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Video games have evolved a lot over the years, and so have gaming controllers. They have gone from being a block with an analog stick to a multifunctional device that can play all sorts of titles. The Sega Fishing Rod, Resident Evil Chainsaw, and the NES Power Glove were some of the most unique gamepads of their time.
In recent years, hardware manufacturers have stopped experimenting with creating unique controllers and stuck with the basic designs of the Xbox and PlayStation. However, there are still a few gamepads that are different.
This article showcases 10 unique gaming controllers that you cannot miss.
Note: Some aspects of this article are subjective and solely reflect the writer's opinions. The list is not ranked in any particular order.
What are the 10 unique gaming controllers?
1) Logitech G Pro Racing Wheel with Pro Pedals
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Price: $1249.99
With racing titles, most gamers rely on traditional controllers with dual analog sticks and triggers to steer, accelerate, and brake. While offering a decent experience, it isn't the same as driving with an actual steering wheel and foot pedals.
Logitech's G Pro Racing Wheel and its Pro Pedals go a step beyond by providing the ultimate racing experience at home. The setup uses state-of-the-art technology, including Direct Drive force motors and a Trueforce feedback system, to bring a new level of realism. That said, it is the most expensive gaming controller on this list.
While there are other cheaper options available, they don't deliver the same experience as this.
2) Xbox Elite Series 2 Core Wireless Gaming Controller
Price: $140.99
The Xbox Elite Series 2 Core may look like a traditional controller, but it is not. In fact, it is one of the most customizable gamepads on the market. You can change and replace almost every aspect of this gaming controller, including the thumbstick, D-pads, and paddles.
The best part is that replacement components for the thumbstick, D-pads, paddles, and other components are included when purchasing this Xbox controller.
3) PlayStation Access controller
Price: $89.99
The PlayStation Access controller is designed for specially-abled users and has various accessibility-focused features. It caters to a wide range of disabilities and is highly customizable. The controller is designed like a round dial with all the buttons on its circumference.
For a regular user, the design choice may look odd. However, it can be a boon for gamers who suffer from ataxia or cerebral palsy. The dedicated joystick with adjustable length offers an even greater depth of playability.
4) FLYDIGI APEX 4 PC Controller with Wireless Charger Dock
Price: $179.99
The FLYDIGI APEX 4 is a fully wireless controller. Unlike other gamepads, it can be charged wirelessly with the provided dock, eliminating the need for a USB cable. This gaming controller is packed with technical innovations, including fully mechanical buttons, hall-sensing analog triggers, and force touch triggers.
The mechanical and wireless aspects of the FLYDIGI APEX 4 set it apart from other competitors in the market. It is also beautifully crafted with a semi-translucent shell and LED lights.
5) Thrustmaster T-Flight Full Kit
Price: $199.99
The Thrustmaster T-Flight Full Kit is a very unique gamepad. It is a full-fledged flight gaming controller kit specifically designed to play games like Microsoft Flight Simulator.
Its innovative and highly precise HOTAS control system – short for Hands On Throttle And Stick – is amazing. This package also includes T-flight rudder pedals, adding to its list of functionalities.
With this controller, you will have a whole new experience when you take to the skies in Microsoft Flight Simulator.
6) 8BitDo SN30 Pro Bluetooth Gaming Controller
Price: $44.99
If you are a fan of old retro-style gamepads like the NES Dogbone controller, then the 8BitDo is your ideal companion. The company has developed a modern gamepad with a design that highly resembles the NES Dogbone controller – from the body to the color of the buttons. It is compact and looks extremely adorable.
While this gamepad may look retro from the outside, it is anything but on the inside. It is fitted with modern technology, such as a Hall sensor, rumble motor, motion controls, wireless/Bluetooth connectivity, and a USB-C port.
7) Xbox Adaptive Controller
Price: $99.99
Gamers with disabilities have very limited options when it comes to usable gamepads. The design of traditional controllers can be impractical for some users, and for others, impossible to play on. For instance, individuals with cerebral palsy may find it quite difficult to use a standard gamepad.
The PlayStation platform offers the PlayStation Access controller (listed above), while the Xbox has the Xbox Adaptive gamepad. Having used both, I prefer the Xbox Adaptive controller for its intuitive design and shorter learning curve.
While it looks straight out of the future, its functional design works fairly well. You can also attach third-party switches or buttons to the gamepad for better customizability.
Also read: Top 5 PC gamepads in 2024
8) PDP Victrix Pro BFG Wireless Gaming Controller for PS5, PS4, PC
Price: $179.99
If you liked the concept of the Xbox Elite Series 2 Core Wireless controller for its customization options, then this one is for you. The PDP Victrix Pro BFG Wireless gamepad has the same features and customization options as the Xbox model and then some.
Unlike the Xbox Elite mode, this controller supports gaming on the PS5, PS4, and PC, bringing a similar level of customization options to the PlayStation platform. That said, PDP also sells a version of this gamepad for the Xbox platform.
9) Voyee LED Star Wireless Pro Gaming Controller
Price: $25.99
The Voyee LED Star Wireless Pro gaming controller is for players who love RGB or have an RGB PC setup at home. The XY AB buttons, analog triggers, and even the entire shell have RGB LEDs, giving this gamepad a very unique appearance.
Another distinctive property of this gamepad is that it can be paired with the Nintendo Switch and PC, besides iOS and Android devices.
10) 8BitDo Pro 2 Bluetooth Controller
Price: $49.99
The 8BitDo Pro 2 Bluetooth is another retro-themed controller. This time, 8BitDo has drawn inspiration from the PlayStation 2 gamepad, with the company putting its own twist on the design. It looks especially nice in gray color and the retro design of the D-pad and thumb sticks make it stand out.
Despite its vintage appearance, the controller has modern components internally, such as Hall sensor-based analog sticks, four-way mode switching, wireless Bluetooth connectivity, rumble vibrations, and USB-C connectivity.
That concludes our list of the 10 unique gaming controllers you can buy today. Each model on this list brings something new and unique to the table. Which one did you find the most interesting? Let us know in the comments.
