Xbox One vs PS4 – Discrepancies between resolutions and FPS.
Ever since the launch of the Sony Playstation 4 and the Xbox One, fans of both consoles have been battling it out through various arguments in an attempt to decide a clear victor. Of course, there are also those that have a more objective perspective on things, arguing that both consoles have their pros and cons, which is obviously true. It’s also worth considering that the two consoles bring exclusives titles too, which again are a matter of taste, with some catering to certain gamers, while others catering to different groups. However, one thing that is worrying and cannot be contested is the tendency of PS4 to handle games at higher resolutions than the Xbox One, with the Xbox One lagging behind considerably.
How this affects your gameplay experience may vary. Some fans of the Xbox One often argue that the difference between 720p and 1080p is hard to notice unless you have a large TV screen or are sitting close enough to the TV. This however doesn’t excuse Microsoft, as the current-gen console has just been released, and we’re already seeing its hardware being limited. At first, this was the case with only a few games, but as time went by, the increasing number of games to be scaled down on the Xbox One (at least when compared to the PS4) has increased and has been forming a pattern of sorts.
The first title to display significant differences and to gain considerable attention because of them was Tomb Raider: Definitive Edition. The game runs at 1080p and 60 FPS on the PS4 (well, at least close to 60 FPS, to be fair), but the Xbox One only handles the 1080p resultion at 30 FPS, with cut-scenes being rendered at 900p and 30 FPS. But the list doesn’t stop here, not by a long-shot.
Assassin’s Creed 4: Black Flag? 1080p and 30 FPS on the PS4, same FPS but 900p on the Xbox One. Battlefield 4? 900p and 60 FPS on the PS4, but only 720p and 60 FPS on the Xbox One. The same for Call of Duty: Ghosts, with the difference that the PS4 actually runs it at 1080p and 60 FPS, and given how out-dated Ghosts actually looks, it’s one of the most frustrating examples of low-resolution rendering on the Xbox One.
We know that the Xbox One still has some power within, it’s not terrible hardware in an appealing box. Forza Motorsport proved that Xbox One games can and SHOULD look great even at high performances and resolutions, running at 1080p and 60 FPS. So yes, the Microsoft console can manage Full HD, but it’s exceedingly rare. Many developers have complained that programming for the Xbox One is more difficult than for the PS4 for instance, explaining that the difference in visual quality and performance are often a result of this aspect. Metal Gear Solid: Ground Zeroes is a good example, running at 720p and 60 FPS on the Xbox One, while the PS4 variant easily handles the same frame-rate at 1080p.
Signs of significant visual quality differences between the Xbox One and PS4 versions are already rumored for Watch Dogs.
The latest game to adhere to this trend and cause quite a stir of disappointment from Xbox One fans is the upcoming Watch Dogs. Signs already hint that Ubisoft’s action-adventure will most likely not be running in 1080p and 60 FPS on the Xbox One, and the lack of concrete numbers confirms this belief.
However, there’s one more aspect we need to consider. Both the Sony and Microsoft consoles are spanking new, right? The previous models, mainly the Xbox 360 and PS3 had a life-time that surpassed most expectations, still providing quality entertainment today, despite being released many, many years ago. So the same should be expected from the Xbone and PS4. In truth, we’re already seeing game developers struggle with what the two consoles are offering. Let’s be fair, the feeling of limitation has been felt already on both, although it is more evident on the Xbox One. In this light, how can we expect the new consoles to keep up the pace for many years to come?
CD Projekt Red is already squeezing whatever resources the two consoles have with The Witcher 3: The Wild Hunt. Recent reports suggest that even the most powerful PC GPU’s (such as the GTX 780) are currently struggling with the game’s impressive engine. So if PC’s can’t keep up, how can consoles? Granted, The Witcher 3 still needs better optimization, that’s not even up for questioning. But at the rate graphical fidelity is evolving, how long before the new Sony and Microsoft consoles become obsolete?
