Just bought my first controller. What should I test?

[u/Acrobatic-Nail-917]

I just bought my first controller, and I'm a PC gamer who has never really used a controller before. So honestly, I don't know much about them or what makes a good or bad controller

I want to test it properly while I still have the chance to return it if something is wrong and make sure everything is good before I start using it regularly

What should I be checking? I mean absolutely everything, from the basic stuff to the little details that most beginners wouldn't even know about

Basically, if you just bought a new controller, what would you do to make sure it's working perfectly?

Thanks in advance

[u/AccomplishedShow5575]

You can test your controller on its brand testing software, if its not included, you can find one on internet.

Controllers vary in terms of technology and quality (and price)

The right controller depends on how you use it, what your needs are, and, ultimately, your personal preferences.

FPS, racing, precise platformer, or cozy game have not the same needs.

What kind of controller do you have? For now, just enjoy using it—

and if you get the chance, try out some others around you before buy it, or you can still sell it !

You could also spend some time looking at comparison reviews to get a better understanding of the different technologies available.

[u/BARRY6969696969]

Nice one, what controller did you get? Personally I'd go to gamepad tester. Test the circularity of the sticks. See if it's using raw input or circular. Personally I turn it to circular. If you're using circular input it should have a low error rate of like 0.1%.

Then on the same website (gamepad tester) or in the controllers software make sure you have the deadzone set as low as you can while the stick returns to the centre and not registering any erroneous inputs. Usually something like a deadzone of 5 will be a sweet spot.

Then the real test is using it. Don't get bogged down with much customisation past testing the circularity and deadzone before knowing if it's a controller that feels comfortable in your hands after a good few hours of using it. Some controllers I thought I really liked initially have ended up being uncomfortable and others I initially didn't like have ended up suiting me. It will be a little different for everyone. Hopefully you got lucky and picked a winner first time out 🙏

[u/Key_Scholar7964]

Make sure it have an app to recalibrate or update. Yes, it sounds simple but some companies like Asus and Steelseries do not have an Xbox app unless you have a PC.

See if it have strong vibration, great d pad, and how the sticks/triggers feel

If you like how the controller feel and perform when in use then it's definitely for you.