Whether you're trying to achieve a KO or perform the ultimate combo, a PS5 or Xbox Series X controller simply won't be able to do the job as well as a fight stick.

Comprised of a joystick and multiple buttons, you can use your entire hand to dominate in fighting games, rather than just your thumb on a regular console controller.

Bring the arcade to your home, so you can compete in casual play or tournaments with your opponents.

Here are the best fight sticks available today.

Premium pick

1. hitBOX

9.00 / 10
Read Reviews

The Hit Box allows you to ditch the joystick and offers a button for each finger. In a WASD design, this fight stick replicates similar control to a PC's keyboard. If you're a fan of using D-Pads, then this fight stick might be the best option for you since it offers similar ergonomics, in the style of fighting games.

Boasting 100 percent authentic Sanwa buttons, you'll be able to enjoy a responsive experience when playing fighting games. This is ideal for casual players and pros. The Hit Box is compatible with PS4, PC, and Nintendo Switch. By extension, it can also be used on the PS5, however, not all fighting games run well with this fight stick, not until an upgraded version is released at least.

Whether you want to customize your Hit Box fight stick, or you need to fix an issue, you'll be able to do this easily since it features replaceable parts. It's built solidly, with durability in mind, so there's little need to worry about replacements, but the option to modify your fight stick is a welcome addition.

Key Features
  • 100% authentic Sanwa buttons
  • Detachable USB cable
  • One button for each finger
Specifications
  • Brand: HITBOX
  • Compatibility: PC, PS4, Nintendo Switch
  • Buttons: Sanwa
  • Connectivity: USB
Pros
  • Offers great control
  • Works on multiple platforms
  • Replaceable parts
Cons
  • Some compatibility issues with PS5
Buy This Product
Editors choice

2. Mad Catz EGO

8.40 / 10
Read Reviews

The Mad Catz EGO is a versatile fight stick that offers wide compatibility. By plugging the device directly into your console or PC, you then use the console's controller to activate the fight stick. This works with Xbox One, PS4, and Nintendo Switch. While it should also technically work with next-gen consoles like the Xbox Series X and PS5, there are some compatibility issues due to their controllers.

What strikes the Mad Catz EGO as one of the best fight sticks is how ergonomic the ball-top joystick is. It's comfortable, easy to use and maneuver, and the buttons are perfectly placed to unleash combos at any second. The Sanwa buttons are tactile and loud, offering the right level of noise for some serious button mashing when it's needed. In addition, there are eight customizable action buttons, two additional buttons, and a turbo function to tick every fighting game off the list.

If you're a fan of customizing your fight stick, you'll be pleased to know that the Mad Catz EGO can be taken apart, piece by piece, and fully personalized. From swappable decals to new internal components, you can choose what's right for you.

Key Features
  • 8 customizable buttons
  • Key lock switch
  • Turbo function
  • Customizable
Specifications
  • Brand: Mad Catz
  • Compatibility: PC, PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
  • Buttons: Sanwa
  • Connectivity: USB
Pros
  • Swappable decals
  • Easy to use
  • Responsive
Cons
  • Requires console's controller to be plugged into the base
Buy This Product
Mad Catz EGO

The Hori Fighting Stick Mini is a compact fight stick that's perfect for arcade and fighting games played on the Nintendo Switch. The buttons can be remapped on PC too, although it's not specifically targeted at PC gamers. On-board, you'll find the familiar Capture, Home, Minus, and Plus buttons from the Nintendo Switch. So, whether you're playing a classic fighter or a new arcade game, you should feel comfortable with the Hori under your hands.

The lollipop-style joystick is comfortable to hold, if not a little small for those with larger hands. While there are plenty of buttons, there's also the addition of the turbo button, present in many professional fight sticks. Underneath, there's an anti-slip surface, but if we're being picky here, it could do with a slightly larger surface area to stop it from moving when you are unleashing some serious combos.

At an affordable cost, the Hori Fighting Stick Mini is an excellent choice for Nintendo Switch gamers. It offers an arcade-style feel and comes in various options, including a Street Fighter II edition with the choice of Chun-Li & Cammy, or Ryu & Ken.

