Best PS5 & PS4 Controllers with Paddles [8 Cheap & High-End Ones]

Gamers of all skill levels strive to improve their efficiency, from being able to position keyboards and mice ergonomically and more efficiently to wanting to get the right settings.

Paddles are invented to provide just that; more comfort and control for your fingers on the go. No need to take the thumbs off the thumbstick to execute some intricate commands like jumping, aiming, and shooting combinations.

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Paddles can be customized and modified to respond to a wide range of inputs. This generally helps to improve your performance, while reducing your hand use and movements.

Getting the best PS4 controllers with paddles can be very challenging as there are not many big companies producing quality high-end game controllers with this feature. So we tested a couple of controllers and now have this list of the best PS4 controllers that come with back paddles.

Best PS4 Controllers with Paddles [High-end, Cheap and Custom Options]

HexGaming Ultimate Controller 4 Mappable Paddles &...
EXknight Leverback FPS Mechanical Paddles...
Custom Elite Series 2 Controller Compatible With...
Microsoft Bluetooth Elite Series 2 Controller -...
SCUF Instinct Pro Steel Gray Custom Wireless...
PowerA FUSION Pro 2 Wired Controller for Xbox...
HexGaming Ultimate Controller 4 Mappable Paddles &...
EXknight Leverback FPS Mechanical Paddles...
Custom Elite Series 2 Controller Compatible With...
Microsoft Bluetooth Elite Series 2 Controller -...
SCUF Instinct Pro Steel Gray Custom Wireless...
PowerA FUSION Pro 2 Wired Controller for Xbox...
HexGaming Ultimate Controller 4 Mappable Paddles &...
HexGaming Ultimate Controller 4 Mappable Paddles &...
EXknight Leverback FPS Mechanical Paddles...
EXknight Leverback FPS Mechanical Paddles...
Custom Elite Series 2 Controller Compatible With...
Custom Elite Series 2 Controller Compatible With...
Microsoft Bluetooth Elite Series 2 Controller -...
Microsoft Bluetooth Elite Series 2 Controller -...
SCUF Instinct Pro Steel Gray Custom Wireless...
SCUF Instinct Pro Steel Gray Custom Wireless...
PowerA FUSION Pro 2 Wired Controller for Xbox...
PowerA FUSION Pro 2 Wired Controller for Xbox...

Custom Elite Series 2 Controller (Red) – Best controller with paddles for XBOX gamers

The following are some of the key features that the custom Xbox Elite Series 2 controller offers:

  1. Textured grips
  2. Adjustable thumbsticks
  3. Interchangeable paddles
  4. Adjustable metal D-pad
  5. A maximum of 40-hour battery life.

This customized Xbox Elite Series 2 controller features a vibrant robot design while retaining all the great features of the standard Elite controller. Furthermore, this controller features a red color on its front and a soft touch finish.

Hence, it will be your best option if you’re looking for a gaming controller with paddles, a single color, and a statement-making appearance. Besides, the custom Xbox Elite Series 2 controller has excellent comfort tailored to fit all hand sizes.

In addition, it features a wide range of interchangeable product parts that will help you quickly gain a competitive advantage. For example, you can use the Xbox Accessories App to customize the controller’s buttons to your preferences.

Moreover, the controller is compatible with Xbox One, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, and PC. To make things better, apart from its paddles, the custom Xbox Elite Series 2 controller offers a 40-hour battery life.

As a result, with a single charge, you can play your favorite games for up to 40 hours without needing to charge. This makes the custom Xbox Elite Series 2 controller one of the best long-lasting gaming controllers with paddles available today. 

Microsoft Elite Series 2 Controller – Best Controller with paddles and good battery life

The key features of the Microsoft Elite Series 2 Controller include:

  1. 40-hour battery life
  2. Pack for controller while not in use.
  3. Inbuilt battery
  4. Good tendency

One of the most well-known premium controllers from the Xbox era is the Elite Controller Series 2, which Microsoft obviously owns. I tested it out when the price was recently reduced to see if it could improve your performance.

