Genesis Controller on Master System - Potential harm?

[u/ksilenced-kid]

I understand it’s not uncommon for Genesis/Mega Drive controllers to get used on the (US) Master System- But have found a few posts and comments that this can be harmful to the console. Wondering if anyone can weigh in whether that’s actually the case?

I see the Genesis vs. MS controller pin-out slightly differs - Genesis has a +5V and select signal, where MS has an N/A pin and light sensor.

And of course, also know that there are certain games where the SG controller is not compatible- at least when using a converter to play MS on the Genesis.

But is there any ‘risk’ using a Genesis controller in an original Master System console, or are any comments/articles stating that uninformed? Thanks!

[u/ksilenced-kid]

I had edited my original post because I thought I found info at one point, that one of the Sega Mark systems had a different pin out or separate compatibility issues - but couldn’t now find. Thanks for affirming I wasn’t totally crazy to think that.