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Google Stadia is a revolutionary cloud-based gaming service that allows you to stream high-quality games without the need for expensive gaming hardware. With Stadia, all you need is a screen and an internet connection to access a library of awesome games.
To get the most out of the Stadia gaming experience, having a proper controller is essential. The right controller enhances immersion, improves accuracy and gives you greater control. In this guide, we will recommend the 14 best Stadia controllers currently available.
What To Look For In A Stadia Controller
When choosing a controller for Google Stadia, here are some key things to consider:
Compatibility: The controller must be compatible with Stadia on the platforms you intend to play on – Android devices, computers, Chromecast Ultra etc.
Connectivity: Controllers connect via Bluetooth, USB-C or WiFi. Consider which connectivity options work best for your setup. Wired USB connections offer the lowest latency.
Latency: A good Stadia controller minimizes input lag so your actions translate instantly on-screen. Low latency is key for competitive online multiplayer games.
Comfort: Look for ergonomic designs that allow extended gaming sessions without causing hand strain or fatigue. Sweat proof grip material is a plus.
Battery Life: For wireless controllers, battery capacity determines play time before needing a recharge. Higher capacity equals longer wireless play per charge.
Extra Features: Additional features like headphone jacks, vibration, motion controls, programmable buttons/paddles and charger docks provide a richer experience.
Keeping these factors in mind, let’s look at some excellent controller options for Google Stadia.
1. Stadia Controller
Stadia Controller is the 1st party controller created specifically for Google Stadia by Google. It connects directly to Stadia‘s servers via WiFi for ultra-low latency input. The Stadia button allows quick access to Stadia features.
With an ergonomic design made for long sessions and sweat resistance on the grips, this officially licensed wired and wireless controller is purpose-built for Stadia across different platforms. It charges via USB-C.
Key Features:
- Original Stadia controller
- Direct WiFi connection to Stadia
- Comfortable ergonomic design
- Captures screenshots and video clips
- Built-in Google Assistant voice access
- Sweat resistance on grips
- Rechargeable battery
If you want the intended Stadia controller experience, this 1st party option is hard to beat both in terms of connectivity and comfort.
2. Stadia Premiere Edition
The Stadia Premiere Edition bundle contains a Stadia Controller and a Chromecast Ultra for playing Stadia on your TV.
By pairing the controller to the Chromecast using WiFi, you can game on the big screen with Stadia‘s lowest possible latency. This is the recommended way to enjoy Stadia on a TV.
The bundle gives you the complete hardware package to experience Stadia‘s games as intended – on a large screen with the Stadia controller.
What‘s Included:
- Stadia Controller
- Chromecast Ultra
For big screen cloud gaming, the Premiere Edition delivers the goods at excellent value.
3. Sony DualShock 4
The Sony DualShock 4 is the controller for the PlayStation 4 and works seamlessly with Stadia after connecting over USB. Its comfortable offset analog sticks and highly ergonomic triggers and buttons keep you gaming for longer without fatigue.
This wired controller charges via USB-C when connected. Its integrated touchpad and speaker add additional interactivity. For a premium controller experience on Stadia, the DS4 delivers exceptional performance.
Key Features:
- Compatible with Stadia
- Ergonomic analog sticks/buttons
- Integrated touchpad with click functionality
- Built-in mono speaker
- 3.5mm stereo headset jack
- MicroUSB charging port
- Gyroscope and vibration support
As one of the most popular console gaming controllers worldwide, the DualShock 4 is a top-tier Stadia controller choice.
4. Microsoft Xbox Elite Series 2
The Xbox Elite Series 2 is designed for competitive pro-level gaming with unmatched durability, customization and comfort. It works wirelessly with Windows PCs/laptops or via USB-C.
With interchangeable thumbsticks/D-pad, adjustable hair trigger locks, re-mappable paddles and countless customization options using the Xbox Accessories app, it‘s the ultimate pro controller. Expect superior precision, grip and high-performance internals for low-latency input. This controller screams premium.
Key Features:
- Removable thumbsticks with adjustment options
- Hair trigger locks for rapid response
- 4 back paddles & mapping options
- Rubberized wrap-around grip
- Bluetooth and USB-C connectivity
- Carrying case included
For an ultra-responsive, customizable pro controller, the Xbox Elite Series 2 is extremely hard to beat. Well worth the investment for dedicated Stadia gamers.
