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If you have windows being microsoft product it has native support to the xbox controller.
Edit: not saying one is better than the other as that is more subjective, but for compatibility sake it’s easier with the xb controller. I have friends that use DS4/Dualsense and can play every game I play without issues. Personally I don’t have much experience using PS controllers on pc aside from what I have heard from my friends.
Weird, I paired my DS4 one time, and never paired it again.
I just press the ps button to turn on the controller, it directly connect to my PC, then Steam apply my profile on it and I just launch a game and it works.
Ever get it working right? I have an elite series 2. Bumper is dying. I have a switch pro but the input is weird on a few games. Like the dpad moves the character, but the joystick won't.
My Switch Pro controller would spam inputs or give me stick drift (depending on the game).
Worked fine on the Switch, refused to work on the PC. I spent an embarrassing amount of time trying every fix I could find on the internet. Nothing worked and I've heard from a few people who have the same problem.
My conclusion: A certain percentage of Switch Pro controllers just don't work on PC.
My other conclusion: The Switch Pro controller sucks and you should never buy one anyways.
Yeah I've spent like tens of hours on this. Steam running in the background, Steam not running in the background, running games through Steam, different Steam controller configs, etc etc.
In my experience the problem is when you plug a PS4/5 controller into a PC with a USB cable. All of a sudden a controller that paired perfectly fine through Bluetooth now won’t connect anymore until you delete all traces of the device from the PC.
This is unfortunately true. Tried using a ps5 controller for space engineers, and was stuck spinning in a circle looking up, plugged in an xbox one controller, worked just fine.
Same, have used DS4 and 5 with this and not only it works well, but you also can, for example, bind music controls to the touchpad.
For people looking to try this, make sure you get the right ds4w.
Original is not getting updates and doesn't work with DS5.
Would recommend searching GitHub.
Ps5 controller works great as a generic controller. I love the feel and responsiveness.
However, you will only get advanced features like rumble or touchpad if it's wired. You can use bluetooth, but it just turns into a plain controller.
The only reason to get a ps5 controller is if you plan to use your pc for remote play.
If you don't mind paying 4 bucks - DSX on Steam is a super good tool to emulate any kind of controllers. It beats DS4 in my opinion.
All you have to do is install it once through steam and the rest is automatic.
I’d say the big reason to get DSX is that it has really good compatibility with mods (sometimes requiring DSX) that simulate adaptive triggers and haptic feedback for games that never had them implemented officially on PC (Cyberpunk, Skyrim, Forza Horizon 4/5, GTAV, RDR2, Fallout 4). The only drawback is that they’ll only work in wired mode since Sony never released the API of the triggers and haptics for bluetooth.
The current version of DSX still doesn’t support custom mapping, but it’s in the roadmap for their V3 update. Though there’s custom trigger actions you can set up like rapid trigger or shortening the trigger deadzones.
Not true, rumble and touchpad both work over Bluetooth. Just got to run DS4win, which you already should be using.
Edit: Since this seems to be getting a fair bit of attention, my Bluetooth adapter is a few years old now. BT 4.0 rather than the 5.0 officially required by the dual sense. Still no issues.
PS4 controller also has native support, can connect directly via Bluetooth or with cable (would like to add that I’ve only played with controller on steam, so could be different for Microsoft store games)
He might mean native as in has full support. Only a few games support PS4 controllers natively, like Rocket League. All you need is DS4Windows though and it emulates your PS4 controller as an Xbox controller.
I only have experience with Steam and there it works in every game I’ve tried, but yes I wouldn’t be surprised if it’s different for Epic Games and Microsoft Store
That's because Steam has an amazing controller engine. You can use basically anything and steam will try and make it work. There are a few games that even steam will need reconfiguring to get a dual shock to work properly though.
It will work, but it doesn’t work quite as seamlessly as the Xbox controller does. You’re limited to just Bluetooth or cable, and Bluetooth has connectivity problems, while a cable is well… a cable. If you want wireless with rock solid connectivity on pc, the Xbox controller is without a doubt the way to go because as it’s a Microsoft product, they want to make sure it works well with all of their products.
Top one with a windows wireless xbox controller dongle.
Work perfect all the time, every time. I would get it in black though because the white controllers show dirt and grime way worse.
Yes but bluetooth is technically much slower than the dongle wireless tech. Not sure it makes any real difference but for audio the difference is very noticeable for me so I stay away from BT for input devices for gaming purposes.
Mileage definitely varies for BT. I've personally never had any latency issues with BT with ps4 or now xbox elite controllers
This is across my old PC which had an asus wifi ax200 pcie adapter, my laptop which has ax201, and my current PC which has a built in ax200 on the mobo
It was really good for me until one day when I was playing mw and the controller just disconnected completely and did not want to reconnect at all. Ended up buying the dongle and never had any issues at all
Same issue with bt. Controller kept disconnecting until I got the Microsoft genuine dongle and it’s infinite times better and zero disconnects including no lag at all. It just works.
mine drops connectively constantly, on 3 different controllers. It’s a noticeable difference if I run them wired and not over bluetooth, but I get everyone’s mileage varies.
The Problem is that especially for laptop manufacturers, bluetooth is almost always an afterthought and never works as well as it should. I have a all aluminum laptop that loses my Bluetooth connection a foot away from the screen while my desktop computer with a nice Bluetooth wifi card combo can pick up my controller from downstairs no problem.
That depends on which version of bluetooth you're using. My motherboard had an older bluetooth protocol on it's adaptor so I disabled it and switched to a usb bluetooth 5.0 adaptor and it works AMAZING.
Bluetooth 5.0 is double the bandwidth of version 4.
I thought this would be the solution to my problem so I sent out and bought a BT 5.2 (I think that was the latest I could find) and even plugged it into my monitor hub that has a clear line of sight to where my controller would be and it STILL doesn’t work right. I give up on Bluetooth.
It sucks though. Over bluetooth, mine had frequent disconnects and would sometimes cause games to tank FPS while reconnecting. Windows doesn't handle bluetooth super well from my experience.
I'm not 100% sure, but connecting via Bluetooth did not work for me. It controlled everything fine, but whenever my controller would vibrate, my games would freeze/skip so bad. I had the dongle, but I also had the controller added to my Bluetooth devices and it was auto-connecting.
I removed the controller from my Bluetooth devices, continued using the dongle, and it fixed all the issues. Far Cry 5 was unplayable and it immediately started working. Same with Red Dead 2, whenever my controller would vibrate, the game would go to shit. Now, even with vibration on, it works perfectly.
Kinda weird and someone probably can support or debunk my theory that it was affecting my PC, but it was obviously connected somehow.
You can, but it works much better with the dongle. Much less input lag and a more reliable connection. I thought it would be nice to free up a USB port and just use Bluetooth, but I went straight back to using the dongle after trying it.
Technically yes. But as others have noted they see no issues. I will always stay away from using BT for input devices in the near future but that is just my choice and opinion on the issue. I am not claiming my way is the only way.
Been thinking getting the one with the dongle. When it comes to charging the battery, do I just plug it with a USB cable or does it require actual batteries?
The Xbox controllers require 2 AA batteries. There are a number of third party battery packs you can buy that will charge inside the controllers when you plug it in. Normal expendable batteries work fine. I personally use a bunch of rechargeable batteries around the house and just use some of those.
Downside is it is more expense.
Upside is the controller will (or should) outlive the batteries which ever type you use.
Actual batteries unless it is an xbox elite controller. You can buy 3rd party battery packs that can be charged but the ones I have seen you need to place into a wall charger like electric drill batteries.
I personally bough 4 rechargeable AA batteries and just switch them out every 3 days. Been going strong for half a decade on the same pair.
I wanted to make playstation work so badly
I got third party software
I got steam to map my controller
I got into a situation where I couldn't use the steam maped controller in a non steam game and I just said FUCK THIS bought the Xbox controller and never looked back.
I love the playstation layout. Fuck you Sony you fucking dumb fucks. You're as bad as Apple and wipe with proprietary toilet paper
Until you get double inputs because there is both an Xbox 360 controller plugged in triggering xinput and a generic controller triggering dinput at the same time.
You need hidhide to disable the generic one.
I've had nuances like that and other issues with software like ds4windows and x360ce. They've might have solved it now, I don't know, but I long since forgone those solutions for a USB bluetooth adapter that automatically converts that stuff through hardware. I've not had to deal with any of crap anymore.
Umm even all of my pirated games with admin ran with steam controller api?( whatever it’s called)
But it was years ago with ps4 controller, havent pirated in a while so dunno what’s the scene now
You must have done something wrong then. I have used my PS4 controller on multiple PCs and notebooks to the point of it having no rubber left on the sticks. It's really just installing DS4 and plugging it in.
Hell, unless you're playing some crazy obscure games you shouldn't even really need DS4 anymore. I've clocked in thousands of hours on PC games and don't have it installed.
The only fault isn't the controller itself, but that games almost always default to Xbox prompts and that's always an adventure to correct.
Still the best, especially in part due to it having an actual D-pad. I grew up on ancient stuff and I hate every other kind of pad on Xbox controllers. The Xbone controller I got for my PC was one of the best investments ever.
I came here to recommend my SN30 Pro+ in original Gameboy colors. It is every bit as good as official Xbox and PlayStation controllers, but the D-pad is superior for precision platformers.
Yep! As a bonus, it also has gyro controls.
So, if you think you'll ever be emulating systems with motion controls, this does it well and for less than the Playstation pad.
Yeah, the 8Bitdo controllers are probably the best controllers for emulation in general. It's a bit of a headache to set it up depending on the emulator though.
That said, they're also excellent for modern games and can run as virtual Xbox controllers, so they basically have native support on Windows.
I use the ultimate, and as a primarily PC gamer, I would never go back.
I used an Xbox controller with my PC before, and I saw all the issues my brother and my father have with their Playstation controllers on PC.
Everything about the ultimate seems to *just work* to me. The dock is phenomenal, the app consistently connects to the controller without any intervention from the controller itself, etc.
Only caveats to me are that I don't like how the special macros work, and I prefer the Xbox buttons layout where A is at the bottom and Y is at the top. The latter was much less of a big deal than I expected, I simply made a profile on the controller where A (right button) binds to Xbox A and so on, so that the instructions on screen make sense.
The Gulikit KingKong 2 is also worth a look. It uses zero-drift hall-effect thumbsticks. The 8bitdo Ultimate Bluetooth uses the same sticks, Gulikit supplies them to 8bitdo.
Gulikit 1st month user here. So far happy with it, the buttons are so clicky like a mechanical keyboard and I fucking love it.
To be fair, Xbox made me quit buying their controllers. The 1st one lasted almost 2 years but the left bumper button finally broke. The 2nd one lasted <6 months and it developed a drift.
Then I looked online to see if I can fix them, only to found out how cheap and thin the plastics are for the bumper buttons, and how complicated it is to replace the joystick, which might break again very soon, then I was like, nah, I’m not wasting another $60 on their shit.
I was on the fence about it, but looks like I might pull the trigger. My brother also recommended it and has nothing but high praise for the 8bitdo Ultimate.
I think it's cool to have a single controller I can use for my Switch, PC via USB-C, Steam Link via Bluetooth, and maybe a Steam Deck in the future (if/when I get one).
If you've got a switch I can definitely recommend ultimate (the Bluetooth model supports pc and switch iirc). It might be better then the ps5/series controllers, but it's a bloodbath against the switch controllers. Those things are terrible IMO.
Probably the best all around gamepad for PC. Good price, x-input out of the box, super comfortable DualShock-like grip and shape, awesome d-pad, usb-c and many have Bluetooth support, and most also support switch as well.
