Since I've restarted playing and ATM my most played game is Forza Horizon 4, I'm once again pondering about the importance of a good gamepad for my PC.

(I do have a wheel drive but neither I plan to use it for FH4, nor it's the subject of this post).

My current gamepads are two semi-old Xbox-style ones. I was happy with them, they have a good feeling, but they turned out to not be very resilient. The newest one has the triggers always on, making me put a huge dead zone so the car is not always accelerating. The older one has the left shoulder button not responding half of the time, but for now it's no big deal. The bad deal is that the left thumbstick tends to make small trembles to the left no matter what I do. When driving most vehicles, it just needs a small correction. When driving high-performance ones, which respond to twitch momements with precision, makes it hard to play in races with S2 cars (Ferrari FXX, for example), specially in the championship races in Edimburg; lots of narrow streets with sharp 90º curves = 2-3 crashes per lap just due to this. I also have a Steam Controller but I found it not fitting for half of the games I've tried, including FH4.

So as I did with my keyboard and mouse during 2023, it's time for a gamepad. I've never spent much money in a gamepad, my Steam one was a gift, the wheel was a gift too, and the two Xbox ones were like €10-12.

What I'm searching for:

  • Durable. Resistant. Something you've been using and abusing for 5 years and still all inputs are perfect. This is the most important feature I'm searching for.
  • Wired. Really, I like my peripherals wired. I don't even know if I have a bluetooth thingy around. I've already had enough with battery recharning and changing.
  • Around €40-50, able to invest in something decent but not wanting to spend more.
  • If possible, Xbox style, just because it's what I'm used to, but also accepting other kinds.

I can't make the customary and "thanks in advance" giveaway but I will try to make one while the thread is still active. But really, thanks in advance for all suggestions and input on the subject.

Edit:
Thanks to GangsterJochen for this customary giveaway. And here you have one I just did for all participants as thanks for all the input and info.

Final update:
I found a 30% discount with free delivery for an Xbox One wireless controller with included USB-C cable. Just what I needed, under 50€; the Xbox original controllers are all €69,99 here (Spain) unless you find a sale like this one. I didn't wait for more answers for my final question: One or X/S? The One is still the most sold, I guess that's a good lead to follow with impressive ratings anywhere I look. I couldn't find any sale on series X. The Elite series looks so great, but €150 -no way- and I'll not wait for the new Sebile one (with supposedly the same price) to arrive here in who knows how many months. My current gamepad is driving me (pun intended) crazy, I can't even navigate menus normally. Btw, ETA this thursday, I already ordered it. I might make a lil 'first impression' review with another giveaway.

I also had a very shitty morning and I needed something positive. Kinda impulsive purchase, but I don't regret it.

When I get a job again and fulfill the important objectives in my life, maybe I'll spend 150 bucks in another keyboard, 150 in another mouse, and 150 in another gamepad. And, maybe, heavy, faraway maybe, 200 in a gear change lever for my wheel.

I'll also leave this thread open because I see a healthy and informantional talk between some users that will be useful for everyone.

Thanks to all participants!

3 months ago*

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HyperX Clutch Gladiate – Wired Controller

I am super happy with this after my Shih Tzu's decided to bite through my old controller.
It has 2 back buttons where you can clone the output of any other button to, this is a feature I never knew I needed until I had the HyperX.
I don't know about durability though, I feel that is more of a "user" issue that needs to be solved seeing how all pads will break if you smash them hard enough or often enough.

3 months ago
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I used a Xbox 360 wired one before, now I have the wireless one Xbox X, for more than 2 years, and nothing to say bad about it (I even plan to try the Elite 2 one, if I find it at right price for me); I played hundred of hours in FH universe with it, and it fits just perfectly.

3 months ago
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Logitech F310

3 months ago
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Have it, can confirm it's solid, but I've heard some people don't like it.

3 months ago
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I own it, but honestly I didn't care for it at all. I've used Xbox controllers for so long that the F310 just really felt really off compared to them. I opened it, used it for around 20 minutes and then ended up buying a Xbox controller.

3 months ago
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It's a preference thing, but important to be mentioned I think. I personally like it, it's a somewhat modified PS2 design (better fuller grip) and layout, I like when both thumbsticks are together, but yeah I've heard many people who like XB layout and grip can't go "back". Also I like that thumbstick is fully rubber surface and not just a rubber ring, these seem more durable... and for me they certainly are, I'm using the same one since 2015... but I'm not the one buying.

3 months ago
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I was a console gamer for many years, mainly Playstation. I actually think the PS design is better than the Xbox design and more comfortable too. While the F310 is similar to the design on the PS controllers the trigger button area that comes out on the back of the F310 is really badly designed. You can't really rest your fingers that you're going to use for the triggers on the back of the controller due to the big piece that sticks out, so you have to keep those fingers up on the trigger areas all the time. It was just really uncomfortable, I wish that area was more like the PS or Xbox controllers. Besides that the overall quality felt very lightweight and cheap and the stick and D-pad didn't feel very precise compared to the Xbox and PS controllers.

