Are there joysticks for computers? Wired or wireless

Svezhentseva Lidiya Andreevna 3380

As a loving wife, I decided one day to give my beloved husband a joystick for a computer. Because my other half really respects computer games. Boys are always boys!

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So, the first thing I found out for myself is that I absolutely do not need this same joystick for my computer. And in my bright childhood, my beloved cat Felix experienced his adventures not thanks to a joystick, but through a gamepad.

The thing is that a joystick is, in fact, a vertical handle that changes its position in two planes. It helps to manage a virtual object in virtual space. The gaming joystick is ideal for all kinds of simulators: with it you can feel like a real ace behind the wheel of an airplane or spaceship. The thing is, of course, useful, but in my case it is absolutely unnecessary, because in our house hand-to-hand combat is the leader, and first of all - Mortal Combat.

And in this case, you just need a gamepad for your computer. It is most often used to establish interaction with a console, but it is also useful for a PC, because now most games can be installed on a computer.

However, modern industry is encouraging and offers a kind of symbiosis of these two manipulators. Many gamepads have mini-joysticks or sticks installed, in addition to standard buttons, which makes such a device more versatile. They make it much easier to manage vehicles. Of course, in simulators a full-fledged joystick is preferable, but sticks also perform well, especially in comparison with a mouse and keyboard.

The PC gamepad has the following main controls:

Under the left hand there is a cross that serves to change the direction - forward or backward, left or right.

Under right hand there are action buttons. Accordingly, they depend on the specific game (sit down, shoot, jump, hit, etc.).

Initially, a computer gamepad was designed to be controlled only with your thumbs. But as more and more complex games appeared, buttons for both index and ring fingers began to appear on these manipulators. With their help, you can, for example, differentiate between shooting and some general actions. Some models may have more than ten buttons, some of which can be programmed at your discretion. But not always and not all of them are used. But this has a significant impact on the cost. So it’s worth realistically assessing your needs and capabilities.

Service buttons. They control the game itself. With their help, you can pause the process, call up a menu, or change the game mode.

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When you have sorted out your wishes and requirements of your favorite games, you should pay attention to other aspects. One of the most important points is the ergonomics of the gamepad, the convenience of its location in the hand. This can only be understood in practice, so before purchasing it is worth “trying on” the manipulator. The thing is that there are, for example, models that seem to be comfortable and have good functionality, but are too small. And if it is simply ideal for a teenager, then for an adult man with a large hand it will simply be uncomfortable and tiring to play for a long time.

When determining which gamepad to choose, you need to decide one more issue of convenience - the presence or absence of wires. A wireless gamepad is definitely more convenient. You can sit with it on the sofa, you won’t get tangled in wires and look for a free USB input. However, such a manipulator is still somewhat more expensive and requires regular battery replacement.

A wired gamepad limits your ability to move around the apartment beyond the computer desk. But you can be sure that at the hottest moment of the game the battery will not run out and your hero will not lose your support.

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From the very beginning, the gamepad was at first a very complex and incomprehensible device. Soon, when everyone got used to it, it became the main driving force, or “arms” of the consoles, and not, as before, a separate device. Even then, computers and consoles did not even intersect nearby: each had its own story on the path to success. Time passed at a rapid pace, and technological progress marched along with our technology, and at one moment, these serious models met.

All gameplay becomes almost identical. The format is naturally different for the two platforms, but the essence is almost the same. It was in those years that the development of joysticks began. My primary task is to review and identify certain positions on the gamepad market, how to choose one, and is it required for a PC? By the way, if anyone doesn’t know, it is a game module! And so, let's go.

In my opinion, a joystick can be either good or bad; there is no mandatory criterion for games as such; it is suitable for almost all games, depending on the platform.

Joystick for computer - Microsoft Xbox 360 Controller for Windows

Best Gamepad for PC - Microsoft Xbox One Wireless Controller

Microsoft, being the developer of the new gamepad, as well as the mother and father of the operating system, has undoubtedly achieved better compatibility with Windows games. Gamepad from a game console Xbox One Wireless Controller for 3990 rub. claims to be first in popularity among similar devices. Compatibility with many modern games is achieved through XInput technology.

