Rating of the best gamepads and joysticks
The gaming industry is developing at a frantic pace and often many of its aspects overlap. Controllers or joysticks are one such aspect. If on a computer this function is performed by an ordinary mouse, then with a game console everything is a little more complicated. You can't connect a mouse to it, but somehow you need to control the cursor, so the console developers have created game joysticks.
It is worth noting that games from consoles are gradually migrating to computers and vice versa, so many peripherals are becoming universal.
Classic joysticks are used mainly in space and aircraft simulators, and steering wheels are used by gamers who prefer racing simulators. Gamepads are more used in sports games, simulation games and fighting games. Additionally, special software emulators are produced that are able to reproduce the functionality of one or another controller.
The best wired gamepads for PC
5 defender omega
Simplification as much as possible led to agony during setup, as many games simply refuse to see it. The bundled driver that comes with the purchase acts as waste paper, so you will have to look for "fresh" firewood yourself for everything to work correctly. In most cases, after that, you will most likely have to install an emulator.
There is a large dead zone on the joystick, which, coupled with low positioning accuracy, is not very positive in races and shooters, where reaction speed and accuracy are important. The 1.8 meter cord does not offer much room for maneuver. It is worth noting the smell, which for some reason is not here, even despite the plastic, which, by the way, is also hard. Thus, before you is a very budget controller with a number of disadvantages that lead to such a low price tag.
4 Thrustmaster GP XID PRO
Not the cheapest, but high-quality gamepad has 2 versions - the usual "white" and made in a more aggressive style in black and gold with the prefix "Pro". It is very easy to connect - just plug in the cord and forget. It is defined in the system as an Xbox Controller, so there shouldn't be any compatibility problems. The tough plastic can withstand minor impacts and scratches, and the joystick is shaped so that it is almost impossible to slide when gripping.
The decals start to wear off quickly after 2 months of use. External shortcomings are compensated by a very long cord from 2.5-3 meters, which allows the player to move away from the monitor or even lie down and relax.
3 SVEN GC-250
The Russian SVEN brand offers a very interesting option for those who are looking for the most budget-friendly analogue of top-end joysticks. It has everything you need, including support for Xlnput and the ability to use not only on PCs, but also on PS3 and Android devices. The cable is standard, the length is 1.8 meters, the rigidity is average for the hospital, so it's not bad, but not good either.
Judging by the reviews, the gadget is playable, ready for gaming right out of the box, although vibration may require original drivers from the manufacturer's website. The convenience of the form is noted, the gamepad is comfortable to hold in the hands, and the side zones do not allow to slip out. There are also tangible disadvantages. Firstly, the unusual labeling of the buttons with numbers. Secondly, there are frequent problems with the accuracy of the crosspiece. Third, the stick buttons are tight. And, fourthly, the unusual reaction of the hammers, to which you will have to get used to.
2 Defender Game Racer Turbo
Modest price and functionality are the main advantages of Game Racer Turbo. It's all wrapped up in a classic PlayStation 2 gamepad. Although Defender's Game Racer Turbo is designed for PC gaming, the cable has a junction with a plug to connect the controller to a Sony PS1 / PS2 console. The design and shape of the "Defender" controller are completely copied from the above attachment.
The body of the device has a rubberized structure and is "equipped" with a standard set of buttons (D-pad, sticks, triggers), as well as additional Turbo, Slow and Analog buttons that activate special modes and mini-joysticks. However, the analog sticks are not soft-touch. Unlike more top-end models, the developers have provided vibration feedback, realized by two powerful vibration motors in the left and right parts of the case. True, the cord is still a bit short (1.5 meters).
1 Logitech Gamepad F310
The beloved F310 has become one of the top sellers and in the top category thanks to its affordable price tag. The controller has two joysticks, a D-pad, 10 buttons, including high-quality triggers, to which you can assign any action in the game menu. Two modes of API support are available - XInput and DirectInput, as a result of which the gamepad supports most of the game titles on the PC, and there are no problems with game compatibility. Its ease of customization and durability has made the F310 one of the most popular in the gaming market.
The case is ergonomically shaped, made of very durable plastic, and externally represents a kind of hybrid of controllers from Xbox and PS. The 1.8 meter wire is thin and tough enough for its price segment. There is no vibration feedback.
The best wireless gamepads for PC
5 SteelSeries Nimbus Wireless Controller
The SteelSeries Nimbus Wireless Controller for Mac OS and iOS devices has become the "black sheep" in our ranking. This means that you can use it both on Apple branded laptops and all-in-ones, as well as on the iPhone. For the brand and quality, you will have to seriously overpay and this pleasure will cost an average of 6500 rubles. The device is connected via Bluetooth. Additionally, there is a Lightning port, that is, a wired connection to your iOS device is possible. The response is considered one of the best on the market and can serve as a benchmark for competitors.
Buyers have no negative reviews for the quality of performance. Everyone notes the fast connection, clear signal, pleasant materials and overall reliability, thanks to which this gadget will serve its owner for a long time.
