Controller recommendations

[Jack Of Owls]

Oh, yeah. That's another consideration. If you're playing something like Zelda: Breath of the Wild on emulation software like Cemu, or certain games on PS3/PS4 consoles, you absolutely NEED motion sensors built into your controller, which the Microsoft Xbox 360/One controllers don't have but the Sony PS3/PS4 controllers do. Just a thought. Also, the D-pad on the last version (chrome) of the 360 controllers was better than even the Xbox One. I have two Xbox 360 camo controllers with the improved D-pad sitting in storage. I liked them better than my Xbox One controller except for the old 2.4 GHz wireless technology which requires a special dongle for PC.

 

[J_C]

Guys, I need a controller just to play dark souls games.

Can a budget controller help? I was thinking on redragon or logitech, but IDK if they have vibrations. If not, I will pick xbox 360 or one.

https://www.amazon.com/Logitech-940-000110-Gamepad-F310/dp/B003VAHYQY
Cheap, durable and has vibration.

Are you absolute sure that this controller has vibration/sensors?

Sorry, I was mistaken here, it seems it does not have vibration. This is the successor for the Logitech Rumblepad 2, which has vibration, and I thought this one has it as well. But appearantly it does not.

 

[deuxhero]

Since 8BitDo has been mentioned here: How flat is it? Enough that sticking it in a backpack with a laptop would be viable?

 

[DJOGamer PT]

It's a shame no one has ever made a controller similar to one GameCube for PC with the remaining buttons and the same quality as the originals.

Thanks for giving me knowledge of this.
Managed to find it.

https://www.amazon.com/PowerA-Wired...8-2&keywords=powera+wired+gamecube+controller

It has a select, home and turbo buttons. Left shoulder button. A bigger D-Pad. And analog stick buttons. Unfortunately it has no rumble.
Still, if it has the same durability and comfort as a original GameCube controller the it's quite possibly the best gamepad ever made.

 

[unfairlight]

Since 8BitDo has been mentioned here: How flat is it? Enough that sticking it in a backpack with a laptop would be viable?

Those SNES ones? They're as flat as normal SNES controller, I think they might even be a bit smaller. Yeah, of course. Easily.
8BitDo makes good shit, they've worked with Nintendo multiple times and they're high quality from what I've heard.
Might as well toss it here: A company that is worth a mention is Gamesir. It's a Chinese company, but I have heard a lot of good things about them. While their controllers are primarily targeted towards mobile gaming, they work with anything and a lot of them have native Xinput support, they copy basically every type of controller design too so you can pick and choose what you want. One of the basic wired Dualshock style ones is like 13€. That's as low as you can get without buying absolute garbage, and being from China that's with free shipping if you are content with waiting ~2 weeks.
https://gamesir.aliexpress.com/store/1948940
You may also want to consider those PDP Rock Candy Xbox 360 controllers. They're around $20 on Amazon and I heard that they're almost as good as a real Xbox 360 controller.

 

[Dexter]

Right now, I'm leaning towards getting a Xbox controller 'cause everyone seems to like them a lot. It would be nice to know if the xbox one controller has something on the 360 controller. The steam controller looks interesting but the price and the wireless (even if it has great battery) puts me off a little bit.

I'll just copy this from another thread and slightly modify it:

Have been using X360 controllers for nearing ~10 years and while I had to replace one due to wear at some point they were the best option for a long while. After I got the XBone Controller with the Oculus Rift and having a direct comparison I can't go back to them anymore, holding one feels like holding a large plastic brick and feels weird in the hands, pressing the Triggers feels too hard instead of smooth, the D-Pad is indeed absolute shit and totally unusable for any Fighting games or similar (which is funny, since I originally bought the first to play Street Fighter IV on PC with) and the twin sticks feel too tough to press, even the 4 buttons feel rougher to press. The XBone Controller is an improvement in almost every way I can imagine: lighter, moving the twin sticks feels a lot smoother, pressing the triggers and buttons too and the DPad is actually usable.

But the best "feeling" Controller I've used has to be the XBone Elite one though:

Spoiler

Bought one just for the kick of it and while it's an improvement (rubberized grip and brushed aluminum feels better in the hand, twin sticks feel even smoother to move, certain parts of it like the sticks and DPad are metal and feel better to touch, the round DPad works surprisingly well and it has a cool magnetic lock for exchangeable components) I wouldn't say it's a must and it seems to have a production issue where in about 1-2 years of use the rubber grip on the back will likely come off, so given the price and that I'm not sure I'd even recommend it (they wanted to release a V2 at some point).

The Original XBone Controller is good enough for the task and obviously fits much better within your budget.

I wouldn't recommend using them Wired, it's uncomfortable and the cable will likely break or lead to a loose contact after a while. If you buy a Wireless one for Windows, it'll already come with a Wireless USB dongle (that was about a year ago reworked and made smaller/better working than the previous larger version) Just get rechargeable batteries or one of those Charging Station thingies and it'll work fine enough.

