20 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 the 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 created game joysticks.

It should be noted that games from consoles gradually migrate to computers and vice versa, therefore many peripheral devices become universal.

Classic joysticks are used primarily in space and aviation simulators, and the rudders are gamers who prefer racing simulators. Gamepads are more used in sports games, simulators and fighting games. Additionally, special soft emulators are available that are capable of reproducing the functionality of a controller.

To understand the abundance of products and determine the best models, we have selected for you 20 gamepads and joysticks in several categories for PCs and consoles.

Best wired PC gamepads

Gamepad is a classic game controller, we are used to seeing it in consoles / consoles. Wired controllers, unlike their wireless counterparts, are not discharged at the most inappropriate moment, since they are powered by a computer. However, the problem with the length of the wire can be a fundamental factor for many when choosing the type of gamepad. If you choose a wired controller for playing games on a computer without connecting it to a TV, then the standard cable length is enough for comfortable gaming.

As a rule, the gamepad represents a controller for a two-handed grip with buttons, analog sticks for thumbs and hammers on the back of the controller. Most devices use vibration feedback, and popular controllers are equipped with additional plugs for connecting to game consoles.

5 Defender omega

The controller with an ascetic appearance is sold at an incredible price of 390 rubles. Maximum simplification led to agony during setup, as many games simply refuse to see it. The complete driver, which comes with the purchase, plays the role of waste paper, so you have to look for “fresh” firewood yourself so that everything works correctly. In most cases, after this, you will most likely have to install an emulator.

The joystick has a large dead zone, which, coupled with low positioning accuracy, does not quite positively manifest itself in races and shooters, where reaction speed and accuracy are important. Cord length 1.8 meters does not provide 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, you have a very budget controller with a number of drawbacks causing such a low price tag.

4 Thrustmaster GP XID PRO

Not the cheapest, but high-quality gamepad has 2 versions - the usual “white” and black-and-gold, made in a more aggressive style, with the prefix “Pro”. Connecting is very simple - put the cord in and forget. It is defined in the system as the Xbox Controller, so no compatibility problems should arise. Durable plastic can withstand slack shocks and scratches, besides the shape of the joystick is such that sliding when grabbing is almost impossible.

The manufacturer asks for more than 2000 rubles for the goods, but does not complete its vibration feedback functions, in addition, the hammers are quite tight, and the side keys RB and LB tend to loudly click when pressed hard. Inscriptions begin to wear out quickly after 2 months of use. External flaws 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 3Cott GP-01

The average cost of the device is only 523 rubles. The feeling of nostalgia immediately causes a form that is almost completely identical to the DualShock 3 and which almost every gamer knows and loves due to ergonomics and quick addiction. The arrangement of the elements is almost identical, with the exception of the additional “Analog” button. Also changed the designation of the buttons - instead of geometric shapes here are numbers. Judging by the reviews, the build quality is good. Plastic does not smell very good, but for such a cost it is not necessary to wait for another. Connects the device via USB.

At the touch of a button and the rejection of sticks gamepad responds adequately. The only significant drawback is the need to manually assign buttons, otherwise the system simply does not perceive the gamepad. To do this, you have to tinker a bit with third-party programs.

2 Defender Game Racer Turbo

Modest price and functionality - these are the main advantages of Game Racer Turbo. All this is concluded in a gamepad with a classic shape from PlayStation 2. Despite the fact that Defender Game Racer Turbo is designed for gaming battles on a computer, the cable has a junction with a plug to connect the controller to the Sony PS1 / PS2 console. The design and shape of the "defender" controller is completely copied from the above console.

The case of the device has a rubberized structure and is “equipped” with a standard set of buttons (D-pad, stick, trigger), as well as additional buttons Turbo, Slow and Analog, activating special modes and mini-joysticks. However, analog sticks are not covered by soft touch. In contrast to the more top-end models, the developers provided for a vibration output realized by two powerful vibration motors in the left and right side of the case. True, the cord is still a bit short (1.5 meters).

1 Logitech Gamepad F310

The model F310, which has become popular with players, has become one of the leaders in sales and in the top category thanks to an affordable price tag. The controller has two joysticks, a D-pad, 10 buttons, including high-quality trigger, to which you can assign any actions in the game menu. There are two API support modes, XInput and DirectInput, so the gamepad supports most of the game titles on the PC, and there are no problems with game compatibility. Easy setup and durability allowed the F310 to become one of the most popular in the gaming market.

