It seems bizarre to think that Sony never made a wireless controller for the PlayStation 1, yet the gaming giant didn’t actually offer an official wireless option until the PS3 was released. Those who are looking for the best wireless PS1 controllers won’t have to spend a significant amount of time looking for one, though. Much like the PS2, there aren’t a ton of different options out there, but luckily there are a few that are worth a serious look.
The evolution of the PlayStation controller across the past several generations of consoles has been fascinating to watch. The original PlayStation controller was released with the console in 1994, but a dual analog controller option was soon offered, eventually replacing the original design altogether. With the release of the DualShock analog controller in late 1997, Sony found a design that they would largely stick to for the next several years. There have been some tweaks and changes here and there, but generally speaking Sony hasn’t done much to dramatically alter one of the best things about their consoles.
And it all began with the PS1. While wireless controllers are a limited option, there are some PS1 possibilities that will be ideal for your needs. Let’s start by going over what you’ll need to keep in mind if you’re shopping for one.
What To Look For In A PS1 Wireless Controller
Whether you’re shopping for a wireless PS1 controller or anything along those lines, there are several things you should note while checking out your options:
- How comfortable is the ergonomic design? The original PS1 controller felt comfortable for many gamers right from the start. You should expect something close to that in a third-party choice.
- Learn more about the wireless technology being used in the product. Infrared can be a little problematic, but Bluetooth can always come with some sort of connectivity issues. Figure out which option makes the most sense for you.
- Battery strength is one of the most important factors to weigh. Make sure to find out how long on average your wireless PS1 controllers will be able to keep a fresh charge.
- Durability is important in every regard too. You want the controller itself to be durable, particularly if you’re an intensive gamer. From button labels and directional buttons, and certainly the analog sticks/buttons, everything about your controller should be able to withstand a normal gaming session. This even includes the wireless receivers themselves.
- Everything about the controller, and again this applies to more than just wireless or wired PS1 products, should be comparable to the original.
With all of that to consider, let’s go over the three best options for a wireless PlayStation 1 controller. Bear in mind that all prices are subject to change.
1. TPFOON Wireless Controller
Price: $23.99
This controller from TPFOON works with not only the PS1, but also the PS2, as well. While specifically advertised for the PS2, it can work with the original PlayStation without issue.
The controller is lightweight but feels very much like an actual PlayStation 1 controller. You’re also going to appreciate that these wireless controllers are designed to be as simple and easy to use as possible. An auto-detect feature means all you need to do is plug and play. The 2.4GHz technology offers a stable signal that should be able to keep you playing for hours. All you need are two AA batteries, and the charge should keep for a good while.
Offering a comfortable grip and responsive buttons, the TPFOON wireless controller is also quite stylish. The clear blue design is attractive and almost retro in its own way. These controllers seem to be just as capable of keeping up with you as something Sony made themselves.
The shape and placement of the buttons is always important with third-party controllers of any time, and you’ll be happy that both are well done with the TPFOON. Those who don’t want to spend too much money on wireless PS1 controllers will do well with this product.
2. Retro Fighters Defender Next-Gen
Price: $49.95
The Retro Fighters Defender Next-Gen is easily one of the most impressive wireless controllers we’ve ever seen. While the price tag may strike some as a little high (at least on this list anyway), this is one of the most durable and versatile wireless third-party controllers ever made. While the controller works beautifully with your PlayStation 1, you’ll find that it can be used for the PS2, PS3, and even the PS Classic. Going even further than that, the Retro Fighters Defender Next-Gen can even be used with your PC or Nintendo Switch. This may turn out to be your go-to wireless choice for several consoles.
Available in blue or black, the design is simple, the button layout is reliable, and the vibration feature feels very much like a classic PS1 controller. Of course, the overall design of this controller is quite different from what you would get with the PlayStation 1, so it may take you a moment to get used to everything. The range for this controller extends to up to thirty feet, and the batteries that are included with the product can maintain a charge for upwards of ten full hours. That’s not bad at all!
The PS Defender as it’s sometimes called also features auto functions, turbo options, and just the right degree of sensitivity and responsiveness to the buttons and analog sticks. It’s just about perfect.
3. BLUE LAKE Performance 2 Pack Wireless Controller
Price: $27.98
As far as value and overall quality are concerned, this powerhouse 2-pack of controllers that work with both the PS1 and PS2 might be your best bet. At first glance, these wireless controllers from Blue Lake look an awful lot like an actual Sony product. As you’re going to find after playing with them for a few minutes, they generally feel and play like an actual Sony product, as well.
The vibration feature is well-done, and the controllers have received praise from players for overall durability. The button placement and responsiveness are both excellent, with the buttons feeling very much like a Sony PS1 controller to the touch. In other words, the buttons don’t click or stick as you hit them.
The overall experience can be described as very smooth, with two AAA batteries being all you need to keep the controller functioning flawlessly for hours at a time. The 2.4GHz wireless technology behind the Blue Lake wireless controllers is reliable, with the controller working at distances up to 25-30 feet. Just bear in mind that you cannot use two of these wireless PS1 controllers at once, as they will cause interference with each other.
While not quite as dynamic as the other two wireless PS1 controllers we’ve covered, this is nonetheless an exceptional choice for anyone who just wants to get started with playing PS1 games with a wireless controller on a budget. There’s also a single controller available if you don’t want to spend a lot of money.
READ NEXT: PS2 Original vs. PS2 Slim: The Biggest Differences
Some of the coverage you find on Cultured Vultures contains affiliate links, which provide us with small commissions based on purchases made from visiting our site.
