TOP 10 best gamepads

All modern game consoles come with wired or wireless joysticks or gamepads. With their help, the player is able to control the character: carry out its movement, attack opponents, hide from them and so on. Until recently, such devices were not used very often on personal computers - here all the main control was carried out using the keyboard and mouse. However, just a few years ago, the situation changed radically. The fact is that using a gamepad is much more convenient compared to a keyboard, since all the function keys are directly at hand. Accordingly, you do not have to fumble with your fingers on the keyboard in search of the desired button.

In fact, a joystick and a gamepad are different concepts. The first is a special hinged type handle that can move in various planes. There are one or two buttons on the platform. The gamepad looks like a full-fledged control panel with several manipulators and a large set of buttons. You have to hold it with two hands, control the character with the help of large, in some cases, index and middle fingers.

Today, a large selection of various models is presented in computer equipment stores. In this assortment you can get confused very easily. To prevent this from happening to you, we decided to devote our today's article to the analysis of the characteristics of such products. However, before proceeding with a direct review of the models, let's carefully understand what a gamepad is, what these products are, and so on. Perhaps, we will begin with this.

What do you pay attention to when buying a gamepad?

Each of the varieties of manipulators that can be found today in sales is designed for a certain type of games, where they will be most convenient and efficient to use. All such devices are divided into three main types: the joysticks themselves, gamepads and steering wheels. At the same time, gamepads are wired and wireless. The joystick is most convenient in a wide variety of simulators - airplanes, helicopters and when controlling any other similar equipment. On the joystick handle there is usually a set of buttons, each of which performs certain functions - it directs at a target, fires a shot and so on. By tilting the joystick back and forth, you can move the object on the screen.

Gamepads are effective in shooters, various platform games, fights and other similar games. They have a lot more buttons than joysticks. At the same time, by clicking on the buttons in a certain sequence, you can significantly expand the arsenal. At the same time, the gamepad often contains the functions of a joystick. This is represented by levers located directly on the device. They can be rotated in two planes. As a rule, they are convenient to use when hovering over a target or while controlling the movement of the main character of the game.

The steering wheel is most suitable in racing simulators. It looks like a classic steering wheel, complete with pedals, a lever for shifting gears, and a number of control buttons on the main part.Most modern models are equipped with a feedback function, that is, when cars collide in the game, vibration occurs at the helm, which is transmitted to the player. This allows you to further immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the game.

A traditional gamepad is connected to a personal computer using a USB connector, but there are more and more wireless models on sale. They have a built-in battery, and the range reaches 10-12 meters. When choosing such a device, you should check whether it is universal. In this case, it can be used not only on a computer or laptop, but also on various game consoles. The more buttons and analog sticks there are, the more functions a similar device can perform, however, it will take a long time to get used to the correct use of this product.

The presence of feedback allows you to dive even deeper into the gameplay. If the main character during the battle receives damage, collides with an obstacle, and so on - all such events are transmitted to the gamepad through vibration. It is very important to check what material the device case is made of, as this directly affects the usability of such equipment. Of course, they look at the cost of production, since the spread in terms of price is quite significant.

When compiling our ranking of the best gamepads of 2019, we took into account all these points, but we were more focused on the feedback of users who have already managed to test one or another model in practice. The price-quality ratio of the device was not spared, so too expensive products did not fall into our review. So, let's now look at the capabilities and characteristics of each of the models that make up our today's rating.

Joysticks

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

This model is an organically integrated system designed to control flights, which includes not only the joystick itself, but also the engine control lever. The main goal of the developers was to fully satisfy all the requirements of the most sophisticated players, who prefer aeronautical and space simulators. A multifunctional liquid crystal display is provided on the surface of the housing, which displays all the basic data in real time. The centering mechanism is equipped with two springs of medium stiffness. The joystick cup is made of high quality and carefully polished metal. All the main buttons have LED backlighting, so the device is very convenient to use even in the dark. The liquid crystal display has an adjustable brightness level.

The engine control lever has a progressive stroke, if necessary, the tension can be adjusted. Thanks to this feature, it is possible to provide a high degree of aircraft response. The presence of special position locks makes idling easier, using them also facilitates the use of afterburner and reverse thrust. Using the special software included in the kit, you can set the functions of each button for specific games. This will provide the most accurate control of all seven axes. There are 19 programmable buttons on the joystick surface, and each of them has its own backlight option.

Benefits:

• Excellent ergonomics
• It fits perfectly in the hand;
• It is possible to configure a large number of teams;
• Made of high-quality plastic coated soft-touch - does not slip out of hand;
• There is an LED backlight for each button.

Disadvantages:

• A bit confusing software that is not so easy to understand;
• A plastic plate is located under one of the springs, which can creak a little, but this does not affect the functionality of the product.

2. Thrustmaster T.16000M

The main convenience of this joystick is that it does not have to install any kind of driver. It is enough to connect it to a laptop or computer via a USB connector, after which it can be used. The design is quite standard for joysticks, but there are a number of some features. First of all, the trigger will be striking, which is significantly protruding forward, in addition, the species switch is located on the top of the joystick, which is quite convenient. The trigger lever fits perfectly under the finger, it can be used as a similar tool in other joysticks. The product fits very comfortably in your hand.

It should be noted that no buttons are provided on the handle itself, however, a large number of them are located to the left and to the right of it. Their location is very convenient. The design has an ergonomic shape, on the handle there are lining made of pleasant to the touch rubber, which will not allow the hand to slide off the device. The movement up and down the handle is quite smooth, so controlling the aircraft with the help of such a joystick will be very simple. The model is universal in that it is perfect for both the right and left hand. For this, a number of mechanisms are used: a shifting base, as well as several movable pads. You do not have to configure the joystick - it is already pre-programmed.

Benefits:

• Excellent accuracy, which is very important when performing various maneuvers;
• Reasonable cost;
• Long period of operation;
• Attractive appearance.

Disadvantages:

• The spring force cannot be adjusted.

1. Logitech Extreme 3D Pro

The best among the classic joysticks of this year. It features a fairly strict and modern appearance. Despite the fact that the case is made of plastic, the device looks representative and strict. On the handle of the product there are four buttons and a hut with eight positions. Under the index finger there is a button that opens fire, under the big one there is a button for secondary fire. At the base of the manipulator there is a throttle lever and six additional buttons at once. The design has a weighted stand that does not allow the joystick to slide on the surface, for the same purpose there are four rubberized legs.

The manipulator is connected to a personal computer via a USB connector. Drivers will not have to be installed if an operating system such as Windows or MacOS is installed on the device. However, software is still available. The manufacturer has released a special application that allows you to adjust the functionality of the buttons directly for the player. If necessary, the game profile can be printed so as not to forget which key performs which function. The structure of the joystick is asymmetric, so you can use it with both hands: hold the handle with the right, and the left is used to press the buttons on the side. An additional keyboard when using such a product is not needed. The handle itself is very comfortable, fits organically into the hand and does not slip out of it. Sensitivity is moderate, but not too soft. If necessary, the joystick can be calibrated through the control panel of the operating system. Extra power is also not required. The cable length is 2 meters - enough for a comfortable game.

Benefits:

• The equipment is characterized by excellent stability on all surfaces;
• A decent amount of functional custom buttons;
• The device does not need to install special drivers;
• Attractive appearance.

Disadvantages:

• The only drawback is the inability to configure equipment to control the left-hander.

The best wired gamepads

3. 3Cott GP-01

This model is one of the most affordable in terms of price. The design is distinguished by its classic form, which almost completely repeats the device of the DualShock 3 brand, known to almost all gamers.About the same thing can be noted about the location of all the main elements, the exception in this case is the Analog button. The designations of the buttons have undergone changes - if in the classic version of the joystick geometric figures are applied there, then here are the numbers. Judging by the reviews, the build quality for its price is high on this joystick. The design is made of high-quality plastic with a special velvety coating, which allows the product not to slip out of the palms, even during the hottest battles.

At first, the plastic has a rather sharp odor, but later it disappears. It is connected to a personal computer via a USB connector. The performance is excellent - both when the buttons are pressed and the sticks are rejected, the gamepad works instantly. However, there are certain difficulties - the functions of the buttons will have to be assigned manually, otherwise the system simply will not perceive this device. The manufacturer recommends downloading a special program from the official website, thanks to which it can be done.

Benefits:

• Attractive cost;
• There are 14 buttons on the surface of the device;
• A rather interesting LED backlight is provided.

Disadvantages:

• The protrusions for the hands could be made a little longer.

2. Defender Game Racer Turbo

This model differs from similar products in a minimalistic design. The shape is quite simple, overall dimensions are small. There are no frills or decorations on the case, so it looks quite serious. The design is made of high quality soft-touch coated plastic. All lines are smooth, which gives the product a certain severity and style. According to its shape, the gamepad resembles a similar device for Sony Playstation 2. The product fits perfectly even in large palms, all keys can be reached with ease. The mass of the product is also not very large, a vibration mechanism is provided that provides a backward response, which is why the design is slightly heavier. However, as users note, this does not spoil the product, but allows you to feel it better in your hands.

Directly under the fingers of the left hand is the left analog stick, which is not a cross, but a curly button. The shape is very comfortable, you get used to it quickly enough. Diagonal directions are provided here, however, using them is problematic - you have to adapt to the joystick to press them the first time. Under the right hand are the control buttons and another analog joystick. All keys are made of high-quality plastic, operate clearly and are located very conveniently. In the central part, you can find two small rubber buttons - Turbo and Slow. They are not used very often, so they are removed from the fingers.

Benefits:

• Reasonable cost - much lower in comparison with analogs for consoles;
• Decent functionality;
• A vibration mechanism is provided;
• Matte non-slip surface.

Disadvantages:

• On the sticks, the fingers slip a little, and besides, they get a little dirty during the game;
• Unfortunately, the gamepad is not compatible with some games.

1. Logitech Gamepad F310

The design is symmetrical in shape, just like the previous model, very similar to the Sony PlayStation's gamepad device. You can get used to such a joystick literally within a couple of days. All the main buttons are located on the right side, outwardly their location is the same as that of the Xbox. They are brighter and more intuitive. The symbols on these buttons are cut out from the inside, so there is no need to fear that they will be erased over time. The top surface is absolutely smooth, which facilitates their use. The crosspiece is eight-position - the optimum value was selected, which is distinguished by excellent functionality, moreover, this manipulator is very convenient to use. Above the case, it stands quite high, which gives even more convenience.

In the central part of the joystick, you can find a classic set of buttons.They are also plastic, they are pressed easily, they work very quickly. The vibration mechanism is disabled here if necessary - a special button is provided for this. There are two convenient sticks, with the left one designed to control the character’s movement, and the right one is responsible for the position of the camera. Their stroke is quite smooth and soft, but at the same time they are distinguished by excellent accuracy. As in most gamepads, under the sticks there are hidden buttons that will work when you click on it. Accidental operation of such buttons is almost completely excluded. The sticks themselves are made from textured plastic that is non-slip.

Benefits:

• Very convenient and functional device;
• It is made on the basis of high-quality plastic with a non-slip coating;
• Rubberized sticks;
• Two operating modes;
• It has an inexpensive cost.

Disadvantages:

• The case is somewhat easily soiled, otherwise no defects were noticed.