The Xbox One is said to receive DX12 support next year, and multiple software updates that should increase its performance considerably. That also means that a lot of issues such as over-heating have to be considered and rectified. It’s also true that the Xbox One is more media-center oriented, so to speak, and this costs the console some performance when compared to the PS4. However, at its core, the console is still a gaming device first and foremost, so is this a viable excuse for the weaker performances? Compromising gaming quality for a better interface and possibly better media-viewing support might not be the best approach from Microsoft.
How do you feel about the differences between visual quality and performance among the two leading consoles? Is Microsoft losing the Xbox One vs PS4 war? Sales suggest so, game performances suggest so, but how are you, the gamers and users feeling about it? Does it even matter to you if you’re playing at 720p or 1080p, or if the game runs at 30 or 60 FPS? Share your thoughts through the comment section below!
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I have a 1080p tv and a nice surround sound setup. I expect my ps4 to deliver 1080p, much as I expect my audio to deliver dolby digital, dts, dts hd master audio, dolby true hd, etc. etc. Compromises shouldn’t have to be made for these consoles, at least not the way they’re being made for the xbone at the moment. What, exactly, did Microsoft do with all our live gold money? Because they certainly didn’t develop a powerhouse with it. I don’t understand how any gamer who has a fairly decent tv capable of 1080p would accept less than that. If you own a 720p tv, then maybe it doesn’t matter to you, and that’s fair enough. But we gamers have gotten so used to being run over by these companies we’ve come to settle for just about anything. How many among us bent over and purchased an additional 360 due to red ring issues. (My hand is raised, I must admit). We accept this from our consoles, but would we accept it from our refrigerators, microwaves, or televisions? Could you imagine a 50 plus percent failure rate on televisions as there was for the 360? There would be riots and boycotts, complete with torches and pitchforks!! I don’t think it’s acceptable to spend 500 dollars on a console in 2014 and get less than 1080p consistently, and lower framerates on top of it all. Every time I hear someone talk about the xbone, it’s to offer yet another excuse for the system. It’s 2014, the time for excuses for Microsoft should have ended with the red ring fiasco.
Looks like Microsoft have really screwed up with the hardware – a new console that already feels behind the times? They should release a new version with updated graphics hardware and reach deep into their pockets to pay for existing users to upgrade … Ouch … Better to backtrack sometimes than to see something through to failure …
But having said that, right now it is the console to own … There’s very little games-wise to attract you to PS, and Xbox feels like a much better platform, with its OS and entertainment … But I’m not sold on either … I just want Microsoft to fix their current design disaster.
As it stands, the PlayStation 4 is the significantly better system. And just like the PlayStation 3, it will have the better games throughout its life. Sony owns 15 major gaming studios and has a library of thousands of games from PS1, PS2, and PS3 which the PS4 should be able to run through their Gaikai online service. Sony made a major commitment when they included 8 GB of ultra fast GDDR5 graphics memory with 18 Compute Units for the PS4. In contrast, MS gave us 8 GB of the slower DDR3 PC memory with only 12 Compute Units (CUs). This is just one example of the compromise in the Xbox ONE. And as for Forza running at 1080p @ 60 fps (frames per second), this game has so many static elements like buildings, cars, and embankments which do not require strong graphics performance that it should have performed at the given specs. It is when the games get graphically intensive like requiring massive clouds, smoke, waves, explosions, and battles that the Xbox ONE cannot handle and then drops down to 720p at 30 fps. This is unacceptable on what should have been a next generation console. But the bottom line is that as everyone know, the emphasis in its design was on its media functions.
I think Microsoft thought that given the Nintendo Wii’s success in-spite of its weak hardware, that Kinect and the Media Center functionality would be the killer application for the Xbox ONE. Boy did they misread the market. I think that MS was blinded by their desire to own the living room and thought the the Xbox ONE was their chance to do just that. The bottom line is that the Xbox ONE is not a next generation console. But also that the PS4 graphics (1.84 TFLOPS) is 50% faster than the Xbox ONE (1.2 TFLOPS) is quite surprising in a system that was expected to be competitive. This is raw hardware performance (or limitation) which cannot be improved upon by the Xbox ONE.
