Best Gamepads & Joysticks in 2020

The virtual world is becoming more colorful and vivid every day, pulling inward to give an opportunity to relax and detach from everyday life. For a full-fledged gaming pastime, gamepads and joysticks play an important role, our rating of high-quality computer accessories will help you deal with manufacturers and choose the most suitable model.

Gamepads and joysticks are often confused, believing that they are synonymous with each other. What is the difference between a gamepad and a joystick? The gamepad is a boomerang-shaped game pad with buttons. The joystick, on the other hand, looks like a knob resting on a small platform with buttons and keys, so external differences will easily help you distinguish one device from another. Gamepads are perfect for a wide variety of games, but the joystick is chosen when playing "flight simulators" and space sagas. The gamepad is controlled, as a rule, with the help of two hands, while its "brother" only one.

Criterias of choice

Having decided to purchase a controller for games, you need to identify a number of criteria and build on them.

• First, decide for yourself which option is preferable: wired or wireless;
• Second, rely on the number of buttons;
• Thirdly, vibration feedback is needed or not;
• Fourth, the material of the device, rubberized inserts and the availability of spare parts;
• And fifth, the cost that you can afford to pay for the gadget.

Top manufacturers

Today the choice of game manipulators is huge, so it is not surprising that the abundance begins to ripple in the eyes, and the question pulsates in my head: "So which one is better to buy?" Below is a list of the top-selling brands that produce popular gadget models.

• Logitech. This Swiss manufacturer has proven itself well by producing quality models at reasonable prices. The brand itself is already a guarantee of reliability and a successful purchase.
• Sony. This well-known corporation broke into the gaming market for a long time and does not reduce its positions. Sony gamepads provide precise control and are suitable for consoles and PCs.
• Microsoft. This company makes amazing controllers that are compatible with a wide variety of games.
• Thrustmaster. The company recently broke into the gaming market, but has already managed to fall in love with its high-precision gamepads, which are sold out by the most advanced gamers.
• Sven. The products of this brand are quite budgetary, and the quality is at the proper level.

Gadgets from Razer, Trust, Valve are also popular.

Rating of the best gamepads and joysticks

Sony Dualshock4

Some gamers believe the Sony Dualshock4 is the best gamepad in the world. This controller is wireless and has vibration feedback. In the control there are 2 mini-joysticks, a motion detector is present, there is a D-pad, there are 10 buttons. In addition, a “Share” button has appeared, which allows you to save screenshots and videos. The gadget is powered by its own battery. The model has a touch panel, in standby mode it blinks orange.

The price is about 3200 rubles. dualshock 4 can be found on Aliexpress, but the options there are no longer from Sony, are wired and have different functionality.

Video review of the device:

• Fits perfectly in the hand;
• Decent build quality
• Backlit touch panel;
• The charge of energy lasts for a long time if you do not play all day long;
• Easy.

• Small sticks;
• Over time, the rubber bands on the sticks peel off.

Microsoft Xbox One Wireless Controller

The controller from Microsoft is considered one of the best wireless gamepads in China. The device can connect to both a computer and an Xbox One game console. Power supply from 2xAA batteries. The battery lasts for a decent amount of exciting battles, even with vibration feedback working. The functionality of the buttons has remained unchanged, on the body of the gadget there are offset sticks, 2 mini-joysticks and 11 buttons. The wireless communication range extends to 9 meters. Connection to a PC is via a wireless receiver or using a USB cable.

The price is about 3000 rubles.

Video review of the device:

• The assembly of the device is at the highest level;
• Mini-joysticks have high sensitivity;
• Comfortable, fits well in the hand;
• Automatic setting in games.

• Top buttons can be annoying with a click;
• Flimsy connector for microusb.

Logitech Gamepad F310

The Logitech Gamepad F310 is worthy of being the first in the Best Value for Money category. This wired PC gamepad has 2 mini joysticks and 10 standard buttons. D-pad is present. There is no feedback in this device, but this is not to be expected for such a budget price. There is support for Xinput and DirectInput modes, so the gamepad is compatible with most games.

The price is about 1400 rubles.