The Xbox One Wireless Controller connects to your computer via wireless bluetooth connection or via micro-USB cable. Unfortunately, the USB cable and Bluetooth receiver are not included in the package and will have to be purchased separately. Not required for Windows 8 and 10 operating systems manual installation gamepad driver, it will install automatically. If you have Windows 7, then you need to worry about installing it yourself.

There are 2 versions of the gamepad, which can be distinguished both by the color of the case (white/black) and by the name (“S” in the name - white case). In some respects, the second version was better than the first. In addition to the fact that there is now Bluetooth support for a wireless connection, the gamepad is equipped with a Mini-Jack audio jack for connecting a stereo headset. Also, the improvement of the “S” version affected the RB and LB buttons, which became even softer.

The disadvantages of wireless gamepads from Microsoft again include the power supply, which is a regular AA battery rather than a battery. But even with this obvious disadvantage Xbox One game duration on one set will be at least 30 hours.

Review from a real buyer. Very pleased with the gamepad. Vibration is implemented at the highest level, there are two additional motors for feedback during games. I can confidently recommend purchasing.

Price: from 3990 rub.

Best Wired Gamepad for PC - Logitech Gamepad F310

The Logitech brand needs no introduction. The manufacturer has proven in practice that it knows how to make high-quality desktop peripherals for PCs. But let's talk about the model right away.

One of the features of the Logitech Gamepad F310 gamepad that is really very pleasing is software profiler. Not all PC games have the necessary support for gamepad control. With the Logitech F310, you don't have to worry about this because the profiler software allows you to customize various buttons, and also you do not need to configure your keyboard and mouse. The gamepad has useful input modes. It has XInput and DirectInput modes that suit both old and new games.

This device does not connect to the computer via wireless network. The F310 cable is only 1.8 meters long, but that should be enough if you have a front port.

The buttons and design of the gamepad are a mix of PS3 and Xbox buttons. The rubber grips make it much easier for you to have a firm grip on the device, so if you're playing racing games, you won't have to worry about the controller slipping out of your hands. Judging by the reviews on the forum, gamers are satisfied when choosing Logitech. High-quality, durable gamepad, and even at a price from 1490 rub. - words are unnecessary here.

However, since the controller does not have vibration, you will miss the haptic cues used by some games. For example, if an enemy shoots at you with a suppressor, without vibration you might not notice it right away. If you don't want to lose your contact feedback, this gamepad is not for you.

Verdict: Logitech F310 is one of the best computer gamepads. It will work with most games thanks to the software profiler, eliminating one of the biggest big problems with computer gamepads. It lacks vibration function and function wireless communication, but this means you'll never have to replace batteries. The rubber grip is a useful feature and the mixed design makes this controller very familiar yet new to Xbox and PlayStation users.

Price: from 1490 rub.

Best gamepad with vibration feedback - Logitech Wireless Gamepad F710

Logitech Wireless Gamepad F710 is a wireless gamepad with vibration feedback. The joystick is made in metallic gray, and the back is in classic black. Battery operated. I recommend stocking up on batteries right away, since if you use it intensively and the vibration is turned on, you will often change it, and there is no need to spend extra money. This gamepad is worth it from 2700 rub.

The device's buttons are similar to those of the Xbox360, and the shape itself is somewhat reminiscent of PS controllers. The gamepad is weighty and powerful, and comes with an extension cord (receiver) to improve the signal and a USB input for connection. Drivers are installed automatically - there is no disk provided.

Let us separately highlight the advantages of the model:

• Good build. There is no play or creaking. Rubberized inserts on the sides of the handles. The Soft-touch coating is pleasant to hold and feel.
• Two operating modes (DInput and Xinput). The first mode is for older games. The second implies support for all modern games. That is, the game automatically picks up the joystick and sees it as a gamepad from the Xbox360, no need to worry about the settings.
• Friendly with Steam. In Big Picture he behaves perfectly. And the Logitech button brings up the Steam overlay.
• Vibration feedback. The sensations increase significantly, especially if you play some horror.
• Programmable buttons (10 pieces). You can customize the controls strictly to suit yourself - and no emulators are needed.

I would like to describe the disadvantages. But they were not found. To be objective, I will note the following: the price is still not small, and at a distance of more than 2 meters from the PC there may be response delays (this is why you need an extension cord).

