Similar to the Steam Deck and even the Lenovo Legion Go, the Asus ROG Ally is another great handheld PC gaming console. As a Steam Deck alternative, it has integrated Xbox-style controls, intended to be used when out and about. But if you're a gamer who prefers to play docked to a monitor or display, or just want to prop the ROG Ally on a desk like a Nintendo Switch, you can use an external controller with the ROG Ally, either wired or wireless.

If you opt to use a controller wirelessly with your Asus ROG Ally, you'll have to head to the Bluetooth Settings in Windows 11 and press the pairing button on that controller. Or, if you opt to connect wired, use a cable that has a USB-C end, or plug it into a dongle that's docked to your handheld (since the ROG Ally has a USB-C port). Any of these eight controllers that we're suggesting will work fine with the ROG Ally but do keep in mind that some controllers (like the Sony DualSense Controller) might have a different button layout, and will result in different in-game button prompts that don't line up with what's on the controller. It's why I suggest picking up a controller that has an Xbox-style layout.

• Editor's Choice

  Xbox Wireless Controller

  The best controller to consider for the Asus ROG Ally is the Xbox Wireless Controller. It has the same A/B/X/Y button layout as the handheld console itself, and it connects either wirelessly via Bluetooth or wired via USB-C.

  $60 at Best Buy
• Premium Pick

  Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2

  For a more pro-gaming experience with the Asus ROG Ally, you'll want to consider the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2. This controller has extra paddles on the back, comes with a rechargeable battery pack, and has rubberized grips that make gaming fun and easier.

  $140 at Newegg $140 at Best Buy
• Best Value

  PDP Wired Game Controller

  Don't want to worry about batteries or Bluetooth and Wireless connectivity? The PDP Wired Game Controller will work great with your Asus ROG Ally. You'll just plug the micro USB cable into the controller, and then the USB-A end into your ROG Ally with a dongle.

  $27 at Amazon $28 at GameStop
• For PlayStation games

  Sony PlayStation DualSense Controller

  Though the button layout on the Sony DualSense Wireless Controller is different from the one on the Asus ROG Ally, PlayStation fans emulating or playing cloud PlayStation games will love this controller since it has the original PlayStation Triangle, Square, Circle, and X layout. It pairs great via Bluetooth, too.

  $69 at Amazon $70 at Best Buy
• For Nintendo games

  Nintendo Switch Pro Controller

  The Nintendo Switch Pro Controller might be intended for use with the Nintendo Switch, but it's a good controller to consider if you're emulating or playing Nintendo games on your Asus ROG Ally. The button layout is true to what Nintenfo titles call for.

  $70 at Amazon $70 at Best Buy
• For those familiar with cloud gaming

  Amazon Luna Controller

  While the Amazon Luna controller is intended for use with Amazon Luna, you also can fire it up and use it over Bluetooth with your Asus ROG Ally. It has purple accents, and is a bit heavier than the Xbox Controller, but shares the same button layout.

  $70 at Amazon
• Best retro controller

  8Bitdo Pro 2

  Plan on playing Retro games on your Asus ROG Ally? You'll want to consider the 8Bitdo Pro 2. This controller has a comfortable shape, similar to old school controllers. And it has a classic layout.

  $50 at Amazon $50 at Best Buy
• Best design

  8BitDo Ultimate Wireless 2.4g Controller

  The 8BitDo Ultimate Wireless 2.4g Controller is a great controller for the Asus ROG Ally. It has a multifunction charging dock, two back paddle buttons, and profile switches. You get up to 15 hours of battery life, too.

  $50 at Amazon

Recapping the best Asus ROG Ally controllers in 2024

The list has now come to an end, but those were all the best Asus ROG Ally controllers in 2023. If you're looking for the very best controller, look no further than the Xbox Wireless Controller, which is my personal favorite. It has the same button layout as the ROG Ally, along with Bluetooth or wired connectivity for added versatility. To level up your gaming, meanwhile, check out the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2, which has extra paddles on the back and a battery pack. And if you prefer a wired controller, the PDP Wired Game Controller works well, too, since it has rumble effects and an 8-foot-long cable.

I hope you found a controller for your Asus ROG Ally, but I can't forget to mention the best Asus ROG Ally cases, too. You'll want to ensure that your new handheld is protected when on the go.