Choosing the best controller for Gran Turismo 7 can be a challenging task, given the plethora of options available from renowned manufacturers such as Logitech, Nacon, and even PlayStation. Despite ongoing debates about whether a wheel provides a superior experience in GT7, many simulation racing enthusiasts still prefer controllers, hence why we've put together this list.
For those opting for a great controller for racing, our recommendation leans towards models equipped with adjustable joysticks and trigger stops. These features contribute to enhanced precision during corners and facilitate later braking, fostering a more aggressive racing style, even after the 1.43 update.
We've taken these features as well as price, reviews, and any additional details into account here, ensuring whatever gamepad you choose, you're in a great position to elevate your performances on the track.
This includes official PlayStation controllers like the PS5 DualSense Edge to exceptional choices for PC users such as the Xbox Elite Series 2 - yes, and Xbox controller. Each one has been carefully assessed for its standout attributes, ensuring a diverse set of options to suit individual preferences. Now, without further delay, let's dive into the details and help you find the ideal controller to take your Gran Turismo 7 experience to the next level.
Best controllers for Gran Turismo 7
- Nacon Revolution Unlimited Pro - best option for the PS4
- Razer Wolverine V2 Pro - a great alternative for PS5
- Xbox Elite Series 2 - an excellent choice for PC players
- Logitech F310 - an inexpensive little gamepad
- PS5 DualSense Edge - best official controller around
1. Nacon Revolution Unlimited Pro
Best PS4 controller for Gran Turismo 7
Compatibility: PC, PS4
The Nacon Revolution Unlimited Pro is an excellent choice for racing games as it has all the attributes needed to take your driving skill to the next level.
What we like about this controller for racing and GT7, in particular, is that it comes with replaceable joysticks, so you can customise the device to suit your own personal preference.
Moreover, the gamepad features four additional shortcut buttons which can be assigned to some of your most-used controls in the game like shifting gears.
You also get an ergonomic design and Bluetooth connectivity, meaning you can lay back and relax whilst wirelessly racing around your favourite Gran Turismo circuits.
Reasons to buy:
- Wireless connectivity for freedom of where you race
- Almost everything is customisable to your preference
Read More: Best monitors for Gran Turismo 7
2. Razer Wolverine V2 Pro
Best PS5 controller for Gran Turismo 7
Compatibility: PS5, PC
The Razer Wolverine V2 Pro stands out as one of the top PS5 controllers available today.
This versatile device offers the convenience of choosing between a wired connection and a wireless one, the latter being supported by HyperSpeed technology. This ensures a stable, delay-free connection that is crucial for maintaining performance during intense gaming moments, especially in racing games like Gran Turismo.
In terms of customisation, the controller excels with six remappable buttons that allow for personalised control layouts. It also includes two sets of thumbstick caps – concave and convex – to suit different player preferences, alongside Razer's innovative HyperTrigger stops. These features are designed to enhance precision and timing, enabling you to brake more effectively and accelerate smoothly.
Additionally, the Wolverine V2 Pro boasts Razer's Chroma lighting system, adding an aesthetic edge to your gaming setup. While it may not directly affect your in-game performance, the vibrant lighting can enhance your gaming experience by matching the visuals to your GT7 setup.
Reasons to buy:
- HyperSpeed connection reduces the likelihood of input delays
- Trigger stops make braking and accelerating quicker
Read More: Best headsets for Gran Turismo 7
3. Xbox Elite Series 2
Best PC controller for Gran Turismo 7
Compatibility: PC, Xbox One, Xbox Series X
The Xbox Elite Series 2 is, in our opinion, one of the top gamepads for PC because it offers a plug-in-and-play experience so you can dive straight into the GT7 action.
You can also adjust the resistance of the shifter-like bumpers on this device to help you brake late into corners for a more aggressive racing style which, in turn, should give you the edge over your competition.
Additionally, with the supplied tool, you can alter the stiffness of the joysticks which should help with the precision of your turning.
As a result, the Elite Series 2 is an excellent pick for gaming and racing. So make sure you check it out if you're looking to upgrade your setup.
Reasons to buy:
- Instantly compatible with Windows PCs
- Can adjust the stiffness for the thumbsticks
Read More: Best triple monitor arms for Gran Turismo 7
4. Logitech F310
Best budget controller for Gran Turismo 7
Compatibility: PC
Controllers often vary massively in price, but this Logitech F310 looks to be a great budget option to consider for GT7 if you're a more casual racer.
In terms of the design, it can be compared to a PS4 gamepad, so should suit those who prefer the PlayStation layout, and is also slightly smaller than most modern controllers which is beneficial if you're not a huge fan of the bulkier designs.
On the whole, this aesthetically charming budget controller includes all the necessary features for you to race with which is why it earns a spot on our list.
