Fortnite popularity extends to multiple devices. From PC to mobile to console, the unique and competitive building FPS game continues to attract fans and gamers around the world. The game also offers full controller support for every platform, and maybe in some cases a controller is better.
If you're looking for a controller but don't know where to look, we've compiled a list of great controllers. They're not exclusively for Fortnite, but they're great options that work well with Fortnite, or any game.
What to look for in a controller:
Keyboards and mice offer superior aiming, but there's no denying that a controller's button functionality is more comfortable. But those of us with rebound buttons can attest to this: there aren't enough buttons. If a basic controller isn't enough, looking for controllers that add extra buttons will help speed up reactions.
Briefly mentioned above, if you struggle with a controller but still prefer it, consider rebinding the keys. In many games, pressing the joysticks triggers crouch, sprint, or another ability. This can be especially difficult in the middle of a game if you're new or just coming back to the controller. Don't be afraid to link the keys.
There is no clear category for controllers. Most work with a specific console as well as a PC. Anything that works with Xbox will work fine with a Windows PC. In fact, one of the best options for Windows is Xbox Wireless or Xbox Elite controllers. But more on that below.
It might sound boring, but the best option for PlayStation 4 users is the standard DualShock 4 controller. It's not exciting, it's not aftermarket, and it only has a few customization options, but it's the PS4's longtime partner, and it works. The official store offers several colors and a specific Fortnite controller.
If the Dual Shock 4 isn't enough, Razer makes the Raiju Ultimate (and Raiju Tournament Edition), a PS4 controller with its fancy snake logo and RGB aesthetic. The Raiju Ultimate is a step up from the Tournament Edition, adding that gamer-style RGB and customizable buttons. That's really where the Raiju Ultimate shines: the Raiju has interchangeable thumbsticks and D-pads. If you don't like the location, you can just pop them up and replace them. The Raiju Ultimate can be connected via Bluetooth or via a USB cable for wireless and wired playback.
If the Razer Raiju Ultimate wasn't good enough, then the SCUF Impact is what you'll want. SCUF is less well known, a bit cheaper, but adds buttons to the back of the controller. One of the biggest drawbacks of a controller is having to take your thumbs off the thumbsticks in the heat of battle to use its abilities. SCUF solves this problem by adding buttons that the rest of your hand can easily access. There are four possible rear paddles. If the SCUF Impact is a little out of reach, there's the SCUF Infinity Pro which reduces some features (it only has two back paddles, for example) to cut some of the cost.
The SCUF Impact is compatible with PS4 and PC.
In the same vein that PS4 Dual Shock controllers are some of the best options for PS4 users, Xbox Wireless Controllers are great for Xbox users. The added benefit of Xbox Wireless Controllers is that they also work with a PC. A Dual Shock controller can be plugged into a PC and will work. It won't work well. Some buttons will be swapped, but it will technically work. Xbox controllers aren't like that. It is a simple plug-and-play controller for PC. The new Wireless series can be connected via Bluetooth to computers for those who appreciate the wireless aspect.
The Xbox store also offers a Fortnite-inspired controller that comes in a lovely purple hue (pictured).
The Xbox Elite 2 is a step up from the generic wireless controller. This might be the best option if you're on PC or Xbox. The Elite 2 is like the SCUF Prestige and SCUF Impact combined with the Razer Wolverine or the Raiju.
With customization and optional rear paddles, the Xbox Elite 2 is one of the top contenders for the best controller. There are two different D-pad options that players can switch between. The rear of the controller supports up to four paddles, all of which are removable and can be added at any time. With advanced button mapping mechanisms, the Elite 2 lives up to its name.
The Razer Wolverine is Razer's Xbox and PC controller. It is similar to SCUF Prestige and Xbox Elite. It offers rear paddles for extra control or extra functionality, and some of the typical Razer-style gamers have come to expect from the brand.
SCUF Prestige
The SCUF Prestige is pretty much the same as the SCUF Impact, but instead of PS4, it's for Xbox. It adds four long back paddles. The extra paddles for your fingertips relieve some of the pressure on your thumbs when playing and reacting quickly. Plus, it helps when you need to pan your camera while taking photos or building in-game.
Switch Pro Controller
It's easy to forget that Fortnite has spread to the Switch. Consoles and PCs dominate the FPS world, but the Switch has its own unique style to offer. There are several options when it comes to a Switch controller. There is a docking station where players can simply place their joy-cons and set them up. There's also the Switch Pro controller. It replaces the joy-cons when the console is docked, but when playing handheld you'll want Nintendo's cons. Watch out for drift.
Finally, mobile users. It took time for companies to make good controllers compatible with iOS and Android devices. Razer has taken it up a notch and given the gaming world the Razer Kishi, a controller that resembles the Switch. It is an ideal configuration for mobile games. Instead of forcing players to use touchscreen controls, the controls are on either side, much like the Nintendo Switch.
The overall decision depends on budget and goals. If you're just looking for a controller for the PlayStation with no intention of using it on a PC, the Razer or SCUF models look great. If you don't want to worry about taking your thumbs off the controllers, the SCUF models, the Razer Wolverine, or the Xbox Elite are your best options. You're more limited in your choices if you're not looking at mainstream consoles, but there are still great solutions out there.
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