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Reviewed by Benjamin Barr
Want the upper hand? The best controller for Fortnite is the easiest way to gain the advantage in everyone’s favorite battle royale — no matter which console you’re playing on. Combine that with the best controller settings for Fortnite, and you’ve found the perfect match.
But with so many controllers out there, how do you choose the right one? Well, this article walks you through the top 5 best controllers for Fortnite, with options for each major console. Plus, we’ll take a look at the settings panel to help you optimize your game for victory. Ready to take the kill shot? Let’s dive in.
Zoom Out: Comparison Table of the Best Controllers for Fortnite
If you want a quick look at our top picks for Fortnite, all of the controllers we chose are here in this table. You’ll find them in the same order as our more detailed list further down.
| Image | Controller | Compatibility | Connection | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 1. Xbox Core Controller | Xbox/PC/Android | Wireless |  |
 | 2. Xbox Elite Series 2 Controller | Xbox/PC/Android/iOS | Wireless | |
 | 3. PowerA Enhanced | Xbox/PC | Wired | |
 | 4. Razer Wolverine Ultimate | Xbox/PC | Wired | |
 | 5. ASTRO Gaming C40 | PS4/PC | Wireless | |
 | 6. SCUF Instinct | Xbox/PC/Android/iOS | Wireless | |
 | 7. Nintendo Switch Pro Controller | Nintendo/PC | Wireless | |
Zoom In: 7 Best Controllers for Fortnite
We’ve curated the top 7 best controllers for Fortnite, making it easy to find the best choice for your style of gameplay. Each one is geared towards different users, so check out the features and click the links for detailed specs.
1. Xbox Core Controller
The best controller for Fortnite overall
Manufacturer: Microsoft | Interface: Xbox Wireless, Bluetooth, USB Type-C | Compatibility: PC, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Android | Price: 💰💰
Microsoft has been at the forefront of controller design ever since the Xbox 360 days. They’ve refined their gamepads a little more with every new console generation, making them better and better with each new iteration. That’s why most third-party controllers do their best to mimic Microsoft’s designs. Now, the release of the Xbox Series X/S has given rise to their newest and best console controller yet!
The Xbox Core Controller is our pick for the best controller for Fortnite overall because it’s remarkably smooth, and it has fast connectivity across PC, Android, and all modern generations of Xbox. It’s also a lot more affordable than you would think.
The only downside is that it doesn’t come with a rechargeable battery. However, you can buy a third-party rechargeable battery and docking station combo like this one for around $20 and still come out under budget compared to most controllers this good. Throw in the capability for an ultra-low-latency USB Type-C connection, and you’ll see why we think this is also the best PC controller for Fortnite!
- USERS LIKE
- Good grip texture
- USB Type-C connectivity
- Ergonomic design for a variety of different sized hands
- USERS DISLIKE
- Loud, clicky D-pad
- No rechargeable battery
- Analog triggers need to be pressed down more to get the same result as the original controller
2. Xbox Elite Series 2 Controller
The best premium controller for Fortnite
Manufacturer: Microsoft | Interface: Xbox Wireless, Bluetooth, USB Type-C | Compatibility: PC, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Android, iOS | Price: 💰💰💰💰💰
Willing to pay top-dollar for a controller that’s going to help keep your headshots on point? Allow me to introduce you to the Xbox Elite Series 2. It’s technically a generation old at this point since it was designed for the Xbox One, but don’t let that fool you. It’s still the best-in-class when it comes to shooters.
The Elite Series 2 is the best splurge controller for Fortnite because it has pre-set rapid-fire speeds — customized mods tailored to individual shooters. They include “Auto Aim, Drop Shot, Burst, Quick Scope modes and more!” The list of games with personalized trigger speeds has over a dozen titles, including Call of Duty, GTA, PUBG, Destiny, Apex, Overwatch, and yes — Fortnite.
Add paddles for even more control, rubberized palm grips, and a 40-hour rechargeable battery pack for the best Fortnite controller money can buy!
- USERS LIKE
- Aim assist
- Mods are easy to use
- Ergonomic grips make it comfortable and easy to hold for long periods
- USERS DISLIKE
- Over $350
- Instances of joystick sway
- Some users did not find the mods useful
3. PowerA Enhanced
The best budget controller for Fortnite
Manufacturer: PowerA | Interface: USB | Compatibility: Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PC | Price: 💰
You don’t need to drop a ton of cash to have a good gaming experience. The PowerA Enhanced is our pick as the best budget controller for Fortnite because it gives players a high-end gaming interface for an incredibly reasonable price.