Key Features
  • Includes Home, Capture, and Volume buttons
  • Can be used on a PC
  • Different editions to choose from
Specifications
  • Brand: Hori
  • Compatibility: Nintendo Switch
  • Connectivity: USB
Pros
  • Very affordable
  • Generously long cable
  • Eight-button layout
Cons
  • Small joystick
Buy This Product
Hori Fighting Stick Mini

The Mayflash F300 is one of the best fight sticks if you're after universal compatibility. It pretty much works with any console, although it can be a bit fiddly to set up in the first instance. Once you get past this, you'll find a nicely designed arcade stick that's perfect for beginners. It's extremely customizable too, so if you find yourself getting bored with the non-Sanwa buttons, you can switch them out for Sanwa ones later down the line.

The Mayflash F300 is sturdy and durable. It's quite compact too, so it's easily stored away or transported if you need it to be. The buttons are responsive, despite feeling a little soft when pressed. But, if it's your first time playing with a fight stick, you'll probably find they're okay, especially considering how cheap the F300 is. The joystick itself is fairly weighty, and the placement of the buttons is decent.

At such a budget price, the Mayflash F300 is hard to say no to, especially if you don't want to spend a lot of money on a pro fight stick when you're not at that level yet. Whether it's for a beginner, kids, or for casual use, this fight stick is reliable, responsive, and customizable; things that can't be said for every fight stick on the market.

Key Features
  • Customizable
  • Can be used with a wide range of consoles
  • Turbo function support
Specifications
  • Brand: May Flash
  • Compatibility: PS4, PS3, Xbox One, Xbox 360, PC Windows, Android, Nintendo Switch, NEOGEO mini, SEGA MEGA DRIVE, SEGA GENESIS
  • Buttons: Non-Sanwa
  • Connectivity: USB
Pros
  • Works with most platforms
  • Good value for money
  • Looks stylish
Cons
  • Setup is quite frustrating
Buy This Product
Mayflash F300

The Qanba Drone is one of the best entry-level fight sticks. It's customizable, easy to use, and holds a good reputation. Thus, it's a great choice for beginners and those who enjoy modding their setup. Officially licensed by Sony, the Drone is straightforward to connect to PS3 and PS4 consoles. It's also supported by the PS5, which means you can enjoy next-gen fighting games at an affordable cost.

The honeycomb design is eye-catching, but beyond that, the Qanba Drone is comfortable to use since there's plenty of space to rest your wrists. There are eight buttons that are spaced perfectly apart; not too far, and not too close that you'll end up misfiring. Granted, the Drone uses non-Sanwa parts, but if you're not used to a high-end fighting stick, this will feel absolutely sufficient.

Despite the price, you're still getting everything you need in a fight stick; tournament mode, turbo, start, and option buttons. You can also customize the Qanba Drone by unscrewing the top, offering easy access to the buttons. This way, you can replace the parts with non-standard options, making it long-lasting, growing with your choice of fighting games and skill.

Key Features
  • Anti-slip
  • Tournament lock switch
  • LED indicators
  • Turbo mode
Specifications
  • Brand: Qanba
  • Compatibility: PS5, PS4, PS3, PC
  • Buttons: Qanba
  • Connectivity: USB
Pros
  • Stylish design
  • Customizable
  • Great for those on a budget
Cons
  • Non-Sanwa buttons
Buy This Product
Qanba Drone

The 8Bitdo Arcade Stick is an excellent fight stick for those that appreciate a retro feel. It's incredibly durable and feels solid straight out of the box. What's more, it's customizable, so you can easily replace the non-Sanwa parts with upgrades at any point. But, the most tempting feature is definitely the wireless capability; an easy switch between Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or wired.

For Nintendo Switch and PC users, fighting and arcade games can be enjoyed in their truest form at an entry-level price. The weight of the 8Bitdo Arcade Stick really adds to the experience, making it feel much more expensive than it is. The joystick is comfortable and solid, and the buttons are responsive. It's nicely laid out too, with a cluster of control buttons at the top, allowing you to change input, mapping, and connectivity.

If you're used to playing fighting games on your Switch, you'll feel right at home with the standard buttons included; Start, Home, Select, and Capture. Along the back, there's a small cover for the USB-C port, allowing you to charge the fight stick or connect it via the included 10-foot USB-C cable. All-in-all, you're getting a lot of value for money with the 8Bitdo Arcade Stick.

