Controllers

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Apr 11, 2025

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Controllers

Apr 11, 2025

Controllers: What You Should Know Before Choosing One

A controller (or gamepad) is a peripheral device that allows you to interact with and control gameplay. While originally designed for consoles, most modern controllers can also be used on PCs, and come in various formats—such as joysticks, steering wheels with pedals, and standard gamepads (the most common type).

Although the shape and layout of modern controllers are now quite similar, each model offers distinct design elements, ergonomics, and technologies that influence performance and comfort.

When evaluating a controller (or “pad”), consider its size, grip style, button layout, trigger feel, and symmetry (the position of analog sticks).

Most Common Controllers

Here are the most widely used models today:

DualShock 4: Designed for the PlayStation 4. Compact, lightweight, symmetrical, and comfortable for most hand sizes.
Xbox One Controller: Built for Xbox One, this controller has an asymmetrical stick layout and a sturdier frame than the Xbox 360 version, with improved grip and ergonomics.
DualSense 5: The official controller for PlayStation 5. Larger than its predecessor, it features adaptive triggers (L2/R2) that adjust resistance based on gameplay events (available only on select titles and consoles), haptic feedback, and an integrated microphone.
Xbox Series X/S Controller: A refinement of the Xbox One design—slightly smaller, equipped with USB-C, and improved tactile feedback.

In addition to official models, several third-party manufacturers like AimControllers and Scuf Gaming produce customized and performance-oriented pads—especially popular among competitive FPS players who demand fast input and high responsiveness.

These premium custom pads often include:

Custom body designs: Personalized colors, patterns, or logos.
Analog stick customization: Interchangeable sticks with different shapes (concave or convex) and heights (low, medium, or high).
Modified triggers and bumpers: Reduced travel distance on triggers (L2/R2 or LT/RT) and shoulder buttons (L1/R1 or LB/RB) for faster actuation—mimicking the click of a mouse.
Enhanced rear grip: Improves hand stability during long play sessions.
Removed vibration motors: Reduces overall weight and eliminates unwanted feedback.
Rear (paddle) buttons: Two or four programmable buttons that can mirror any existing input. These allow players to press commands without lifting their thumbs from the analog sticks, improving precision and control.
Most versions feature a magnetic remap system, enabling quick reconfiguration of these buttons without external software.

While performance controllers can significantly enhance reaction speed, note that they’re often fragile and may require frequent servicing—and third-party warranty support isn’t always reliable or fast.

Budget-oriented controllers or unofficial replicas may also suffer from poor build quality, compatibility issues, and firmware glitches.

If you prefer upgrading your existing controller, there are mod kits and add-ons available, such as:

Back button attachments (e.g., Sony Back Button, eXtremeRate, Strike Pack)
Analog stick extenders (e.g., KontrolFreek), which improve grip comfort and aiming precision.

Connectivity Options

Modern controllers typically support dual connectivity:

Bluetooth: Offers cable-free convenience and freedom of movement—ideal for casual setups.
Wired (USB): Provides faster data transmission, ensuring minimal input lag, especially recommended for PC gamers or competitive players.

To further optimize controller responsiveness, some advanced users enable controller overclocking—a software-based method that increases the USB polling rate to minimize latency.

Certain controllers, such as the DualShock 4 and DualSense 5, can reach polling rates up to 8000 Hz, achieving near-zero input latency when configured correctly.

Grip Styles

Just like with gaming mice, controllers can be held in different ways depending on playstyle and comfort:

Standard Grip: The most common. The index and middle fingers rest on the triggers and bumpers. Ideal for players who use back buttons to access additional functions.
Half-Claw Grip: The index finger controls the main face buttons (Square/Triangle or X/Y) while the middle finger handles the triggers. This grip enhances speed without requiring extra paddles.
Claw (or Crab) Grip: The index finger moves freely to press all four main buttons (Square, Triangle, X, O or X, Y, B, A). It requires muscle memory and practice but eliminates the need for back paddles altogether.

Recommended Controllers

The ideal controller depends on your grip style, budget, and personal comfort.
However, we recommend avoiding sub-brands or low-cost options that compromise on sensor precision, button durability, and firmware support.

Reliable, widely used choices include: