Press X to Win — the best gamepads for PC

ThrustMaster Dual Analog 4

This model is a new version of the popular Thrustmaster Dual Analogue controller. A well-known manufacturer of gaming equipment tried to collect everything a gamer needs in a new device at a low cost. The manipulator is made in a classic form factor and looks like a branded gamepad for Xbox. At the same time, it is slightly smaller in size than controllers for game consoles. According to the owners, it is aimed at teenagers and people with small brushes. Its body is made of matte (not collecting prints) plastic, and the back side has a textured finish. For ease of use, it has a streamlined shape with ergonomic curves for a comfortable grip.

Like other models in our TOP 5, Dual Analogue 4 PC is compatible with PC running Windows7 and 8. It is also suitable for Mac OS. It is convenient that the manipulator does not require special drivers — just connect it to a PC via USB and you can immediately play. By the way, the wire has a length of 1.8 m, which is usually enough for many gamers. The gamepad is recognized by most modern games, including FIFA, Batman: Arkham City, Skyrim, Bioshock Infinity, XCOM.

Control of characters and equipment in games is carried out using 12 active buttons, two analogue mini-joysticks (with a rubberized coating) and a cross-shaped multi-function button. In fact, this is a simple controller with the most necessary functions — the manufacturer has not installed anything new and special here. All 12 buttons are programmable, but practice shows that two of all can only be configured if the game you play allows you to do this. Otherwise, you will have to be content with the standard assignment. And the lack of vibration and the low pressure sensitivity of the triggers makes this controller not very suitable for racing games.

Speed-Link XEOX Pro Analog Gamepad USB

Speed-Link is a company specializing in the production of gaming accessories for PC and consoles. Recently, she pleased gamers with the release of a new controller for a desktop computer — Xeox Pro Analogue Gamepad. This model exists in two versions — wireless Xeox Pro Analogue Gamepad Wireless and wired (Xeox Pro Analogue Gamepad USB). The first model has a switch for consoles or PCs, while the second is “sharpened” exclusively for computers. In this article, we will consider the second option.

The Xeox Pro Analogue Gamepad USB model is a follower of the same Microsoft branded gamepad for Xbox, and even hints with its name at its full-fledged replacement for PC. It has the same asymmetrical analogue sticks. The case is made of plastic with a pleasant soft-touch coating, which tactilely seems like velvet. The assembly is excellent, there are no backlashes, all the details are fitted tightly. It is larger in size than the previous model under consideration, but also has a streamlined shape and smooth shapes for a comfortable grip. This model is suitable for both schoolchildren and already adult men with large brushes. Thanks to a well-chosen texture, it does not slip out of your hands even in the most stressful moments.

The body of the manipulator has 8 analogue buttons, 4 digital buttons, 4 "shoulder" buttons (bumpers and triggers), as well as an 8-way joystick and two analogue sticks. On the reverse side there is an XInput / DInput switch, which makes it possible to play both old games and modern ones, activating vibration feedback and other "chips". When connected to a PC, the backlight around the central button of the Xeox lights up. The Rapid button allows you to programme special actions in action games (for example, a powerful attack), but this function does not work in all games. There are also complaints about the relatively low sensitivity of the manipulator to movements (large dead zone).

The Xeox Pro USB cable is dense, thick and long (2 m). When connected to a PC and Mac, the manipulator is easily detected and quickly configured, the bundled disk, in fact, is not needed. Integration with the popular Steam service is good, the gamepad works correctly in Big Picture mode. Of course, it fits perfectly and is recognized by most games, good for racing, platforming and other games like the Assassins Creed series that were originally released on consoles.

Logitech Gamepad F310 Price from 1 149 up to 2 399 ₴ →

Logitech has been showing itself as a manufacturer of quality gaming (and not only) accessories for a long time. Their early model Logitech Dual Action Gamepad was popular, but only worked in DirectInput mode, which is a significant drawback today. The company decided to correct this defect by releasing the F line, consisting of three models F310, F510 and F710.

The younger wired model Gamepad F310 will satisfy lovers of symmetrical manipulators, since it is made like Sony DualShock. Although, the streamlined forms are reminiscent of Microsoft's proprietary controller. The case is made of blue matte plastic, and the colour scheme for the ABXY buttons was borrowed from the Microsoft Xbox 360 Controller. In addition to them, there are 6 more programmable keys, two triggers and a cross-shaped multifunctional button on the case. On the reverse side there is a switch for DInput and XInput modes.

