What to look for when choosing a PC gamepad

Connection methods

There are two main options here: wired and wireless (via Bluetooth or USB adapter).

Wired gamepads are the easiest to use: just plug the device into a USB port and you're good to go. No need to worry about battery or battery power. In addition, such devices are lighter and cheaper than wireless controllers. But there is also an obvious disadvantage - cables. They can get in the way on the table or get tangled underfoot.

Wireless gamepads are much more convenient, although they require more attention. As with many other gadgets, they will need to be recharged periodically. How often depends on the chosen model, on average the charge is enough for 7-10 hours of play.

Compatibility

Today, almost any gamepad can be connected to a PC. The main thing is that it has at least one free USB-port or Bluetooth support. Even such exotic devices as joycons from the Nintendo Switch console can be connected to a computer.

It should be noted separately that the controllers from the Xbox 360 and Xbox One consoles are traditionally good friends with Windows computers. For their work, you do not need to install additional drivers, because both the console and the operating system are developed by Microsoft.

XInput and DInput support

XInput and DInput (DirectInput) are technologies by which the gamepad transmits information to the computer. If a gamepad has XInput support, then almost all modern games will immediately recognize it and adjust their interface.

DInput is an older protocol. Gamepads that only support this input method are cheaper, but take the time to set up. Additional drivers need to be downloaded to get the controller to work with modern games.

Typically, manufacturers or online stores indicate in the product description which technologies the controller supports.

How to Choose a Gamepad for PC: An Important Factor - XInput and DInput Support

Some devices support XInput and DInput at once. They usually have a dedicated button to switch between them. This allows you to use the controller in new and old games.

Location of analog sticks

How to choose a PC gamepad: analog stick placement is important

First you need to decide if you need a controller with analog sticks. If you are not going to play new items, but want to buy several gamepads for friendly gatherings for Mortal Kombat 3, Tekken 2 and other classics, then the option with "analogs" will only be a waste of money for you. Devices without sticks are the most affordable. In some cases, for less than 600 rubles, you can buy a set of four copies.

If you do decide to take a controller with sticks, then according to this characteristic, two main types of devices can be distinguished: with an asymmetric arrangement of the sticks (like an Xbox gamepad) and symmetrical (like a PlayStation gamepad). In fact, all other manufacturers copy either one or the other.

The choice between them is entirely a matter of taste and personal preference. Two gamers may have diametrically opposed opinions about the convenience and overall ergonomics of symmetrical and asymmetrical stick placement.

From myself, I can add that I have two gamepads: from the Xbox One and the Genius MaxFire Blaze 5. Their "analogs" are located in different ways, but despite this, I am quite comfortable switching from one to the other.

Vibration, accelerometer and other functions

Previously, vibration in gamepads could be called a premium feature and it was only available in expensive models. Now vibration motors are added to almost all devices. Their presence, according to many players, is one of the main advantages of controllers over mouse and keyboard.

The vibration function allows you to better immerse yourself in games and feel the recoil from shooting or other activities. In addition, developers often use it as a game design element. For example, in the detective simulator L. A. Noire gamepad will vibrate if the character is near a clue.

An accelerometer, touch panel and additional programmable buttons can also add variety or even simplify gameplay. But, just like with vibration, the developer himself must add the ability to use these functions to the game.

Price

Up to 1,500 rubles

If you play for several hours a month and do not treat gaming as your main hobby, then there is no point in purchasing an overly expensive device. For such purposes, a gamepad for about 1,000 rubles is quite enough. Today, for that kind of money, it is quite possible to buy a wireless controller with support for XInput and DInput. Yes, it will not be from a large and well-known brand and not from the most expensive materials, but it will do its job.

In this category I can recommend:

1. SVEN GC ‑ 3050 - from 955 to 1,200 rubles

Wireless gamepad with support for DInput and XInput, copying the design of Sony DualShock 4. Rating on Yandex. Market - 4, 5.

2. SVEN GC ‑ 2040 - from 850 to 990 rubles

Also works wirelessly and supports DInput and XInput. It differs from the older model in the smaller number of buttons and the shape of the case. Assessment on Yandex. Market - 4.

3. CBR CBG 920 - from 540 to 780 rubles

The most affordable device in the collection. Works wirelessly, but does not support XInput. The shape of the body is a complete copy of Sony DualShock 3. Rating on Yandex. Market - 4.

From 1,500 to 4,000 rubles

Devices in this category are the choice of most gamers. These gamepads are usually made with better materials and are better assembled. Therefore, they will last longer than their cheaper counterparts. Also, all controllers in this price range support XInput and DInput.

If you want to find a middle ground and buy a device that will delight you for a long time, then you are here.

In this segment, I advise you to purchase:

1. Microsoft Xbox One Controller - from 2,999 to 4,990 rubles

Gamepad from the latest Microsoft console. Supported out of the box in all modern games. Assessment on Yandex. Market - 4, 5.

2. Xbox 360 Wireless Controller - from 1,650 to 2,990 rubles

An accessory from the Xbox 360. Despite the fact that 14 years have passed since the console was released, many gamers still consider this gamepad to be the best choice. Assessment on Yandex. Market - 4, 5.

3. Logitech F710 - from 2 695 to 4 127 rubles

If you don't like the asymmetrical arrangement of the sticks, but want a high-quality and comfortable controller, take a look at this device. Assessment on Yandex. Market - 4, 5.

From 4000 rubles

Crème de la crème from the world of gamepads. They use the most expensive and high quality body materials. In addition, some models have the ability to quickly change the cross and sticks to select the appropriate configuration, as well as customize additional buttons. The main thing is not to tell your wife, husband or parents how much you spent on them.

In this category I recommend:

1. Microsoft Xbox Elite - from 9 838 to 12 490 rubles

An upgraded version of a regular Xbox One controller. The device has additional keys. It also supports quick stick and cross change. Assessment on Yandex. Market - 4, 5.

2. Razer Wolverine Tournament - approximately 11 915 rubles

The shape completely repeats the controller from the Xbox. The device is aimed at professional gamers and therefore uses a wired connection to reduce input lag. Assessment on Yandex. Market - 4.

3. SteelSeries Stratus Duo - from 6,758 to 7,721 rubles

Like Logitech, the SteelSeries controller is an alternative option for those looking to purchase an expensive, symmetrical stick design. Assessment on Yandex. Market - 4, 5.