Gamepad review - in the video:

• Comfortable to hold in hand;
• Low price and decent build quality;
• Strong, can be called "not killable";
• Soft and smooth sticks.

• The wire has too soft insulation;
• Buttons may squeak;
• No vibration feedback.

Logitech Extreme 3D Pro

The Logitech Extreme 3D Pro is a wired joystick with advanced controls and a quality rotary knob. For a flight simulator, such a gadget will be the perfect help, as it will help to conduct accurate fire and be the first in close air combat. Control is carried out using 12 buttons and a rubberized handle. The number of individually adjustable axes is 4. The switch is equipped with 8 positions, which is great not only for training on a flight simulator, but also for video entertainment. Connection to a PC and other devices is via a USB connector.

You can buy it at a price of 2500 rubles.

• Easy customization;
• Convenient to play;
• Ample opportunities and number of buttons;
• Excellent spring resilience and excellent handling.

• Over time, backlash may appear;
• Resistors may make noise during long-term operation.

Logitech G29 Driving Force

The Logitech G29 Driving Force is a wired steering wheel for PC, PS4 and PS3. The controller has gas, brake and clutch pedals. Vibration feedback is present. The steering angle is 900. The design of the device looks very solid: a strong steering wheel, upholstered with high-quality leather and many buttons. The wheel belongs to the sporty type and looks similar to the steering wheel of the Audi R8.

The functionality of the gadget is amazing, there is a D-paddle, several blue switches instead of triggers, a standard four buttons, keys and a powerful 24-position wheel with a button located inside. The pedal block has unique travel characteristics. The pedals themselves are steel. The footrest is decent in size.

The average price is 19,000 rubles.

Professional steering wheel review:

• The build quality is excellent;
• The steering wheel has feedback;
• Compatible with PC, PS4, PS3;
• A large number of control buttons.

• High price;
• The gearbox needs to be purchased separately.

Microsoft Xbox 360 Controller for Windows

The Microsoft Xbox 360 Controller for Windows has no competitors among wired controllers; in the price segment, this device is also among the best. The controller is equipped with a cross, two mini-joysticks and 10 control buttons, vibration feedback is present. Compatible with PC and Xbox 360, USB connection. The cable is 3 meters long, it is soundly made, tight and well-attached to the case, so there is no need to worry about accidental breaks.

The average price is 2200 rubles.

Video feedback on using the gamepad:

• Fits comfortably in the hand;
• Ergonomic design and build quality;
• The control is clear and smooth;
• There are no driver issues.

• Sticks may creak;
• The crosspiece is not the most convenient;
• The plastic case gets dirty quickly.

Logitech Wireless Gamepad F710

Wireless controller Logitech Wireless Gamepad F710 looks very similar to its “brother” F310, but in fact it significantly surpasses it, as it contains the best developments of the company. The package includes the device itself, a nano receiver, a USB extension cable, two AA batteries, a CD with drivers and software, and, of course, the documentation is attached. The body of the device is made of matte plastic in black and silver colors. The main set of controls is located on the top panel, vibration feedback is available.

The price is about 2900 rubles.

Full review of the gamepad - in the video:

• Comfortable in using;
• Excellent vibration feedback;
• No wires;
• Low battery consumption;

There is an indication of the battery charge.

• Sticks and Shifts are not particularly sensitive;
• With active use, the elastic under the crosspiece may break.

Saitek x52 pro flight system

If you want to have a joystick for professional gamers, then you should pay attention to Saitek x52 pro flight system. This hi-end flight device will provide comfortable control. Key specifications include: 7 axes, built-in display, 19 buttons, motor control knob and 3 switches. Wired controller, USB connection to PC. The display shows detailed information about the state of the aircraft in the game, backlight option 3. This model has non-contact hall sensors, and thanks to the throttle control the engine is at the highest level.

The price is approximately 13,000 rubles.

Video review of the device:

• Spectacular design;
• High accuracy;
• You can customize the RUS;
• Built-in mouse simulator;
• Customizable backlight for display and buttons.

• RUS noticed a slight backlash;
• It is necessary to periodically clean the return mechanism (the joints of the bowls);
• Price.