A real thing for fighting games, sports games, dynamic platformers and almost any project where it is more convenient to play with a gamepad. As a gamer with 15 years of experience, I will say that the product is worthy.

Joystick for computer - Thrustmaster Dual Analog 4 PC

Gamepad Thrustmaster Dual Analog 4 PC for 1590 rub. The shape and arrangement of the control elements is similar to the controller from the Xbox 360. Suitable for any size palm. It is immediately worth noting the rigidity of the analog triggers and the cross. Also triggers do not have long stroke, which is inconvenient in games with variable pressure. The gamepad does not have a connection indicator on the case. Displayed only on PC. Connection is made only through USB port, there is no wireless option.

When connected to a PC, drivers are installed automatically. Also, further connections automatically detect the device. The Thrustmaster Dual Analog 4 PC gamepad works on Windows 7, 8, Mac and Vista operating systems (and if you happen to still have Windows XP, it will work with it too).

Suitable for almost all games personal computer. The settings are adaptively selected for the games, but it is possible to change the controls to suit your needs.

The assembly is quite strong, there are no backlashes on the asymmetrical sticks. Does not make unwanted sounds even after six months of use. The sticks are rubberized and have indentations for convenient and comfortable control. The back surface of the gamepad does not slip, as the surface has a special textured coating. Has a fairly long power cable.

Verdict: The gamepad is very similar to the version from the Xbox 360, but does not reach its level, although it is quite convenient and reliable for PC gaming. It is inexpensive and has more advantages than disadvantages. It meets all the hopes placed on it, and minor drawbacks wear in over time.

Best Gamepad with Touchpad - Sony DualShock 4 Wireless Controller

Sony DualShock 4 Wireless Controller is a relative newcomer to the gaming peripherals market, and the series itself appeared back in 1997. A distinctive feature of the series devices is two built-in motors that react to what is happening in game world differently. The point of this development is to qualitatively improve the gamer’s interaction with what is happening in the virtual space. This is also reflected in the price - the gamepad is worth it from 4490 rub.

Vibration functions. Sony DualShock 4 Wireless Controller produces small vibrations that perfectly simulate gunshots. On the one hand, this may interfere with the gamer, but on the other hand, what is happening is more like reality. If we talk about racing simulators, then in the event of an accident the device will be shaken for a long time, thereby simulating the steering wheel of a car. A nice and interesting addition that can be very useful for some players.

Appearance. Compared to its immediate predecessors, the design of the new product has not undergone any significant changes. The buttons are exactly the same, their shape and location remain unchanged. There are no start-select buttons on this device, which is a definite plus, since they are long outdated.

Among the key innovations, it is worth noting the touch panel, which responds to gestures and responds to commands with lightning speed, significantly simplifying the gameplay. The luminous element of the controller also attracts attention. The indicator lights up green, red, blue, white. In the game green may show high level character's health, and red is low. These flashlights may be annoying for some gamers, but there is no way to turn them off. For some users this may be a disadvantage.

Offline mode. The Sony DualShock 4 Wireless Controller is a wireless controller and requires fiddling with to keep it charged. The battery here is very small - no more than 100 mAh. Given the rich functionality, you can’t count on long hours of work here. Judging by my experience, a fully charged device will work for about 6 hours straight.

Feedback from a real buyer The gamepad leaves only positive impressions! Sony DualShock 4 is a very good gamepad, it fits comfortably in the hand, the buttons are also easy to press, and they don’t stick. But the main thing is that it is almost impossible to break it!

Price: from 4490 rub.

Best gamepad with D-Pad - Thrustmaster T-Wireless 3 in 1

On this controller, switching “modes” (PC vs PS3) is as easy as turning it on at the bottom of the controller. It has a connector with USB input and PS1/2 - just connect the PS end to PS1/2, no toggle switch needed.

Compared to Dualshock gamepads, this one is a little more complex, despite costing everything from 1590 RUR. We can say that it is a hybrid Xbox/PS3 gamepad. In addition to the typical R1/R2 L1/L2 layout, the trigger is Xbox style (R4/L4), which also appears on the R2/L2 in Playstation mode. All controls are customizable/switchable using the controller in any mode, great for PS1-3 games that don't allow for customizable controls.