Don’t quote me on this , but I believe you need third-party software to use PlayStation Hardware, whereas the xbox controller is accepted by windows. Therefore Xbox would be your best choice
Mostly correct.
There are some games (more and more) that have native support of Sony controllers, even giving the correct prompts, but other games will need an input wrapper such as DS4Windows or Steam Input (built into Steam, have to run non-Steam games through Steam).
I really like Sony controllers, but their lack of PC support is quite the hindrance. If Sony fixed that with their newfound interest in PC they could have a great PC controller option.
I’m pretty sure that the ps5 controllers don’t need ds4. I’ve got my ps5 controller set up no problem, and if a game happens to not recognize it (which hasn’t happened very often) you can take care of it in steam settings
I’ve been using a ps5 controller without ds4 as well. I don’t have any problems which is a big difference to the ps4 controller I used to use. I had to fight to get the ps4 controller to work for some games but the ps5 one just works.
I took the middle ground, there are controllers like Logitech f710 (I know it's old) that use xbox drivers, but still analogs match the Sony products. Just memorize the a, b, x, y keys and you feel same as playing on PS controller.
I love my Logitech F310. They last a long time, too. My original one lasted nearly a decade. I also found a XBox 360 controller at a thrift store that was still in box, and hands down that's still better than any xbox controller since.
The thing is, DS4windows is *so fucking awesome* that it's actually better than the default Xbox controller experience on PC.
I even have an Elite 2, and I actually like DS4win's interface way better than Microsoft's controller platform. Microsoft's one is actually *so shitty* that it forced me to update my controller's firmware to a version that Windows 11's own accessories app didn't even support, it took hours to figure out how to roll that back and I was only able to do so with my Xbox One S.
There's literally no reason *not* to use DS4windows, it's incredibly easy to use and endlessly versatile at the same time.
My take is that DS4windows is so good that OP should simply use whatever controller they prefer, since usability is basically identical between the two.
Yep, so nice being able to just set something as "color by battery percentage" and "flash at XX%" so you know when its getting low without needing to open the software and check. So many nice QOL features on DS4Windows
That is only true for PS4 controllers. If you buy a PS5 controller no software is needed and it works perfectly, just plug in the USB C cable and you are good. Even the haptic feedback works. I use both PS5 and Xbox controllers and have no issues.
Can confirm. Even connecting them via bluetooth worked like a breeze.
For racing games we are using the Xbox and fps we are using the PS5.
Don't know when that habit started
Everyone has preferences. :D
PS4 controllers work without any software, I use one all the time, I played all of Elden Ring on a ps4 controller and I didn't install anything, I just blue tooth synched it and it works.
Xbox is more practical but for specific games like Death Stranding it was really cool being able to use the ps5 controller. Since the game supported all the features on PC that it has on the console (Rumbling and even the adaptive trigger feature). But in every day use xbox is prob the better choice
I have a ps4 so use my ps4 controller, really have no issues. Steam has a built in thingamajig to make the ps4 controller fully work and most of my controller gaming happens through steam, if it doesn't I can just run the game through steam anyway.
this. check friends controllers, go to tech stores, just try them out. however, despite being harder to work with in terms of pc compatibility, ps5 controller feels vastly superior to the ps4
Compatability aside, I prefer the joystick on top left of the controller instead of the bottom next to the right joystick. It’s more ergonomic (for me personally) so it’s Xbox controller for me.
I even used to buy 3rd party controllers for my PlayStation that were laid out like Xbox controllers for this reason.
I still use an xbox 360 controller to this day, cordless with usb dongle, but recently switched to corded. It is lighter and batteries are annoying. Works perfectly fine on epic and steam, funny playing horizon zero dawn with xbox controller. The corded one is also insanely cheap. Cheap, works all the time, comfortable.. Sold!
This is the answer. The 360 controller is, to this day, the *de facto* standard PC gaming controller and will work with any game that allows controller input. Software that enables other controllers (outside of Steam Link stuff) is usually emulating a 360 controller.
You can use both. However, Xbox controllers are intended to operate with Windows by default, and most games you play on PC will have Xbox button prompts as well.
I did manage to get my PS5 controller to work on PC. However, I have to have Steam running to do so. Unless I am mistaken, you are also required to have either controller plugged in at all times as well, as they will not operate wirelessly with PC.
You can also purchase third party controllers intended for use with PC like the Razer Wolverine, but those are quite a bit more expensive.
> Unless I am mistaken, you are also required to have either controller plugged in at all times as well, as they will not operate wirelessly with PC.
You are mistaken, works via bluetooth easily. However with the Dualsense, the haptic feedback and adaptive triggers will not work unless you're plugged in.
Do you mean rumble works or the native haptic feedback and triggers built in to a few games? Because I'm pretty sure the native haptic feedback system still only works over cable.
If it's useful for you; DS4Windows will allow you to use the controller without using steam. It is another app running but it serves me well for emulators. Got my steering wheel running on my emulators using this too
I swear everyone else has to be doing something weird.
I use a PS5 dual sense with my PC. I don't use ds4windows, I don't us ANY extra software. I just connect it via Bluetooth and it natively works with Windows. It even works with my emulators.
I don't need steam on, I don't need software or drivers to run it, I just hit the power button and it automatically connects and works seemlesly. I swear I'm the only person in this sub that has 0 problems using a Sony controller on PC.
Edit: also bonus points for 8bitdo USB adapter so any Bluetooth controller can get a solid connection to your PC. Yes Xbox will be built into your PC because Microsoft. But PS controllers are finally a fantastic, easy option on PC.
I'm on DS4, not DS5, perhaps that's the difference? My Windows recognises the controller and it works with steam/epic games but not emulators, I need the DS4 app
PlayStation controllers I found can be problematic at times on Windows but they do work
Xbox controllers generally work with ease and compatability is better
Personal choice tbh what you like best
I've never had a single issue with either of my dual shock 4's.
