Richard Goodwin 22/03/2017 - 10:36am

They’re dodgy. They’re cheap. But are they actually OK to use in practice? We take a look at some cheap Xbox One controller options

If you’re running an Xbox or PS4 chances are you will have noticed how expensive additional controllers are. Prices range anywhere from $40 to $50 and this makes the price of them rather prohibitive for some.

But there is another way – an unofficial way, and it is a lot cheaper.

I’m talking about clone Xbox One controllers; controllers not made by Microsoft that aren’t official but will still work with your Xbox console.

I know, I know – this sounds dodgy as hell. But stick with me.

The reason I decided to do this article was because a buddy of mine recently bought a couple of clone controllers for his Xbox. He likes plating FIFA with his buddies, but he didn’t want to pony up the best part of $100 for two additional controllers.

When I asked how he was getting on with these “clones”, to my surprise, he stated raving about them, said they worked perfectly and the only difference between them, that he could discern, was that they didn’t feature an Xbox logo on the front.

He said his mates didn’t even know they were using clone controllers until he told them. The functionality was there, the feel was there; everything was spot on apparently. And the best part? Some of these controllers cost less than $20.

Best Place To Buy Cheap Xbox One Controllers?

eBay – they have TONS of options for your to look through before pulling the trigger on a purchase.

This is the one my buddy bought. He picked it because it’s wireless and supports Xbox One.

But if you’re rocking an Xbox 360 there are tons of options available as well – more, actually.

Another option, if you’re in the US, is Rock Candy. These are more pricy, though, and are available at Best Buy and Toys “R” Us, but if you’re going to pay $39.99 for a controller you might as well just spend another $10 and get the proper, Microsoft one.

A Word On Quality

While most of these clone controllers will be OK, there’s no guarantees in the long run. When it comes to tech, you really do get what you pay for and things like controllers are a massive pain in the butt when they break or go on the fritz.

These cheap clone controllers are great options for spares or for when you have friends over. I don’t think I’d ever use one as my main controller. As a back-up or supplementary setup, they’re fine. Just be mindful that when you buy cheap, more often than not, you end up buying twice.