Updated – The Best Controllers for MLB The Show: A Guide for Xbox, PlayStation, and Nintendo Switch

Updated 3/27/24 for MLB The Show 24

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MLB The Show isn’t just for the hardcore fans – it’s a comprehensive journey into the world of baseball where precision and control are paramount.

As many top MLB The Show gamers this year have pointed out, using a controller with back paddles and assigning the hitting button to these paddles can be a game-changer, potentially enhancing your hitting skills. Understanding the significance of this strategy, we’ve updated our guide to include more controllers featuring these crucial back paddles.

Xbox Controllers for MLB The Show

Selecting a good controller is even more important for Xbox users as the default Xbox controller has been plagued with issues when using pinpoint pitching since 2022. Additionally, Xbox users can benefit from using a wired controller to reduce input time – so all of the options included for Xbox users will be wired controllers.

Luckily for you, there are multiple great options to select from when it comes to a great Xbox controller for MLB The Show.

PowerA Nano Enhanced Controller – about $30.00

Has Back Buttons: Yes

Don’t let the low price fool you. The PowerA Nano Enhanced is an officially licensed Xbox controller that brings a lot to the plate.

The PowerA Nano Enhanced is a wired controller that also features two mappable buttons on the back, textured grips and comes in a variety of colors. The layout is similar to the standard Xbox controller, but with improvements in ergonomics.

Why we like it: While it doesn’t have the bells and whistles of some of the other options, you’d be hard pressed to find a better wired controller at the price point.

Get it on Amazon

GameSir G7 SE Wired Controller for Xbox – about $44.99

Has Back Buttons Yes

The GameSir G7 SE is a cutting-edge wired controller, highly regarded for its durability and performance. Featuring anti-drift Hall Effect sticks to prevent wear and maintain precision, this controller is built for longevity. It includes customizable faceplates and secure quick latches for back buttons, enhancing both style and functionality.

The mappable back buttons, combined with a comfortable layout similar to Microsoft’s controllers, offer an intuitive gaming experience. Additional features include a built-in 3.5mm audio jack, swappable flaceplates, and Hall Effect technology in the buttons.

Why we like it: This is a premium controller at an amazing price point. For just a little bit more than a PowerA, you get a higher quality controller with more features.

Get it on Amazon

Thrustmaster eSwap X PRO Controller – about $159.99

Has Back Buttons: Yes

The grand-daddy of Xbox controllers – the features of the Thrustmaster eSwap X PRO controller are enough to get any gamers juices flowing. This controller is fully modular – meaning you can swap out the stick-modules, triggers, stick caps, grips and even the D-Pad module. Best of all, the controllers includes many of these interchangeable parts right in the box – so you’ll be able to start customizing your controller on day 1.

In addition to being fully modular, the Thrustmaster eSwap X PRO also includes:

• Physical locking for triggers
• Direct remapping of rear buttons
• Extremely high-precision modules and action buttons, with minimal response times

Why we like it: Being fully modular allows you to really configure this controller to your needs. It’s a great option if you want to jump between games that involve unique controller setups.

Get it on Amazon

Razer Wolverine V2 – about $74

Has Back Buttons: No

The Razer Wolverine V2 is an excellent option for Xbox players seeking to elevate their gaming experience. This controller has been engineered for competitive gaming and offers customizable features that set it apart from the pack. It is perfect for MLB The Show fans due to its precise control mechanisms and comfortable design.

The Razer Wolverine V2 offers:

• Mecha-Tactile Action Buttons and D-Pad: These offer a combination of a soft cushioned touch with crisp tactile feedback, providing players with a high level of control.
• Razer Synapse Enabled: This feature offers a high degree of customization, including button remapping and sensitivity clutch adjustments.
• Ergonomic, contoured design: The Wolverine V2 is designed to offer a more natural grip that reduces hand strain, making it comfortable to use during extended gaming sessions.
• Hair Trigger Mode with Trigger Stop-Switches: This feature allows for rapid-fire inputs, offering players an edge during intense moments in MLB The Show.

Why we like it: The Razer Wolverine V2 combines a high degree of customization with a comfortable, ergonomic design. This combination, along with its competitively priced entry point, makes it a strong choice for any MLB The Show player looking to enhance their gaming experience.

Get it on Amazon

PlayStation 5 Controllers for MLB The Show

While Xbox users will see benefits from using a wired-controller, the same can’t be said for PlayStation. For the most part, PlayStation gamers are best off using an official Sony controller – luckily, Sony recently released a new controller packed full of features.

PlayStation DualSense Edge Wireless Controller – $199.99

Has Back Buttons: Yes

The DualSense Edge is like the standard PS5 DualSense controller – but on steroids. One of its highlighting features is the ability to swap out stick modules – meaning you can easily swap in a fresh stick module and have the “new controller feel” again.

But that’s not all – the DualSense Edge comes packed full of features that can be helpful when playing MLB The Show. Such as:

• Fully mappable buttons: This lets you remap or even deactivate specific button inputs, allowing you to create a completely personalized control setup.
• Mappable back buttons: Many players are finding creative uses for these, including using one of the mappable back buttons as their swing button in MLB The Show.
• Swappable stick caps: The controller comes with three types of stick caps in the box, enabling further customization of your gaming experience.
• Adjustable trigger lengths: This feature is perfect for tailoring your controller to your preferred sensitivity settings for pitching and batting in MLB The Show.
• Adjustable triggers, stick sensitivity, and vibration intensity: Configure your stick sensitivity, stick dead zones, and trigger dead zones for finely tuned inputs, and even set your vibration intensity for a completely customized play experience.

Why we like it: The DualSense is already a great controller, and the Edge improves upon it with a great set of features that should help any MLB The Show gamer.

Get it on Amazon

Nintendo Switch Controllers for MLB The Show

For Nintendo Switch players, the standard Joy-Cons might not provide the level of precision and comfort you desire for MLB The Show. Therefore, we’ll look at an alternative controller that could enhance your baseball gaming experience on the Switch.

PowerA Controller for Nintendo Switch – about $43.49

Has Back Buttons: Yes

PowerA is known for making high-quality, affordable alternatives to official console controllers, and their Nintendo Switch controller is no exception. This controller is a great option for those looking for a cheaper alternative to the Pro Controller.

The PowerA Controller for Nintendo Switch provides:

• Familiar ergonomics: The layout and design of the controller are very similar to the official Pro Controller, offering a comfortable and intuitive gaming experience.
• Advanced Gaming Buttons: Features two mappable buttons on the back, allowing you to customize your controller setup.
• Bluetooth 5.0: Connects wirelessly to your Nintendo Switch, providing a seamless and cord-free gaming experience.

Why we like it: The PowerA Controller offers a similar feel to the Pro Controller at a reduced cost. The additional mappable buttons provide a level of customization not present in many other controllers at this price point.

Get it on Amazon