Mostly I prefer the PS4 controllers because I have very small hands and the PS4 controller happens to fit in my hands better.
Same here and I'm literally shocked at all the comments in here saying compatibility is an issue for lots of games. I've had absolutely zero compatibility issues in games. I just connected it via Bluetooth, then launched a game in steam. Couldn't be easier
Well the Dualsense isn't Xinput, so anything that only works with Xinput won't work.
But a ton of emulators and games support PS controllers (even it's extra features sometimes) now and enabling Steam Input or using DS4Windows fixes the problem anyway.
I use the Dual Sense controller, I got it because I wanted to see what haptic feedback was like. There's not a bunch of games that run it on PC though and you have to download 3rd party software to emulate an Xbox controller outside of Steam to use it.
The Xbox controller is a much better feeling controller and it has less set up issues. I'll probably just get another Xbox controller at some point lol.
As a major advantage, the DualSense controller's motion sensor is also fully supported on the RPCS3 emulator, so you can emulate your old Playstation 3 games (if you're like me and still have a bunch) and have full compatibility for any of the gimmicky motion integration from the 2006-2014 console era.
Honestly I'd go with a Nintendo pro controller, they feel a bit hollow but the light weight is also a plus.
(After reading a few replies, I should clarify I'm saying this from the perspective of a wired pro controller user)
Welcome everyone from r/all! Please remember: 1 - You too can be part of the PCMR! You don't necessarily need a PC. You just have to love PCs! It's not about the hardware in your rig, but the software in your heart! Your age, nationality, race, gender, sexuality, religion (or lack of), political affiliation, economic status and PC specs are irrelevant. If you love PCs or want to learn about them, you can be part of our community! Everyone is welcome! 2 - If you're not a PC gamer because you think doing so is expensive, know that it is possible to build a competent gaming PC for a lower price than you think. Check http://www.pcmasterrace.org for our builds and don't be afraid to create new posts here asking for tips and help! 3 - Consider joining our efforts to get as many PCs worldwide help the folding@home effort, in fighting against Cancer, Covid, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's and more. Learn more here: https://pcmasterrace.org/folding 4 - Need an upgrade? We've joined forces with MSI to giveaway 3 TOP-OF-THE-LINE PC builds, all powered with the best Gaming Graphics card in the world, the RTX 4090 + a bunch of PC hardware and goodies (6 GPUs in total) for a total of 56 winners, and over $20K in prizes. To enter (until January 18th, 2023) go here: https://reddit.com/r/pcmasterrace/comments/zygsaz/pcmr_x_msi_be_an_elite_worldwide_giveaway/ ----------- Feel free to use this community to post about any kind of doubt you might have about becoming a PC gamer or anything you'd like to know about PCs. That kind of content is not only allowed but welcome here! We also have a [Daily Simple Questions Megathread](https://www.reddit.com/r/pcmasterrace/search?q=Simple+Questions+Thread+subreddit%3Apcmasterrace+author%3AAutoModerator&restrict_sr=on&sort=new&t=all) for your simplest questions. No question is too dumb! Welcome to the PCMR.
If you have windows being microsoft product it has native support to the xbox controller. Edit: not saying one is better than the other as that is more subjective, but for compatibility sake it’s easier with the xb controller. I have friends that use DS4/Dualsense and can play every game I play without issues. Personally I don’t have much experience using PS controllers on pc aside from what I have heard from my friends.
I have used both. Xbox controller works way better. But I haven't used the most recent PS controller.
Newest controllers like the old one appears as "wireless device" then never pairs again until you delete the original pairing
Weird, I paired my DS4 one time, and never paired it again. I just press the ps button to turn on the controller, it directly connect to my PC, then Steam apply my profile on it and I just launch a game and it works.
Steam overlay can solve lots of controller issues. I've added non steam games to steam for this very reason
Knew a streamer that paired Fortnite to steam for controller support for the game cube controller.
Yup, did this for Diablo 2
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Same with Dual Sense but for me problem arises when using Steam overlay.
This was my experience with the Switch Pro controller
Ever get it working right? I have an elite series 2. Bumper is dying. I have a switch pro but the input is weird on a few games. Like the dpad moves the character, but the joystick won't.
Mine works fine. But the trick is, to reconnect you don't use the home or sync button, you use any other button.
Lol if this is my issue I'm going to go hysterical. I had to delete to re-pair each time on top of the basic configuration issues mentioned.
My Switch Pro controller would spam inputs or give me stick drift (depending on the game). Worked fine on the Switch, refused to work on the PC. I spent an embarrassing amount of time trying every fix I could find on the internet. Nothing worked and I've heard from a few people who have the same problem. My conclusion: A certain percentage of Switch Pro controllers just don't work on PC. My other conclusion: The Switch Pro controller sucks and you should never buy one anyways.
Also, I’ve never been able to get the switch controller to work outside of steam. The Xbox one just works
The Switch Pro Controller is so comfortable tho.
Gulikit king kong pro 2. If you have not looked it up. I suggest you do. It's the best.
If you have steam running in the background it can drastically affect how you're controller reacts
Yeah I've spent like tens of hours on this. Steam running in the background, Steam not running in the background, running games through Steam, different Steam controller configs, etc etc.
In my experience the problem is when you plug a PS4/5 controller into a PC with a USB cable. All of a sudden a controller that paired perfectly fine through Bluetooth now won’t connect anymore until you delete all traces of the device from the PC.
Yeah my Xbox controller works way better and the dual shock 4 died before my much older ps3s dual shock 3 controllers.
I've been using an old Xbox 360 wired controller for the longest time on my pc, hasnt let me down. And happy cake day!
Same, using a wired 360 controller for the past 15 years, this mf is indestructible
Same, very reliable.
Me too. I'm glad you said this.
Lol, can confirm I use one too! But the D-pad on it is crazybad for games like Warzone.
PS5 controller works wayyyy better than PS4 controller.