It’s built like a standard wired Xbox controller and generally works like one. A diamond texture gives you a little extra grip, and the metallic D-pad adds some flair. It also has three extra programmable buttons on the backside that you can map however you like.
It’s officially licensed for PC and all modern Xbox consoles. You can get it in one of six different color schemes: black, blue, pink, red, white, and seafoam fade!
- USERS LIKE
- Under $40
- Excellent build quality
- Programmable buttons on the back
- USERS DISLIKE
- Wired
- No trigger locks
- Trigger pull isn’t as good as standard Xbox controller
4. Razer Wolverine Ultimate
The best wired controller for Fortnite
Manufacturer: Razer | Interface: USB | Compatibility: PC, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S | Price: 💰💰💰
Latency got you down? Tired of constantly having to recharge batteries? Wireless controllers might be the new standard, but a wired connection is still the fastest and most stable form of connectivity.
The Razer Wolverine Ultimate is the best wired controller for Fortnite because it has a ridiculous number of features. It has interchangeable thumbsticks and D-pad, two multi-function buttons, four multi-function triggers, and four media-control buttons at its base.
Oh yeah — it also has RGB.
- USERS LIKE
- Razer Chroma RGB
- Six customizable buttons
- Comes with swappable thumbsticks and D-pad
- USERS DISLIKE
- No rapid fire
- Wired use only
- Extra triggers are not mechanical
5. ASTRO Gaming C40 Tr
The best PlayStation controller for Fortnite
Manufacturer: ASTRO | Interface: MiniUSB, 2.4GHz Wireless | Compatibility: PC, PS4 | Price: 💰💰💰💰
PS5 owners can proudly boast about their new DualSense controllers, but what about the rest of us? The new DualSense doesn’t work with the PS4, so what’s a proud Sony enthusiast to do?
You might know ASTRO from their amazing line of gaming headsets, but did you know they make gaming controllers too? The ASTRO Gaming C40Tr is easily the best PlayStation controller for Fortnite because it’s one of the few premium aftermarket controllers to feature the touchpad.
It’s also one of the most customizable controllers we’ve ever seen. Not only can you swap out the thumbsticks and D-pad, you can rearrange them so that the left thumbstick is above the D-pad if you prefer a more Xbox-style orientation.
It also has two customizable rear buttons and trigger stops which can easily be activated via a pair of switches on the back.
- USERS LIKE
- Rubber textured grips
- Hair-trigger functionality
- Downloadable app to adjust thumbstick sensitivity
- USERS DISLIKE
- Heavy
- Over $300
- Poor analog stick quality and design
6. SCUF Instinct
The best Xbox controller for Fortnite
Manufacturer: SCUF | Interface: MiniUSB, Bluetooth | Compatibility: PC, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Android, iOS | Price: 💰💰💰
The SCUF Instinct could be what you’re looking for if you want to get your hands on an Xbox controller with paddles like the Elite but with a much lower price tag.
The design is more or less the same as the Xbox One Core Controller, but it comes equipped with a textured, non-slip surface on the grips, four mappable paddles, trigger stops, and a lightweight design. It’s far and away the best Xbox controller for Fortnite that isn’t made by Microsoft.
You can get it in a variety of colors, as it is the most recent release for Xbox from SCUF, and they are pulling out all the stops. This model replaced their “Prestige” controller in the most recent update of our list.
- USERS LIKE
- Hair-trigger functionality
- Remappable back paddles
- Lightweight and comfortable
- USERS DISLIKE
- Over $200
- No swappable thumbsticks
- No longer compatible with Xbox chat adapter
7. Nintendo Switch Pro Controller
The best Switch controller for Fortnite
Manufacturer: Nintendo | Interface: USB Type-C, Bluetooth | Compatibility: PC, Nintendo Switch | Price: 💰💰
The Nintendo Switch JoyCons are great for a lot of things. Fortnite isn’t one of them. Luckily, the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller is around!
This snazzy gamepad isn’t just the best Switch controller for Fortnite; it’s one of the best controllers on the market. It’s got pleather grips, long wireless battery life, and a comfortable design that is sure to please.
Sure, it doesn’t have many of the fancy features that some of the other controllers on this list do, but it’s the best in terms of overall build quality. You won’t find a controller better than this if you’re looking to level up your shooting on the Switch.