The F310 is definitely one of the best budget options for a controller, but if you can afford to get an Xbox or PS controller I definitely would do that.

3 months ago
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The F310 just feels budget and cheap. Durable but super, super basic and lacking the sophistication, not just in design but also feel. It's functional but that's it.

3 months ago
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Shoulder buttons are so hard to press, playing with it cramps my fingers.

3 months ago
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I'm someone who used to have it and played using it for a year before changing because it is too crampy for my small hands. Might be okay for bigger hands I think. I have since swapped to the official xbox controller and that one fits me just fine and the vibration is a nice bonus that I didn't know I wanted haha.... (the logitech f310 was my first ever controller, cheap and didn't want to spend more to try out controllers in the past)

3 months ago
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Been using one myself for a while now.
Great and not overpriced. I'd just buy another if or when it breaks.

3 months ago
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Only problem with this one for me personally was no Vibration. Was good for some games where vibration is not necessary or wanted (some games overdo vibration) but ended up missing it more than not.

3 months ago*
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i don't know much about gamepads but here is your customary and "thanks in advance" giveaway

3 months ago
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Thanks for adding this! I tested this game (played the first anomaly) and it was pretty good and interesting, for a first contact with the SCP lore.

3 months ago
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np, i just bought it earlier today for myself and thought someone else might enjoy it too :D

3 months ago
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the budget you set is very close to the price of the official xbox controller, have you considering spending just a bit more and getting that instead.

I can see them being sold from microsoft for $55

3 months ago
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This, I have had several budget controllers in the past. And in the end they all had issues.

Have the official xbox controller for a few years now and spent several hundred hours on it without issue for now.

3 months ago
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+1. Personally satisfied with xbox controller.

3 months ago
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Wired Nacon GC-100XF is what I'm using. Nothing fancy but lasted me for years until unfortunately playing Hades was to much for the poor thing as part of the rubberized left thumb stick came off which I repaired with a piece of duct tape.
Can't complain price/performance wise though as it cost me around 25 Euro. If my experience is representative in any way I can recommend the brand.

3 months ago
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I bought an official XOne controller 6 years ago just for PC gaming and it still works like new. Just buy the good shit and never look back ;P

3 months ago
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Still the best controller M$ ever put out,the one for X/S series feels like a downgrade to me.

3 months ago
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Gulikit Kingkong 3 just released, dunno about the durability tho

3 months ago
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The best Xbox 360 wired clone I've ever tried is this one (and I've tried many of 'em)...

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07WD4TSNQ/

The build quality is really, really good here...way better than the others.

3 months ago
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This one sounds too good for such a low price.

I've found a decent deal for the HyperX one mentioned first, and I'm doubting for the official product, which here is €60 without S&H.

3 months ago
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That's what I initially thought too...but believe me it's truly quality made. In fact it's the only controller I use now and I've never had a single issue with it after over a year of heavy daily use (still zero drift on the sticks too). For the price it's unbeatable imo.

Anyhow feel free to go with whatever you wish, I'm just letting you know my personal experience : ]

3 months ago*
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Can't be of help since I'm still using an old Xbox controller, but have a bump.

3 months ago
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i have had my xbox wired for ages now ;p

3 months ago
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Right now Amazon has Black, White and Velocity Green Xbox controllers on sale for $54 and their Deep Pink one for $50. If you can spend around $50 then I would definitely get one of these over any other.

https://www.amazon.com/Microsoft-Xbox-WL-Controller-Gaming-Console/dp/B088GJR4B9

You can buy any cheap USB C to USB A cable to connect it to your pc. You can get 2 to 5 of them for like $4 to $7.

3 months ago*
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Not a very well known manufacturer, but I got Speedlink Torid a few years ago, still works and it looks the same as Xbox controller.
Its wireless, but it comes with its own receiver, battery is great, dunno how much it costs now, it was 25€ when I bought it.
So if you are for a bit "cheaper" option, then go for it, but otherwise get original Xbox 360 controller, or even better if you can go for Xbox One controller, those two are usually the most durable.

3 months ago
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Xbox one wired. I dont play many games with controller. But when I do I enjoy it cuz the controller fits perfectly!

3 months ago
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I have a "PDP Afterglow" and I feel as good as an original Xbox Controller (that I also have some for One and Series)

3 months ago
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Honestly just the official Xbox wired controller. Nothing fancy, but it lasts forever, cuts out any potential issues with wireless, and removes all doubt about joystick deadzones / sensitivity / etc. I can't even remember how many years I've had mine but it's still going as strong as the day I got it.

3 months ago
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Yes each suggestion and review I read makes me think that for 10 bucks more it's my perfect gamepad.

3 months ago
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I've been thinking of getting a new gamepad as well. I'm leaning towards the 8BitDo Ultimate C Wired, since it's fairly cheap and people seem to say good things about the brand. Has anyone had any experience with it?