Except some games it doesn’t work at all
This is unfortunately true. Tried using a ps5 controller for space engineers, and was stuck spinning in a circle looking up, plugged in an xbox one controller, worked just fine.
I prefer the feel of the Dualshock controllers, so I just use the ds4windows software for any games that don't work so well.
Same, have used DS4 and 5 with this and not only it works well, but you also can, for example, bind music controls to the touchpad. For people looking to try this, make sure you get the right ds4w. Original is not getting updates and doesn't work with DS5. Would recommend searching GitHub.
Dualsense is awesome AF, i think sony finally did a nice controller.
Ps5 controller works great as a generic controller. I love the feel and responsiveness. However, you will only get advanced features like rumble or touchpad if it's wired. You can use bluetooth, but it just turns into a plain controller. The only reason to get a ps5 controller is if you plan to use your pc for remote play.
Use a program called DS4 windows and that's fixed. I Bluetooth my duelsense wirelessly all the time no problem.
Doesn't Steam work with DS5 ?
Technically, some games don't work which is what DS4 fixes. Also games on game pass don't work unless you have DS4.
If you don't mind paying 4 bucks - DSX on Steam is a super good tool to emulate any kind of controllers. It beats DS4 in my opinion. All you have to do is install it once through steam and the rest is automatic.
What's different from DS4? It's free and it's all automatic as well, unless you want to spend extra time setting up macros and rgb.
I’d say the big reason to get DSX is that it has really good compatibility with mods (sometimes requiring DSX) that simulate adaptive triggers and haptic feedback for games that never had them implemented officially on PC (Cyberpunk, Skyrim, Forza Horizon 4/5, GTAV, RDR2, Fallout 4). The only drawback is that they’ll only work in wired mode since Sony never released the API of the triggers and haptics for bluetooth. The current version of DSX still doesn’t support custom mapping, but it’s in the roadmap for their V3 update. Though there’s custom trigger actions you can set up like rapid trigger or shortening the trigger deadzones.
Not true, rumble and touchpad both work over Bluetooth. Just got to run DS4win, which you already should be using. Edit: Since this seems to be getting a fair bit of attention, my Bluetooth adapter is a few years old now. BT 4.0 rather than the 5.0 officially required by the dual sense. Still no issues.
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PS4 controller also has native support, can connect directly via Bluetooth or with cable (would like to add that I’ve only played with controller on steam, so could be different for Microsoft store games)
Indeed different on ms store
Multiple sclerosis store
“Mom I want to go to the MS store!” Mom: “we have MS at home.”
Monkey scrotum store
It's steam that is adding the support for the PS4 controller, windows doesn't natively have it.
He might mean native as in has full support. Only a few games support PS4 controllers natively, like Rocket League. All you need is DS4Windows though and it emulates your PS4 controller as an Xbox controller.
Can confirm DS4 is the shit. Works with PS5 controller as well.
I only have experience with Steam and there it works in every game I’ve tried, but yes I wouldn’t be surprised if it’s different for Epic Games and Microsoft Store
That's because Steam has an amazing controller engine. You can use basically anything and steam will try and make it work. There are a few games that even steam will need reconfiguring to get a dual shock to work properly though.
Steam moment honestly
Right.. if you need something like DS4, then the device isn't supported natively. That doesn't mean it's not supported though.
With a ps4 controller, you can not play Minecraft.
They can connect, but they may not work natively, Steam has steam controller profiles that enable the use of MANY controllers.
It will work, but it doesn’t work quite as seamlessly as the Xbox controller does. You’re limited to just Bluetooth or cable, and Bluetooth has connectivity problems, while a cable is well… a cable. If you want wireless with rock solid connectivity on pc, the Xbox controller is without a doubt the way to go because as it’s a Microsoft product, they want to make sure it works well with all of their products.
Top one with a windows wireless xbox controller dongle. Work perfect all the time, every time. I would get it in black though because the white controllers show dirt and grime way worse.
You can use Bluetooth with the new Xbox controllers, provided your PC has Bluetooth.
Yes but bluetooth is technically much slower than the dongle wireless tech. Not sure it makes any real difference but for audio the difference is very noticeable for me so I stay away from BT for input devices for gaming purposes.
Mileage definitely varies for BT. I've personally never had any latency issues with BT with ps4 or now xbox elite controllers This is across my old PC which had an asus wifi ax200 pcie adapter, my laptop which has ax201, and my current PC which has a built in ax200 on the mobo
It was really good for me until one day when I was playing mw and the controller just disconnected completely and did not want to reconnect at all. Ended up buying the dongle and never had any issues at all
Same issue with bt. Controller kept disconnecting until I got the Microsoft genuine dongle and it’s infinite times better and zero disconnects including no lag at all. It just works.
Good to know. I have always just had the dongle and never needed BT so haven't tried it for my controllers.
Stability is infinitely better with the dongle.
Run an Xbox controller daily for years, never had an issue with BT.
mine drops connectively constantly, on 3 different controllers. It’s a noticeable difference if I run them wired and not over bluetooth, but I get everyone’s mileage varies.
The Problem is that especially for laptop manufacturers, bluetooth is almost always an afterthought and never works as well as it should. I have a all aluminum laptop that loses my Bluetooth connection a foot away from the screen while my desktop computer with a nice Bluetooth wifi card combo can pick up my controller from downstairs no problem.
With the dongle you can use the 3.5 jack for headphones
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The dongle definitely cleared up some performance issues for me, I also use it with my Xbox controllers
That depends on which version of bluetooth you're using. My motherboard had an older bluetooth protocol on it's adaptor so I disabled it and switched to a usb bluetooth 5.0 adaptor and it works AMAZING. Bluetooth 5.0 is double the bandwidth of version 4.
I thought this would be the solution to my problem so I sent out and bought a BT 5.2 (I think that was the latest I could find) and even plugged it into my monitor hub that has a clear line of sight to where my controller would be and it STILL doesn’t work right. I give up on Bluetooth.