The buttons feel responsive, but the triggers have a hard, low-profile travel that negatively affects the accuracy of control in racing and arcade games. Also, some owners note a large dead zone (low sensitivity to movements) of the sticks. However, these are subjective moments and only experienced gamers who are not dealing with the first gamepad will pay attention to them. But the lack of feedback reduces the fascination of the game, however, this is the privilege of the older Gamepad F710 model.

The gamepad is recognized by almost all games, well suited for FIFA, Dark Souls, Assassin's Creed, it performs well in fighting games like Mortal Kombat. F310 integrates with Steam, however, according to reviews, there are problems with working on Windows XP. The cord is noticeably thinner compared to previous models and at the same time its length is 1.5 m. Also included in the package is an instruction manual and a CD with software that allows you to assign operations to buttons.

Microsoft Xbox 360 Wireless Controller

This is the most recognizable and one of the most popular controllers for Xbox today, and is also compatible with PC. In his image and likeness, other manufacturers create their own models, trying to make their options better or, conversely, only get closer to the standard. And the controller gained its popularity thanks to very successful ergonomics and compatibility with all games both on consoles and on a computer.

There are two versions of this model — Xbox 360 Controller and Xbox 360 Wireless Controller, the difference between them is only in the connection method. We will consider the second, wireless, version. It is available in white, black or grey. You can also find limited editions in other colours. The shape of the device is streamlined, very comfortable and confidently fits in your hands, not trying to slip out during the hottest moments. The case is made of matte plastic with a smooth surface. On it, the user will find nine buttons, two sticks, two triggers and one cross-shaped multifunction key. All elements are arranged in such a way that during the game the fingers find them intuitively.

Up to 4 different devices can be connected to the gamepad receiver, making it easier to have a gaming party with the company. By the way, the controller is powered by two AA batteries, which on average last up to 35 hours of continuous play, and when the feedback function is activated, this time is reduced by 5-6 hours.

The gamepad does not have its own utility for assigning operations to keys. Instead, you can make an appointment directly from the games menu. You need to install only one driver from the included disk, after which the controller will be adequately recognized by applications that support the gamepad. In the Steam application, after the first connection, the service immediately offers to switch to Big Picture mode and there are no further problems. So, it performs well in many popular games, including FIFA, Gears of War, GTA IV, Trine. But fans of Left 4 Dead 2 and other very dynamic games may be slightly disappointed — according to reviews on the Web, the manipulator is not very convenient for them.

Logitech Wireless Gamepad F710 Price from 1 829 up to 3 495 ₴ →

The older model in the F-line of Logitech gamepads takes fifth place in our TOP-5. This is the most expensive controller on the list. However, knowing about the quality of other devices of the company, we can safely say that the developers have once again achieved a good combination of price and quality. Many gamers and experts, such as the editors of the PC Gamer portal, agree with this opinion.

The gamepad is made in almost the same design as the wireless Gamepad F310 model with a few differences. It has a more rigorous design and its body is slightly larger. Another difference in colour is blue for the younger model, and silver for the F710.

The body is made of good plastic, enclosed in a streamlined smooth shape, fits comfortably in the hands, but with prolonged use, the brushes still get a little tired. The back has a rubberized finish for a secure grip. There are 10 buttons on the surface, including the return, start, mode switch, vibration on and off keys, as well as an activity indicator, two sticks, two triggers and a cross-shaped key. Four ABXY keys are coloured, the rest are black. All of them have a rather tight move. The Logitech logo button brings up the Games For Windows Live menu in games.

The main feature of the F series is the support for DInput and XInput modes through a mechanical switch on the back to play old and new style games. In XInput mode, installation of drivers is not required; for DirectInput mode, you need to install proprietary software that comes on the disk in the kit. The manipulator works under Windows and Mac OS.

The gamepad is powered by two AA batteries. Under the battery cover on the device itself, there is also a small compartment for storing the receiver. The receiver itself does not have the Unifying function, like many Logitech wireless mice and keyboards, which means that it will not be possible to connect more than one device to it. It is perfectly supported by most modern games, in particular FIFA, Dirt 3, NFS Rivals, Wolfenstein The New Order, Rayman Legends, Watch Dogs. Although not everyone likes to use it for fast-paced games like Left For Dead 2 and Call of Duty, but overall it is one of the most successful products of this type.