The best wireless gamepads

3. Valve Steam Controller

The case is almost completely made of high-quality black plastic with a matte finish, but there are also glossy inserts that will easily get dirty. At the top of the product has a micro-USB connector, which allows you to use it even in wired mode. This model works on finger batteries, which will have to be purchased separately. You will not need a charger, since the joystick is connected to the network via ordinary telephone charging. Pretty simple Duracell batteries are supplied with the device, but their resource should be enough for about a couple of weeks. The signal receiver, connected directly to a personal computer, will not interfere with other devices, in addition, it practically does not stick out. The signal is stable, reliably kept within a very spacious room. There are no buttons on the receiver itself.

The front side of this model in appearance is very similar to the Xbox, however, the button block and left stick are slightly shifted down. The crosspiece and the replacement of the right stick are raised. The functionality of the cross is unique - it, in addition to mechanical pressing, can be used as a sensor. The same can be said about the right stick, which has been replaced by a touch surface, which is somewhat reminiscent of the touchpad in a laptop. Vibration feedback responsive to touch is provided at the surface. The keys of the triggers and bumpers are quite noisy, if necessary, they can be configured to perform various functions. To take full advantage of all the functions of this equipment, you should install the Steam client on your personal computer. The software interface is very convenient and intuitive.

Benefits:

• Excellent value for money model;
• It fits comfortably in the hand, does not slip out of the palms;
• Easy to configure for use in any games.

Disadvantages:

• Some users may find the button layout uncomfortable.

2. Logitech Wireless Gamepad F710

It is a high-quality and durable construction, which will surely be to the liking of most computer game lovers. The appearance of the device is very attractive, the case is made of reliable matte plastic, painted in silver or black. The model has rubberized surfaces - the bottom panel and part of the side faces. The assembly is of high quality, there is not the slightest hint of backlash or extraneous sounds even during regular and prolonged use. All main controls are located on the front of the device. On the left you can see an eight-position digital cross, under the fingers of the right hand there are control keys with letter designations.All control elements are characterized by a smooth ride.

Between these blocks are programmable joysticks, return, game start keys, there is a button to enable or disable vibration, an activity indicator. The device is perfectly compatible with any operating systems of the Windows platform, especially if they are 64-bit type. This equipment operates using a special wireless module that connects to a computer. The system automatically installs drivers and recognizes the model itself. The signal is clear and stable, there were no delays during actions.

Benefits:

• Very reliable assembly, which is able to withstand significant loads, including quite strong impacts;
• Extremely comfortable and functional crosspiece;
• Excellent support for obsolete games;
• Reliable signal even at fairly large distances;
• No need to install drivers.

Disadvantages:

• Unfortunately, the batteries run out quite quickly with regular use.

1. Microsoft Xbox One Wireless Controller

This flagship gamepad is rightfully in the lead in its segment of the best gamepads. Ergonomics is worked out as carefully as possible, the product is given a very interesting and original appearance. The button functionality here has not changed a bit. Still on the surface of this device you can find sticks displaced relative to each other, and with the left, it was decided to swap the cross. The design is made on the basis of high-quality plastic with a velvety soft-touch coating, which ensures a rather long product life. The joystick will not slip out of the hands, there are no fingerprints and traces of dust on it.

On the surface of the product, you can immediately see 11 buttons, each of which has a smooth press and move. It is worth noting that this controller is a universal product, that is, it can be connected both to the console and to the personal computer itself. The battery is built-in, its full charge lasts for a fairly long time, even if the vibration mode is turned on in the design. Unfortunately, the receiver and spare battery are not provided with this device, which is why popularity among computer game lovers is slightly lower than it could be.

Benefits:

• The model is very convenient to use;
• The highest quality of construction;
• Universal gamepad - used both when connected to a computer and to a game console;
• The original arrangement of buttons and other controllers;
• The assembly is reliable, able to withstand significant physical stress.

Disadvantages:

• Except for the high price was not found.

In conclusion, a useful video

Here is our review and is nearing completion. We tried to collect the maximum of useful information for each model, so that you can easily determine which design will be most suitable for you. If you have any specific questions - ask them in the comments to the article, we will try to resolve them as soon as possible.

(1 ratings, average: 5,00 out of 5)

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