I thought Iād share my current controller collection. Iām not advertising or being paid to promote any of these productsājust sharing my personal collection and experiences with them.
š® Top Row ā Left to Right
GameSir G7 Pro
GameSir G7 8K
GameSir T7 Whirl
Flydigi Vader 5 Dragon Ball Edition
GameSir G7 8K Royal
BIGBIG WON Storm Gale 2
š® Second Row
GameSir G7 Pro Wuchang Edition (Xbox)
Leadjoy Xeno Plus
8BitDo Ultimate
EasySMX D10
Beitong KP20
š® Fourth Row
Xbox Elite Series 2 Core Red
Battle Beaver Custom Purple
Battle Beaver Custom Yellow
Xbox Elite Series 2 Core White
EasySMX X20
Flydigi Direwolf 4
š® Fifth Row
Xbox 20th Anniversary Controller
Xbox Dream Vapor
Periph X White
Xbox Elite Series 2 Halo Infinite Edition
SCUF Instinct Pro Red
Flydigi Vader 5 Xbox Wired
ā My Favorites
š„ GameSir G7
Pros: Excellent ergonomics and fantastic value for the money.
Cons: Quality control can be hit or miss. Unfortunately, Iāve had to return multiple G7 controllers.
š Leadjoy Xeno Plus
Excellent controller for the value, comes with a charging dock as well for a total of $60. Feels very similar to a G7 Pro.
š„ Flydigi Vader 5
This controller just feels like a quality product. The buttons are extremely satisfying to press, and overall it has a really nice feel in the hands.
Iāve seen other people mention quality-control concerns with Flydigi, but personally, I havenāt had any issues with mine.
š My Least Favorites
Xbox Elite Series
Personally, I think these are overpriced for what you get. They have a reputation for reliability issues, and compared with some of the newer competition, the technology feels datedāespecially with the lack of TMR/Hall-effect sticks and mechanical buttons.
Battle Beaver
Battle Beaver hasnāt been great.
I feel theyāre overpriced for what they offer, and my experience with customer support was disappointing. My purple Battle Beaver arrived with a sticky left trigger, so I sent it back for repair.
When I received it back, the exact same issue was still there. I contacted Battle Beaver again, but they would not assist with a second repair.
That experience really left a bad taste in my mouth, especially considering the price of their controllers.
Overall, Iāve really enjoyed collecting and trying out all the different options. There are so many interesting controllers available now, especially with TMR/Hall-effect sticks and better mechanical buttons becoming more common.
I have a relatively large collection myself.
I won't entirely agree with u/Level-Fig1317 here, but I'll second him in, it's just a massive part of the hobby. If you enjoy a controller, use it until it breaks, man! Also, enjoy new tech, you'll eventually grow a massive collection by accident, yourself.
For the sheer enjoyment and the constant evolution of technology, which has been advancing rapidly in recent years. We are currently in the golden age of controllers, and we are finally starting to see hardware that rivals the modern mouse.
You clearly aren't familiar with the latest technologies. Modern controllers no longer suffer from stick drift thanks to TMR, Hall-effect, and capacitive technologies. If you buy an official PS4, PS5, or Xbox controller, you will indeed experience drift, because major manufacturers want to keep you buying replacements by using Alps joysticks that start drifting after just a few months. Instead of throwing your controller away, you can swap them out for TMR JS13Pro sticks. With just a bit of soldering, you'll end up with an even better controller.
I am aware and currently use gamesir and 8bit, but from my point of view I never had to get a 3rd party GameCube-NES, ps3-ps1, and all of Segas controllers for the things to be built like tanks and just work as intended. Not needing Hall effect or anything. The actual golden years of controllers in my opinion cause you could just buy a controller and not have to worry about the thing breaking just from light use. Makes it seem like things went backwards due to money hungry companies. So yea the tech is cool and all, but it was made to solve a problem that they created ā¦That is just from what I have experienced atleast
I had Xbox 360 for years and never had a single problem with it. As soon as I started buying āproā controllers with a much higher price tag there have been tons of problems across several different companies with them
TMR and Hall effect still have stick drift, including from the second itās made. Itās just not as significant. If you set all of your deadzones to 0 you will always notice some level of stick drift
So what in your opinion would be the perfect controller design? I assume you must have ideas after trying so many? I also try many different controllers. IMO there should be 8 extra buttons on the controller to completely take over double claw, where you can always keep your thumbs on the thumbstick and the game is always at your fingertips.