3 months ago
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I really like the 8BitDo Ultimate Wireless controller, it comes with customizable paddle buttons and it comes with a dock. Works great with my PC, replaced my xbox one controller with it and love it.

Genshin Impact Limited Edition - Click Here

Standard Editions - Click Here

3 months ago
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Thanks for the recommendation. Is there any difference between the Ultimate and Ultimate C controllers?

3 months ago
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From what I've read there are a few differences, both in the wireless and wired versions. The C is the cheaper version: no bluetooth, no back paddles, no ultimate software or custom profiles, no Hall effect analog joysticks, no charging dock, no console compatibility, no motion control, lower battery capacity. There is a variety of Ultimate (non-C) controllers which have a mix of these features. As I mentioned above, I don't actually own either, so this info might not be entirely accurate.

3 months ago*
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^^^This is pretty accurate I think, I haven't used the Ultimate C controller. I think the big differences with the C controller is the lack of a dock and no back paddles. I personally really like having the dock, but it's all preferences :)

3 months ago
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I can't find the Hall-effect joysticks anywhere in Ultimate's specs. I thought it's only Gulikit Kingkong 2 using hall effect joysticks, not 8bitdo. What's your specs info source?
Although overall, the 8bitdo IMHO are better than Gulikit in every aspect except for the non hall-effect joysticks (but they are pretty good and I didn't find any drift on newer gamepads since the discontinued 8bitdo NES30 Pro)

3 months ago*
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The 8bitdo store, amazon product description, theverge review, etc.

3 months ago
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Thanks, I found that not all Ultimate gamepads had Hall Effect Joysticks but only "Ultimate Bluetooth" and Limited Editions ("10th" and "F40")... and these had joysticks manufactured in partnership with Gulikit.
These should be damn great gamepads!

3 months ago*
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Deleted

This comment was deleted 3 months ago.

3 months ago
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Always buy the newest official Xbox gamepad. Those work great and you can't do anything wrong with them. If you want to play wireless, don't forget to buy the extra "Play-And-Charge-Kit".

3 months ago
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I used a Switch Pro, 8BitDo and some Xbox clone. While some are decent my first choice and recommendation would always be an original Xbox Controller.

I customized my wireless one and just love it. Better don't look though, the customization is pricey. 😅

3 months ago
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Best choice to be safe and avoid problems you mentioned are Xbox or PS official controllers. You can wait for sales to not pay pull price and stay in budget.

3 months ago
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Xbox One controller user:

  • NEW: 5years of use been good no Drift and still looking good (white one but still clean) and one I buy used: need only small repair (they can take some hits and Dark Souls games)
  • Don`t choose if you want wired: port is bad: but here a solution for battery I use (only Xbox controllers): buy 4 rechargeable AA: one in controller second in charge/idle; swap when battery is dead (and buy new one when olds dont keep power). You can use official adapter: 8 controllers source or BT
  • cant tell different country
  • Is most comfortable in Xbox group and (my personal opinion) all controllers I used (Xbox:[ duke, s, x360, one] PS [1-4], [Gamecube, Wii-mote, joy-con])
  • Most games have good/perfect compatibility with Xbox
3 months ago
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UPDATED

Wrong model. I have the 1914 model, not the 1708.

3 months ago*
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Xbox controller "ONE S" (Model 1708) dont have USB C it is Micro-USB B

The type of USB port on the controller end varies depending on the controller model.

And suck hard: random disconnect, and not durable
Xbox controller "series S|X" (Model 1914) have USB C

View attached image.
3 months ago*
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Sorry, my mistake. Wrong model.

3 months ago
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no problem

3 months ago
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Are you sure you don't just have a crappy cable? I've never had problems with it, and i have the micro usb one and only play wired.

3 months ago
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cable is good just USB port is not durable and good at holding cable, and I like move myself when I play causing cable to fall of

3 months ago
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I went through my old controllers that I have boxed up and I do have a 1708 as well. I do recall there being an issue with that one disconnecting, it drove me crazy till I figured out what was wrong. Apparently the Xbox One controller will do that if it needs a firmware update. After I updated the firmware it didn't DC anymore. If you haven't updated yours yet, this might fix the problem.

3 months ago
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Problem is not in commutation with PC but cable easy to disconnect from controller

3 months ago
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Consider this another vote for an official Xbox controller. I've used them for years (360 and XBOne / both wired and wireless) and could not imagine ever using anything else.

3 months ago
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+1 to Xbox 360/One, i have a 360 wired and a Logitech F710 (wireless version of the F310), but the 360 is still my favorite, it fell more confortable, maybe due to the different weigh betweem a wired vs wireless, or maybe is just the hergonomy i not sure (the Logitech have a PS-like controler form).

BTW, I bought the F710 because of the price difference (quite significant) that there was with the original Xbox One controller.

3 months ago*
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Scoured the comment section, found one guy recommending Gulikit KinKong pro. (I have pro 2)
I want to recommend this high time. Even better than X Box controller with no dead zone because of the magnets but I think it's 65 dollars.

Do read about it before making decision for an XBOX controller.

3 months ago
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