Microsoft’s Elite controllers are known for having customized game names, and this second series has them. The Series 2 is one of the best aftermarket controllers when it comes to customization.

Four customizable (and removable) paddles are located on its back. Each paddle can be remapped to a face button or Xbox shortcut, allowing you to jump during games and drop-shot without having to remove your thumbs.

The Elite Series 2 is more than just a superficial update. It has some features and capabilities that make the controller more adaptable than ever. For instance, it supports USB Type-C and has shorter trigger stops than the original Elite Series controller.

Every little detail matters with the Elite Series 2 controller, down to how each button feels more tactile and rattles less when pressed. Also, how the trigger buttons have a tiny bit more of a scoop to cradle your finger and the standard concave joysticks have a more pronounced edge are pretty impressive.

That’s not all; the D-pad also features some improvements and feels more accurate. Additionally, the wraparound textured grips make it more comfortable and secure in the hand during extended gaming sessions.

In that regard, the original Series X/S controller was also quite good, but having a textured finish everywhere your hand touches the controller is more aesthetically pleasing. Overall, Microsoft did a great job of making the Elite Series 2 controller seem like a high-end offering even at a reasonable price.

Besides, like the standard Xbox controller, this controller features an all-black body with gray trims on the bumpers, triggers, paddles, and D-pad. However, the controller has a slightly heavier feel, immediately giving it a more substantial impression.

On a positive note, the Elite Series 2 controller features a built-in battery and offers a 40-hours battery life, which is pretty impressive. Honestly, how much I appreciate the battery life of this controller cannot be overstated.

It literally gives me peace of mind. I didn’t know I was craving to be able to put the controller in its case, zip it up, and know that I’ll be good to go. Moreover, during a Call Of Duty gaming session, I discovered that using the joystick on the controller with medium tension makes aiming easier.

In addition to the good tendency of the controller’s rear paddles, you should become a god in Call of Duty.

SCUF Instinct Pro Steel Gray Custom Wireless Performance Controller – Best controller with paddles for high-end FPS gamers

Key features

  1. Adjustable instant triggers
  2. Interchangeable textured thumbsticks
  3. Four rear remappable paddles
  4. High-performance grip and design

In the world of eSports, where professional gamers require the best performance from their controllers, SCUF is arguably the leader in custom controllers. The Instinct Pro was created as a high-performance gaming controller for use with the Xbox.

The first wireless performance controller was explicitly made for the Xbox Series X|S. Furthermore, it was introduced in the middle of 2021 and included features like a paddle control system.

The controller body has a modified ergonomic form for greater control, yet it is shaped like the normal Xbox controllers. Impressively, the controller’s thumbsticks, D-pads, and faceplates are all interchangeable.

The SCUF Instinct Pro also boasts a high-performance grip and adjustable Instant Triggers. As a matter of fact, you can even save profiles for various games and reassign all the buttons and triggers.

The SCUF Instinct Pro retail box is relatively safe and prominently branded. The controller and its features are depicted on the box’s outside.

The controller may be seen inside the box after removing the outer sleeve and opening the flap. I discovered a gray Instinct Pro when I opened the package.

The two joysticks and the D-pad were covered in foam to help keep them safe. The user guide and the accessories were behind the controller when I pulled it out.

A replacement set of joysticks, a USB-C cable, and a pair of AA batteries were also included with the controller. To be sincere, this controller feels extremely good in the hand.

Its performance grip is unmistakable, and the weight is comparable to that of the standard Xbox controller, but it feels more balanced.

For initial controller testing, I played Red Dead Redemption 2 and Call of Duty: Black Ops 4 in terms of gameplay. The controller’s pairing procedure was quite easy to understand.

After putting the batteries in their compartment, you connect the controller to the gaming system with the included USB-C cable. Then, the controller and system are connected through this.