The buttons feel fairly stable, but the triggers are a little fiddly given the number of them, but after a little tweaking, the gamepad feels as natural in the hands as a PS3 controller.

HUGE PLUS - d-pad. The D-pad is massive and feels comfortable on the hands, the same style as the Sega Saturn/Genesis, for example. It is circular, elevated and provides excellent play. After playing with it, you can understand how terrible the 360 ​​d-pad is.

There is only one drawback. The manufacturer specified in the description "6 progressive axes", which sounds like the sound of Six-Axis. Don't confuse them. This controller does not have motion controls in PC or PS1-3 mode. The progressive axes described are force feedback (I'm guessing...) which is pretty good. However, don't expect the controller to come with another PS3 controller for Six Axis games, or you'll be sorely disappointed.

PC controller - Trust Gaming GXT 24

The Trust Gaming GXT 24 gamepad is an analog wired gamepad for PC, which is characterized by unsurpassed simplicity, practicality and functionality. The manufacturer vehemently claims that the model is ideal for action and shooter games. In reality, everything is exactly like that! The main advantage of the digital panel is ergonomics. The compact size of the gaming console allows you to conveniently place it in your hand while playing. And the price is very affordable - from 1000 rub.

The gamepad is equipped with two analog joysticks, and also has an 8-direction D-pad, 4 edge buttons and 12 programmable ones, which allow you to freely control the process. But after a month of use, some users note a slight degree of sticking and stiffness in the operation of the cross (especially the down button) and the center keys. Many stores provide a guarantee on the product, so you can ask to exchange the gamepad.

The model has an excellent Turbo rotary function that works with any of the eight control buttons. The panel does not require searching and installing software; you can immediately connect via USB and start playing. The one-piece design is dense and durable; the rubber coating prevents the device from slipping. The long cable allows you to sit comfortably in front of the monitor and does not hinder your actions.

According to reviews, the panel is more suitable for children, but may cause discomfort for adults, because... relatively small. In general, the gamepad will allow you to fully play with maximum speed, which is so important in battles and races.

The best budget gamepad for PC - Sven SV-063007

Lovers computer games They know how inconvenient it is to use a keyboard and mouse to control them. And if you want to play with a friend, then you don’t even have to think about the keyboard. The Sven X-PAD gamepad (SV-063007) will help you solve all these difficulties and make the game interesting and well-controlled for just ~800 rub.

Appearance and first impression. The contents of the gamepad are standard: the manipulator itself with a fairly long cable for connecting via a USB connector, instructions, warranty card, mini-CD with drivers.

When connected, the drivers are installed automatically, without a disk. But drivers may still be needed to connect the vibration function, which is not automatically installed, as well as to perform more precise settings according to your desires. For example, at the beginning of the game, you can assign a specific function to each button: selecting a weapon, changing the camera, viewing a menu, etc.

The gamepad has a classic shape. Sven is convenient even for long games, because it fits comfortably in your hands, your fingers can easily reach all controls, it is light in weight, has rubber pads on the sides, and has grooves on the joysticks to prevent your fingers from slipping.

Features of use: advantages and disadvantages.The crosspiece and buttons are pressed softly, without effort. The arrangement of the buttons may seem unusual to some, since on the right side there are six keys instead of the standard four. Near them is a backlit button that activates the “Rumble” mode (vibration feedback). The highly noticeable vibration force makes the game much brighter and more realistic.

The joysticks move smoothly and the desired position is easy to set. Above the joysticks there are keys “Turbo” (repeated action, for example, shooting), “Clear” (cancels the “Turbo” mode), “Mode” (switches modes - digital and analog). The gamepad copes well with all its functions and is suitable for games of any genre. There is only one drawback, and it is insignificant, and that is the unusual arrangement of buttons 1-4. But getting used to them happens quite quickly.

Best ergonomic gamepad - Valve Corporation Steam controller

Appearance, control functionality and ergonomics. On the Internet, the price of this device made of black glossy and matte plastic starts at approximately from 6990 RUR. The ergonomics are truly anatomical - the thing fits perfectly in your hands. The kit includes: 2 batteries, a USB signal generator, a cord with two USB inputs (standard and micro), a HUB signal amplifier and documentation. The first impression is the unusual layout, which consists of a pair of additional buttons on the rear center panel. These buttons also snap the battery cover into place.