Mad Catz C.T.R.L. R Mobile Gamepad for Android

If you need a gamepad for your phone, then Mad Catz C.T.R.L. R Mobile Gamepad for Android. The controller attracts attention with its striking design and already visually adjusts to thoughts about the game. Mad Catz C.T.R.L. The R Mobile Gamepad for Android is a wireless model and is suitable for both Android and PC. Controlled by 2 mini-joysticks, 15 buttons and a D-pad.

The sticks are equipped with special recesses for the fingertips and respond to vertical pressure. Power supply from 2xAAA, working time reaches 40 hours. When the device searches for a connection, the round logo key blinks, and once established, a blue light turns on. The build quality of the gadget is at the highest level, nothing dangles anywhere and there are no suspicious squeaks. The weight of the device is small, only 440 grams, so it is convenient to hold it in your hand.

The price is about 2700 rubles.

More details about gamepad - in the video:

• There is a multimedia panel;
• Two game modes;
• Lack of wires;
• There are sound control buttons;
• The buttons are perfectly pressed, without sticking.

• Not suitable for all games;
• The bluetooth adapter will have to be purchased separately;
• Rigid crosspiece.

Valve Steam Controller

If you are an ardent fan of the exciting world of Steam, then for sure you want to get the Valve Steam Controller. The gamepad is made of matte plastic, which is very pleasant to the touch.There are miniature glossy inserts along the body, large handles perfectly adapt to the outlines of the palms, thanks to which the device fits perfectly in the hand and does not fatigue at all during the game process.

The package includes a 1.5-meter cable, two batteries, an additional adapter and a USB dongle. The model is wireless, but at the first connection, the connection is made using a cable or, so to speak, through the "air" from a PC. To manipulate the controller settings, you will have to download the Steam client. In management 1 mini-joystick, 2 trackpads, 2 auxiliary "petals".

In addition, there is a motion detector and a D-pad. When there is vibration from the trackpads, it feels like you are touching a rough surface with your fingers, as if there is a slight crackle. A nice bonus for Steam fans is that you can customize the panel sensor and controls for absolutely any game. The gamepad is powered by a 2xAA battery, which lasts for 40 hours or more.

The price is about 4400 rubles.

Video feedback on using the controller:

• Presence of settings for each game;
• No stick dead zone;
• Precise trackpads and gyroscope
• If the batteries run out, you can play with the wire.

• You need to get used to and make management for yourself;
• There is not enough charging station;
• Not every gamer can afford the price.

Thrustmaster GPX LightBack Ferrari F1 Edition

The Thrustmaster GPX LightBack Ferrari F1 Edition looks similar to the Xbox 360 controllers, but features important innovations and some features. In the center of the panel are the menu buttons, the "back" and "start" keys. The analog sticks at the top light up when you press the triggers.

The backlight functions in conjunction with vibration and, thus, the player visually receives alerts about certain actions. If the lighting gets in the way, then it is easily turned off. To connect the gamepad to a console or computer, you need to use a USB adapter. The Thrustmaster GPX LightBack Ferrari F1 Edition is the perfect gift for the racing simulator and is suitable for almost any game.

The price is about 3000 rubles.

• Sticks are highlighted;
• The quality of materials is excellent;
• Attractive appearance;
• Fits perfectly in the hand.

• Weak scrolling movements;
• After a while, the sticks begin to creak.

Conclusion

Choosing a quality gamepad is important for a gamer of any level. For some, wireless manipulators will be the best models, but you should know that everything depends on a combination of different nuances: hand size, operating system, gaming preferences, virtual skills, etc. A flawless controller should fit well in your hand, be comfortable in weight, not slip in sweaty palms and have the necessary button functionality. And an important factor is the alignment with the device you will be playing on.

A successful purchase of a gaming gadget will provide you with countless hours of pleasure, when diving into a virtual outlet, you can feel capable of any adventure and action. The modern market for gamepads and joysticks provides a wide choice for every taste, wallet or need, the main thing is to identify the right selection criteria for yourself so that the purchased item will serve for many years.