4 Sony DualShock 4 v2
A top-of-the-line wireless gamepad originally built for the PlayStation, but compatible with both Windows PCs and Macs. Designed with the most advanced Sony technologies, so it has reliable button switches, sticks with precise positioning, built-in gyroscope, vibration feedback, a button for fast recording of in-game videos, and a touch trackpad. The manipulator is powered by an integrated battery, but if necessary, you can use a USB connection.
The reviews talk about high-quality support for storing settings for different profiles, convenience of working with triggers and sticks, assembly reliability, good functionality and first-class operation of vibration motors. There is also the possibility of selecting colors for every taste, including various camouflages. As a negative, we note the meager bundle - only the gamepad itself, as well as the lack of developed support outside the Sony ecosystem, that is, on the PC you will have to use third-party software.
3 Valve Steam Controller
The gamepad from Valve differs from all controllers on the market not only in its stylish appearance, but also in powerful functionality. So the controller supports Steam Machines consoles, works with a computer and can emulate both a mouse and a keyboard. The button block is represented by one cross, an analog stick, function keys and two touch trackpads. The power supply is enough for 40 hours of continuous operation of the gamepad.
Functionally, as well as the build quality, Valve Steam Controller has no complaints. The controller is "stuffed" with all kinds of sensors and options in the form of an accelerometer with a gyroscope, as well as the ability to customize the device "for yourself". With two trackpads with a gamepad, it's easy to play even games that aren't designed for controllers. "Stimovsky" software allows you to use the gamepad as a steering wheel, steering wheel, controller for any console and program on the computer.But due to the disadvantages in the form of a high price and the obligatory binding to a Steam account, the device is not popular both in Russia and in the world as a whole, which is why the goods often disappear from store shelves for a long time.
2 Logitech Wireless Gamepad F710
This model is almost a copy of F310, but the design is different. It holds the signal perfectly even through a concrete wall. A huge plus is the hardware support for the DirectInput / XInput standards, which are regulated by a single press on the end of the controller. Thus, the problem with Microsoft games, which are sharpened under the Iksboksovsky standard, immediately disappears.
However, for many players, some of the features of the device will come as a surprise. In particular, when you press the top shifts, there is a click, and the triggers are rather tight in comparison with other devices. In active games, frequent pressing of the "clicking" buttons causes slight discomfort. In the hands of the product, one feels as reliable, durable and at the same time heavy. The crosspiece still remained undivided.
1 Microsoft Xbox One Wireless Controller
The top-1 in this category is yet another Microsoft controller, taking first place in the rating. Modified ergonomics, coupled with a spectacular appearance, distinguishes this device from a gamepad to the Xbox 360. "Button functionality" has not changed, as before, there are offset sticks on the body of the device, a modified D-pad and 11 buttons with smooth travel and pressing. The controller supports connectivity to both Xbox One and PC. Game compatibility and auto-tuning is one of the best gamepads on the market.
Using a wireless receiver or USB cable, the Xbox One Wireless Controller connects to the computer. The built-in rechargeable battery lasts for long hours of gaming battles even with vibration feedback turned on, but the high price and the lack of both a receiver and a spare battery in the kit ultimately affect the prevalence of this gamepad among PC gamers.
The best joysticks for PC
5 Thrustmaster T.Flight Hotas One
A very nice joystick for PC and Xbox One with an original design that stands out from the competition with an abundance of futuristic details. It has a handle for controlling the engine, but not in a separate housing, but combined with the handle. There are only 14 control buttons, which upsets some potential buyers. The gadget supports 5 axes, connects via a USB cable, is equipped with a tension control for the RUS handle and is generally very convenient to use.
4 Thrustmaster Hotas Warthog
A large number of control buttons have become a feature of this model. The base of the Hotas Warthog is made of metal, so it feels cold when you grip the stick. This aspect is very controversial, as some buyers believe that it gives an atmosphere, while others complain about the discomfort. The handle always returns to the center and is firmly pressed, which eliminates backlash and at the same time causes a sharp return that can rock the monitor on your desk.
The handle is removable and fits into a 3D block with magnetic sensors. There are 2 bad news. The first includes the presence of only 2 axles, which means that you will have to additionally buy pedals. The second problem lies in the lack of a simple mechanism to control engine thrust. The joystick is very dependent on the control unit, so an additional module, painted in black and green, is included in the kit.
3 Logitech Saitek X52 H.O.T.A.S.
An expensive and very advanced model. Attention is drawn to two separate blocks: in addition to the main one with a joystick, there is an engine control knob, next to which there is a small display with a blue backlight - you can display the time, information about the enabled profile, etc. on it. The quality of the materials is beyond praise - there is a large number of aluminum inserts, everything is very pleasant to the touch. Of course, the gaps are minimal and there are no squeaks at all. Rubber feet and suction cups are used to prevent sliding on the table. For gamers who love reliability, there are holes in the case through which the device can be screwed to the table tightly.
2 Thrustmaster T.16000M
The Thrustmaster model is noticeably simpler than the previous participant in both cost and functionality. The appearance is also difficult to call premium, but everything is assembled with high quality and it feels very pleasant in the hands. Note that the design has three interchangeable elements, with which the device can be adapted for left-handed use - for this, undoubtedly, a plus. But let's scold the T.16000M for not very good tactile separation of some buttons, which is why you sometimes have to look at the joystick to understand where to press. And the designations could be applied ...