The batteries are fixed in the “horns” of the controller. If you play to the fullest, they will sit down in 4 days. And you will have to connect to system unit power cable. And two additional buttons turned out to be indispensable when playing with “hit and run” tactics. After all, it is impossible to press the letter buttons, which are often assigned the sprint and jump functions, without lifting your thumb from the right trackpad (mouse substitute). However, sprint and jump can be assigned to the rear additional buttons, and the problem of cursor control is solved.

Trackpad (touchpad). The trackpad itself, compared to other gadgets, for example, the same Dualshock 4, turned out to be a very good analogue of a mouse. It's pretty here high sensitivity and a comfortable concave surface that increases the operating area. But still, this is not a mouse. There is little room for the finger to maneuver. And laser fixation is much more sensitive than tactile fixation. For example, when sniping in the latest Deus Ex, it was discovered that the trackpad did not allow you to keep moving targets in your sights. He just doesn't have time. Let's mention the incredibly hard bumper buttons - after a couple of hours of play, calluses may appear on your fingers.

Reassigning buttons. We were pleased with the wide possibilities for changing the keyboard layout. For example, the stick was very convenient to create radial menu. Remember the famous “maximums” in the Crysis series? Steam games always have a default set of keyboard assignments. But games outside of Steam, for example, Diablo 3, will probably require “sharpening” the controller to suit everyone’s personal convenience.

Gyroscope. For fans of the "racing" genre this main question life and death. This is where the Steam controller turned out to be just up to par. Those. no worse and no better than the same Dualshock 4. Overall, the thing is worth the money. It is recommended for PC supporters who are partial to console localizations. The button with the Steam logo turns off the gadget only when in use wireless mode. If the joystick is connected to the system unit via a cord, then it can only be disconnected by pulling out the cord.

Review from a real buyer I bought a gamepad six months ago. I use it mainly for playing GTA 5. Its main advantage is the presence touch touchpads. Thanks to them, you can even play games that were not designed specifically for such gamepads.

Gamepad games: author's opinion

There is one more serious aspect that I wanted to consider. There are a lot of disputes and vines over who is comfortable playing on a PC with a gamepad and who is not. I would act like the wise King Solomon. Split the games.

First, let's figure it out - why do you need a gamepad? For many people, a keyboard and mouse are more than enough for gaming, and therefore some gamers don’t even think about buying this device. However, the gamepad is quite a useful gadget, without which it is simply impossible to enjoy some games. First of all, the controller is ideal for game genres such as sports simulators, racing, fighting games, and platformers.

The thing is that a large number of gaming products are initially created for consoles, and only then ported to computers. Because of this, keyboard and mouse controls can seriously ruin the experience of a good game. Remember, before buying a gamepad, you need to figure out what games it will be used in. For fans of strategy and shooters (FPS), the controller is unlikely to seem an indispensable gadget, and therefore we strongly advise against spending money on it just like that.

Connection type

Like most other manipulators, controllers can be wired or wireless. Unlike the keyboard and mouse, the connection type in the gamepad is a very important parameter. You need to immediately decide at what distance from the computer the game will take place. If you play in front of the monitor itself, there is no need to look for something wireless.

The wire, of course, can get tangled and cause inconvenience when connecting, but its advantages will seem to many to be more significant than the disadvantages. Firstly, there is no need to recharge a wired gamepad - you just need to connect it to your computer and enjoy its capabilities. Secondly, a controller with a wire is a little cheaper, which will help you save on it and spend the extra money on more important things. This is probably where all the positives end.

Wireless gamepads also have several advantages and disadvantages. The first includes the ability to play at any distance. Among the disadvantages is the need to recharge. However, there is one point here. There are wireless gamepads with a built-in battery, which you just need to connect to your computer via a USB cable and wait for it to recharge. This great view wireless gamepads.

The same cannot be said about controllers that have batteries instead of a built-in battery. These controllers are not only bad because they require you to buy batteries frequently (or once, but batteries), but they are also heavier. Holding such a “miracle” in your hand is, of course, useful for athletes, but not entirely convenient when you want to relax and enjoy the game.