These will work with all ~2007+ PC console ports out of the box without having to fiddle with emulation tools or key settings. If you just want to Emulate games it depends on what you want to Emulate though, for PS/PS2 games or similar these would be fine, for Wii via Dolphin for instance nothing beats a Original WiiMote+ and a Mayflash DolphinBar since many of the games tend to have specific Input for it.

 

[Ebonsword]

I was surprised at all the Xbox controller recommendations too. I thought I was going to get more Logitech or Razer or some shit like that. Interesting.

I've been using a Razer Raiju for about six months now. It definitely is a step up from the standard Xbox 360/PS4 controllers. The sticks seem more precise, the face buttons have a nice "click" to them when pressed that makes other controller buttons seem vague and mushy in comparison, the triggers can be locked so that you don't have to pull them as far (great for shooters), and the extra programmable triggers are fantastic for replacing "press in the analog stick" controls.

However, it's not *so* much better that I can really recommend spending $150 on one.

 

[Shaewaroz]

I just ordered a EasySMX ESM-9100 game controller from Ali Express. It cost only 15.99 $ including shipping and so far has worked like a charm. Works immediately with both emulators and PC games. Just connect USB, Windows will automatically install the needed software in 10 seconds and you're ready to start playing. Very good build quality, feels good to hold and looks cool as well. There's also a wireless version available at a higher price point. Highly recommended.

I tried this with Dirt 2.0 just now. The controller worked perfectly from the get-go - no need to change controller settings at all. Triggers and analog sticks work perfectly, very responsive controls. Has vibration and everything. I'm actually amazed how well the controller just immediately works with all games without a need to change any settings.




edit: After using for two weeks, still satisfied with the controller. Dark Souls works like a charm without making any changes to settings. CrossCode works perfectly from the get-go. Only game that didn't recognize the controller straight away was a heavily ripped version of Rollcage Stage 2 - it would have been a miracle if it had worked with the controller. I tried it with PCSX2 and I'm loving playing SSX3 and Shadow of the Colossus with the controller - vibration effects and all work perfectly. Works with ZNES & Super Metroid as well.

Update 2020: I'm still EXTREMELY pleased with this controller. New games, like a Plague Tale and FFXII: Zodiac Age, work perfectly. Finished Super Mario 3 on Nestopia using this controller - works just fine.

 

[Jack Of Owls]

D-pads are almost useless on old-style 360/DS4/One controllers and its derivatives tho if you're into playing old 8/16-bit games in emus a lot. Can be less than tender on your thumb even after only a few minutes. I like the transformable D-pads of the last version of Xbox 360 controllers though. Nice & rounded, almost feels soft, like on the much beloved old Sega Genesis (Megadrive) controllers. One controller I would never buy again however is anything from Madcatz. Fooled by rave reviews, I bought a Ryu Madcatz Street Fighter FightPad monstrosity a few years ago. I was embarrassed just to have it be seen in my home, so I kept it hidden away in a drawer, where someone might keep Hitachi vibrators and poppers, out of site until I could give it to my 5 & 7 year old great-nephews.

 

[Great Deceiver]

The Xbox One gamepad's d-pad is alright. Not great, but miles beyond the 360 iteration. I use it for emulators when I can't be arsed to bring out my arcade stick, which is most of the time.

Surprisingly, the dpad on the Switch Pro controller is pretty garbage. Nintendo really dropped the ball on that one, especially since it retails for 80 USD.

 

[Modron]

They make modern usb sega genesis clone controllers if you need something for just 16-bit/gameboy era emulation those can't really be beat can they?

 

[Jack Of Owls]

People always say to me: "Joe, what's the thinking man's controller for PC gaming? What do you recommend?" And I always say, "Why, the DualShock 4 of course!" Got a PC-only game with great depth that has 20+ important shortcut keys and don't wanna fumble at your keyboard sitting in an uncomfy chair in front of a tiny monitor and just wanna chill on your couch in front of your big screen 60" 3D LED/OLED plasmatron deluxe "does-everything-but-blows-me!" TV complete with 11.2 sound? No problem! The Sony DualShock 4 controller with DS4Windows re-mapping has got your back, bros!

 

[J_C]

People always say to me: "Joe, what's the thinking man's controller for PC gaming? What do you recommend?" And I always say, "Why, the DualShock 4 of course!" Got a PC-only game with great depth that has 20+ important shortcut keys and don't wanna fumble at your keyboard sitting in an uncomfy chair in front of a tiny monitor and just wanna chill on your couch in front of your big screen 60" 3D LED/OLED plasmatron deluxe "does-everything-but-blows-me!" TV complete with 11.2 sound? No problem! The Sony DualShock 4 controller with DS4Windows re-mapping has got your back, bros!

Congrats, you can open a lot of windows with this. You only forgot one thing, to map camera and character movement.

 

[Morgoth]

Xbox 360, corded. Most ergonomic and sturdy controller ever conceived. Mine has been finger raped for over ten years and it's still working as good as a new one.

 

[rusty_shackleford]

I have a logitech controller that looks like a PS2 controller, probably nearing 2 decades old.
Is there any reason to buy a new one?