But there are no problems with positioning accuracy - due to the use of Hall sensors, rather than resistors, accuracy increases, and false alarms practically disappear. And the durability of such a scheme is much greater. There is an engine control knob, but its location will take some getting used to. In general, the device can be recommended for fans of dynamic air battles. For professional simulators, the model is not very suitable.
1 Logitech Extreme 3D Pro
A very simple and cheap joystick from Logitech stands out from the competitors presented in the top with the best price. As you might expect, the savings come at a price. The model has a modest size and a weak element base, which is why it quickly "gets loose". The sensor responsible for the orientation in space consists of 2 magnetized plates and one rubs against the other, which is why the movement is tracked. Over time, all this is erased, the accuracy drops greatly, and the manipulator becomes unusable.
At the same time, pleasant ergonomics can be distinguished. It fits perfectly in the hand, the buttons at the top are comfortable, there are all the necessary buttons. Thus, you are presented with an inexpensive manipulator for arcades that do not require expensive peripherals with high-precision control.
The best PC gaming wheels
5 HORI Racing Wheel Apex
Hori is a gray horse in the gaming peripherals market, releasing successful and unsuccessful solutions for gaming. One of the most successful approaches can be considered the appearance of the Racing Wheel Apex. It looks very nice, has a large number of buttons. Compatible with XBOX, has feedback in the form of vibration, that is, there is no force feedback. The swing angle is 270 degrees, and the main materials of execution are plastic and rubber. The latter is soft and very pleasant to the touch.
The pedals are very similar to their Defender counterparts and have an insanely small stroke of 2-3 centimeters. Paddles on the steering wheel have a good move, but their quality is so-so. In the upper part there are toggle switches for switching the operating mode. It is problematic to screw the base strongly to the table because of the suction cups that can be removed. There are no guides and drivers for it as such, even on the official website, and only a firmware update and instructions for this are available.
4 Artplays Street Racing Wheel Turbo C900
The best universal and inexpensive wheel is Artplays Street Racing Wheel Turbo C900. It is compatible with the following platforms:
- PC;
- Xbox 360;
- Xbox One;
- PS3;
- PS4;
- Nintendo Switch.
It looks simple and without frills, the pedals included in the kit also have an ascetic look. Has 11 buttons and vibration as feedback. Rotation angle 270 degrees. The mounts are made in the form of clips taken from Logitech. Instead of paddle shifters, there is a gearshift lever. Additionally, in some cases, it comes with a PC game and, judging by user reviews, this is a Raceroom Racing Experience.
3 Thrustmaster T150 Force Feedback
Thrustmaster's steering wheel is head and shoulders above the previous competitor. The steering wheel lies confidently in the hands, the grip is comfortable. We should also note a couple of nice features. The first is a huge steering angle of 1080 degrees. These are three full turns, due to which, in some games, the movements of the virtual and real steering wheels completely coincide. Coupled with the second feature - vibration motors and feedback - this allows you to immerse yourself as much as possible in what is happening on the screen.
The controls are conveniently located. The steering wheel has a standard PlayStation set of buttons that can be easily reached from almost any steering position.There are nice wide aluminum paddles for gear shifting, but hardcore gamers can plug in a third-party gearbox that mimics a manual transmission. It is also possible to replace the standard pedal set with a clutch model. Connects T150 via USB to PC, PS3 and PS4
2 Logitech G29 Driving Force
The Logitech steering wheel is a controller that includes a 28-centimeter leather-wrapped wheel, brake, clutch and accelerator pedals. On the steering wheel and manual transmission there are additional programmable buttons (18 pieces) and a D-pad. With a rotation angle of 900 degrees, you can twist the steering wheel in game simulators to the "critical" level, and compatibility with consoles allows you to feel all the functionality of the controller in exclusives for PS3.
The G27 Racing Wheel is solid in terms of design and comfort. There are also no complaints about the build quality of the steering wheel and pedals. The only thing to find fault with is the price, which for most PC owners will be "space". But fans of car simulators are well aware that this "Logitechevsky" steering wheel represents the ideal balance of quality, functionality and cost.
1 Thrustmaster TMX Pro
Premium gaming wheel for PC and Xbox One. Everything about this model is great: stylish racing design, enough controls, build quality, and almost perfect vibration feedback. We are especially proud of the 900-degree steering angle, which will add realism to the car's behavior on the track, and the belt feedback will give the necessary tactile sensations from the steering process. There are three full-fledged pedals in the kit, which will be appreciated by fans of manual transmissions.
Judging by the reviews, the steering wheel fully justifies the declared functionality, working out every ruble invested in the purchase. The convenience of setting and calibration through proprietary software, build quality and the presence of metal parts, for example, paddle shifters, is also noted. On the negative side, some people don't like the lack of rubber sheathing all over the steering wheel and, of course, there is a lack of a separate gearbox unit.
