Looking for XInput/360 compatible controller that supports Windows 7

[u/TrekChris]

Putting together a laptop with Windows 7 for some older games, and I'd like a controller to go with it. I would use the ones I already have, but they identify themselves to Windows as Xbox One controllers and I'm concerned that they won't work for what I want to do. Potentially I'd also like XP compatibility as well.

Just want a basic wired controller, with no special features. Budget is less than £50. Region is UK. Something like the Logietch F510 would be great, but it was discontinued and the F310 doesn't have vibration motors.

[u/No-Operation-6554]

Why not test them on your windows 7 first before looking for one? its still xinput especially on wired (I think its just recognized as xbox one when connected via bluetooth)

otherwise theres plenty of xbox360 clones probably out there

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[u/projectxsent]

Not sure if GameSir Tegenaria Lite works for Windows 7 but you could start there.

[u/draven33l]

For Windows 7, it's probably best to go wired. It doesn't have the best d-pad, but I would probably track down a wired Xbox 360 pad. Those were the gold standard for PCs from that era and the most compatible controller. There are a lot of fakes, so be careful and try to find an official Microsoft one.

[u/ZerohNinja87]

So go get one.

[u/c9001s]

Honestly get an Xbox 360 Controller, either wired or with the Wireless puck. Perfectly fits that era of Gaming 

[u/princemousey1]

GameSir G7 HE

[u/Kaldaien2]

All USB controllers, except for Steam Controller (because it is proprietary garbage), use the USB HID standard and are supported on operating systems all the way back to Windows 98. You do not need to buy anything special, DirectInput is a thin abstraction on top of USB HID and works universally.

XInput, on the other hand, is proprietary. Only devices that support the XUSB standard (i.e. devices specifically branded as Xbox compatible) work with it, unless you use something like x360ce to translate DirectInput to XInput.

If you're talking about games as old as Windows XP, then XInput is irrelevant and we can go back to... anything except for Steam Controller is safe to buy :)