Learn About Game Console Controllers

What is it?

Also known as "Gamepad", it is an input device that captures user input from analog stick movement or key strokes, then sends them to your device. It allows users to play video games. They usually come included with the purchase of your game console.

How does it work?

Controller works by doing the following (over simplified) steps:

1. Capture movement and key strokes
2. Send data to device

Look for

• Comfort

  Check how comfortable it is to use

• Precision

  Check how precise the controller is in tracking your movement

• Buttons

  Check how many buttons the controller has

  More buttons can give you more flexibility with making shortcuts. It can be very useful in some software and games.

• Wireless

  Check if the controller is wireless

  Wireless controllers can make your desk look more clean. It can be very useful if set away from your PC.

• Bluetooth

  Check if the controller uses Bluetooth

  Wireless Bluetooth controllers can connect to your device without using any ports, unlike wireless controllers without Bluetooth, which usually need a USB port for their wireless receiver.

• Rechargeable

  Check if the controller batteries are rechargeable

  Wireless controllers can either be equipped with rechargeable or non-rechargeable batteries. It is better to get one with rechargeable batteries.

• Input lag

  Check the input lag

  This is very important for fast games. Usually wired is better than wireless.

• Noise

  Check the noise levels from using the controller

  It can be annoying to some people around you if you are using a noisy controller.

• Compatibility

  Check compatibility with your device ports and OS

Avoid

• Uncomfortable

  Avoid uncomfortable controllers

  It is very important to get a controller that is comfortable for you. Nothing matters as much as comfort. Best way to know is testing it yourself. See if you can try the controller before purchase.