You can play wirelessly after complete pairing by unplugging the computer’s controller. I played Read Dead Redemption 2, one of my favorite video games for a while, to get a feel for the controller and how it works.

Honestly, the controller feels amazing in the hands and has excellent response time.

PowerA FUSION Pro 2 Wired Controller – Best controller with removable back paddles

Key features

  1. Four removable back paddles
  2. Magnetic faceplates
  3. 3.5mm audio jack
  4. Three-way trigger lock
  5. Microphone rocker

Consumers benefit greatly from third-party controllers. They can offer a respectable substitute at a reasonable price and forces console manufacturers to produce a quality product.

Since they are not concerned with wireless or Bluetooth chips, cabled controllers are often the least expensive third-party accessories. The Fusion Pro 2 Controller is an ambitious statement from Power A.

It responds to the question: What would a wired and less expensive Xbox Elite controller look like? Power A has set its goals on producing an inexpensive Elite controller that costs less than £100.

In fact, this controller cost roughly half as much as an official Xbox Elite Series 2 controller and £20 more than the basic Xbox Series wireless controller. However, considering that a wired controller costs roughly £80, I’m sure I’m not the only one who believes that this must provide a good enough product to make the fact that it is wired unimportant.

In this case, what do you get for your money? Unlike the Xbox Elite controller, you can choose between two magnetic faceplates, one black and one white.

These can be modified based on your preferences because they are pretty simple to replace. The thumbsticks on the Power A are removable, just like those on the Xbox Elite controller, and two sets are included in the box.

There are two taller thumbsticks, one of which is convex in shape, and the standard height thumbsticks that feel and look almost exactly like the standard Series controller in terms of grip and color.

It has what it refers to as a mappable pro pack, a square attachment with four programmable paddles that rest in the middle of the controller’s back. Depending on how many paddles you need or want, the paddles themselves can be changed to either two or one.

Each of the triggers has a 3-way trigger lock to regulate how deeply they can be depressed. Besides, the controller’s 3.5mm jack port also has a volume dial that can be used to mute the microphone and change the volume of headphones or a wired headset plugged directly into it.

The Fusion Pro 2 controller has a stylish travel case, much like the Elite, so it can be safely transported when playing on the go or stored away to store all the replacement parts.

Sadly, the Fusion Pro 2’s lack of a removable D-pad, in contrast to the Xbox elite controller, may be an issue for some customers. Not because they cannot be replaced, but rather because they opted for a four-point D-pad over a circular one.

Of course, this is a personal choice, but I thought it was strange that they chose the four-point cross D-pad as the circular D-pad provides much simpler access to the diagonals.

HexGaming ULTIMATE Controller – Best controller with paddles for PS5

Key features

  1. Rubberized grips
  2. Interchangeable thumbsticks
  3. Highly customizable
  4. Four back paddle buttons

The PlayStation 5 is still hard to find even after its launch more than a year ago. A PS5 controller with back paddles is almost similarly tough to get, but HexGaming’s Ultimate pad has saved the day.

Back paddles are now essential for console FPS players. With the paddles, you can sprint, hop around corners, and toggle other crucial commands quickly without waiting for a face button to register or insert one of the thumb sticks.

Given the calibre of the HexGaming Ultimate, HexGaming should be a more well-known name in the accessories industry.

The Ultimate PS5 controller from HexGaming has six magnetically interchangeable thumbsticks. The sticks can be made short, long, domed, or concave, just like the Xbox Elite controller, so you can easily choose the configuration you want.

I’ve previously made use of KontrolFreek’s thumbstick extenders. They’re useful if you want to extend the stick length of a standard DualSense, but this feature takes it a step further.

Simply twist and pull the old sticks out, and the new ones will easily and successfully snap into place. The sticks remain good after a few hot weeks of playing Halo Infinite and Call of Duty: Vanguard, despite my initial concern that they might pop out with severe use.

The DualSense Ultimate controller may be used with a wire to play games like Halo on a computer. A spare wire is not included with the controller, though.