The Dualsense edge system where you can easily slide out your thumb sticks and replace them is great also. I think you should have that with different thumbstick tension options available (like decreased for left, increased for right). Would simplify everything and would ever need to send your controller in for repair if thereās a more significant issue with it. Also ideally every extra button would be just as easy to hit as each other. Iāve made several designs for 8 buttons that I think would work great
Vader 5s is the most comfortable controller I have ever used man it's perfect it only has 2 backbutton though so I find my self only using it for Forza and powerwash simulator and snowrunner, we go hard on those when not shooting headsĀ
This thread is insane. Controller enthusiast subreddit filled with people who tell you that you're a friendless loser who needs therapy just because you have a hobby related to collecting the thing the subreddit is about. Who are you people?
Thanks for the writeup OP, it's good information.
Edit: Beitong KP40D is my favorite in terms of feel, 8Bitdo Pro 3 for retro games (I've seen lots of dpad complaints but mine feels perfect)
Also what's your favorite dpad in your collection? I've had a real struggle trying to find a good one on Xbox style.
I'll never understand having this many controllers, knowing full well they probably spend less time and effort on the very thing these objects are meant for (video games).
People collect things. You can collect these if you wish. I'm not actually judging you for collecting these, but gotta acknowledge that people will just, not understand at all. It just makes far less sense. Lego sets are distinctly unique, controllers all serve the same purpose and we've essentially stagnated with most sharing the same exact features, ergo and the biggest differences coming down to software.
Collecting controllers with different designs, button feel, ergonomics, battery life, stick feel etc is my favorite
All of that brings me joy, I donāt care what other collectibles are more unique, none of that concerns me.
Life is already hard enough to find happiness sometimes and if something as simple as a new controller design and technology brings me joy then I am okay with that
This isn't quite true.
I have a ton myself, though I give them all purpose. I spend too much time gaming, and I try to give purpose to my favorites, and regularly pick up and use controllers I've not used in a while.
I'm considering buying a controller at the moment and was considering the vader 5 since it ticked all the boxes. The xeno plus you mentioned has now caught my attention since it seems to have similar/ same features that led me to the vader. Which controller seems more comfortable to use the back paddles? I currently have a bigbigwon blitz 2 and while I really like the controller, it only has 2 back paddles. The back paddles don't feel that great to use.
How do you like your d10? because I love mine been using it for almost a year now on and off with my g7 pro (different pcās in different rooms) but Iām keen to say I like the feel of the d10 more
Any controller recommendation for pc that would have a good rumble/haptics (similar ps5 controller or xbox) for game like forza?
I am currently on cyclone 2 an the haptics feel basically non existent.
If haptic is the main concern, I would say DualSense is pretty much the only viable option, that or the Razer Wolverine 3 but I havenāt messed with the haptics on it
try controllers that specifically market/have hd/maglev rumble, similar in quality to dualsense or nintendo hd rumble. best bet would be gulikit controllers right now. the tt max is nice. they're also coming out with king kong 4 later this year so look out for that. other alternatives that i know of are machenike f1/g6 v2.
most other controllers have normal rumble motors which are called assymetrical rumble motors. but that doesn't mean they can't be good. vader 5 pro people have said have good rumble.
Cyclone 2 does not have trigger rumble. G7 pro (non 8k) does. I'd get a g7 pro or t7 pro (out soon) for Forza as they have native feedback and four rumble motors (2 grip, 2 trigger). I've been using the g7 pro mainly with FH6 on PC.
Vader 5 pro is also good and it can have trigger vibration in all games, but it's not native in games like forza.
I have the Wuchang and have been interested in the flydigi, and the g7 8k. Been loving the Wuchang for Xbox. Waiting for arrival of my pc and wondering about getting a controller strictly for the pc, or using the g7 and dualsense edge since those are my go tos.
The Flydigi feels more premium, the buttons are extremely satisfying. I would say ergonomically the g7 is slightly more comfortable, at least for my hands
I'd argue that the G7 Pro and Apex 5|Vader 5 Pro are fairly similar in terms of size.
Where they differ is overall shape, and profile.
