If you’re looking to improve your gaming on PC and are used to PlayStation’s DualShock symmetrical layout, you’ll want a controller that feels familiar. These controllers offer the same balanced design and button placement, making it easy to transition from console to PC. And many of these have Hall Effect Joysticks and some extra features.
8Bitdo Pro 3 Bluetooth
One of the best symmetrical controllers. Here’s our review of 8BitDo Pro 3 by Franek. Released in 2025, it has swappable face buttons, TMR joysticks, trigger mode switch, 2 back buttons and two extra bumpers, tactile D-pad and it works with Switch, Switch 2, Windows, iOS and Android. $59.99
Gulikit TT Pro and TT Max
Both TT Pro and TT Max were released in January 2026. Lots of features: tension adjustable joysticks, TMR sticks, Switch 2 wakeup, APG, Hall and microswitch triggers, very low latency even via 2.4GHz. Our review is coming soon. $69.99
GameSir Tegenaria Lite
Amazingly cheap controller which is very solid. Fang in his review of Tegenaria Lite called it excellent. It offers Hall Effect sticks, 1000Hz polling, 2 back buttons, tactile face buttons, solid D-pad and broad compatibility (PC, Switch, iOS, Android, SteamOS). Compromises include standard triggers and a fixed cable. $19.99
Fantech Nova II WGP16
Another great option. Interchangeable Hall Effect sticks, touchpad, mappable rear paddles, quick-trigger locks, gyroscope. Our review Fantech Nova Pro is here and its price is $39.99
GameSir Tarantula 8K PC
Gamesir Tarantula 8K is a successor to the Tarantula Pro, it targets competitive PC players with 8000Hz polling, ultra-low latency and lightweight design (135.4g). Ships June 2026, with software customization via GameSir app. There’s Xbox edition planned too. $69.99
HEXGAMING PHANTOM Controller
Super expensive at $229.99, but it has Hall Effect joysticks, 4 remappable back buttons, customizable profiles, trigger stops, comes with 8 thumbsticks. It’s the one to get if you play on PS5.
Machenike G3S
500Hz polling rate, 5 vibration levels, mechanical Dpad, ALPS joysticks. Decent budget option. Available in wired or wireless version.
PDP Victrix Pro BFG
There’s also the PDP Victrix Pro BFG which is modular so you can swap the sticks placement to make it a symmetrical controller. But it’s very expensive.
In conclusion, if you’re a PC gamer used to the PlayStation’s DualShock layout, there are plenty of controller options that offer familiar symmetry and innovative features.
Whether it’s the advanced TMR sticks on the Gamesir Tarantula Pro or the budget-friendly versatility of the Fantech Nova Pro, there’s something for every level of gamer.
The 8Bitdo Pro 2 stands out for its compatibility and user-friendly software, while high-end options like the HEXGAMING PHANTOM push customization to the extreme with premium price tags. Even if you’re on a tighter budget, controllers like the Machenike G3S offer solid performance.
Here’s a table comparing the controllers based on key features and price:
| Controller | Joysticks | Additional Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8Bitdo Pro 3 | TMR | Tactile Dpad, 2 back buttons, 2 back triggers, good software | $59.99 |
| Fantech Nova Pro | Hall Effect (swappable) | Touchpad, mappable rear paddles, quick-trigger locks, gyroscope | $39.99 |
| GameSir Tegenaria Lite | Hall Effect | Great value, wired only | $19.99 |
| GameSir Tarantula 8K PC | TMR | 9 remappable buttons, customizable profiles & macros trigger stops, 8000Hz polling, gyro | $69.99 |
| Hexgaming Phantom | Hall Effect | PS5 compatible, 4 remappable back buttons, customizable profiles, trigger stops, 8 thumbsticks | $229.99 |
| Machenike G3S | ALPS Joysticks | 500Hz polling rate, 5 vibration levels, mechanical D-pad | $39.99 |
| PDP Victrix Pro BFG | Modular sticks | Modular stick placement for symmetrical layout | $179.99 |
I love testing and writing about new tech. I focus on keyboards and controllers. I'm also a gamer and an engineer. Check out my Twitter for keyboard and controller news and reviews.