Clearly, the Ultimate is designed for first-person shooter games. Hence, you pay for the four movable back paddles on the controller’s back.

You can re-map buttons to the back of the controller using the two easily accessible paddles for your middle and ring fingers, saving you from having to reach elsewhere. The obvious choice for switching between actions like jump and melee is the face button, but any of the controller’s functionalities may be readily programmed to the back.

Additionally, the rear of the Ultimate has ridged, rubberized grips that make it much simpler to grasp onto during tense games or when hands start to sweat. This one is one of the most apparent distinctions from a standard DualSense controller.

The controller also has a solid feel. Even after a few weeks of intensive use, the buttons still feel brand new since they are well-made and sturdy.

It’s difficult to comment on that kind of usage over extended periods. Still, for the moment, the Ultimate feels sturdy and well-made.

EXknight Leverback FPS Mechanical Paddles Attachment

Key features

  1. Reasonable price
  2. Effective solution to a PS5 controller without paddles.
  3. No damage to the controller.
  4. Easy setup and removal.
  5. Made with durable zinc alloy materials.

The EXknight Leverback paddles attachment is expertly made to fit the official standard PS5 DualSense controllers ergonomically. Furthermore, the attachment is made of sturdy and long-lasting materials made of zinc alloy.

The EXknight Leverback attachment ideal placement provides easy access to the paddles’ and offers a comfortable feeling. You will experience no delay and have the same sensation as if you press the button directly.

Lastly, if you want to install and remove, the attachment is straightforward and not difficult to set up. Due to how easy it is, there’s no need to disassemble your controller before installing and removing it.

Bionik VULKAN Advanced Wireless Gaming Controller – Best controller with paddles for PC and consoles

Key features

  1. Comfy  and programmable paddles
  2. Easy configuration
  3. Works on Windows PC, Android, Steam, and VR devices
  4. It supports both Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz

Bionik VULKAN somewhat resembles an Xbox Elite controller. Moreover, the layout and shape of the four paddles on its back are similar to those of an Xbox Elite controller.

In addition to the layout, the Bionik VULKAN controller has incredibly smooth action triggers similar to the Xbox One controllers. Also, the analog sticks feel best and function very well.

Moving on, the Bionik VULKAN enhances gamers to make choices for tall and short analog sticks. For that, the design concept is that the analog sticks are screwable into place instead of using magnets.

Meanwhile, the disc-shaped D-pad on the controller is actually quite comfortable. However, unlike the Xbox Elite, it cannot be removed and swapped out for a cross.

That aside, the Bionik VULKAN controller programmable paddles and small buttons at the back are somewhat limited. For instance, the small buttons only map to the front buttons (A, X, Y, and B), while paddles map to the LB, RB, LT, RT, LS, and RS buttons.

As a result, the paddles and triggers can only be programmed using those buttons. So, using some buttons and paddles on the Bionik VULKAN can sometimes be challenging.

The last con of the Bionik VULKAN is that it uses AA batteries to operate. However, you can use the detachable cable included to plug it in directly.

However, you won’t be able to play at any angle in your house.

Read also: Best portable gaming stations with built-in monitors.

AimControllers – Best PS4 Controller with Paddles for Fortnite and COD

If you’re looking for a high-quality custom wireless controller with back paddles, then the AimControllers is one of the best ones you’ll find on the market. The shell of the controller is hand-painted, and its back paddles are uniquely designed.

The 4 paddles on the back cannot be programmed, they are remapped Upper Left Triangle, Lower Left X, Upper Right Square, and Lower Right O. It comes out of the box with controller instructions which would help with configuring the controller to your preferred settings.

This AimControllers provides improved ergonomics, style, durability, and functions. You don’t have to go through a lot of learning curve as you can get comfortable with the paddles after two to three games.

The only thing I felt could be improved on this game controller is the overly clicky paddles. Compared to other options, the AimControllers seems to make a lot more noise. But overall, it remains one of the best game controllers with back paddles.

