The Best Controllers for Rocket League in 2024

Rocket League is one of the most entertaining games, with unique gameplay involving rocket–powered cars in a soccer setup. The gameplay has earned it a huge fan base that eagerly waits for new game releases. Rocket League’s gameplay requires immense control, calling for top-of-the-range controllers for a fulfilling gaming session.

Now, while several controllers can be used to play the game, not all are perfect for playing Rocket League. Also, different gamers may prefer different settings depending on skill level, playstyle, and comfort. This guide highlights some of the best controllers for the game that guarantee a more enjoyable and convenient experience.

Factors to Consider When Looking for the Best Controllers for Rocket League

Shopping for a controller can be challenging, particularly for new users who don’t know what to look for. But generally, the best controller layout for Rocket League is the one that suits a player’s preference and feels comfortable. For shopper convenience, here are some factors to consider when shopping for the best controllers for Rocket League.

Device Compatibility

Some controllers only work with specific platforms. So, when looking for the best controller, gamers should ensure that it works with their consoles and gaming platforms. For instance, if they play Rocket League using PlayStation 5, the controller should be compatible with PlayStation. There are universal controllers that work with multiple platforms. They are among the best, especially for gamers with multiple gaming consoles.

Build Quality

The best Rocket League controllers should feature a high-grade build for longevity and sustainability. Buyers should select a prime gaming accessory that they can use for years without prompting replacement or repairs.

Comfort

A comfortable gamepad translates to excellent gameplay. It is critical, especially for professional gamers who spend several hours gaming. Factors for controller comfort include weight, grip, ergonomics, and button layout.

Price

Controllers come with various price tags and are a reflection of their resources. Rocket League controllers with top-of-the-range features are usually pricey, while cheaper ones lack various resources, and their performance is average at best. Shoppers should consider their budget and pick one with their preferred features at that price.

Wired Vs. Wireless Controllers

The wired vs. wireless debate is common in gaming circles, with each party having reasons for their preferences. Wired controllers are the traditional ones that are easy to maintain and cheaper. They are also lighter as they do not have batteries to be charged or replaced. The main problem with wired controllers is that the cord restricts movement. On the other hand, wireless controllers give players more flexibility and freedom of movement and eliminate the problem of dealing with tangled cables. Wireless controllers with a long connectivity range are the best, especially if a gamer has a large gaming space for unrestricted movement. The downside is that they must be charged frequently, can be expensive, and tend to be a bit heavier than their wired counterparts, which lack batteries.

Customizable Buttons

The controller should allow the gamer to customize some of the core actions like air roll, ball cam, power slide, boost, and jump. Some also allow users to set the dead zone to a lower value for enhanced responsiveness and minimized lag of the analog sticks.

Game Rant’s Picks for the Best Controllers for Rocket League

The PlayStation DualSense Edge wireless controller is ideal for users who want a customizable utility that will match different play styles effortlessly. Rocket League players can remap or deactivate specific keys to achieve a personalized feel to match the game. Gamers can also configure two mappable back buttons for their desired input. What’s more, users tweak the trigger response by manually adjusting the travel distance of the right and left triggers. This feature is handy for Rocket League, as players can opt for shorter travel distances for accurate shooting. A fast trigger distance is ideal for accurate throttle control.

Also, the PlayStation DualSense Edge is comfy for the gamer, courtesy of its ergonomic design. It rests naturally on the palm, and gamers can easily change their style without straining. The controller’s stick caps are also handy for coziness, enhancing stability and grip, while the controller’s haptic feedback further enhances the user experience. For instance, it can vibrate when the gamer scores, making the win more enjoyable, and the motion controls allow users to make intuitive movements, which can be very handy in the game. When it comes to storage, the controller comes with a case that users can use to store it and its accessories safely when it is not being used.

Gamers who desire a personal touch when playing Rocket League on their Xbox consoles will love the Xbox Elite Series 2 wireless gaming controller. This fully customizable controller features adjustable tension thumbsticks and swappable thumbstick toppers, paddles, and D-pads to match different gaming styles. Furthermore, gamers have limitless exclusive button mapping alternatives in the Xbox Accessories app, plus users can have up to three profiles saved on the controller and effortlessly switch between them when necessary.

The other impressive thing about this Xbox controller is its comfort. It is designed to fit the palm naturally, with textured triggers for extra grip. This means players can use the controller for extended periods without feeling wrist fatigue. The other giveaway for players who play for long periods is the controller’s long battery life. The Xbox Elite Series 2 can last users up to 40 hours, which is excellent for lengthy gameplays in various Rocket League player modes. This controller is very flexible, an attribute noticeable in various respects. For instance, gamers can use this device wirelessly via Bluetooth or wired via the provided USB-C cable. It is also compatible with numerous platforms, such as Xbox Series X and S, Xbox One, Windows, Android, and iOS.

