$60 at Amazon
The iconic GameCube controller was one of the first retro controllers demanded by fans for the Switch. Although not identical to the original, PowerA's wireless GameCube-style controller is considered one of the top choices for Switch players.
Equipped with Bluetooth 5.0, the new version of the GameCube controller boasts a battery life of up to 30 hours on a single charge. In addition, it includes Switch-specific features like motion controls and the correct arrangement of menu buttons in the center. While most commonly favored for Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, PowerA's wireless GameCube controller is also suitable for enjoying re-releases of beloved classics such as Super Mario Sunshine and the earlier Pikmin games in their original style.
Enhance Your Retro Gaming Experience with the Retro-Bit Official Sega Saturn USB Controller Pad (Model 2)
The Retro-Bit Official Sega Saturn USB Controller Pad (Model 2) is the ultimate choice for gamers longing for the nostalgic Sega Genesis era. This controller, officially licensed by SEGA, offers a seamless gaming experience with various platforms including Sega Genesis Mini, Switch, PS3, PC, Mac, Steam, RetroPie, and Raspberry Pi. While staying true to its original design, this retro controller boasts a USB wire for convenient connectivity. Notable features include the ability to effortlessly switch between D-Input and X-Input on the go, allowing players to adapt to their preferred gaming style without any hassle.
The Retro-Bit brand offers a wide range of connectivity options for the Sega Genesis Mini, Switch, PS3, PC, Mac, Steam, RetroPie, and Raspberry Pi platforms. It supports USB connectivity and has a cable length of 10ft. The controller doesn't have headset support or programmable features. It is available in black color and weighs 10.2 ounces. One of its notable advantages is its striking resemblance to the original Sega controllers, making it highly appealing for nostalgic gamers. Additionally, it boasts wide compatibility with various gaming platforms.
Can switch between D-input and X-input on the fly
Cons Somewhat small
Cable may be way too long for some users
$20 at Amazon
The Sega Saturn controller by Retro-Bit is a nostalgic choice for fans who fondly remember their time spent playing Sonic, Castlevania, and Toejam and Earl. With its USB-wired connection, this controller appeals to retro enthusiasts who appreciate the familiar design of fight pads. Originally designed for the Sega Genesis Mini, it is also conveniently compatible with a range of devices including the Switch, PC, Mac, Raspberry Pi, and even the PS3.
Retro-Bit Legacy 16 Wired USB Controller
The Retro-Bit Legacy 16 Wired USB Controller is an excellent budget option for retro gaming. Designed to resemble the classic SNES controller, it features all the familiar buttons and D-pad layout. Additionally, it includes some modern upgrades like ZL and ZR buttons, home and screenshot buttons, and a 10ft USB cable. Compatible with Switch, Steam, PC, and Raspberry Pi, this controller is versatile and easy to use. In terms of aesthetics, it comes in black or white, weighing only 7.1 ounces. Overall, the Retro-Bit Legacy 16 Wired USB Controller offers a simple yet modern design that is perfect for retro gaming enthusiasts.
Wide compatibility
Very affordable
Cons Very long cable
May need extra configuration for PC
Priced at just $13 on Amazon, the Retro-Bit Legacy 16 wired USB controller is perfect for gamers who wish to quickly dive back into their beloved classics without spending too much. This affordable controller, one of the most reasonably priced options Game Rant has highlighted, comes with a USB cord that enables compatibility with PC, Switch, and Raspberry Pi retro game systems.
The Legacy 16 stands out from other retro controllers with its authentic design, omitting joysticks and providing exactly what players need for playing old NES and SNES games. Available in two appealing colors and offered at an incredibly affordable price, users can effortlessly enhance their retro collection and indulge in nostalgic gaming bliss.