Nacon 311608 – Best Custom PS4 Controller with Paddles

If you’re switching to PS4 from an Xbox gaming console, maybe you’d like a controller that wouldn’t be completely different. The Nacon 311608 is one very ergonomic controller, it feels great on the touch, comes with a pretty powerful battery life that runs for close to 9 hours nonstop.

The Nacon 311608 also comes with a couple of different customization options, like 3 sets of weights that can be added to the controller as you see fit. It comes with domed thumbsticks and variable shaft sizes that help to decrease the turn radius. You enjoy a better, more ergonomic grip.

The Nacon 311608 also comes with a couple of different lighting features. You’re also going to get a lot more customization features when you link the controller to the Nacon software. You can change the light settings and the button assignments of all the buttons on the controller including the back paddles. The software also allows you to change the sensitivity on the triggers and thumbsticks while being able to save these customizations in up to 4 separate profiles, making it one of the most customizable PS4 controllers with back paddles.

The Nacon 311608 can be used with both wired and wireless connections as it comes with Bluetooth receiver inbuilt. The stick heads can be interchanged, it comes with LED indicators. The battery is clocked at 1300mAh. Overall, if you’re looking for a PS4 controller that you can easily customize to your preferred settings, then you should try the Nacon 311608.

Conbeer PS4 Elite – Cheapest Modded Ps4 Controller with Paddles

If you’re looking for a quality cheap ps4 controller with paddles, then you should get the Conbeer PS4 Elite controller. The Conbeer PS4 Elite controller is one of the most lightweight controllers I have used, it comes with back paddles that work great for FPS games.

It comes with its software on which you can adjust the controller to your desired settings. It’s also compatible with PS3 and PS4 Pro gaming consoles, and switching between the different modes is very seamless. The Conbeer PS4 Elite controller comes with a 3.5mm jack for your headphones, support mic and headset.

You can remap the 4 back paddles to work with other function buttons, and you can save the settings in up to 4 different profiles, making it very easy to change the configuration of the paddles and switch between the different profiles.

The standout feature of the Conbeer PS4 Elite controller is its customizability and the ease of switching between the different modes. All of its outstanding features for its price makes the Conbeer PS4 Elite controller the cheapest PS4 controller with paddles.

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Scuf Vantage 2 – Best Scuf PS4 Controller with Paddles

Scuf Vantage 2 is probably the best Scuf PS4 controller with paddles. Scuf Vantage 2 comes in two different variants; one is wired and the other is wireless. The controller comes with a USB controller, can be charged with a micro USB cord, and comes in a protective travel case that keeps the controller safe as you move.

The Scuf Vantage 2 is a highly customizable controller, and it’s being used by some of the best eSports gamers. It comes with software that allows you to tailor the controller to your playing style. The Scuf Vantage 2 comes with over 60 removable magnetic faceplate and interchangeable parts which you can easily switch between and customize for your setup. The paddle design also helps improve on ergonomics, no pains on your hand as you grip and switch between the different controls.

The design of the gaming controller itself, which looks like that of an Xbox is another outstanding feature of the Scuf Vantage 2. Its design is solid, lightweight, very easy to grip, and the surface texture ensures that it doesn’t slip even if you sweat on your palms.

I played Overwatch with this controller and I was able to jump using the rear paddles while shooting; I didn’t even have to release any of the joysticks. The rear paddles are already resting on the ring finger when you have a normal grip, which makes it a very easy and quick set of trigger buttons.

I also loved that the S Bumpers can be played by the tops of the palms rather than the fingers. You can use the ring and pinky fingers to control the rear paddles comfortably without having to put your index or middle fingers to work. This is an amazing feature for the disabled, so you should consider the Scuf Vintage 2 if you’re looking for a PS4 controller for the disabled.

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SCUF INFINITY4PS PRO – Best Cheap Scuf Controller for PS4

SCUF INFINITY4PS PRO – Best Cheap Scuf Controller for PS4

The cheapest Scuf controller for PS4 is the SCUF INFINITY4PS PRO. But the fact that it’s a cheaper Scuf controller doesn’t make it cheap in any way; in fact, it sports some of the best features you’re looking for in a controller for pro gaming.