Controls

Let's return to the question again - in which games will the gamepad be used most often? The fact is that for fighting games it is better to take models with a divided cross (control arrows or D-pad). Thanks to this type of design, it will be much easier to perform all kinds of attack algorithms than when using a gamepad with a solid cross. Please note that the D-pad is only important for fighting games - it is rarely used in other games.

The ideal gamepad should have rubber analog sticks. It is desirable that they have some kind of recesses that will not allow your fingers to slip. It's best not to consider controllers without analog sticks at all, since almost all games nowadays use this particular control element. Having dealt with the D-pad and sticks, stop at the main action buttons located on the back of the device on the right. It is important that they are designated by letters (Y, B, A, X) and not by numbers. Many games use controls from Xbox consoles, which is where this button designation comes from.

Popular models

– perhaps the best gamepad that mankind has ever created. Rubberized analog sticks, convenient placement of buttons, ergonomic shape, matte soft-touch plastic, and the ability to use both on a console (Xbox 360) and on a PC without additional drivers.

It is noteworthy that this gamepad comes in two variations: wired and wireless (without a built-in battery). The only downside is the solid crosspiece, which is inconvenient in fighting games. If this doesn’t bother you, purchasing this gamepad will make the most sense.

- Unlike previous models, Dualshock 4 is a very convenient and high-quality gamepad. However, it was created specifically for PS4, and therefore using it on a computer is fraught with consequences. Firstly, additional drivers are needed, and secondly, some players complain that the gamepad sometimes does not work correctly.

Most likely, this applies to older games, because in most new products the Dualshock 4 functions like a Swiss watch. If the absence official support doesn't bother him and plans it further use from PS4, take it this controller possible without a doubt.

– Razer, when creating this gamepad, did not reinvent the wheel twice and copied the design from the Microsoft Xbox 360 Controller. However, Razer did everything even better than Microsoft. She took into account all the shortcomings of the “small soft” controller and got rid of the gamepad from a solid crosspiece, replacing it with a separate one.

In addition, the gamepad buttons are fully programmable, and there is also a small display for customization. In addition, the controller has additional triggers and a detachable cable. It should be noted that the “saber-tooth” is wildly beautiful. Although, what ugly thing did she release in Lately Razer?

Steam Controller- a gamepad that has been redesigned and reinvented a hundred times. Finally, the final version is ready. The main advantages of the gamepad include fully customizable buttons. In addition, the gamepad can work both with and without a wire. Batteries are used instead of a built-in battery.

The right trackpad can serve as a kind of mouse, which makes the controller convenient in all gaming genres, from racing to first-person shooters. At first, the shape and layout of the buttons on the gamepad may seem awkward, but after a few days your hands will not want to part with the device. Steam Controller for those who love something innovative and unconventional. By the way, the price of the gamepad is quite affordable.

– a wireless gamepad created specifically for PC. It has standard arrangement buttons For deeper settings there is appropriate software. The gamepad supports most existing games, is made of high-quality materials, and also has an ergonomic shape. Quite a good competitor to the Xbox monster.

Unfortunately, the Logitech Wireless Gamepad F710 has a solid D-pad, but even that works quite well in games like fighting games. The gamepad is connected to the computer using a USB interface.

We consider all of the five gamepad models described above to be the most worthy of being included in the “best of” list. Which one is the best is up to you to decide. We wish you a successful purchase, with which you will only go to victory!

Not every PC game is best played with a keyboard and mouse. If you don't want to sit back and play some of your games with a controller, you should consider purchasing one of our favorites. But if you already have an Xbox 360, Xbox One or PlayStation 4 and are happy with the controller that comes with the console, then there is no need to purchase another one.

How we chose

A large controller should be comfortable for long periods of time, have a good grip to prevent it from slipping out of your hands even when they get sweaty, and it should be a reasonable weight. While everyone has their own preferences, your controller's button presses should be responsive and precise: they should do what you "tell" them to do. But comfort and ergonomics are not everything - the controller must also work well with the computer.

