Buying a Controller as a Gift: How to Get One That Actually Works With Theirs
A second controller is one of the most useful gifts you can give anyone with a console. It means a sibling, partner or grandparent can finally play too. It's also one of the easiest gifts to get wrong, because controllers that look nearly identical often don't work across systems. Here's how to choose the right one without knowing anything about gaming.
Quick answer
- Match the console family first: Nintendo controllers for Nintendo, PlayStation for PlayStation, Xbox for Xbox. Similar-looking pads are not interchangeable.
- Official controllers are the safe default. Licensed third-party controllers can be great value but vary in features. Read the listing for exactly which consoles it supports.
- Check how it's powered: built-in rechargeable vs replaceable batteries. It changes what else you should buy.
- For kids and casual players, a wired or simple wireless controller in a fun color is plenty. Pro-style controllers are for people who play a lot.
- Keep the receipt. If it turns out they already have three, an exchange is easy. Check the store's current return terms.
Controllers are the gift that quietly gets used every day. They let two people play at once, replace a worn-out one (sticks that drift on their own are a common complaint, covered in replace or repair a drifting controller), or give someone a more comfortable grip. The catch is compatibility. Here's the decision in the order that matters.
Step 1: Know exactly which console they have
This is the whole game. "They have a PlayStation" isn't enough, because different generations take different controllers. If you're not sure, our guide on finding out what console someone has has tactful ways to ask. Once you know the console, use this table:
| Their console | Safe pick | Things to know |
|---|---|---|
| PlayStation 5 | DualSense wireless controller | Older PS4 controllers can't be used to play PS5 games. Buy a DualSense or a third-party pad that clearly says it supports PS5. |
| PlayStation 4 | DualShock 4 wireless controller | A PS5 controller isn't the right gift for a PS4 owner. Look for "PS4" on the box. |
| Xbox Series X or S | Xbox Wireless Controller | Current Xbox controllers also work on Xbox One, and Xbox One controllers work on Series X|S, so this family is the most forgiving. |
| Nintendo Switch / Switch 2 | A Pro Controller, or Joy-Con for that model | Joy-Con for the original Switch and for Switch 2 are different designs. Buy the version that matches their console, and check the listing for compatibility. |
| PC (gaming computer) | An Xbox Wireless Controller is the common default | Most PC games support Xbox-style controllers. If they use Steam, it also supports many other controllers. |
| Handheld PC (e.g., Steam Deck) | Any well-supported wireless controller | Useful if they play on a TV through a dock. Otherwise the controls are built in. |
Common mistake: buying a "PlayStation-style" or "Xbox-style" controller from an unknown brand because it looks the same and costs less. If the listing doesn't explicitly name their console model, skip it.
Step 2: Official or third-party?
For a gift, especially when you're not a gamer, the official controller from the console maker is the safest choice for most people. It supports every feature the console expects, it's what games are designed around, and it's the easiest to exchange.
Third-party controllers aren't bad, though, and some are excellent. They make sense when:
- The budget is tight and the controller is for a young child or occasional player.
- You want a specific feature the official one lacks, like a wired connection, extra back buttons, a different shape for smaller or larger hands, or sticks advertised as drift-resistant.
- You want a fun design: character-themed or brightly colored pads are a hit with kids.
If you go third-party, look for the console maker's licensing mark on the packaging (wording varies by brand) and read the compatibility list carefully. Some third-party pads skip features like rumble, motion controls or a headphone jack. That's fine for casual play, but worth knowing.
Step 3: Batteries, charging and cables
This is the detail most gift buyers miss, and it decides whether the gift works straight out of the box.
- Built-in rechargeable (typical of PlayStation and Nintendo's controllers): charges over a USB cable. Check whether a cable is included and what kind of plug it uses.
- Replaceable batteries (the standard Xbox controller has traditionally used AA batteries): include a pack of rechargeable AAs and a charger, or a rechargeable battery pack made for that controller. Otherwise the gift needs a trip to the store on day one.
- Wired controllers: no batteries to worry about, cheaper, and great for kids who lose things. The trade-off is being tethered to the console or PC, so check the cable length against their couch distance.
Step 4: Match the controller to the player
| Who it's for | What to prioritize | What to skip |
|---|---|---|
| Young kids | Durability, a smaller grip if available, a wired option or simple charging, fun colors | Expensive "pro" controllers |
| A partner or roommate joining in | The same official controller the owner already uses, so it feels familiar | Odd layouts that make co-op confusing |
| A serious player | Comfort for long sessions, extra programmable buttons, adjustable triggers | Cheap pads with missing features |
| Someone replacing a worn-out controller | The same model (familiar), or one advertising more durable sticks | Unverified sellers and "like new" listings without a return option |
| A player with limited mobility | Remappable buttons and adaptive options. See our accessibility hardware guide | Assuming the standard controller is the only option |
Are premium "pro" controllers worth it as a gift?
Each major console maker sells a premium controller with extras like swappable sticks, back paddles and adjustable trigger stops, and several third-party brands make pro-style pads too. They can cost several times more than a standard controller, so check current prices.
Worth it as a gift only for someone who plays a lot, especially online and competitive games, and who's been talking about wanting one. For everyone else, a standard official controller (or two) is the better gift. They'll notice the second player slot far more than back paddles.
Small extras that make it a complete gift
A controller on its own is practical. A controller with one or two thoughtful extras feels like a present:
- A charging stand, so the controller is always ready (match it to the controller model)
- Rechargeable batteries, for controllers that use AAs
- Silicone grip covers or thumbstick caps for comfort, especially for kids
- A game they can play together with the new controller. Our family game night picks help here
- A carrying case if they travel with a handheld or Switch
Still shopping for small extras? Our stocking stuffers for gamers and gifts under $50 lists fill in the rest.
Buying safely around the holidays
- Buy new from a reputable retailer or the console maker's own store. Counterfeit controllers do circulate on marketplaces.
- Be wary of very low prices on "official" controllers from unknown sellers.
- Check the box condition on arrival and keep the packaging until the holiday is over.
- Confirm return or exchange terms before buying. Holiday return windows vary by store and change year to year.
- Charge or install batteries the night before if you'll be there when it's opened. See our Christmas morning setup checklist.
FAQ
Will a PS4 controller work on a PS5?
Not for PS5 games. A PS4 controller can be used for some PS4 games played on a PS5, but for a PS5 owner you should buy a DualSense or a third-party controller that clearly lists PS5 support.
Do Xbox One controllers work on Xbox Series X and S?
Yes. Xbox One controllers work on Xbox Series X|S, and current Xbox Wireless Controllers also work on Xbox One, which makes Xbox the most forgiving family to shop for.
Are third-party controllers OK as a gift?
They can be, especially for kids or casual players, as long as the packaging names their exact console. Some skip features like rumble or motion controls, so read the listing. When unsure, the official controller is the safe pick.
What do I need to buy along with an Xbox controller?
The standard Xbox Wireless Controller has traditionally run on AA batteries, so add rechargeable AAs and a charger or a rechargeable battery pack made for that controller.
Should I buy a premium pro controller as a gift?
Only if the person plays a lot, especially competitive online games, and has mentioned wanting one. For most people a standard official controller is the better value and more useful gift.
The bottom line
Get the console family right, default to the official controller unless you have a reason not to, and think about power before the big day. Do those three things and a controller becomes one of the most-used gifts under the tree. It's also the gift that most often turns "watching someone play" into "playing together."
Shopping for a non-gamer's first game gift? Start with the non-gamer's guide, then come back here for the second controller.