The ergonomic body is made of very durable plastic, and outwardly represents a kind of hybrid controllers from Xbox and PS. The 1.8 meter long wire is quite thin and harsh for its price segment. Vibration is absent.

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Best Wireless PC Gamepads

Wireless gamepads have become a new stage in the development of controllers and quickly gained an audience due to their mobility. The absence of a “cord” at first found application only on consoles, but modern trends quickly spread to the PC.

The main difference between wireless gamepads is the way data is transmitted to the gaming station. The connection takes place mainly via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi.In both cases, it is possible to stay in the way that is convenient for you. However, you will have to pay for convenience and some wireless models can cost 10 times more than their wired counterparts.

5 SteelSeries Nimbus Wireless Controller

The White Crow in our ranking has become the SteelSeries Nimbus Wireless Controller for devices on Mac OS and iOS. This means that you can use it on Apple branded laptops and all-in-one computers, and on the iPhone. For the brand and quality will have to seriously overpay and this pleasure will cost an average of 6,500 rubles. Connects the device via Bluetooth channel. 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.

The quality of the performance of the buyers have no negative reviews. Everyone notes a quick connection, a clear signal, pleasant materials and overall reliability, thanks to which this gadget will serve its owner for a long time.

4 Redragon harrow

And again we start with a relatively affordable model. For a wireless gamepad, this cost can be considered a gift. Especially, given the quality of the device. Complaints about the build quality, convenience and feedback controls are not. There are questions only to the buttons themselves - they have a gap of about 1 mm, for the hammers - 2-2.5 mm. Unpleasant, but you get used to it quickly. The shape of the gamepad can be called universal - it's a cross between the controllers for the Xbox and PlayStation. The buttons are located on the DualShock. The model is compatible not only with a PC, but also with PS2 / PS3. I am glad that there is vibrational output, which is usually saved in cheap models. The model supports standards Direct Input and Xinput.

Reviews of the device is extremely controversial. Claims to the convenience, build quality and response buttons, sticks and hammers, no complaints. But the wireless connection raises questions - for some users, it is already lost a couple of meters from the receiver. However, with the elimination of obstacles problems disappear. The battery life on battery is about 3-4 hours.

3 Valve Steam Controller

The gamepad from Valve differs from all controllers on the market not only by its stylish appearance, but also by its powerful functionality. So the controller supports the Steam Machines console, works with a computer and can emulate both a mouse and a keyboard. The pushbutton block is represented by one cross, analogue stick, function keys and two touch-sensitive trackpads. The power supply is enough for 40 hours of continuous operation of the gamepad.

Functionally, as well as the build quality, the Valve Steam Controller has no complaints. The controller is "stuffed" with all sorts of sensors and options in the form of an accelerometer with a gyroscope, as well as the ability to customize the device "by itself". With the help of two trackpads with a gamepad, it is easy to play even those games for which controllers are not intended. "Stimovskiy" software allows you to use the gamepad as a steering wheel, steering wheel, controller for any console and programs on the computer. But because of the downsides in the form of high prices and mandatory binding to the Steam account, the device is not popular both in Russia and in the world as a whole, because of which the product often disappears from the store shelves for a long time.

2 Logitech Wireless Gamepad F710

This model is almost a copy of the F310, differs in design. Excellent holds the signal even through the concrete wall. A huge advantage is the hardware support for standards DirectInput / XInput, regulated by a single click on the end of the controller. Thus, the problem with Microsoft games, which are sharpened by the Ixbox standard, disappears immediately.

However, for many players, some features of the device will come as a surprise. In particular, when you press the top cipher, it clicks, and the triggers are rather tight compared to other devices.In active games, frequent clicking of the "clicking" buttons causes a little discomfort.In the hands of the goods it feels like reliable, durable and at the same time heavy. The cross is still undivided.

1 Microsoft Xbox One Wireless Controller

Top-1 in this category has become a regular controller of Microsoft, which won first place in the ranking. Modified ergonomics, coupled with a spectacular appearance, distinguishes this device from the gamepad to the Xbox 360. The “push-button functionality” has not changed, still located on the case of the device are offset sticks, a modified D-pad and 11 buttons with a smooth stroke and pressing. The controller supports connections to both the Xbox One console and the computer. Compatibility in games and automatic tuning is one of the best gamepads on the market.

Using a wireless receiver or a USB cable, the Xbox One Wireless Controller connects to your computer. The built-in rechargeable battery lasts for long hours of gaming battles, even with vibro-output turned on, but the high price and the lack of both a receiver and a spare battery in the set ultimately affect the prevalence of this gamepad among PC gamers.