Key Features
  • Moddable
  • Rechargeable battery
  • Macro buttons
  • Connectivity switch
Specifications
  • Brand: 8Bitdo
  • Compatibility: Nintendo Switch, PC
  • Buttons: Non-Sanwa
  • Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
Pros
  • Easy to customize
  • Wireless
  • Responsive
Cons
  • Not compatible with many consoles
Buy This Product
8Bitdo Arcade Stick

The Qanba Crystal is the logical step up for Qanba Drone owners, providing a mid-tier range of fight sticks that looks simply stunning. Boasting vibrant blue LEDs and a see-through shell, this is certainly one of the best fight sticks for aesthetics. Licensed by Sony, it's compatible with PS3, PS4, PS5, and PC, so you'll have a great choice of fight games that are compatible.

Weighing seven pounds, the Qanba Crystal feels solid and is perfect for resting in your lap. But, if you want to place it on a table, the non-slip strips underneath do a great job at keeping it still. Design-wise, it's simply stunning. The artwork is admirable, and the overall style feels luxurious. There are also added extras that move this fight stick up a class, including the carry handle and touchpad.

The buttons are responsive, despite having to press them a little harder than you would on a Sanwa stick. Because of its design, the Qanba Crystal isn't easy to mod, so if Sanwa parts are a deal-breaker for you, this might not be the right fight stick for your collection. On the other hand, for the cost, you're getting plenty of functionality from this fight stick, topped off with some fancy LEDs.

Key Features
  • Built-in LEDs
  • Officially licensed by Sony
  • Magnetic carry handle
  • Touchpad
Specifications
  • Brand: Qanba
  • Compatibility: PS3, PS4, PS5, PC
  • Buttons: Qanba
  • Connectivity: USB
Pros
  • Solid build
  • LED lights are stunning
  • Responsive
Cons
  • Difficult to mod
Buy This Product
Qanba Crystal

The Mayflash F500 is a great fight stick if you're ready to upgrade from the F300. It's more expensive, but that's reasonable considering it's larger, better quality, and easily customizable. The acrylic plate atop the fight stick is easy to remove, allowing you to replace it with a design of your choice. The joystick is also simple to swap out, so if you want to upgrade the F500 even more, it's entirely possible to do so.

At the top and bottom of this fight stick, you'll find two metal plates. They definitely add to the Mayflash F500 since they make it heavier and feel more durable. There's certainly little movement when you're playing an intense fighting game. Not only does the build feel sturdy, but there are considerate extras like the USB cable compartment and the option to plug your own headphones via the 3.5mm port.

As the buttons aren't Sanwa, the Mayflash F500 doesn't feel as top-end as it could. The buttons are a little mushy and quite loud, but some players prefer this, so it's really down to your preference. The joystick is easy to move, and the buttons are carefully placed. There are plenty of functional buttons lining the top of the fight stick, and if you want to swap for your own parts, there are only six screws you need to remove.

Key Features
  • Cable storage
  • 3.5mm port
  • Replaceable top cover
Specifications
  • Brand: May Flash
  • Compatibility: Xbox Series X, PS4, PS3, Xbox One, Xbox 360, PC, Nintendo Switch, Android
  • Buttons: Non-Sanwa
  • Connectivity: USB-C
Pros
  • Affordable
  • Universal compatibility
  • Customizable
Cons
  • Buttons are fairly loud
Buy This Product
Mayflash F500

FAQ

Q: Is A Fight Stick Better Than A Controller?

Controllers are okay for playing fighting and arcade games, but they lack the precision a joystick and well-placed buttons a fight stick can offer. Fight sticks are generally more comfortable too and in most cases are universal, allowing you to enjoy your favorite fighting games across all platforms without having to switch out your controller.

Q: Are Qanba Sticks Good?

Qanba fight sticks are great mid-range options. They tend to be very affordable and durable while maintaining a stylish design. For amateurs or casual players, Qanba is a solid choice, especially if you want to customize or mod your fight stick later down the road.

Q: How Much Do Fight Sticks Cost?

Fight sticks range in price, from sub-$50 to over $200. This really depends on the make, style, and type of buttons used. Sanwa components are preferred among pro-fighting gamers. However, it's easy to pay less for a fight stick that's customizable, then switch out some parts for those that you want over time.