- USERS LIKE
- Cheaper than JoyCons
- Top-notch build quality
- Up to 40 hours of battery life
- USERS DISLIKE
- Some instances of D-pad issues
- Warranty only lasts three months
- Doesn’t work with some games (like Fitness Boxing) that require motion control
Fortnite Controller Guide Part I: What to Look for in the Best Controller for Fortnite
Need some help choosing the perfect controller? Consider the following, and you’ll be on your way in no time.
Compatibility
What console do you play Fortnite on? Naturally, you need to make sure the controller works with your system! If you game on multiple systems (like PC and Xbox), you’ll find that select models boast cross-platform play.
Ergonomics
Is the controller comfortable to hold for long periods? Is it a standard form factor, or will you have to familiarize yourself with it? Choosing a tried-and-true layout like the Dualshock or Xbox Controller is a great way to ensure comfort & craftsmanship.
Aethetics
LEDs for everyone! There are all types of controllers on the market, including a dozen third-party models for every official one. Find one that speaks to you and go with it.
Extra Features
What extra perks can you find among the best Fortnite controllers? Search for boons like built-in audio jacks, extra buttons, and macro compatibility, as these features will take your game to the next level!
Price
It always comes down to price, doesn’t it? Well, the best controller for Fortnite needn’t be expensive. The options on our list start at $25 and go all the way to $100 and beyond.
Fortnite Controller Guide Part II: Best Controller Settings for Fortnite
Once you’ve got the best controller for Fortnite picked out, it’s time to look at your settings panel.
Fortnite on console comes with the following pre-configured control options, and they’re all optimized for different types of play:
- Combat Pro. Emphasis on combat and aggressive play.
- Builder Pro. Perfect for skilled builders.
- Old School. FPS controls, great for casual players.
- Quick Builder. Versatile, with a focus on fast building.
No matter which choice you go with, try it out for a time and get familiar with the mechanics. From there, the best Fortnite settings can take you from zero to hero with just a few simple adjustments.
Fortnite Controller Guide Part III: Best Controller Sensitivity for Fortnite
While the best controller sensitivity for Fortnite depends largely on what feels right to you, we’ve created a quick guide for locking down a setup that works for casual and competitive play alike.
Let’s take a look:
Controller Sensitivity X: Controller sensitivity for moving the joystick on the horizontal axis. Keep it in the .50 to .70 range for optimal results.
Controller Sensitivity Y: Controller sensitivity for moving the joystick on the vertical axis. It also works best when kept between .50 to .70 range.
Controller Targeting Sensitivity: Sensitivity when aiming down sights. An optimal range on console is between .40 and .60.
Controller Scope Sensitivity: Joystick sensitivity when scoped in with a sniper or long-range weapon. You’ll need a steady hand, so .20 to .40 is ideal.
Controller Building Sensitivity: A new addition in Fortnite’s latest patch, building sensitivity measures how fast your controller moves in building mode. Aim for between .8 to 1.20 depending on your gameplay style.
As you can see, there are several things to consider when deciding on your sensitivity settings. Note that every time you tweak it, you’ll need to play a few games to get the hang of the new motions.
Practice makes perfect, and you’ll be on the road to victory in no time!
Further Reading
Looking for more ways to gain the upper hand? Check out our other articles on Fortnite:
- Fortnite Review
- Best Fortnite Settings
- Best Keyboard for Fortnite
- Best Mouse for Fortnite
- Best Headset for Fortnite
Where are the scuf, razer raiju, nakon, astro etc controllers?? They are all better than these standard ones you have listed.
Not necessarily. Particularly in competitive games like Fortnite, there’s a lot to be said for consistency. Third-party options are often riddled with issues.
That said, we’ve got a comprehensive list with more third-party models featured in this article: https://www.highgroundgaming.com/best-pc-gaming-controllers/
We purchased new XBOX X .the controller works fine but when playing Fortnight the 2 joysticks shift the images in the opposite directions ( when the joystick is pushed up the image moves down. When the joystick is push to theright the image moves to the left).
How can we fix it?
Michael
Your y-axis settings may be inverted. Check the Fortnite settings menu, and make sure you haven’t inverted controls at the OS level:
https://www.reddit.com/r/xboxone/comments/3syaq9/psa_xbox_one_now_allows_you_to_set_inverted_yaxis/
What about XIM and APEX