We reviewed 22 controllers from large manufacturers, such as Logitech, Mad Catz, Microsoft, Nvidia, Razer, Sony, SteelSeries and Valve, as well as several other gamepads from lesser-known manufacturers. Devices with poor user reviews and those that cost much more than other controllers with similar characteristics were immediately excluded. As a result, 11 controllers remained, which we tested with the help of five people with various sizes hands and preferences in comfort.

Our choice

The Sony DualShock 4 Wireless Controller is the most comfortable controller for average hand sizes. All of its analog sticks, buttons and triggers are easy to reach and work well, which is something that can't be said about a number of other models, including the Xbox One controller. DualShock 4 works via Bluetooth or using a MicroUSB cable. In addition, his Touchpad can simulate a mouse cursor, a feature that other leaders in our rating cannot offer.

Priced at $50, the DualShock 4 can work both wired and wireless, unlike the Xbox One controller, which requires an adapter to wireless operation on PC, making it more expensive than the DualShock 4. But the DualShock 4 requires a little effort (and DS4Windows software) to connect to Windows. Also, the controller won't work in most games on OS X and is a bit small for larger hands.

Second place and easier connection

If you want a controller that's easier to connect to Windows and also that will work on OS X, or if you have larger hands, or if you just prefer Xbox-style controllers, then you should buy an Xbox One controller bundled with wireless adapter. The biggest advantage the Xbox One has over the DualShock 4 is its ease of setup. In the Windows operating system, drivers are automatically installed when the controller is connected. On OS X, the process is about as complicated as setting up a DualShock 4 on Windows - you need the 360Controller software.

Inexpensive and loved

If you don't want to spend more than $35 on a controller, then the wired Xbox 360 controller is your choice. Xbox controller The 360 ​​is slightly smaller and lighter than the Xbox One controller, and it's more compact size makes accessing the buttons and analog sticks a little easier for people with small hands and short fingers.

All the buttons are well placed and easy to reach for any size hand, but this controller isn't without its flaws. It can't work wirelessly, Microsoft sells wireless version, but this controller requires an adapter, which totals about the same as the Xbox One Wireless Controller plus adapter.

Unusual but expensive

If you are playing big number games on your PC that require a controller and don't mind spending $150, then the Xbox Elite is the best option. The Elite offers customizable controls, four additional paddles on the back, and an easier setup than the DualShock 4. This controller was a hit with all of our testers, but most people won't be able to pay the premium for it.

Steam Controller

The Steam Controller is the only controller that breaks down the difference between controller-enabled games and games that are more comfortable to play with a mouse and keyboard. It has a touchpad instead of a D-Pad and a right analog stick; these components offer haptic feedback. Its two-stage triggers and rear buttons are designed for more control and customization than is the case with traditional console controllers.

Despite this, the Steam Controller is a small gamepad. Its plastic body feels cheap and hollow; it has an awkward shape with hard-to-reach buttons and controls; and since it's so different from standard game controllers, there's a long learning curve involved. Until Valve releases a better device, we can't recommend it for most people.

Do you dream of immersing yourself in epic modern games? Use gamepads from the best manufacturers and make your or your child's dream come true. They will allow you to be drawn into virtual wartime, into the world of fighting games, exciting shooters or arcade games. The number of different types of devices is bewildering, and among best models it's difficult to make a choice. In order to find a suitable gamepad, you need to base it on the age characteristics, physical capabilities of the person and the quality of the device from a particular manufacturer. Each device has its own unique characteristics and advantages.

We have compiled a list of the best, based on expert assessments and reviews from real customers. Our recommendations will help you make a choice, optimal requirements and desires. There are many competitors in the global technology market, but we have selected the best manufacturers and recommend paying special attention to them:

Budget / Inexpensive

1. Defender

1. ThrustMaster
2. Logitech

Expensive/Premium class

1. Microsoft
2. Valve
3. Mad Catz

Wired Wireless Vibration feedback PC support Console support Smartphone support

*Prices are correct at the time of publication and are subject to change without notice.