5. SteelSeries Stratus Duo
The SteelSeries Stratus Duo packs dual wireless connectivity, allowing simultaneous low-latency connections to your phone via Bluetooth and your Windows/Chromebook laptop using 2.4Ghz wireless. This makes it super versatile.
You can pair it to your phone for mobile gaming and sync it with your computer at the same time to instantly switch between playing on both screens. With 20+ hour battery life, it keeps up with extended play sessions.
Key Features:
- Dual wireless connectivity
- Comfortable ergonomic shape
- 2.4Ghz wireless and Bluetooth 5
- Rechargeable 20+ hour battery
- Compatible with VR headsets
- Supports Android/Windows/ChromeOS devices
For effortlessly switching between gaming devices, no other Stadia controller beats the Stratus Duo‘s excellent dual wireless capabilities.
6. PowerA Moga XP5-X Plus
The PowerA Moga XP5-X Plus brings console-style controls and extended battery life to your phone for mobile cloud gaming. Its comfortable controller grips charge your phone passively while you play via Bluetooth.
Smart features like mappable Advanced Gaming Buttons give you control advantages. You can also detach your phone for flexible handheld or remote play modes. And when not gaming, use it as a phone stand.
Key Features:
- Controller charging phone mount
- Bluetooth 5 connectivity
- Removable phone clip mount
- Extra mappable buttons
- Ergonomic textured handles
- Passive phone charging via USB-C
- Doubles as phone stand
For supercharging your mobile Stadia sessions, the Moga XP5-X Plus combines battery charging power and great gaming ergonomics in a unique package.
7. 8Bitdo Pro 2
If you‘re looking for an affordable pro controller for Stadia on Windows that doesn‘t compromise responsiveness, the 8Bitdo Pro 2 is a compelling choice.
Its advanced vibration motors coupled with motion controls, trigger vibrations and back buttons/paddles give you immersive precise control during action sequences. Optimized ergonomics promote extended comfortable play. Best of all, it‘s a fraction of the price of premium alternatives.
Key Features:
- Bluetooth, USB-C and 2.4Ghz wireless
- Extra back buttons
- Trigger vibration
- Motion controls & advanced vibration HD rumble
- Turbo functionality
- Ergonomic grip handles
- Custom button mapping profiles
For a full-featured controller rivalling premium brands at budget pricing, 8Bitdo Pro 2 hits all the right notes for Stadia compatibility.
8. Razer Kishi
Turn your Android phone into a handheld Stadia gaming machine with the Razer Kishi. This ultraportable controller shell snaps onto compatible Android devices using flexible side grips, bringing precision controls for low latency mobile cloud gaming.
Optimized button layout, clickable analog thumbsticks, D-pad and shoulder triggers paired with convenient pass-through phone charging allow unrestricted handheld Stadia action anywhere thanks to its sleek collapsible design. Cloud gaming unleashed!
Key Features:
- Controller case for Android devices
- Direct USB-C low latency connection
- Ergonomic handgrips & controller layout
- Pass-through charging while playing
- Portable collapsible design
- Compatible with most USB-C Android phones
Free your Stadia gaming from desks and start playing console-quality games untethered. For on-the-go mobile gameplay, Razer Kishi is unmatched.
9. Victrix Gambit Dual Core Tournament
When only esports-grade performance will suffice, the Victrix Gambit Dual Core Tournament delivers ultra low 3ms input latency for hardcore competitive gaming. It‘s wired USB connection eliminates wireless lag.
With high-precision clickable optical directional pads, Smart triggers with tactile switches and instantaneous response times, this wired controller is built to dominate. Fully programmable buttons, interchangeable thumbsticks and lightweight overall construction finely tune the experience. Get ready to frag out!
Key Features:
- Wired USB-C connection
- 3ms input response time
- Interchangeable smart directional pad
- Custom thumbsticks
- Fully programmable buttons
- Tuned ergonomic lightweight design
When lightning reaction speed gives you the winning edge, this tournament-grade controller engineered for esports will supercharge your Stadia skills.
10. NACON Revolution Unlimited Pro
French gaming gear company Nacon are performance obsessed. The Revolution Unlimited Pro Controller brings competition to new heights with unrivaled customization across stick sensitivity, trigger pulls, vibration intensity and mapping of 4 back programmable buttons.
