If you want to succeed in any fighting game, execution is vital. You want to be able to perform key moves and combos with relative ease. Having a reliable controller can be the difference between victory and defeat.
While standard console controllers can get the job done, there are alternative options that could feel more comfortable to use and even add a layer of player expression. If you want to learn about the best controllers to use for Tekken 8 look no further.
The Five Best Tekken 8 Controllers
1. Hori Fight Commander Octa
Hori is a licensed peripheral maker that is known for making quality fighting game controllers. If you are interested in buying a fightpad the Hori Fight Commander Octa is a fantastic choice. This is a wired controller that is fully optimized for fighting games. Tekken veteran King Jae noted the controllers' lightweight feel and octagon gate joystick for precise inputs. Note that you can customize settings with its companion mobile app. Selling for around $60 USD the Hori Fight Commander is an economic choice to take your fighting game performance to the next level.
Specs
- 5.87 x 7.09 x 3.07 inches and 12.24 ounces
- Adjustable D-Pad sensitivity
- 6 button layout style
- Octagon Gate analog stick for precise motion inputs
- 10ft wire cable
What’s great about this controller?
- The six button layout of this fightpad makes it perfect for games such as Street Fighter and King of Fighters.
- The 10ft cable length is very convenient.
- This fight pad is available for PS5 as well as Xbox Series X. Both versions are compatible with PC
2. Hori Fighting Stick Alpha
This is another quality product from Hori. Officially Licensed by Sony, this premium arcade stick is built for competitive fighting game play. Popular Fighting Game Youtuber, NihongoGamer notes the controller’s convenient size and comfortable weight. He also appreciates how it comes Ps5 ready right out of the box. While most quality arcade sticks sell at a high price the Hori Fight Stick is available at a reasonable $200. If you want to dabble into arcade sticks but don’t want to break the bank this device is a solid option.
Specs
- 18.9 x 6 x 6x5 x 14.37 inches 3.31 Pounds
- 10ft wire cable
- Replaceable top panel artwork
- Opens for easy customization and maintenance
What’s great about this controller?
- This arcade stick is smaller than normal allowing for easy carrying
- This stick is compatible with Ps4, Ps5 and PC
You replaceable top is ideal for further customization
3. Mad Katz TE3
Mad Katz revival in 2018 has seen decent success with its new line of gaming peripherals. One of its better devices is their TE3 arcade stick. This is the successor to their beloved TE2 stick which was praised by pro fighting game players such as Justin Wong. It is built to be easily customizable and it has storage for other items. These are handy features for regular tournament players. While its price is on the higher side at $300 its extra features and quality can justify the investment.
Specs
- 15.55 x 14.09 x 5.39 inches 11.08 pounds
- 8 button layout with 2 programmable buttons
- Turbo and Key Lock Functions
What makes this controller great
- This controller is compatible with all platforms.
- The device is easily customizable.
The device has a clamshell design for storage and can be fitted with strap attachment to carry it hands free.
4. Victrix Pro FS
Victrix is known for its quality esports products. If you want to take your competitive gaming to the next level look no further. This is another arcade stick officially licensed by PlayStation. This device is built for comfort, speed and precision. The Victrix Pro is durable to withstand drops as well as aggressive motions. It is also easily customizable allowing for true fighting game enthusiasts. Street Fighter Veteran Justin Wong praises the devices as the “Luxury Joystick”. While $400 may be a tough sell, this stick’s quality is nothing short of excellent.
Specs
- 5.79 x 19.02 x 13.31 inches 7.76 Pounds
- Sanwa Denshi buttons
- Foam Lap Pad
- 6.28 wrist slope
What makes this controller great?
- This controller is incredibly durable to last many years
- This stick is compatible with Ps4, Ps5 and PC
Carrying handle makes it convenient for travel
5. Razer Kitsune
Hitboxes have caused quite an impact in the fighting game community. Leverless controllers are known for lowering the execution floor for newcomers with its unique input design. The Razer Kitsune is one of the more respected hitboxes on the market right now. It is compatible with PS5 and PC gameplay. This device focuses on eliminating input error in your online matches. Its slim design makes it ideal for travel and going to tournaments. At $300 dollars this is a less expensive option than the Victrix Pro and is of comparable quality. NihongoGamer gave a strong recommendation to this product calling it the definitive leverless controllers currently.
Specs
- 11.66 x 0.76 x 8.27 inches 1.7 Pounds
- Precise quad movement button layout
- Cable security clasp and tournament lock switch
What makes this controller great?
- This hitbox has a sleek design to fit into your backpack
- The buttons on the controller are made to be super responsive to eliminate most input errors
- The device has a removable aluminum top to allow further customization
At the end of the day, a person doesn't need an expensive controller to be good at Tekken 8. There are many professionals who place well in tournaments by simply using standard PS5/Xbox controllers. No device is a substitute for hours of practice and competitive experience.
The listed controllers are simply tools to help you on your fighting game journey. If you want an extra advantage in Tekken 8, consider these quality options.
Tekken 8 Controller Types:
PS5/XBOX Series X Controller
If you simply want to play Tekken 8, there is nothing wrong with the standard PlayStation or Xbox controllers. They function well and feel comfortable in your hands. Players have noted that the Xbox Series X controller has a more precise D-pad while the PS5 counterpart was easier to change directions with. The one issue that you might face is with their durability. Tekken is a fast paced game that involves a lot of quick inputs. If you use the analog stick for motions, they can easily wear with time causing them to make noise and even get stuck. If you play fighting games casually this may be the best option for you. If you are interested in competition, you may want to consider alternatives.
Keyboard Controller
While unorthodox, keyboards are a solid controller choice for PC gamers. Keyboards offer ease of input and more customization options. If you are a tournament player, you may want to consider a different method. Most Tekken tournaments are run on consoles, which may not be compatible with certain keyboards.
FightPad Controller
A dedicated fightpad is a strong option for those looking for those who want to be more competitive in fighting games. They are similar in size to default console controllers and have quality directional button inputs.
Fightpads generally omit analog sticks but there are exceptions. They also have six face buttons as opposed to the usual four. If you want a more quality controller that is similar in comfort to the default option, give fightpads a try.
Arcade Stick Controller
Like the name suggests, arcade sticks replicate the experience of arcade machine controls. They have joysticks that click to maximize input precision. If you are an older gamer, you may want to look into arcade sticks.
HitBox Controller
HitBoxes are popular options among the hardcore fighting game community. They are similar in size to arcade sticks and only have button inputs. This style of controller is known for its precision and ease of input. Players often have these devices custom made with unique art to express themselves. Hitboxes are generally the most expensive option to use but well worth it for those with a more competitive drive.
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