Xbox vs PlayStation: Best Accessories for Each Console
You've got the console. Now you need the stuff that actually makes it fun to use. Controllers and headsets are where most people start upgrading, and both Xbox and PlayStation have solid first-party options — plus a bunch of third-party picks that sometimes beat them. On the Xbox side, the standard Wireless Controller is already great. Comfortable, well-built, and it uses AA batteries (or a rechargeable pack) so you're never tethered to a cable. If you want premium, the Elite Series 2 Core gives you adjustable tension thumbsticks and back paddles. On PlayStation, the DualSense is a marvel of haptic feedback — it's the best stock controller in gaming right now. The Edge version adds remappable back buttons and swappable thumbstick caps for competitive players. For headsets, don't feel obligated to buy first-party. The HyperX Cloud III Wireless works with both consoles and sounds better than most platform-specific options. And if you're on a budget, the Turtle Beach Recon 200 Gen 2 is shockingly good for under $40. We've all been there — blowing your whole budget on the console and needing a cheap headset that doesn't sound like trash.
Quick Comparison
| Product | Best For | Key Pros | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Xbox Wireless Controller (Carbon Black) | Controller | Great ergonomic design | Buy on Amazon |
| PlayStation DualSense Edge Wireless Controller | Controller | Highly customizable controls | Buy on Amazon |
| Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 Core | Controller | Adjustable-tension thumbsticks | Buy on Amazon |
| PlayStation 5 DualSense Wireless Controller | Gaming-Controller | Adaptive triggers and haptic feedback create immersive gameplay | Buy on Amazon |
| HyperX Cloud III Wireless Gaming Headset | Headset | Incredible 120-hour battery | Buy on Amazon |
| Turtle Beach Recon 200 Gen 2 Gaming Headset | Headset | Works with all platforms | Buy on Amazon |
Detailed Look at Each Product
Xbox Wireless Controller (Carbon Black)
Standard wireless controller for Xbox Series X|S and PC. Textured grip on triggers and bumpers for better control. Share button for capturing screenshots and recordings. 3.5mm headset jack and USB-C port. Bluetooth connectivity.
- Great ergonomic design
- Works with Xbox and PC
- Textured grips
- Affordable
- Requires AA batteries (no built-in rechargeable)
- No back buttons
PlayStation DualSense Edge Wireless Controller
Pro-level customizable controller for PS5. Remappable back buttons and swappable stick caps. Adjustable trigger lengths and trigger dead zones. Function buttons for quick profile switching mid-game.
- Highly customizable controls
- Swappable stick modules
- Back buttons
- Build quality
- Expensive for a controller
- Shorter battery life than standard DualSense
Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 Core
Pro-level Xbox controller with adjustable-tension thumbsticks, shorter hair trigger locks, and rubberized wrap grips. Up to 40 hours of battery life. Works with Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and Windows PC.
- Adjustable-tension thumbsticks
- Hair trigger locks
- 40-hour battery life
- Rubberized grip
- Back paddles sold separately
- Premium price
PlayStation 5 DualSense Wireless Controller
Sony's DualSense controller introduces adaptive triggers and haptic feedback that vary resistance and vibration intensity based on in-game actions, making shooting a bow feel different from driving on gravel. The built-in microphone allows voice chat without a headset. USB-C charging is a welcome improvement over older micro-USB designs.
- Adaptive triggers and haptic feedback create immersive gameplay
- Built-in microphone works without a headset
- USB-C charging cable compatible with modern devices
- Battery life averages only 6-12 hours per charge
- Stick drift can develop after extended use
HyperX Cloud III Wireless Gaming Headset
Wireless gaming headset with 120-hour battery life. DTS Spatial Audio for immersive 3D soundstage. 53mm drivers with signature HyperX comfort. Detachable noise-cancelling microphone. Memory foam ear cushions.
- Incredible 120-hour battery
- Very comfortable memory foam
- Good microphone quality
- Solid value
- No Bluetooth (2.4GHz only)
- Plastic build
Turtle Beach Recon 200 Gen 2 Gaming Headset
Budget wired gaming headset with 40mm drivers and enhanced bass for immersive gaming audio. Flip-to-mute microphone and 12 hours of rechargeable battery for amplified sound. Works with all major gaming platforms.
- Works with all platforms
- Flip-to-mute mic
- Enhanced bass
- Very affordable
- Plastic build quality
- Battery needed for amplified mode
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Xbox controllers work with PlayStation or vice versa?
Not natively, no. Xbox controllers don't work on PS5 and DualSense doesn't work on Xbox. There are adapter dongles that make it possible, but they can add input lag and some features won't work right. Just buy the controller made for your console.
Is the DualSense Edge worth $200?
For most people, no. It's a fantastic controller, but $200 is steep when the standard DualSense at $70 already has great haptics and adaptive triggers. The Edge makes sense if you play competitive shooters and want back paddles and trigger stops. Casual gamers should save the money.
What's the best budget gaming headset?
The Turtle Beach Recon 200 Gen 2 at around $40 is the answer. It works with both Xbox and PlayStation, has decent bass, and the mic is perfectly fine for party chat. It's wired, which some people don't love, but at this price you're not getting wireless without major compromises.
Should I buy a charging dock for my controllers?
It's a nice-to-have, not a must-have. For PlayStation, the official charging station is clean and convenient — just drop the controller on it. Xbox controllers with the rechargeable battery pack can use a similar dock. But honestly, a USB cable works fine if you don't want to spend the extra money.