I have a question(s) regarding the various types of game controllers.
I need a wireless controller which supports PC (Steam Linux mainly and maybe Windows someday). While searching online, I see various types
- xbox/ps5/switch controllers : These are for their respective consoles
- Mobile/PC controllers : These usually connect via wire/bluetooth/2.4 GHz
Source: https://www.gamesir.hk
However, I see in the product specifications page of the console controllers that they also support PC. And the PC controllers sometimes support some of the consoles. The only real difference between controllers, from a technology perspective, is that is some of them support bluetooth/2.4 GHz.
So I have two questions:
- If they are already cross-compatible, why even bother having different types?
- How should I decide which type of controller I should buy? It should support PC, console-support is not essential.
Note: I am a novice in game controllers but aware of different network stacks.
Edit: Thanks for the amazing response! These are my key takeaways from all the comments
- Hall-effect sensors are a must
- Default console controllers usually have stick drift
- If you need trackpad, take PS5
- 8bitdo is a reliable brand, as per multiple responses
- Most controllers have good support on Linux. But haptic feedback can be a hit/miss as it can be platform/game dependent
- There are various connectivity wireless standards. Dongles are the most reliable but you lose a USB port.
- Keep track of handsize/comfort and button layout
- PS controllers have excellent support on Linux/Steam
I would just go for a PS5 controller. You get type c charging, great haptics and good compatibility (either via Steam or ds4windows). Only issue is the stick drift
I didn't care too much about controllers until I used one of those. Fucking amazing controllers. I was playing Cyberpunk 2077 the other day on it and when driving you felt it shift gears on the R2. Fantastic use of the haptics.
Yeah the trigger haptics do not work on PC though, although it’s great on PS5.
Trigger haptics can work on PC but it is game by game/implementation by implementation. Returnal works when connected via USB but not wirelessly (unless you enable Steam Input for DualSense, but that completely removes haptic trigger capabilities, turns the touchpad into buttons, and switches to Xbox button glyphs), but Ratchet & Clank works wired or wirelessly (without Steam Input enabled for DualSense). The DualSense support on PC is kind of hit or miss, I wish they'd just standardize a library that offers the base features wirelessly -- the controller is really nice.
Yeah I use a DS5E and it's a really well engineered controller, and I've always preferred the DS ergonomics. Just gotta use DS4Windows tool for some games remapping. But basically really whatever design ergonomic you prefer and buy that, they all support Windows now even Switch Pro.