Best controller for Mortal Kombat 1 – our top gaming picks for MK1

Best controller for Mortal Kombat 1 – our top gaming picks for MK1
Rosa Fryer Updated on by

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If you’re looking for the best controller for Mortal Kombat 1 for PC gaming, you’ve come to the right place.

NetherRealm’s Mortal Kombat 1 is not here to mess around. The sequel to the iconic fighting game comes with new features, locations, characters, animation and much more. All you need to do is perfect your technique, we’ve done the rest. It’s no question that you can play Mortal Kombat on the best laptop, but if you’re here then it’s probably because you’re wanting to play with a controller. A controller will enhance your gameplay experience as Mortal Kombat 1 is fast paced and intense. Having a controller with an adjustable grip and customisable buttons is essential when you’ve got clammy hands that need to move fast, which is all part of the MK1 fun.

We’ve done the research to find you the highest quality controllers that comes with responsive buttons, lag free input and strong battery. Three essential features of top quality controllers. Whether you’re wanting to prioritise budget or resolution, we’ve got a choice for you.

Best controller for Mortal Kombat 1 at a glance

Xbox Elite Series 2 Wireless Controller

Compatibility

Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and Windows Devices

Connectivity

Wireless

Buttons

Set of 6 thumbsticks: standard (2), classic (2), tall (1), and wide dome (1); set of 4 paddles: medium (2) and mini (2); set of 2 D-pads: standard and faceted; thumbstick-adjustment tool

Weight

Approx 450g

HORI Fighting Commander OCTA 

Compatibility

PS5, PS4, PC

Connectivity

Wired

Buttons

1x D-pad, 4x Action (A,B,X,Y), L-R Bumpers and Triggers, R1, R2, 1x Menu, Headset controls

Weight

<250g

Razer Wolverine Ultimate Xbox One Controller

Compatibility

PC, Xbox One, Xbox Series X & S

Connectivity

Wired

Buttons

1x D-pad, 4x Action (A,B,X,Y), L-R Bumpers and Triggers, 4x Control Panel, 1x Menu, 1x View, 4x Paddles

Weight

Approx 260 grams (w/o cable)

Once you’ve found the perfect controller, make sure you’ve paired it with the best controller settings for MK1 and the best graphic settings for MK1 In addition to this, having an understanding of the Mortal Kombat character tier list and any MK1 tips and tricks, will put you in a great position in the game.

Best overall controller for Mortal Kombat 1

Xbox Elite Series 2 Wireless Controller

Compatibility

Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and Windows Devices

Connectivity

Wireless

Buttons

Set of 6 thumbsticks: standard (2), classic (2), tall (1), and wide dome (1); set of 4 paddles: medium (2) and mini (2); set of 2 D-pads: standard and faceted; thumbstick-adjustment tool

Weight

Approx 450g

Pros
  • High end controller
  • Brilliant battery
  • Great for competitive game
Cons
  • Expensive

The best overall controller for Mortal Kombat 1 would have to be the Xbox Elite Series 2 Wireless Controller. This controller has adjustable tension thumbsticks and a rubberized grip which for the MK1 fans, will be essential for combat. With the interchangeable D-pads, thumbstick toppers and paddles, you can customize the controller to tailor to your preferred gaming style.

Alongside a the high quality feel to the controller, a standout is the battery. With 40 hours of rechargeable battery, you can enjoy undisturbed gameplay. The price is definitely more on the high-end side but the controller’s quality, customisation, and durability makes up for it. The controller isn’t limited to MK1, it is compatible with many AAA titles including Warzone.

Best budget controller for Mortal Kombat 1

HORI Fighting Commander OCTA 

Compatibility

PS5, PS4, PC

Connectivity

Wired

Buttons

1x D-pad, 4x Action (A,B,X,Y), L-R Bumpers and Triggers, R1, R2, 1x Menu, Headset controls

Weight

<250g

Pros
  • 8-way analog stick
  • Bang for the buck
  • Low input latency
Cons
  • Build quality

When it comes to the best budget controller for Mortal Kombat 1, the Hori Fighting Commander Octa takes the crown. The controller can easily switch between PC, PS5, and PS4 modes, so it works with a variety of platforms, and it uses a wired connection for an impressively low input latency. Apart from that, the controller is also equipped with a precise 8-way analog stick so you get top-notch accuracy for the best gameplay.

Even though the performance aspect of the Fighting Commander Octa is excellent, it lacks a certain build quality element that makes the controller feel relatively cheaper. Of course, that’s true to some extent because the price tag is also surprisingly affordable, especially if you consider the performance.

If you can look past the overall build quality, then there is no reason to skip the Hori Fighting Commander Octa. From low input latency to responsive controls, from affordable pricing to good compatibility, it has everything to be the best affordable controller for Mortal Kombat 1.

Best wired controller for Mortal Kombat 1

Razer Wolverine Ultimate Xbox One Controller

Compatibility

PC, Xbox One, Xbox Series X & S

Connectivity

Wired

Buttons

1x D-pad, 4x Action (A,B,X,Y), L-R Bumpers and Triggers, 4x Control Panel, 1x Menu, 1x View, 4x Paddles

Weight

Approx 260 grams (w/o cable)

Pros
  • Excellent customisations
  • Razer Chroma Lighting
  • Quick Control Panel
Cons
  • Pricey

The best wired controller for Mortal Kombat 1 is the Razer Wolverine Ultimate. The controller is every competitive gamer’s dream. It goes above and beyond to pack as much performance as possible, and it does not disappoint in any way at all. For example, its wired connectivity means basically negligible input latency, and the ton of customizability can make it unique to your gaming style.

In total, the Razer Wolverine Ultimate brings 6 remappable buttons to the table, along with interchangeable D-pad and thumbsticks. You can also switch between these remaps on the fly without any issues. This level of customization brings an unparalleled gaming experience, which is meant to give you a significant advantage in Mortal Kombat 1.

Of course, you also get texture grips and a well-balanced weight distribution for top-notch comfort. Furthermore, being a Razer product, you also get the infamous Razer Chroma Lighting. Overall, if your budget is not an issue, then you should definitely go for the Razer Wolverine Ultimate.

Can you play Mortal Kombat on PC with a controller?

Yes, you can play Mortal Komat on PC with a controller. All you have to do is plug in the controller, launch the game, and press CTRL + F1  to open the Mapper tool. From there, you can map actions to your buttons.