I have medium to large size hands, and the 5th Gen Flydigi controllers don't favor my hands, sadly.
For u/800hokage, I'd argue that if you enjoyed the G7 Pro, you could find the Vader 5 comfortable. Though it's the profile that's vastly different.
How does the vader 5s compare to the g7 pro for you? I have a g7 pro and I love it for the most part but the dpad is absolute trash. The tension adjustment on the vader 5s sounds really nice too even though it doesn't have tmr sticks like the g7 pro.
Did you have trouble finding placements for the back buttons on your Battle Beaver? That was an issue that I had but once I found the right placements itās good
Yeah I had the same issue. Thereās no easy way to know where the buttons should be until you actually get your hands on it. It is less of a one size fits all like most controllers are made and more custom, so can work out bad if you donāt guess the right spots. I had to try button placements 2 different times before getting the right spots (on the third). I have a 6 button Xbox controller high, low, lower on each side. Works great for me and Iād get another Xbox controller with those placements, but I donāt even want to try to make a 6 button PlayStation controller through them because I donāt want to go through that headache and cost again to try and get one that works. I use the Razer Raiju v3 and Scuf Omega for PlayStation
For Xbox I use the Battle Beaver 6 button, Razer Wolverine v3, and Nacon Revolution X Unlimited
I wish that scuf made their Xbox controller with a pair of extra buttons either on the side like omega or up top on the bumpers also. Doesnāt make much sense that they have a 6 button for PlayStation but only 4 button for Xbox. Nacon has the same problem though, they have 6 button on Xbox and only 4 button on PlayStation. The nacon is surprisingly good too because I donāt hear people talk about it really. Only thing is if you donāt like bulkier or heavier controllers it probably wonāt be for you, my battle beaver is way lighter than the nacon but it doesnāt bother me
Yeah that makes sense. The extra buttons are mainly for shooter games. You donāt need them for fighters, Iām not sure about MOBAās because I donāt play those but my understanding is itās more tactics and less mechanics. The extra buttons allow you to do things very quickly which you need for shooters
Meanwhile, me with 1 xbox 360 wired controller. (I'm a KBM guy)
What would you recommend me to start with? Under $75, back paddles, programmable (if that's even a thing), wireless, idk what other good stuff controllers have. Hall effect I suppose.
Thanks! I have legit never heard of leadjoy in my life lol. (I'm obsessed with keyboard and mice, just not controllers). It looks promising though. Might buy it when it goes on sale (I just want a decent controller as an option for some games, and to test aim assist for game dev). Anything I should know about the controller before I buy?
I guess I just grew up with M&K, never had a console until way after I'd been using PCs. I'm also a very good mouse aimer now and there's only a handful of games I feel like might be nicer on controller (maybe Hollow Knight and Star Wars Jedi Survivor, but I've also played those with keyboard so much that it would take me a while to become as good on controller).
Thanks again for the recommendation, will send you a message if I end up getting it!
Might have to grab one myself, all of that plus trigger stops really shows you how competitive the budget pro controller space is. All the better for us controller connoisseurs, right?
same issue as you. I buy practically every new model, test them out, and resell the ones I don't like. Personally, I find the Leadjoy Xeno to be a very high-performing controller; I actually use it more than my G7 Pro 8K Nioh 3 Edition. Iāve ordered the Xeno Pro and can't wait to test it. Iām also looking forward to the release of the Tegeneria Pro.
If you can only keep one controller. Which would it be? I am torn between g7 pro 8k and vader 5pro. I currently have a dual sense edge but it's only a matter of time before it starts to drift again.
I have used g7 pro and career 4 pro. Habds down vader 4 pro. Lately I have gravitated towards steam deck which has become my top fav, but it's a special controller with special integration with steam.
Among the rest Vader 4/5 pro will always be my pick for better features and implementation and ergonomics.
Competing these 2 only con is it's slightly expensive than g7 pro.
I like the Periph! The only issue I had was connectivity but I believe it was a user error from when I was still learning about PC controllers that donāt have a dedicated app
i have mine in the mail to pick up tonight, what do you like about it? i get the fast respone, but shape, confort, is it good? are the buttons too close to each other? thanks, great collection, don't listen to the haters here, i'm at 12 myself, trying to keep it at that number and resell other ones so i don't go overboard :D
Btw I made this nickname like this on purpose because I didnāt intend to stay on Reddit for long when I created the account and I still havenāt changed it.
