However, I see in the product specifications page of the console controllers that they also support PC. And the PC controllers sometimes support some of the consoles. The only real difference between controllers, from a technology perspective, is that is some of them support bluetooth/2.4 GHz.

So I have two questions:

If they are already cross-compatible, why even bother having different types?
How should I decide which type of controller I should buy? It should support PC, console-support is not essential.

Note: I am a novice in game controllers but aware of different network stacks.

Edit: Thanks for the amazing response! These are my key takeaways from all the comments

Hall-effect sensors are a must
Default console controllers usually have stick drift
If you need trackpad, take PS5
8bitdo is a reliable brand, as per multiple responses
Most controllers have good support on Linux. But haptic feedback can be a hit/miss as it can be platform/game dependent
There are various connectivity wireless standards. Dongles are the most reliable but you lose a USB port.
Keep track of handsize/comfort and button layout
PS controllers have excellent support on Linux/Steam

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[–] MentalEdge@sopuli.xyz 35 points 2 months ago (3 children)

Don't buy steelseries.

I like the DualSense controller. Yes, it's "for playstation" but all controllers work on PC nowadays. Especially on Linux, the driver for PS controllers is in the kernel, and they can work both wired and via Bluetooth.

It even supports using the special features of the DualSense in some games, like the adaptive triggers when playing Rift Apart or Forbidden West.

And the touchpad works as a mouse, which is handy.

[–] Sc00ter@lemm.ee 8 points 2 months ago

I don't have a ton to add to this, but the Playstation controllers even pair with mobile devices with basically no setup. It's impressive

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