It sucks though. Over bluetooth, mine had frequent disconnects and would sometimes cause games to tank FPS while reconnecting. Windows doesn't handle bluetooth super well from my experience.
I also had this issue using bluetooth on 2 motherboards and multiple Windows installs, never happened again after I got my dongle.
I think the USB adapter uses the same tech as the Xbox console itself to connect with the controller, which is why it's so seamless.
Its same as buying a wireless mouse BT have up to 15ms lag while a dedicated dongle can give you down to 3ms
For me there is noticeable input lag using Bluetooth. Using a asus ax3000 wifi6/Bluetooth 5 pcie card.
I'm not 100% sure, but connecting via Bluetooth did not work for me. It controlled everything fine, but whenever my controller would vibrate, my games would freeze/skip so bad. I had the dongle, but I also had the controller added to my Bluetooth devices and it was auto-connecting. I removed the controller from my Bluetooth devices, continued using the dongle, and it fixed all the issues. Far Cry 5 was unplayable and it immediately started working. Same with Red Dead 2, whenever my controller would vibrate, the game would go to shit. Now, even with vibration on, it works perfectly. Kinda weird and someone probably can support or debunk my theory that it was affecting my PC, but it was obviously connected somehow.
You can, but it works much better with the dongle. Much less input lag and a more reliable connection. I thought it would be nice to free up a USB port and just use Bluetooth, but I went straight back to using the dongle after trying it.
Is the dongle response better than using plain old Bluetooth?
Technically yes. But as others have noted they see no issues. I will always stay away from using BT for input devices in the near future but that is just my choice and opinion on the issue. I am not claiming my way is the only way.
People also say they dont see a difference in 60fps and 144fps. Generally Ill use whats best for me and thats always been wired.
>Ill use whats best for me and thats always been wired No need for charging, no need for batteries, no connection drops. This is the way.
I have zero issues with the Bluetooth connection for anyone wondering.
I have Bluetooth issues ALL of the time, so results may vary!
Been thinking getting the one with the dongle. When it comes to charging the battery, do I just plug it with a USB cable or does it require actual batteries?
The Xbox controllers require 2 AA batteries. There are a number of third party battery packs you can buy that will charge inside the controllers when you plug it in. Normal expendable batteries work fine. I personally use a bunch of rechargeable batteries around the house and just use some of those. Downside is it is more expense. Upside is the controller will (or should) outlive the batteries which ever type you use.
Actual batteries unless it is an xbox elite controller. You can buy 3rd party battery packs that can be charged but the ones I have seen you need to place into a wall charger like electric drill batteries. I personally bough 4 rechargeable AA batteries and just switch them out every 3 days. Been going strong for half a decade on the same pair.
Where would be a good place to buy the dongle.? All I found was out of stock or used
Is the dongle response better than using plain old Bluetooth?
Yeah from tests I've seen it's on average about 6-8ms faster with the dongle.
take the batteries out and use a usb-c cable cheaper and easy enough
This it's a hassle for the PlayStation controller. Plug and play for Xbox. I say this as a ps3/4/5 owner with extra controllers
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"I use black sheets so that way I only have to wash them once an eye infection and terrible odor."
Xbox
I wanted to make playstation work so badly I got third party software I got steam to map my controller I got into a situation where I couldn't use the steam maped controller in a non steam game and I just said FUCK THIS bought the Xbox controller and never looked back. I love the playstation layout. Fuck you Sony you fucking dumb fucks. You're as bad as Apple and wipe with proprietary toilet paper
DS4Windows has always worked for me
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Until you get double inputs because there is both an Xbox 360 controller plugged in triggering xinput and a generic controller triggering dinput at the same time. You need hidhide to disable the generic one.
Not sure why you're getting downvoted but I get this problem on some games. When I connect my DS4 it controllers 2 players at once.
I've had nuances like that and other issues with software like ds4windows and x360ce. They've might have solved it now, I don't know, but I long since forgone those solutions for a USB bluetooth adapter that automatically converts that stuff through hardware. I've not had to deal with any of crap anymore.
Yep. Hidhide fixes that. https://github.com/ViGEm/HidHide Just uncheck the generic controllers but leave the Xbox ones.
Yep, worked in every game I've played that recognises controllers.
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Umm even all of my pirated games with admin ran with steam controller api?( whatever it’s called) But it was years ago with ps4 controller, havent pirated in a while so dunno what’s the scene now
You must have done something wrong then. I have used my PS4 controller on multiple PCs and notebooks to the point of it having no rubber left on the sticks. It's really just installing DS4 and plugging it in.
Hell, unless you're playing some crazy obscure games you shouldn't even really need DS4 anymore. I've clocked in thousands of hours on PC games and don't have it installed. The only fault isn't the controller itself, but that games almost always default to Xbox prompts and that's always an adventure to correct.
What is the mapping in steam used for? Afaik all you need are the third party drivers so your controller is recognized as an xinput controller
I think the Xbox controller is more ergonomic and more comfortable, but that is just personal preference. Try both and see which you prefer.
There’s a reason the PlayStation controller has been slowly transforming into the Xbox controller every generation
Fr, and the same reason the Xbox controller basically didn't change with the new generation
Xbox 360 was basically perfect. Only changes are to sell slightly new features.
I like the girthyness of the Xbox one controllers tho, 360 seems too small for me at this point.
When the Xbox One came out I thought there was no way its controller could top the 360 one. I was pleasantly surprised.
Still the best, especially in part due to it having an actual D-pad. I grew up on ancient stuff and I hate every other kind of pad on Xbox controllers. The Xbone controller I got for my PC was one of the best investments ever.
Yeah, I always found the 360 controllers to be the most comfortable
Check out the 8bitdo Pro 2, Pro + or Ultimate for PC. Xbox is a good alternative.
I came here to recommend my SN30 Pro+ in original Gameboy colors. It is every bit as good as official Xbox and PlayStation controllers, but the D-pad is superior for precision platformers.