 

[Plaguecrafter]

If you're on a tighter budget, Logitech F310 is a good choice. I've used it for about a year now, if not more, and it works like a charm. It might not be the best looking gamepad out there, but it's definitely a good product for the price.

 

[Jack Of Owls]

People always say to me: "Joe, what's the thinking man's controller for PC gaming? What do you recommend?" And I always say, "Why, the DualShock 4 of course!" Got a PC-only game with great depth that has 20+ important shortcut keys and don't wanna fumble at your keyboard sitting in an uncomfy chair in front of a tiny monitor and just wanna chill on your couch in front of your big screen 60" 3D LED/OLED plasmatron deluxe "does-everything-but-blows-me!" TV complete with 11.2 sound? No problem! The Sony DualShock 4 controller with DS4Windows re-mapping has got your back, bros!

Congrats, you can open a lot of windows with this. You only forgot one thing, to map camera and character movement.

I actually use my logitech M70 bluetooth mouse (right-hand) for that, while my left hand works the controller. It's a bit odd admittedly but not awkward for me. I still have a small but decent quality Logitech K810 illuminated bluetooth KB nearby too in case I need access to less important keys. If you wanted to get hardcore with the controller in complex PC games you could probably use the DS4's touchpad as a mouse but I use it to assign 8 extra buttons (number keys 1-8).

 

[Jarpie]

Update to my 8BitDo's SNES-clone controller, I've had it for about 11 months, and the thump sticks are crumbling, contacted their support about the spare parts, and they asked for a pic. Not sure if I had just a shit luck or if something has happened to the material, here's the pic:

You can clearly see the material coming off from the stick, they better send me replacement parts.

 

[Beastro]

What’s wrong with a good ol Logitech gamepad?

My last one lasted longer than my last relationship and that was 10 years.

I got my Rumblepad2 in 2006 and it's still going, though I admit I haven't been heavily using it outside of emulators.

Only big thing I hate (besides the position of the analog sticks, but that's all PS controllers and the fact I hate analog sticks period - if you need an analog stick use a KB&M) is the "pan" D-pad rather than being individual buttons to press. Can make some fine tune controls in games difficult.

 

[Deleted Member 16721]

The Steam Controller makes all other controllers obsolete. I bought several of them for backups because it's an ingenious design, and with the mapping software via Steam you can program it to your heart's content.

 

[Steamboat Willie]

If you're on a tighter budget, Logitech F310 is a good choice. I've used it for about a year now, if not more, and it works like a charm. It might not be the best looking gamepad out there, but it's definitely a good product for the price.

I used a F710 for years - similar to F310 but wireless with rumble. Very durable controller. Switched to Xbox One gamepad later as its much more comfortable, though.

 

[Goi~Yaas~Dinn]

Update to my 8BitDo's SNES-clone controller, I've had it for about 11 months, and the thump sticks are crumbling, contacted their support about the spare parts, and they asked for a pic. Not sure if I had just a shit luck or if something has happened to the material, here's the pic:

You can clearly see the material coming off from the stick, they better send me replacement parts.

I took one look at their website and knew exactly the kind of company I was dealing with. Did not buy.
https://www.amazon.com/PowerA-Wired-Controller-PS3-playstation-3/dp/B01LB4KGU2/
https://www.amazon.com/PowerA-Wired-Controller-PS3-playstation-3/dp/B01LB4KGU2/
Anyway, an earlier variant of this is my main. Mine has rumble (yes, I actually cracked it open and checked) and a full-body rubberized coating to prevent slippage. It also has native Mac support.
https://www.amazon.com/PlayStation-Dualshock-Wireless-Controller-Black-3/dp/B0015AARJI/
https://www.amazon.com/PlayStation-Dualshock-Wireless-Controller-Black-3/dp/B0015AARJI/
This is my backup. Also comes with native Mac wired or wireless support.

Also, those of you recommending Logitech F-series controllers should be fucking ashamed of yourselves- clicky D-Pads are an abomination before the sight of almighty God and you will burn hell for this heresy.

 

[Mustawd]

Also, those of you recommending Logitech F-series controllers should be fucking ashamed of yourselves- clicky D-Pads are an abomination before the sight of almighty God and you will burn hell for this heresy.

They work great bro.

 

[Goi~Yaas~Dinn]

Also, those of you recommending Logitech F-series controllers should be fucking ashamed of yourselves- clicky D-Pads are an abomination before the sight of almighty God and you will burn hell for this heresy.

They work great bro.

If Yaweh had intended D-Pads to click, he would have placed four face buttons there instead.

 

[Jack Of Owls]

Update to my 8BitDo's SNES-clone controller, I've had it for about 11 months, and the thump sticks are crumbling, contacted their support about the spare parts, and they asked for a pic. Not sure if I had just a shit luck or if something has happened to the material, here's the pic:

You can clearly see the material coming off from the stick, they better send me replacement parts.

Eww. I'm glad that's just the cheap rubber disintegrating because at first glance I almost puked seeing this pic thinking it was your oily deposits and dead skin flakes on the sticks.