Gamepads: Wired

PC/Wired support

Main advantages

• Gamepad supports modern standard input XInput. The manufacturer has taken care of maximum compatibility with Xbox devices. This ensures that the gamepad will work in any game.
• On the front panel there is an additional button with a company logo, which can be configured to perform the desired task
• The proprietary Logitech Profiler utility allows you to manually configure the controller for a specific game
• The system for recognizing the force of pressing buttons can significantly improve the accuracy and efficiency of control in car simulators
• Possibility of connecting to TVs running Android OS as a remote control

Vibration feedback / Console support/ PC support / Wired

Main advantages

• A very non-standard case with elongated handles allows it to be used by both a child and an adult
• All buttons have a fairly long, smooth stroke; Unlike outdated gamepads, a long stroke is welcome in all modern games, for example, in racing it gives clarity when accelerating or braking
• Availability of Dinput and Xinput switches, support for Windows 7/8/10
• Multifunctional gamepad compatible with PS3
• The presence of vibration with the ability to turn off provides increased realism
• 4-way D-pad can be used to control motion or switch views

Vibration feedback / PC support / Wired

Main advantages

• Highly ergonomic design with unique six-button right-hand layout and 8-way joystick
• With certain game effects (hitting a character, falling, blows) there is a realistic vibration feedback
• The Turbo function is designed for continuous or alternate shooting in shooter games, configured for each of the six buttons separately
• Thanks to support, Xinput can work on all modern games
• Has full compatibility with the operating system Windows system XP/Vista7/8
• Compatible with Play Station 3, although many focus only on PC
• There are rubberized ribbed areas on the sides of the handles to reduce the slipping of the gamepad during the game.
• Can operate in analog or digital modes

PC/Wired support

Main advantages

• Has the correct purpose and accuracy of axes and buttons
• DirectInput support allows you to switch to legacy games, while the gamepad works as smoothly as with Xinput, without hitches or jams
• Has a unique auto-aim console for some shooters and adventure games
• Bottom triggers are elongated for precise actuation and control various actions. The pressing force is recognized and there is a corresponding indication
• Works without any special drivers or programs, just connect the device to the computer via a USB cable and pairing will be established automatically
• There is a fairly long colored braided wire with a length of 2.4 meters

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Gamepads: Wireless

Console support/ PC support

Main advantages

• The receiver allows you to connect four devices simultaneously
• There is no need to reconfigure buttons, as XInput technology is supported by all modern games
• The sticks are located asymmetrically, while the unusual layout is more ergonomic, and the fingers themselves reach for the necessary buttons and triggers
• The kit includes high-capacity batteries from Duracel, capable of operating for more than 40 hours
• The case fits comfortably in your hands, ensuring confident use of all the functionality of the device.
• The triggers are lightly pressed for better control during racing games.
• Excellent communication performance, even with a large number of simultaneous networks

Main advantages

• DirectInput and XInput gamepad switches provide full compatibility with Xbox and allow you to work without additional settings
• The sticks and triggers are very conveniently located under the fingers and are quite sensitive, which reduces stress on the hands when playing
• The quality of the material does not allow the buttons to become loose and gives them a clear movement without sticking
• An interesting MODE button allows you to transfer all the functionality of the left stick to the D-pad
• There is a vibration mode with the ability to configure and disable
• The body is made of high-quality plastic, the lower part has a Soft-touch coating to reduce the gamepad slipping in your hands
• Low battery consumption ensures long and productive work

Wireless / Vibration Feedback / PC Support

Main advantages

• The ability to pair your PC with a Steam Link console, allowing you to play on a large screen TV
• The controller has two trackpads that replace the use of a mouse and keyboard
• Supports various games (shooters, racing, sandboxes), it is also possible to connect several controllers to the wireless receiver for joint games with friends
• Two-position triggers can be configured to perform two different functions
• The user can customize control functions to suit his wishes and characteristics. There are three settings options: default settings, custom settings and using alternative Steam Community presets

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Gamepads: Console support

Wireless / Vibration feedback / Console support

Main advantages

• The gamepad works great even with hard gaming
• Has a six-axis motion control system: three-axis accelerometer and three-axis gyroscope
• The gamepad is equipped with a light panel that can be illuminated during the game, for example, to display the health level
• The Share stick allows you to upload videos and images to social media, invite friends to play games together
• Highly efficient speaker produces high-quality sound signals, and the headset allows you to talk with people online
• When playing, you can enjoy both sound effects and vibration, which gives greater realism
• Possibility to charge the battery via USB cable while playing
• Improved analog sticks provide precise and comfortable control