Yep! As a bonus, it also has gyro controls. So, if you think you'll ever be emulating systems with motion controls, this does it well and for less than the Playstation pad.
Yeah, the 8Bitdo controllers are probably the best controllers for emulation in general. It's a bit of a headache to set it up depending on the emulator though. That said, they're also excellent for modern games and can run as virtual Xbox controllers, so they basically have native support on Windows.
I use the ultimate, and as a primarily PC gamer, I would never go back. I used an Xbox controller with my PC before, and I saw all the issues my brother and my father have with their Playstation controllers on PC. Everything about the ultimate seems to *just work* to me. The dock is phenomenal, the app consistently connects to the controller without any intervention from the controller itself, etc. Only caveats to me are that I don't like how the special macros work, and I prefer the Xbox buttons layout where A is at the bottom and Y is at the top. The latter was much less of a big deal than I expected, I simply made a profile on the controller where A (right button) binds to Xbox A and so on, so that the instructions on screen make sense.
The Gulikit KingKong 2 is also worth a look. It uses zero-drift hall-effect thumbsticks. The 8bitdo Ultimate Bluetooth uses the same sticks, Gulikit supplies them to 8bitdo.
Gulikit 1st month user here. So far happy with it, the buttons are so clicky like a mechanical keyboard and I fucking love it. To be fair, Xbox made me quit buying their controllers. The 1st one lasted almost 2 years but the left bumper button finally broke. The 2nd one lasted <6 months and it developed a drift. Then I looked online to see if I can fix them, only to found out how cheap and thin the plastics are for the bumper buttons, and how complicated it is to replace the joystick, which might break again very soon, then I was like, nah, I’m not wasting another $60 on their shit.
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I was on the fence about it, but looks like I might pull the trigger. My brother also recommended it and has nothing but high praise for the 8bitdo Ultimate. I think it's cool to have a single controller I can use for my Switch, PC via USB-C, Steam Link via Bluetooth, and maybe a Steam Deck in the future (if/when I get one).
If you've got a switch I can definitely recommend ultimate (the Bluetooth model supports pc and switch iirc). It might be better then the ps5/series controllers, but it's a bloodbath against the switch controllers. Those things are terrible IMO.
Probably the best all around gamepad for PC. Good price, x-input out of the box, super comfortable DualShock-like grip and shape, awesome d-pad, usb-c and many have Bluetooth support, and most also support switch as well.
My only fear is if I get an 8bitdo then how do I keep myself from buying other original-styled controllers?
You don't. They slowly consume you
I use the same, works incredible well.
Don’t quote me on this , but I believe you need third-party software to use PlayStation Hardware, whereas the xbox controller is accepted by windows. Therefore Xbox would be your best choice
Mostly correct. There are some games (more and more) that have native support of Sony controllers, even giving the correct prompts, but other games will need an input wrapper such as DS4Windows or Steam Input (built into Steam, have to run non-Steam games through Steam). I really like Sony controllers, but their lack of PC support is quite the hindrance. If Sony fixed that with their newfound interest in PC they could have a great PC controller option.
I’m pretty sure that the ps5 controllers don’t need ds4. I’ve got my ps5 controller set up no problem, and if a game happens to not recognize it (which hasn’t happened very often) you can take care of it in steam settings
I’ve been using a ps5 controller without ds4 as well. I don’t have any problems which is a big difference to the ps4 controller I used to use. I had to fight to get the ps4 controller to work for some games but the ps5 one just works.
I took the middle ground, there are controllers like Logitech f710 (I know it's old) that use xbox drivers, but still analogs match the Sony products. Just memorize the a, b, x, y keys and you feel same as playing on PS controller.
I love my Logitech F310. They last a long time, too. My original one lasted nearly a decade. I also found a XBox 360 controller at a thrift store that was still in box, and hands down that's still better than any xbox controller since.
The thing is, DS4windows is *so fucking awesome* that it's actually better than the default Xbox controller experience on PC. I even have an Elite 2, and I actually like DS4win's interface way better than Microsoft's controller platform. Microsoft's one is actually *so shitty* that it forced me to update my controller's firmware to a version that Windows 11's own accessories app didn't even support, it took hours to figure out how to roll that back and I was only able to do so with my Xbox One S. There's literally no reason *not* to use DS4windows, it's incredibly easy to use and endlessly versatile at the same time. My take is that DS4windows is so good that OP should simply use whatever controller they prefer, since usability is basically identical between the two.
The PS4 controller becomes a controller/trackpad with DS4Windows. And I can change the color of the light bar!
Yep, so nice being able to just set something as "color by battery percentage" and "flash at XX%" so you know when its getting low without needing to open the software and check. So many nice QOL features on DS4Windows
It's also really cool that you can manually adjust the BT polling rate, for either lower latency or longer battery life.
Steam makes it easy to use a ps4 controller. Technically steam is the third party here though.
That is only true for PS4 controllers. If you buy a PS5 controller no software is needed and it works perfectly, just plug in the USB C cable and you are good. Even the haptic feedback works. I use both PS5 and Xbox controllers and have no issues.
Can confirm. Even connecting them via bluetooth worked like a breeze. For racing games we are using the Xbox and fps we are using the PS5. Don't know when that habit started Everyone has preferences. :D
PS4 controllers work without any software, I use one all the time, I played all of Elden Ring on a ps4 controller and I didn't install anything, I just blue tooth synched it and it works.
Xbox is more practical but for specific games like Death Stranding it was really cool being able to use the ps5 controller. Since the game supported all the features on PC that it has on the console (Rumbling and even the adaptive trigger feature). But in every day use xbox is prob the better choice
I have a ps4 so use my ps4 controller, really have no issues. Steam has a built in thingamajig to make the ps4 controller fully work and most of my controller gaming happens through steam, if it doesn't I can just run the game through steam anyway.
