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Best controller for Cyberpunk 2077 Phantom Liberty (Xbox, PlayStation)

Want to enjoy Cyberpunk with a controller? Here are the best for the job

Updated: Oct 19, 2023 10:45 am
Best controller for Cyberpunk 2077 Phantom Liberty (Xbox, PlayStation)

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Cyberpunk 2077 is a fantastic title to scratch that open-world itch. With the big 2.0 patch finally out, we’ve picked out the best controller for Cyberpunk 2077 Phantom Liberty, while trying to cover a good range of preferences. The Liberty Phantom DLC is a big driver for players returning to the game, especially since it didn’t have exactly an ideal launch period.

While the game may be a first person shooter, many players are still comfortable with opting for a pad over a mouse and keyboard combo. Or you could just be a fan of using the third-person mod. We’ve also seen plenty of mention of players using controller while cruising around Night City is their latest ride, so this one’s for you hybrid control scheme users too! Whether you’re looking for a great controller for PC or console, let’s delve into the picks in further detail – also be sure to check out the best controller settings!

Best controller for Cyberpunk 2077 Phantom Liberty : products at a glance

Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2

Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2

Compatibility

Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, PC

Weight

345g/12.1oz

Buttons

Standard Xbox layout +4 programmable paddle

Connectivity

Xbox Wireless, USB Type-C, 3.5mm stereo headset jack

Wireless range

15-20ft

Excellent

PlayStation 5 DualSense Edge controller

PS5 dualsense edge controller

Weight

335g/11.81oz

Connectivity

Bluetooth, USB Type-C

Additional buttons

2x extra buttons on the back. Choice of levers or half-dome

Battery life

5-10 hours

PowerA Enhanced Wired Xbox controller

PowerA Pink Lemonade enhanced Xbox controller

Compatibility

Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, PC

Weight

7.2oz/204.1g

Buttons

Standard Xbox layout +3 programmable paddles

Connectivity

Micro USB

Ports

Micro USB, 3.5mm stereo headset jack

Cable length

10ft/3.05m

SCUF Instinct Pro controller

scuf instinct

Compatibility

Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, PC

Weight

280g/9.8oz

Buttons

Standard Xbox layout +4 programmable paddles

Connectivity

Bluetooth, USB Type-C

Ports

USB-C, extension port, 3.5mm stereo headset jack

Wireless range

Up to 12m/45 feet

Best Xbox controller for Cyberpunk 2077 Phantom Liberty : Xbox Elite Series 2

Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2

Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2

Compatibility

Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, PC

Weight

345g/12.1oz

Buttons

Standard Xbox layout +4 programmable paddle

Connectivity

Xbox Wireless, USB Type-C, 3.5mm stereo headset jack

Wireless range

15-20ft

Pros
  • Comfortable build with Xbox layout
  • Four programmable paddles
  • Up to 40 hours battery life
  • Custom profiles you can switch between
Cons
  • Quite pricey

Starting off with the premium Xbox Elite Series 2 wireless controller. If you’re used to the Xbox controller layout, this is one of the best options of there if you want to make it feel even better. The Elite Series 2 pad features everything you know and love about this layout, while adding in some additional features such as the four programmable back paddles and custom profiles (up to three).

On top of that, you’re getting a version of the controller with improved build quality that is a joy to play with. While this may be a more expensive choice than the core Xbox Series X/S controllers, its premium features and build make the difference. It has easy wireless connectivity and is perfectly compatible with PC. You can even opt for wired with a USB-C cable; there’s also a 3.5mm headset jack to boot.

Best PlayStation controller for Cyberpunk 2077 Phantom Liberty : PS5 DualSense Edge

PlayStation 5 DualSense Edge controller

PS5 dualsense edge controller

Weight

335g/11.81oz

Connectivity

Bluetooth, USB Type-C

Additional buttons

2x extra buttons on the back. Choice of levers or half-dome

Battery life

5-10 hours

Pros
  • Extremely good customization
  • Much more premium than standard PS5 pad
  • Comfortable to hold and good weight
  • Swappable analog sticks extend lifespan
Cons
  • Most expensive PlayStation option
  • Battery life is mediocre

Time to head over to an option for PlayStation players, or just those of you that prefer this layout and are looking for a pad for PC. We reviewed the PS5 DualSense Edge in great detail and was impressed by the premium build and features on offer. It’s marginally lighter than our Xbox pick, but comes with plenty more customization to play around with. Although PS controllers have required a few extra steps to play on PC in the past, Steam’s excellent PS5 controller on PC integration makes them worth considering.

