Best controller for GTA 6

The controller that comes with your PS5 or Xbox is already great for GTA 6, so you do not need to buy one. If you want an edge, a pro controller adds back paddles and custom profiles. Here are the picks by platform.

What matters for GTA 6: comfort, reliable sticks, and on PS5 the adaptive triggers and haptics that make weapons feel distinct. A pro controller is an upgrade, not a requirement. Prices move, so check the live price before you buy.

Best PS5 proDualSense EdgeSony pro pad with full adaptive triggers and haptics, so GTA 6 weapons and surfaces feel distinct, plus back buttons and swappable sticks. The premium PS5 pick.Check current priceCheck price ↗Best Xbox proXbox Elite Series 2Four back paddles, swappable sticks, hair-trigger locks and a 40 hour battery. The pro controller of choice on Xbox and PC.Check current priceCheck price ↗Best valueStandard DualSenseThe controller in the box is excellent. Adaptive triggers and haptics on PS5, no extra spend needed for GTA 6. Xbox players get the same value from the stock Xbox pad.Check current priceCheck price ↗

Some links to retailers are affiliate links. If you buy through them, GTA6 Times may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. It never changes the price you pay or which deal we rank first.

How to choose

Match the pad to your console: a DualSense on PS5, an Xbox controller on Xbox. PS5 does not support Xbox pads natively, and vice versa. For most players the stock controller is all you need for GTA 6, and on PS5 it brings the adaptive triggers that make weapons and vehicles feel different.

Upgrade only if you want a competitive edge. The DualSense Edge and Xbox Elite Series 2 add back paddles, swappable sticks and saved profiles, with the Elite winning on battery life. Round out your setup with our best headset and best TV guides, or start from the best console.

See every recommendation in one place: the best gear for GTA 6.

Get GTA 6 and gaming-gear deal alertsWe will email you when GTA 6 pre-orders open and when a controller worth buying drops in price.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best controller for GTA 6?

The controller that comes with your console is excellent for GTA 6. If you want a pro upgrade, the DualSense Edge on PS5 or the Xbox Elite Series 2 on Xbox add back paddles, swappable sticks and custom profiles.

Do I need a pro controller for GTA 6?

No. The standard DualSense and Xbox Wireless Controller play GTA 6 perfectly. A pro pad adds back buttons, swappable sticks and saved profiles, which are nice but not required.

Do the DualSense adaptive triggers work in GTA 6?

Rockstar has not detailed GTA 6 controller features, but past Rockstar games and most PS5 titles use the DualSense adaptive triggers and haptics, so expect weapons and vehicles to feel distinct on PS5.

Can I use an Xbox controller on PS5 for GTA 6?

Not officially. PS5 does not support Xbox controllers natively. Use a DualSense on PS5 and an Xbox controller on Xbox, or a third-party pad made for your console.