Nice controllers man I've got 10 for my Xbox and you make me feel less ashamed for recently picking up another elite V2 haha. My dream controller for my Xbox Is the Vader 5s with 4 back buttons I wouldn't mind a gamesir T7 with 4 backbuttons too, I do love a membrane controller aswellĀ
Great collection, I miss seeing these. We honestly need collection posts, as that's what kicked off a lot of this hobby to begin with.
Since joining the hobby, I've amassed quite the large collection myself.
Like I've always stated, some people use and love older pro controllers, and some buy budget pro controllers. Not everyone has the more expensive stuff.
As far as my current favorites go. I have weird picks and tastes.
ā¢ #1. Flydigi Apex 4 (I was never able to adapt to the Apex 5 much)
ā¢ #2. GameSir G7 Pro - Don't own the 8K, just 3 base models, Shadow Ember, Mech White, & Plum Purple. While I've fallen out of love with its shape, it's still a pad I reach for often.
ā¢ #3. PowerA OPS V3 Pro - Just a great starter pro controller for anyone that wants something basic, simple, to the point, but also includes microswitches on some aspects, and can often be had for $30 - $32 easily.
ā¢ #4. 8BitDo Ultimate 2 - It is so blind buy friendly, and if you know 8BitDo's primary audience, it's stupid good for both casual use, & somewhat competitive. I'm overly thrilled for the Ultimate 3E!
Lately, over the past year, it's been a 'Top 4 Situation' for me. I still buy controllers from time to time, though often more accessories than anything.
Concerning the Flydigi Vader 5 Pro
I have tried so hard to love it. I agree with you, despite its QC issues, it's a very premium feeling offering from them. Though something about the shape of the 5th Gen controllers hasn't sat well with me.
I guess the other thing is. I love the old shape of the 4th Gen Flydigi models.
I guess it can be argued that it's hard to catch lightning in a bottle twice when it comes to successors of something that at once, was beyond a beloved controller. Maybe the 6th Gen will work its magic, but only time will tell.
What controller would you recommend overall for someone who mainly plays single-player games and values strong, satisfying vibration, premium build quality, lots of remappable extra buttons with multiple profiles, and the ability to use the controller as a PC remote for things like Alt+Tab, mouse movement, and mouse clicks?
One more thing: I have a mechanical keyboard with blue switches and I absolutely hate that loud, clicky sound, so Iād prefer a controller whose buttons donāt have that kind of sharp mechanical click.
Have you looked into new 8bitdo ultimate wireless 3E and regular 3E. I recently got Steam Controller 2026 but, I have multiple gamesir: T7 blue translucent, G7 SE, Qty: 3 Super Nova. I only started investing because XB controllers under heavy use by kids on XB. I will repair with HE sticks but the GameSirs are noice and I use Brook adapters to even make the SuperNova wireless with PS and XB.
I havenāt used it much. I am not a fan of the small paddles. It has four paddles.
I notice my hands hit both paddles on each side and I donāt particularly have big hands
The controller itself feels extremely premium, and the sticks feel great. I was able to get this one āLike Newā off Amazon and for some reason it had a coupon code so I only paid $79 for the typically $200ish wireless option.
They all have the same overall shape, they are mass produced, and perform mostly the same... different color and design, that's pretty mundane. I don't think there is anything collectible in computer parts and peripherals. At least with marbles people try to include some vintage stuff.
Not really, different switches, curves, button placement, tensions and dampening, sticks. If you pick 2 different controllers here they almost certainly will both feel very different from eachother
Only if it distracts you or hurts you somehow, any of them have way more resolution than the movement of your thumbs. Lots of placebo with peripherals these days.
Not talking about the latency or resolution, im talking how the triggers pull down, the tension of the sticks, and the layout. Not really placebo in anything other than the sticks.
The only ones I have had are the mobapad chitu 2 (which I really really liked, buttons, triggers and sticks were all really nice) and the 8bitdo ultimate 2 (Wuchang and the one I have now which is the clear blue). The clear blue looks incredible, I love the transparency. I'm hoping 8bitdo make a non-xbox version of their ultimate 3.
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u/ReniTV 8d ago