Top PC Joysticks

Let's go to the joysticks. This is a special kind of peripherals, which is used only in some separate game genres, for example, flight simulators. Nevertheless, such products are produced by many small companies, as well as eminent brands like Steel Series or Razer.

The joystick consists of a handle and a stand for support and communication. All basic controls are located on the handle. The configuration of the controller depends on its class and purpose. There are both simple manipulators, and improved, with additional buttons and info-panels.

5 Defender Cobra M5 USB

One of the most controversial products in our ranking. This is a very heavy and stable joystick with a long handle stroke and high precision control thanks to non-contact magnetic sensors. The manipulator is very high, so it is recommended to put it in the niche of the computer desk, where the keyboard is usually located, so as not to reach up, in order to avoid rapid fatigue of the hand. Additionally, there are holes for screwing into the table, which gives even greater stability. Without screws Cobra keeps on the table, to put it mildly, not very.

In addition to the axis of control of the base on nothing more. All the main buttons are on the handle, which may be unusual. The hardware anti-aliasing and the default yaw axis are not entirely correct, which makes it difficult to lay steep turns or maneuver. Buyers in their reviews say that despite the many advantages of this model, you have to spend a lot of time setting up and there is a large reject rate in the model range, because of which the product can break even after a 10-day useful life.

4 Thrustmaster hotas warthog

A large number of control buttons has become a feature of this model. The basis of the Hotas Warthog design is made of metal, so when you grab the control stick you will feel cold. This aspect is very controversial, as some buyers believe that it gives the atmosphere, while others complain of discomfort. The handle always returns to the center and is tightly pressed, which eliminates backlash and at the same time causes a sharp return, which can shake the monitor on your desk.

The handle is removable and is installed in a three-dimensional unit with magnetic sensors. There are 2 bad news. The first is the presence of only 2 axles, which means that in addition it is necessary to re-buy the pedals. The second problem lies in the absence of a simple mechanism to control the engine. The joystick is very dependent on the control unit, so the package includes an additional module, painted in black and green.

3 Logitech X52 H.O.T.A.S.

In contrast to the previous categories, the TOP-3 joysticks are opened by an expensive and very advanced model. Attention is drawn to two separate units: in addition to the main unit with a joystick, there is an engine control knob, next to which there is a small display with a blue backlight - you can display time, information about the included profile, etc. The quality of materials is beyond praise - there are a large number of aluminum inserts, everything is very nice to the touch. Of course, the gaps are minimal, and squeaks completely absent. To prevent slipping on the table used rubber feet and suckers. For gamers who love reliability, there are holes in the case through which the device can be screwed to the table tightly.

Functionality can be described for a long time. There are a huge number of buttons, hammers, sliders, switches and rotary knobs. Each element can also be reconfigured using proprietary software, and between modes switch by pressing a couple of buttons on the X52 H.O.T.A.S. There are highlights of some controls that are rarely found in this class.

2 Thrustmaster T.16000M

The model from Thrustmaster is noticeably simpler than the previous participant in terms of both cost and functionality. Appearance is also difficult to call a premium, but everything is assembled with high quality and in the hands feels very nice. Note that the design has three interchangeable elements with which the device can be adapted for use by a left-handed person - for this, of course, a plus. But we will scold T.16000M for not very good tactile separation of some buttons, because of which one sometimes has to look at the joystick to figure out where to press. And the designations could be applied ...

But with the accuracy of positioning there are no problems - due to the use of Hall sensors, and not resistors, the accuracy increases, the false alarms almost disappear. And the durability of such a scheme is much greater. There is a motor control knob, but you have to get used to its location. In general, the device can be recommended to fans of dynamic air battles. For professional simulators, the model will not work very well.

1 Logitech Extreme 3D Pro

A very simple and cheap joystick from Logitech stands out against the background of competitors in the top of the best price. As you would expect, you have to pay for savings. The model has a modest size and a weak element base, because of what he quickly "loose." The sensor responsible for orientation in space is 2 magnetized plates and one rubs against the other, due to which the movement is tracked. In due course all this is erased, accuracy sharply falls, and the manipulator becomes useless.

At the same time, you can select a pleasant ergonomics. Ideally lies in the hand, the buttons at the top are comfortable, there are all the necessary buttons. Thus, before you appeared an inexpensive manipulator for arcades that do not require expensive peripherals with high-precision control.

