Buying a gamepad for PC is easier in 2026 than it's ever been. Once upon a time it was a risk to buy a controller that didn't come with Microsoft (or more recently, Sony) branding, not because there weren't good alternatives, but because there were so many bad ones.
Nowadays there are heaps of respected brands doling out thoughtful controllers. The one that tops PC Gamer's list of the best PC controllers—and my personal favourite—is the GameSir G7 Pro. I reviewed this model almost exactly a year ago and it's still at the top of our list, chiefly because it boasts a lot of features that you'd normally have to spend around AU$200-AU$300 for.
Normally it's AU$159, but as part of Amazon's Big Deal Days you can get it for AU$127, which is the cheapest I've ever seen it. Usually it drops to AU$134 during big sales events. You will need to be a Prime member for that price, but never fear: there's a free trial.
If you need a controller it's pretty much a no brainer to pick this up. My full review makes a decent case, but to summarise in handy bullet points:
- It has TMR analog sticks: These are an upgrade from drift-free Hall effect analog sticks. Not only will they not drift (unlike Sony and Microsoft controllers) but they're marginally more accurate
- It has Hall effect triggers: The trigger buttons on Sony and Microsoft controllers are usually the second thing to break. But here they use Hall effect tech which makes them far, far less prone to stickiness because they don't require contact to trigger a response
- It has paddle buttons: There are two rear buttons on this thing. Yes, there are usually four rear buttons on pro controllers but the G7 Pro, gawd love it, takes a different tack: the other two "extra" buttons sit on the top of the controller between the bumper buttons.
- It's pretty damn modular: There are three varieties of D-pad included, which are easily snapped in and out. The grips and front plate can also be removed and replaced.
- There's a charging stand: Much pricier controllers don't include a charging stand (looking at you, appalling expensive DualSense Edge), so this is a real bonus. The 2.4GHz wireless dongle can sit inside the charging stand as well, once you've plugged it into your PC via USB, making things neat and tidy.
- It doesn't feel cheap: The G7 Pro is pricier than an Xbox controller, but given all the added features you'd think it might feel bad in the hands. But no: it feels as rugged and ergonomic as Microsoft's offerings
Amazon Big Deal Days ends this coming Monday, so you've got about half a week to figure out whether you want to bite the bullet. I'm rounding up all the best deals in our Big Deal Days live blog.