While the battery life isn’t the best here, it shines in terms of comfort and customization: swappable analog sticks means you can easily keep on switching once they wear out. This premium controller also features different thumbstick cap options (in length and shape) and two back paddles which also can be swapped for alternate designs. Sony really put a lot of thought in helping you create a controller that fits you perfectly with the Edge.

Best value controller for Cyberpunk 2077 Phantom Liberty : PowerA Enhanced

PowerA Enhanced Wired Xbox controller

PowerA Pink Lemonade enhanced Xbox controller

Compatibility

Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, PC

Weight

7.2oz/204.1g

Buttons

Standard Xbox layout +3 programmable paddles

Connectivity

Micro USB

Ports

Micro USB, 3.5mm stereo headset jack

Cable length

10ft/3.05m

Pros
  • Excellent value for money
  • Buttons are clicky and tactile
  • Great color options
  • Cable is detachable
Cons
  • Build quality not the best

When scouting out the best controllers for any game, a great value (or budget) option is always worth talking about. Not everyone has the cash, or need, to be spending $100+ on a premium controller when something much cheaper can get the job done. That’s where the PowerA Enhanced wired Xbox controller comes in. We’ve reviewed the Pink Lemonade edition controller, and while that color option has since become harder to find for this model, the performance remains.

Again, fans of Xbox controllers can easily use this on your console or PC with no trouble at all. For such a low price, we’re surprised to see features such as programmable paddles. You’re not getting a wireless pad here unfortunately, but that’s something we can personally look past in the name of great value. While you don’t get the supreme build quality of the high-end picks, it still feels great to play with as the buttons are pretty tactile.

Best alternative controller for Cyberpunk 2077 Phantom Liberty : SCUF Instinct Pro

SCUF Instinct Pro controller

scuf instinct

Compatibility

Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, PC

Weight

280g/9.8oz

Buttons

Standard Xbox layout +4 programmable paddles

Connectivity

Bluetooth, USB Type-C

Ports

USB-C, extension port, 3.5mm stereo headset jack

Wireless range

Up to 12m/45 feet

Pros
  • Dual-mode triggers great for FPS games
  • Swappable thumbsticks
  • Easy on-board profile switch
  • Four programmable paddles
Cons
  • Expensive Xbox-style option

The SCUF Instinct Pro is a controller we had the pleasure of quickly reviewing in a hands-on test, and it offers a high-end alternative for gamers that want a premium feeling Xbox pad with some extra customization and features thrown in. This rivals the Xbox Series Elite controller in terms of functionality, also offering 4 programmable paddles to play around with. Likewise, it features profiles (on the SCUF, this is through a physical profile button which you can toggle between).

Much like the DualSense Edge, this Instinct Pro has swappable thumbsticks, so you can tinker with the length and shape to your liking. One more thing worth mentioning is the dual-mode triggers, which are great for first person shooters, Cyberpunk 2077 included. The triggers can be configured to utilize the ‘instant’ trigger mode, shortening the distance and providing a quick-fire response.

Should you use a controller or mouse and keyboard for Cyberpunk 2077?

For many PC players, Cyberpunk 2077 may feel best on mouse and keyboard, but the option for controller is an appealing one. The game is definitely well optimized for playing on a controller, which is pretty evident while driving around. For console players, a controller is the go-to option, especially if you’re sat away from your monitor or TV.

This kind of question generally comes down to personal preference or your current setup. If you’re at a desk, many people will opt for KB&M, but we’ve actually seen quite a few people opting for both. The accuracy of a mouse for aiming, and the fluid analog precision of a controller while driving.

Best controller for Cyberpunk 2077 FAQs

Xbox or PlayStation controller for Cyberpunk 2077?

This generally comes down to personal preference. Generally you’re going to using the controller than corresponds with your console of choice. For PC players, both layouts work well, even DualSense controllers thanks to easy support from Steam.

Does Cyberpunk 2077 have aim assist for controller?

Yes, Cyberpunk 2077 does have aim assist, which comes in handy for controller players in particular when dealing with precise aim. This can be adjusted to your liking, and an ‘Aim Snap’ option is also available.


As a Junior Staff Writer, Jack is involved in writing and maintaining a bunch of hardware guides & reviews. With an interest in PC gaming, he now focuses on writing about monitors, headsets, and more.

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