I have a Razer wolverine V2 that I like quite a lot. But it’s not perfect though… I’m wondering what everyone else likes to use.
A mouse
Xbox 360 controllers are by far the controller that feels most familiar in my hand since it’s what I played the most on console growing up. The peripherals to use them are often a bit janky but they are still my favourites.
The fit and function of the iconic 360 controller is hard to beat, no doubt.
I found a cosmetically defective Elite Series 2 controller on the cheap on eBay, so I’ve been rocking with that with zero issues.
Definitely beats buying one new that’s for sure
Nice!
The prohibitive price of the xbox elite controllers is definitely a big detractor. They have the ‘core’ model now, for 130 apparently, but doesn’t even include back paddles
I’m curious about what they run used though
Oh yeah, new or even used most of the time is pretty pricey. I think I got mine (series 2) for 44 bucks, with the case, accessories, and all that. The grip was peeling off the front, but thankfully it was only on the front panel, so one I had some spare change from Amazon gift cards, I got the replacement cover for another 10.
All in all, I think it was mostly luck on my end and not the norm xD
New developments:
So, I actually did order a open box elite series 2 controller but ended up having to exchange it because there was substantial stick drift on both sticks. Super frustrating that this wasn’t caught, or the sellers don’t care enough about the quality control…
The “core” version is a little cheaper, but nobody has the paddles, which is pretty much the main reason I want one of these controllers…
There is sadly not many competitors available right now either. The Razer model is 250$!? WAY more than I want to spend…
The Guilikit one looks promising, but still have another couple of weeks before it actually releases and then would have to wait on shipping from China, which I hate.
You would think that in 2024 there would be more viable alternatives for professional level no-compromise controllers with good quality for an affordable price.
Rant over.
Damn, the stick drift as soon as you got it is unfortunate- I’m also surprised an open box product managed to be that defective. I remember getting a gaming laptop open box around 5 years ago, and from what I remember, it looked pristine and operated without any issues. I’ve recommended getting tech open box since, though with an experience like yours, I should probably temper my expectations and advice in the future.
But wow, I didn’t even know Razer had a controller selling for that much. That’s really steep. And yeah, I’m surprised as well more options don’t exist, though I suppose it makes sense that the top brands like Microsoft and Razer dominate a market that (from what I imagine) is rather niche, as most people stick to standard Xbox/PS/Switch controllers. It’s a shame modularity isn’t more popular when it comes to controllers, or other pieces of tech for that matter. It’s a real shame products like the Google Ara didn’t take off, since those are the kinds of modular devices I’d absolutely love to see setting a mainstream trend.
Best buy was the culprit… I feel like I’ve generally had good luck with open box stuff otherwise though.
You know, previous to the current generation of consoles, I thought FOR SURE that back-paddles/buttons would become the next standardized iteration. Controller innovation over the last TWO generations I’d argue, has been really lacking in my opinion.
Patience, I guess. I’ve been waiting for literal fucking years at this point. A few more won’t hurt I suppose.
The Ara definitely seemed like a good thing, for repairability. I’m of the ‘fuck anything google’ mindset though.
The ‘framework’ laptop also comes to mind.
I only have a Switch Pro Controller, but it’s an amazing controller as far as my experience goes.
Good controllers, pretty comfortable (if I remember correctly), and good battery life I’ve heard.
Gulikit KingKong 2 (Pro). Mostly same layout as an Xbox controller and is recognised as one by the computer, works wirelessly or wired (true wired, not just charging while wireless) and is in line with prices on the usual brands while having hall effect sensors so it’ll never suffer from stick drift (by human life standards, not literally never so it might be your great grandkid’s problem but who cares about that sniveling little brat, right?). It typically comes in “Nin Switch mode” but it has onboard settings for Xbox and you can buy a pack of face buttons to swap them to Xbox visual layout (they aren’t required for function, just better for those who have to look down to remember where this X button is or simply for aesthetics). Sometimes you can get the face button kit included with the controller either in-box or as a purchase bundle. If you live in the US, I believe the same controller is sold at Target as the Zen Pro. There are other bells as whistles such as motion controls and input recording features but they aren’t all that useful to most people. The company also sells replacement parts for the face button mechanisms so they’re easily repairable after typical wear and tear unlike most companies that expect you to bin it and buy a new one. Feel free to ask if you have any questions.
Edit: I’m not sponsored or employed by Gulikit, I’m just a really pleased customer who wants to see potentiometer-based sticks that suffer from stick drift to go the way of the dodo and any company who lies about the difference in pricing to go with them.
Any idea how well it works with Linux?
^asking the important questions!
I just have a 3rd party 360 controller. I don’t need anything fancy, and it’s a controller style I am very familiar with, so why not?
More power to you, I like the fancy controllers though :)