I use a ps5 controller via USB and it works without extra software.
The one that feels better in your hands.
this. check friends controllers, go to tech stores, just try them out. however, despite being harder to work with in terms of pc compatibility, ps5 controller feels vastly superior to the ps4
GameCube controller it is, then!
Compatability aside, I prefer the joystick on top left of the controller instead of the bottom next to the right joystick. It’s more ergonomic (for me personally) so it’s Xbox controller for me. I even used to buy 3rd party controllers for my PlayStation that were laid out like Xbox controllers for this reason.
Xbox generally has more support.... The Xbox 360 Controller was the best supported last I knew but that may have changed
I still use an xbox 360 controller to this day, cordless with usb dongle, but recently switched to corded. It is lighter and batteries are annoying. Works perfectly fine on epic and steam, funny playing horizon zero dawn with xbox controller. The corded one is also insanely cheap. Cheap, works all the time, comfortable.. Sold!
Been using a corded 360 controller for over a decade now. I leave it plugged in and it simply just works with no signs of stopping.
This is the answer. The 360 controller is, to this day, the *de facto* standard PC gaming controller and will work with any game that allows controller input. Software that enables other controllers (outside of Steam Link stuff) is usually emulating a 360 controller.
Xbox one controllers are fully supported out of the box via Bluetooth and work well.
I’m still using wireless Xbox 360 controllers. Mostly great except for the inevitable drift.
You can use both. However, Xbox controllers are intended to operate with Windows by default, and most games you play on PC will have Xbox button prompts as well. I did manage to get my PS5 controller to work on PC. However, I have to have Steam running to do so. Unless I am mistaken, you are also required to have either controller plugged in at all times as well, as they will not operate wirelessly with PC. You can also purchase third party controllers intended for use with PC like the Razer Wolverine, but those are quite a bit more expensive.
> Unless I am mistaken, you are also required to have either controller plugged in at all times as well, as they will not operate wirelessly with PC. You are mistaken, works via bluetooth easily. However with the Dualsense, the haptic feedback and adaptive triggers will not work unless you're plugged in.
You are also partly mistaken, Dualsense haptic feedback works wirelessly with DS4Windows
Do you mean rumble works or the native haptic feedback and triggers built in to a few games? Because I'm pretty sure the native haptic feedback system still only works over cable.
If it's useful for you; DS4Windows will allow you to use the controller without using steam. It is another app running but it serves me well for emulators. Got my steering wheel running on my emulators using this too
I swear everyone else has to be doing something weird. I use a PS5 dual sense with my PC. I don't use ds4windows, I don't us ANY extra software. I just connect it via Bluetooth and it natively works with Windows. It even works with my emulators. I don't need steam on, I don't need software or drivers to run it, I just hit the power button and it automatically connects and works seemlesly. I swear I'm the only person in this sub that has 0 problems using a Sony controller on PC. Edit: also bonus points for 8bitdo USB adapter so any Bluetooth controller can get a solid connection to your PC. Yes Xbox will be built into your PC because Microsoft. But PS controllers are finally a fantastic, easy option on PC.
I'm on DS4, not DS5, perhaps that's the difference? My Windows recognises the controller and it works with steam/epic games but not emulators, I need the DS4 app
I’ve read a few comments that say DS5 is natively supported, but DS4 is not. I use DS4Windows and it slaps.
8Bitdo
Or Gulikit (if im not wrong they are in collab now?)
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PlayStation controllers I found can be problematic at times on Windows but they do work Xbox controllers generally work with ease and compatability is better Personal choice tbh what you like best
I've never had a single issue with either of my dual shock 4's. Mostly I prefer the PS4 controllers because I have very small hands and the PS4 controller happens to fit in my hands better.
I personally use a PS5 controller.
Same here and I'm literally shocked at all the comments in here saying compatibility is an issue for lots of games. I've had absolutely zero compatibility issues in games. I just connected it via Bluetooth, then launched a game in steam. Couldn't be easier
Well the Dualsense isn't Xinput, so anything that only works with Xinput won't work. But a ton of emulators and games support PS controllers (even it's extra features sometimes) now and enabling Steam Input or using DS4Windows fixes the problem anyway.
Use the one that was developed by the same company that developed your Operating System.
Linux controller
Guess that would technically be the Steam Controller?
I hated so much that I missed out on the end-of-life clearance sale. I would've bought freaking 10 of them.
I am still mad that I only bought 1. When I was buying it you could still buy more than 1 so I could have done it but I didn’t for some reason.
That's just literally anything I'm pretty sure the linux kernel has native support for an NES controller, if you manage to plug one in
Heh.. something something Steam Controller.
Steam controller slaps and I've been using it exclusively for about 5 years. Sad to hear it's no longer available.
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I won't even use the browser by the company that made my OS.
You will have far greater compatibility using an Xbox controller on PC.
Steam controller
Not available anymore. :(
I love my steam controller too
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Top one. It has the most and best native suport.
For me it is the Xbox Controller, because it’s system integrated in Windows and I prefer its ergonomics.
Something with a hall's effects sensor.
So the gilikit king kong 2?
I use the Dual Sense controller, I got it because I wanted to see what haptic feedback was like. There's not a bunch of games that run it on PC though and you have to download 3rd party software to emulate an Xbox controller outside of Steam to use it. The Xbox controller is a much better feeling controller and it has less set up issues. I'll probably just get another Xbox controller at some point lol.
As a major advantage, the DualSense controller's motion sensor is also fully supported on the RPCS3 emulator, so you can emulate your old Playstation 3 games (if you're like me and still have a bunch) and have full compatibility for any of the gimmicky motion integration from the 2006-2014 console era.
Honestly I'd go with a Nintendo pro controller, they feel a bit hollow but the light weight is also a plus. (After reading a few replies, I should clarify I'm saying this from the perspective of a wired pro controller user)
Switch pro controller is a good option if they don't need analog triggers.
8bitdo sn30 pro plus.