The SCUF INFINITY4PS PRO is a PS4 elite controller with paddles. With its paddles, you’re able to keep your thumbs on the thumbsticks while you continue performing advanced moves with the back paddles. It comes with Quick Shift Trigger stops that allow you to activate the various activation points on the trigger stop. This feature helps to reduce trigger movements that aren’t necessary. This makes it an amazing option for shooter games.

The SCUF INFINITY4PS PRO also comes with adjustable hair triggers. This feature allows the weapon to fire a one-tap process as it eliminates unnecessary latency. You can easily activate this feature by turning the Scuf Key.

I also loved the high-performance, military-grade grip of the SCUF INFINITY4PS PRO. The grip comes coated with rubber, which makes it not slip even when you have sweaty palms. The grip also promotes comfort, and would rarely cause you to sweat during long gaming sessions.

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Are Scuf Controllers Cheating?

No, using Scuf controllers isn’t cheating. This is because scuf controllers are still analog controllers, so the only advantage you seem to get from either Scuf or any other high-end controller is maneuverability. This means you can still control your character in-game without lifting your thumbs from the sticks. But outside this, there isn’t much of an advantage over other gamers.

Do Scuf Paddles Work On Regular Controller?

No, Scuf paddles don’t work on regular controllers, so you can’t use them on a normal controller. This is because there isn’t a place to put the Scuf Elite paddles on a regular controller.

Do Paddles Help With Fortnite?

Yes, paddles do and will help with Fortnite gaming. You’ll be able to keep your thumb on the thumbsticks while using essential control options like reloading and jumping.

What Is The Point Of A Scuf Controller?

A Scuf controller is designed to decrease the use of your hands, and it works to reduce latency with ergonomics. A Scuf controller is used to improve comfort, it reduces the movement of your hand and fingers. You’re able to control more of your in-game character while doing less work.

Can You Use Xbox Elite Controller on PS4?

Yes, you can use the Xbox Elite controller on PS4. You just have to plug the Xbox One controller into the first port on the hub. You then connect the PS4 controller into the fourth port. You should now turn the PS4 ON and it should be working just fine.

Does PS4 Have An Elite Controller?

Yes, Scuf Gaming has some of the best Elite-Like controllers for PS4. The Scuf Vantage 2 we spoke about earlier comes with features like button remapping, side-mount buttons, a faceplate that can be removed and interchanged, and four back paddles for games like Fortnite and COD.

Do paddle controllers make sense?

First-person shooters that require quick reflexes and competitive games like Fortnite benefit greatly from controllers with paddles. Hence, for FPS gamers, paddle controllers make sense.

Why do people use computer controllers?

Although console gaming is where controllers are most frequently utilized, many PC players also have them in their toolbox. Controllers are more portable, especially if you have wireless controllers, which is one of the main reasons they are preferred.
 

Are controller paddles necessary?

Gaming with controller paddles is good, but only for a certain kind of gaming. For example, when holding a controller in the traditional manner, your thumbs are primarily responsible for controlling the thumbsticks and buttons. However, the paddles at the controller’s back can keep all other fingers busy.

How much time does it take to adjust to using paddles?

First, ignore the front buttons until you feel confident using all of the paddles. So, it can take up to two weeks of consistent use to get used to them.
 
Meanwhile, with your thumb on the thumbstick, you can jump, crouch/slide, swap weapons, reload, and interact while being prepared for anything that may come your way.

What does claw grip mean on a controller?

When using a controller, the claw grip technique lets users quickly hit the buttons while keeping their thumb on the right stick and middle finger on the trigger(s).
 

Last update on 2023-06-03 We are an Amazon.com, Amazon.co.uk, and Amazon.in affiliate and earn from qualifying purchases through our links at no extra cost to you.