Further personalization comes from swappable sticks and weights allowing adjustment of controller balance and heft. Official Xbox licensed for Windows compatibility & featuring a 3m cable, this custom pro pad is built to give you the advantage.
Key Features:
- 4 programmable back buttons
- Cable wrap for organization
- Interchangeable weights
- Fully customizable triggers/sticks
- Xbox official license for Windows
- 3m wired braided USB cable
Get your perfect custom controller feel dialed in with the limitless adjustment potential of the Revolution Unlimited Pro.
11. Nintendo Switch Pro Controller
The Nintendo Switch Pro Controller feels instantly familiar to gamers worldwide. Its premium ergonomics offers natural hand comfort during long sessions while delivering precise input via Bluetooth connectivity.
With pressure sensitive triggers, HD rumble and built-in gyroscope motion pairing perfectly with Nintendo Switch games, it also works great with Stadia on Windows PCs. Joy-Cons also give you flexibility to use it in many ways.
Key Features:
- Intuitive symmetrical analog stick layout
- Bluetooth wireless & USB-C
- Built-in gyroscope and accelerometer
- HD rumble vibration system
- Amiibo NFC touchpoint
- Rechargeable battery
- Can be used together with Joy-Con controllers
For a premium big-brand wireless experience that echoes the Switch‘s high standards, the Pro Controller hits the spot for buttery-smooth Stadia play.
12. SCUF Prestige
SCUF have been making high-performance customizable controllers for pro and hardcore gamers for over a decade. The Prestige model represents the pinnacle of precision ergonomic engineering to amplify gamer reflexes and responses.
Interchangeable thumbsticks, wrap-around rubberized grips and 4 back paddles give you the winning edge. Hair trigger and trigger stop mechanisms allow fastest possible reaction and input times. Built for competitive esports domination.
Key Features:
- 4 back removable paddles
- Wireless Bluetooth & wired modes
- Interchangeable thumbsticks
- Hair trigger fire rate adjustments
- Rubberized grip coating for control
- Audio touchbar for sound adjustment
Get the esports competition advantage with the SCUF Prestige, engineered specifically to unlock pro player reflexes.
13. Xbox Adaptive Controller
The Xbox Adaptive Controller opens gaming to people with limited mobility who may struggle to use conventional gamepads. By enabling external switches, buttons, mounts and assistive devices to connect, more players around the world can enjoy games on Windows.
With two large dome buttons for basic input and 19 jacks to easily integrate a range of specialized accessibility peripherals customized to your needs, this inclusive controller allows handicapped gamers better access to Stadia.
Key Features:
- Specifically designed for limited mobility
- Integrates various assistive devices
- Connect external switches and buttons
- Two built-in large buttons
- 19 external 3.5mm jacks
- Bluetooth wireless or USB
This specially created device finally allows gamers requiring accessibility tools to play Stadia games with customized control setups tailored for their condition and needs.
14. Thrustmaster eSwap Pro
If you want the advantages of paddle/button remapping without paying a premium, the Thrustmaster eSwap Pro has your back. Its unique magnetic faceplate system means you can switch between its normal gamepad layout or the pro build featuring 4 additional mappable paddles on the fly.
With included Thrustmapper software, customizing control profiles for different games is a breeze. And weighing in at 269g, it‘s designed for long, fatigue free sessions. Probably the best blend of value and custom pro features on the market.
Key Features:
- Switchable magnetic pro faceplate system
- 4 remappable back paddles
- Thrustmapper software for customization
- Ergonomic textured grips
- Official compatibility with Xbox One
- 3m USB wired connectivity
Get added paddle functionality without breaking bank with the clever magnetic faceplate system eSwap Pro controller.
Conclusion
Google Stadia opens high fidelity, low latency AAA gaming to screens worldwide with no need for expensive high-end gaming hardware. But to get the most immersive experience from its impressive streamable titles library, using a proper controller is strongly advised.
Hopefully these Stadia controller recommendations cover a range of needs – from accessibility focused gamepads allowing more people to participate, to ultra low latency pro eSports controllers engineered solely for domination. We aimed to showcase both budget-friendly and premium options based on your priorities.
Whichever controller you choose, Stadia is ready and waiting to unlock truly liberating cloud game streaming limited only by your internet bandwidth. Game on!
