When it comes to the best Stadia controller that distinction goes to the . While there may be better controller options out there, the Stadia controller is what will give you the most complete Stadia experience, including allowing you to play on your television through Chromecast Ultra. Since you can use any Bluetooth controller with Stadia, we've come up with some of the best picks, ranging from best for most people to something that will be affordable for everyone.
Best Overall: Stadia Controller
While other controllers may offer more compatibility and customization, if you want to get the most of Google Stadia, you'll need the Stadia controller. Built like a normal gaming controller, the Stadia controller has a few key features in it that can take your gaming on Stadia to the next level.
The Stadia controller comes equipped with two buttons that other controllers won't: the Share button and the Google Assistant button. The Share button allows players to instantly share a clip of their gameplay directly to Youtube, while the Google Assistant button connects you right to Google's assist features, allowing you to ask questions, swap between input sources for Stadia, and much more. The controller is built similarly to other gaming controllers and features both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity. It's powered through a USB-C connection but comes packaged with a USB-C to USB-A cable to make things easier.
It's also important to note that the Stadia controller is currently the only way for you to play Stadia on a television through Chromecast Ultra. Without it, you'll be limited to playing Stadia on your phone or PC, so if playing on your television is a must, you'll want to pick this controller up.
Pros:
- Access to all Stadia functions
- Built-in share button
- Access to Google Assistant
- Has the shape and feel of convention controllers
- Only way to play Stadia on TV
- High price compared to other controllers
Stadia Controller
All you need.
The Stadia controller is everything you need to play Stadia, offering functions that no other device can.
Best Multi-Platform Controller: Xbox One Controller
The Xbox 360 controller is often heralded as one of the best gaming controllers ever made, but Microsoft somehow topped it with the controller made for the Xbox One. From the second you get it, it offers an extremely comfortable design and a ton of functionalities for platforms beyond just the console.
The biggest plus for the Xbox One controller is its design. With its offset analog sticks and mid-size build, the controller never hurts your hands, and moving around in games feels perfect. On the software side, it works seamlessly with PC, allowing you to play other games wired or wirelessly should you choose.
One of the biggest downsides for this wireless controller is how to charge it. It takes AA batteries and while you can buy a rechargeable battery to make topping up easy or a you'll otherwise have to have some spares on hand.
While you'll be unable to play Stadia on a TV through Chromecast Ultra with the Xbox One controller, you can utilize it on both Google Chrome and other Android devices, making this an attractive option if you don't mind the sacrifice.
Pros:
- Great feel in hands
- Button layout offers best feel
- Compatible with tons of devices
- Doesn't work with Chromecast
- Takes AA batteries
Xbox One Controller
The perfect controller
The Xbox One controller offers a more comfortable gaming experience, and its seamless PC connection is a plus.
Best Premium: SCUF Prestige
SCUF is dedicated to making gaming easier for everyone, and the Prestige controller is no different. Featuring a new and improved body and a ton of customizable features, this controller can help take your gaming to the next level.
The SCUF Prestige comes equipped with four paddles on the back of its body, allowing players to remap them to 14 different controller functions to maximize efficiency while playing. Its new lightweight body also means it'll feel much more comfortable in your hands. The Prestige also promises 30 hours of use on a single charge and comes packaged with a 10-foot micro-USB cable, meaning you can play from almost anywhere.
While you won't be able to use the controller to play Stadia on your television, the SCUF Prestige does work with other Stadia variations, with the controller able to connect wirelessly to Windows, Mac, and Android.
Pros:
- Paddles on back improve accuracy and precision
- Can remap controls
- Comfort and feel of an Xbox One controller
- Great battery life
- High price point
- Not compatible with Stadia on Chromecast Ultra
SCUF Prestige Controller
A pro controller
The SCUF Prestige helps improve everything about your game while packaging itself in the comfy feel of an Xbox One controller.
Best Bluetooth: SteelSeries Stratus Duo
SteelSeries has been delivering some of the best Bluetooth controllers in the gaming space for some time, and the is no different. The Stratus Duo offers a comfortable feel, a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, and a Wi-Fi dongle that allows you to connect to various devices.
Not only has the Stratus Duo been completely redesigned to offer a better feel in your hands but it also comes equipped with new hardware, and boasts smoother movement across its analog sticks and a smaller dead zone, resulting in much more precise aiming when you're playing any game. On top of that, the Stratus Duo features a ton of functionality, allowing you to effortlessly switch between sessions in Stadia and on your PC or other platforms.
There are only a couple of downsides. For one, you can buy the Stratus Duo with a gaming clip for playing Stadia on your phone, but it costs extra. Also, like a lot of other options on this list, it's not compatible with playing Stadia on your TV.
Pros:
- Comfortable feel
- Rechargeable battery for longer life
- Wi-Fi dongle for connecting to other devices
- Not compatible with Stadia on Chromecast Ultra
- Phone clip costs extra
SteelSeries Stratus Duo
Long-lasting gaming.
SteelSeries is known for its extremely high-quality Bluetooth controllers and the Status Duo is no exception.
Best for PS4 Players: DualShock 4 Controller
The DualShock 4 may not be the first thing you think of when it comes to playing on Stadia, but it's supported by Google. Better yet, it's likely that many players already have one in their home due to the sheer number of PlayStation 4 owners.
When it comes to feel, the DualShock 4 is often considered the little brother to the Xbox One Controller, but the improvements that Sony made from the DualShock 3 are massive, leaving the newest controller (until the DualSense) feeling nice and weighted in your hand without any of the pains that were associated with the DualShock 3.
Like many of the controllers on this list, you won't be able to play Stadia on your television through a DualShock 4, but thanks to its availability and ease of use, the DualShock 4 is a solid choice to charge into the world of Stadia with.
Pros:
- Compatible with most platforms and devices
- Widely available
- Familiar design and feel
- Not compatible with Stadia on Chromecast Ultra
- Battery life can often be an issue
DualShock 4 Controller
A familiar feel
Stick with the controls you're used to, and play across a wide variety of devices, especially if you already own a PS4.
Best Value: Logitech Gamepad F310
If you're looking for something that can just plug in and give you a solid gaming experience for a low price point, then the Logitech F310 is going to be your best bet.
The F310 comes equipped with a durable build and an exclusive 4-Switch D-pad, allowing for D-pad inputs to feel more responsive and tactile. The F310 also functions with various , allowing you to play and control your television should you need to switch back and forth.
While it does only come wired and doesn't feature any remapping settings, it's a solid budget controller that will get the job done on Stadia.
Pros:
- Affordable price point
- Compatible with most of Stadia's playing methods
- Compatible with Android TV
- Not compatible with Stadia on Chromecast Ultra
- Wired only
- No remapping settings
Logitech Gamepad F310
A cheap, reliable option.
The F310 gamepad is a solid bet for anybody looking for a USB controller, giving players a wired option that will last.
Bottom line
The world of gaming controllers is an incredibly diverse one, so no matter what you're looking for, you're bound to find something that fits your needs. When looking to pick up a controller for Google Stadia, however, only one truly fits the bill.
The is the top dog here, as it's not only built for the platform but allows you to play in every possible way Stadia offers, while also giving you access to the sharing and Google Assistant functions that Stadia provides.
Of course, if you're looking for something else or happen to already own certain controllers, other options exist. No matter what situation you find yourself in, you can bet that you'll find something to fill your Stadia needs.
Credits — The team that worked on this guide
Anthony Nash is a freelance writer covering all things gaming on Android Central. You can find him on Twitter .