The best gaming wheels for PC

The game steering wheel is purchased mainly for racing. At the same time, high-quality devices often feel better in simulators rather than arcades, as in the latter the settings are simpler. Completion may be different - from the standard base with the steering wheel to a full set of pedals and gearbox. The top manufacturer of steering wheels is Fanatec, and from the budget segment you can select Logitech.

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 successful approaches is 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 angle of rotation is 270 degrees, and plastic and rubber were the main materials of execution. The latter is soft and very pleasant to the touch.

The pedals are very similar to analogs from Defender and have an insanely small move of 2-3 centimeters. Paddle shifters have a good course, but their quality is so-so. In the upper part there are toggle switches for switching the operation mode. The base is strongly screwed to the table because of the suction cups, which can be removed. There are no guides and drivers for it as such, even on the official website and only firmware updates and instructions for this are available.

4 Artplays Street Racing Wheel Turbo C900

The best universal and affordable wheel can be considered 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 are in the kit, also have an ascetic look. It has 11 buttons and vibration as feedback. The angle of rotation is 270 degrees. Fasteners are made in the form of clips taken from Logitech. Instead of gearshift paddles, there is a gearshift lever. Additionally, in some cases it is completed with a game for the PC and judging by the user feedback, this is the Raceroom Racing Experience.

3 Thrustmaster T150 Force Feedback

Thrustmaster's game steering wheel is ahead of the previous participant. The model costs an average of about 18.5 thousand rubles and offers excellent quality and functionality. In the hands of the steering wheel is confident, comfortable grip. Separately worth noting a couple of nice features. The first is a huge steering angle, 1080 degrees. These are three full turns, thanks to which in some games the movements of the virtual and real steering completely coincide. Coupled with the second feature - vibration motors and reverse feedback - this allows you to immerse yourself in what is happening on the screen.

The controls are conveniently located. On the steering wheel is a standard set of buttons for the PlayStation, which you can easily reach from almost any position of the steering wheel. For gear shifting there are nice wide aluminum petals, but hardcore gamers can plug in a third-party box simulating manual transmission. You can also replace the standard pedal unit with a model with a clutch. T150 connects via USB to PC, PS3 and PS4

2 Logitech G29 Driving Force

The steering wheel of Logitech - the controller, which includes a 28-inch wheel in leather sheath, brake pedal, clutch and throttle. On the steering wheel and manual transmission are located additional programmable buttons (18 pieces) and D-pad. At an angle of rotation of 900 degrees, you can unscrew the steering wheel in game simulators to the “critical” level, and compatibility with consoles allows you to feel the entire functionality of the controller in exclusives for the PS3.

In terms of design and comfort, the G27 Racing Wheel is made on a solid top five. The quality of the assembly of the steering wheel and pedals are also no complaints. The only thing you can find fault with is the price, which for most PC owners will be “space”. But fans of car simulators are well aware that at this “logitechevsky” steering wheel represents the perfect balance of quality, functionality and cost.

1 FANATEC CSL Elite Wheel Advanced Pack for Xbox One & PC

The best gaming steering wheel, produced only from the official site from Fanatec, became the leader of our top. This is the perfect model without noise and other troubles. It is made of perforated leather and natural suede. Fully updated drive and electronics, as in the older version, they were far from perfect. This is the first device that officially works absolutely on all available platforms.

“Dessert” was a lower price, unlike the previous generation. The base is a masterpiece of engineering, although it has retained a carbon-styled design. The set of delivery except a wheel, base and pedals includes wires and spare buttons for various platforms. The keys get hard, which is more a plus, so as not to lose them. The angle of rotation is a record 1080 degrees. A variation is available for purchase. Club Sportwhere the steering wheel is stylized for racing, which are used in professional motorsport.

How to choose a manipulator?

If we talk about the choice of a manipulator for the game console, then the best choice would be the original joysticks, which should include Sony, Microsoft products. We should also highlight the Steam Controller, which is extremely convenient and at the same time expensive.

For a computer, you can safely dwell on the products of the company Logitech, since the ratio of price and functionality is the most adequate. The same can be said about the game controls, but if you are looking for a top-quality solution for yourself, then it is better to stop at Fanatec.

Popular vote - who is the best manufacturer of gamepads and joysticks?
We vote!

Logitech

Microsoft

Defender

Valve

Sony

Sven

3Cott

Redragon

SPEEDLINK

SVEN

Thrustmaster

Steelseries

Artplays

HORI

Fanatec

Total voted: 409

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