Gamers who catch up with Rocket League via Nintendo Switch will fancy the PDP gaming Afterglow wireless controller. There are several things to love about this accessory, starting with its stunning RGB appearance. The controller has LED RGB lighting that users can tweak to get the preferred color scheme. It looks fantastic and can brighten up the gaming mood and enhance immersion.

The controller’s user-friendliness is evident in many ways. As a wireless device, users can move around easily when gaming with zero restrictions, thanks to its 30-foot connectivity range. Users don’t have to deal with wires, which can be a nuisance unless they are charging the controller. Speaking about charge, the controller can last up to 40 hours on a single charge, which is perfect for gamers who play for extended periods. The dual programmable back buttons allow players to play how they want, with an edge of personalization. They allow players to enhance gameplay by minimizing the need to move fingers from the main buttons, which can improve accuracy, comfort and reaction time.

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Wireless controllers are all the rage in the gaming scene, with many gamers appreciating their unlimited freedom of movement. Nonetheless, they have downsides, like consistent charging, particularly for those that consume a lot of power. Players can avoid such hassles by using budget-wired controllers like the Logitech G F310 wired Rocket League controller.

This controller is plug-and-play, translating to effortless use. Users will need to install the Logitech software to use the controller and to customize it to their desires. The provided user manual will guide players on adequately installing and using the controller. The gamepad is highly flexible and is supported by ten programmable buttons and an 8-way D-pad. Still, in terms of its adaptability, it works with multiple platforms, such as the PC, Chromebook, and Android TV. For PCs. It also supports older operating systems, like Windows XP, Vista, and 7.

Gamers who want maximum control when playing Rocket League will love the precision of the Razer Wolverine V2 wired gaming controller. It is an Xbox accessory, so Xbox users will have fun with it as they improve their game progress. The primary appealing element of Razer Wolverine V2 is its ergonomic design, which allows it to rest naturally on the user’s hands. The grip is firm, promoting agility and maximum interaction with the controls for precision. Additionally, the controller features Razer Mecha-Tactile Action buttons, a D-pad, as well as hair-trigger locks for ultra-fast speeds and actuation.

Gamers can reconfigure the two multi-function front-facing controls through the Razer Controller Setup for Xbox for personalized control matching their style of play. When playing demanding games like Rocket League, users can activate the Hair Trigger Mode to reduce the travel distance to the triggers. This mode ensures quickfire execution, which is perfect for fast and unique gameplay.

Although most gamers nowadays prefer to go the wireless route, there are still good reasons why some go for a wired controller like the PowerA Enhanced Wired Controller. For instance, gamers do not have to worry about battery levels or connection issues. The manufacturer tried every means possible to ensure that the detachable USB cable is always stable and issues such as lost inputs and lag are minimized. Also, it offers Rocket League gamers 90% of the functionality of the official version for half the price!

Besides that, it features a volume toggle for easily adjusting the audio and extra programmable buttons that allow users to replicate any of the controls on the gamepad. Gamers can program the buttons even when gaming to perform certain moves or functions, such as air roll, jump or boost, to give them more flexibility and control over their vehicle’s maneuvers and movements in the game. Its hyper-realistic dual rumble motors provide vibration and feedback for every explosion, bump or heat. Whether a pounding beat or a subtle quiver, this feature immerses gamers entirely into the game.

It hits the scale at 208 grams, which is lighter than wireless ones as it does not have a battery, and all its buttons are tactile and very responsive, just like the official controller. Another notable feature of the controller is the ergonomic sleek design with silky smooth rings around the thumbsticks for gaming comfort. Also, its diamond texturing provides a solid grip and minimizes fatigue during extended gaming sessions. When it comes to its layout, it features the traditional button setup plus the traditional D-pad, a volume rocker for wired headsets, and a pair of remappable rear buttons. There is also a recessed USB port for connecting it to a PC or Xbox console.

FAQ

Q: Is Rocket League easier on a keyboard or controller?

Whether to use a controller or keyboard for Rocket League is a matter of user preference. Most Rocket League fanatics prefer controllers, as they are compact and easy to manage. Keyboards are also excellent because most of them are easy to customize.

Q: Which controllers do pros use for Rocket League?

The controller of choice for Rocket League depends on the gamer’s console and platform. Players using PlayStation should go for PlayStation-friendly gamepads that work with recent models like PS5. The same applies to other consoles like Xbox, Nintendo, and PC.

Q: How much does a controller for Rocket League cost?

Ideal controllers for Rocket League can be quite pricey, costing up to $300 or even more, depending on the brand and its features. Cheaper varieties can cost around $30, but they are pretty basic.