Fighting game enthusiasts know that the smallest fraction of error can mean the difference between victory and defeat. Competitive players are always scouring stores for any way to get an edge, in order to shave off fractions of seconds in response time, offer more precise controls or simply make the experience of playing for hours more comfortable. Accessory manufacturers are always topping one another in the race to create the best arcade sticks out there.
Here’s a look at the best arcade sticks available right now:
5. Razer Atrox Arcade Stick
Manufacturer: Razer
Optimized for: Mortal Kombat X
Platform: Xbox One
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ROmhZIrQKNk
A huge swat of Mortal Kombat X fans swear by this $200 accessory, which offers light controls, a svelte design and customizable components that make it easier than most sticks to swap out parts and tinker with to create the ideal setup. While it lacks the finesse of some of the top models, the Atrox is an acquired taste that can hang with the best.
ORDER: Razer Atrox Arcade Stick
4. F300 Mayflash Fight Stick
Manufacturer: Mad Catz
Optimized for: Mortal Kombat X
Platform: PS4, Xbox One, PS3, Xbox 360, PC, Android
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y5avWzlfCOk
This is Amazon’s top-selling stick, and it’s easy to see why. It’s multiplatform compatibility allows it to work on just about any device you can throw at it — even mobile platforms — and its ergonomic design and stylish look make it as impressive to play as display. And at $55, it won’t push you over your credit limit.
ORDER: F300 Mayflash Fight Stick
3. Hori Fighting Stick Mini 4
Manufacturer: Hori
Optimized for: Street Fighter V
Platform: PS4, PS3
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ETxu9ZqM2aI
A solid starter option for those just starting to dabble in the cut-throat arena of online fighting, the Mini 4 can be had for $40 — that’s $20 less than the cost of most standard controllers. While not as intensely precise as the best fighting sticks on the market, its diminutive size is easier to hold and store than the larger controllers.
ORDER: Hori Fighting Stick Mini 4
2. Hori Real Arcade Pro.V Kai
Manufacturer: Hori
Optimized for: Mortal Kombat X
Platform: Xbox One, PS4, Xbox 360, PC
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WJcX2MQJXDM
Hori prides itself on unique, unorthodox innovations that tend to be worth the risk. The Pro.V Kai is arguably the company’s biggest success yet, incorporating a centered stick design and button sets lined up close together to allow for rapid switching when pulling off combos. The lightweight design makes it easier than many arcade sticks to hold for hours on end. That’s worth the $150 cost for serious competitors.
ORDER: Hori Real Arcade Pro.V Kai
1. Mad Catz Street Fighter V Arcade Stick TES+
Manufacturer: Mad Catz
Optimized for: Street Fighter V
Platform: PS4, PS3
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bNHawTp0Ab0
The Cadillac of arcade sticks will run you $200, but the expense is worth it to those who demand the very best. With a controls layout that mirrors an arcade setup, a 3-way button that allows the stick to emulate a left or right-side d-pad and touchpad controls that allow you to play any PS4 game without having to revert to awkward alternate controls, this is the dream controller for most serious fighting game fanatics.