Reasons to buy:
- It's very, very cheap
- Has an old-school feel to it
Read More: Best wheels for Gran Turismo 7
5. PS5 DualSense Edge
Best official controller for Gran Turismo 7
Compatibility: PS5, PC
Developed by Sony, the DualSense Edge is packed with incredible features to elevate your gaming experience, especially when it comes to racing games like Gran Turismo 7.
To ensure your comfort without compromising on grip, the device comes with three types of thumbsticks: high, low, and half-dome. This gives you plenty of options to find a height that suits you and gives your turning precision the edge as making minor steering adjustments becomes easier.
Additionally, the stick modules are replaceable, ensuring the longevity of your controller. What's more, there are mappable back buttons, allowing you to assign frequently used in-game controls for quick and effortless access.
You can also manually set the travel distance for both the left and right bumpers thanks to trigger stops. This feature enables you to decrease the time it takes to reach full throttle or brake, giving you a significant advantage on the track. Overall, the DualSense Edge is an exceptional gamepad choice for racing games, providing you with the tools to excel in your virtual races.
Reasons to buy:
- Sony's answer to the Elite Series 2
- Comes with replaceable components
Read More: Best racing game deals
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When it comes to finding the right controller for racing, there are usually a few questions that pop up, but we're here to answer some of the more common queries.
How much should I spend on a controller for Gran Turismo 7?
This really depends on your budget and what sort of quality you're looking for from a controller for GT7.
Of course, you can pick up a relatively inexpensive third-party controller in the traditional layouts popularised by Xbox and PlayStation; however, you may miss out on some useful features like remappable buttons and trigger-stops that might be able to take your racing skills to the next level.
A "Pro" controller, for example, tends to be more expensive, but they normally come with adjustable bumpers, remappable buttons, and interchangeable joysticks which can give you more control, accuracy, and precision on GT7.
What features should you look for from a controller for Gran Turismo 7?
The first thing to check is that the gamepad you plan on purchasing is compatible with either the PlayStation or PC as some only work on Xbox.
Other than that, any additional features that might come with a pro controller are just an added bonus for racing.
If you do want something to take your racing skills to the next level though, then you might want to look for a controller with additional buttons, trigger-locks on the bumpers, and adjustable joysticks to improve your precision through turns.
What controller settings should you use for Gran Turismo 7?
The answer to this question will vary depending on your racing experience level.
If you're new to the franchise, then setting the difficulty to easy will automatically turn on several driver aids such as automatic gears, braking indicators, and countersteering assistance.
You can, however, customise these settings yourself, giving you the ability to adjust the traction control, ABS, and even the controller's steering sensitivity and feedback strength.
What you set these to will come down to personal preference. We'd recommend altering the settings until you find a level that works for you.
Are all controllers compatible with PC?
Most officially licensed Xbox controllers are immediately compatible with Windows PCs as Microsoft creates both.
Unfortunately, PlayStation controllers will likely require additional software or adapters in order to plug in and play.
However, if you play Gran Turismo through Steam, then you can connect a PS5 DualSense by going to Steam > Settings > Controller > General Controller Settings and selecting PlayStation configuration when you plug in your device.
Can you use a PS5 controller on PS4?
The short answer is no; however, there is a workaround if you're desperate to use the latest DualShock device on PS4.
For this method to work, you'll require a PC or laptop to connect your controller to.
Simply connect your device to your PC when you're ready to play on your PS4, and then the Remote Play app should launch on your PC once you start your console.
Follow the in-app instructions to connect the PC to the PS4 console and you should be good to go.
Is a controller better than a racing wheel for Gran Turismo 7?
We feel that there is a lot more to gain from using a wheel than a controller for GT7, especially once you’re used to using the device.
This is due to the added control and realism you get from a wheel for racing with the addition of Force Feedback or Direct Drive device.
However, a controller offers you greater versatility away from racing, so, if you're a more casual Gran Turismo player, then you may find picking up a top gamepad to be more beneficial.
Should you clean your gaming controller?
Cleaning a controller is important to keep it in top condition and working effectively.
We’d recommend wiping down your controllers from time to time to remove any dirt and debris that can build up during racing.
Using a toothbrush or cotton bud can also be a handy way of targeting the harder-to-reach areas, for example, around the buttons.
In fact, if too much dirt builds up around the buttons, you may find they stick or start to become unresponsive, so it’s important to maintain your devices.
How long does a wireless controller last?
The answer to this question will vary depending on the gamepad and how often you use it.
When it comes to the official PlayStation controllers though, a DualSense PS4 device is said to last somewhere up to 8 hours on a single charge.
The PS5 controller goes one better with a battery life ranging from around 9 to 15 hours.
Most third-party wireless devices should fall within this range as well, so you'll be able to enjoy plenty of racing with whichever controller you choose for GT7.
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