The fact that the PlayStation 4’s graphics performance is 10 times faster than the PlayStation 3 gives us a clear indication of how powerful its hardware is. Any game running on the PS4 at anything less than 1080p @ 60 fps is clearly a developer problem and not a hardware issue. We have seen repeated cases where software bugs or an old software graphics engine (developed for the PS3) caused a PS4 game to drop below 60 fps. The bottom-line is that the PS4, with its superior hardware and innovative features such as its motion sensor controller with Touch-pad and Share buttons is what we expected in a next generation console, and Sony has delivered!
I don’t own an Xbox One but having played Killer Instinct on my uncles machine, man, its a lot of fun. I’d be super annoyed if I did own one though, its more expensive, less powerful, less performance, Kinect doesn’t work properly(and this is what apparently jacks up the price) and even if the Kinect did work properly I’d still have no interest in it. Also, with Forza being 1080p 60fps, I don’t think that says much since Gran Turismo 5 and 6, and Wipeout HD were all 1080p 60fps last-gen so, we had racing games of this quality last-generation.
So far, the PS4 has been damn near flawless for me, with BF4 being the only game that has disappointed me. Really, when every other game is 1080p apart from this one, a broken, glitch-filled, unfinished, non-functional rushed piece of crap game like BF4 does not worry me at all, I don’t think the 900p for BF4 says anything about the console itself, given how crappy the final product of BF4 is on all platforms, even the PC. The Witcher is really a PC game, made with PC’s in mind, it does kinda suck though if they can’t get 1080p.
At the end of the day, its all about the games, witch controller you like the most, where your friends are and what your own personal needs are, you want an all-in-one box, go for the XB1. You want the best game performance possible on consoles? Go for the PS4.
I’ll just add though, I’m very happy that the price/performance ratio of these machines is being so heavily discussed, it keeps consumers informed, and these companies need to know that they can’t charge us more while giving us less.
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There are a lot of choices for PC controllers—Razer’s Sabertooth, for instance—but the majority of the games we play with controllers were designed for the Xbox One, PS4, or both, and their standard controllers are well-made. That in mind, we’ve compared the two first-party console pads before considering the others (which is on our to-do list).
Also, Halloween is this week, so look, they've popped out of a coffin! (Thanks, camera-wielding Scout.) We're definitely not saying that the consoles awake at night to feed on the blood of the living, we just think you should decide for yourself. Also, I played a bit of Lords of the Fallen and Ultra Street Fighter IV (as Evil Ryu, obviously) in my testing, as well as many other games over the course of the past year.
Xbox One controller.
The $60/£35 Xbox One controller is easy to set up. If you have a wireless Xbox One controller lying around, you just need to find yourself a long micro USB cable. (Be warned that not all micro USB cables are the same—some are designed solely to charge cell phones and won’t work.) If you buy the silly ‘PC’ version releasing next month, you’re set, as it comes with a micro USB cable. That’s the only difference I'm aware of between it and a regular Xbox One controller. I would have much preferred a wireless dongle, but this is what Microsoft is releasing.
Plug it in, and the controller should vibrate. That’s it, it works. If it doesn’t vibrate, you either have a bad cable or the driver isn’t installed. If the latter is the case, you can download it here. I had no problem installing it, and aside from the time I spent scrounging around the office for a cable, set-up was painless.
How it feels.
The Xbox One controller is bigger and heavier than the DualShock 4, with offset analog sticks which I prefer to Sony’s symmetrical design. That's because for most of the games I play, my right thumb spends a lot of its time on the face buttons (moving down for camera control sometimes), while my left thumb is almost always on the analog stick to control movement. I find the higher part of the controller more comfortable for my thumbs—it's where they naturally rest—so I prefer the raised left stick. If you play a lot of fighters or platformers with the D-pad, you may prefer Sony's layout.
The rest of this reiterates what we've said in our review: it's a good controller. The matte black plastic is lightly textured and feels nice, though sweat does cling to it. The trigger buttons are nice and springy (a little bit mushy-feeling), while the bumpers have a satisfying click. The D-pad is also clicky, which is much better than that spongy Xbox 360 D-pad. That thing was gross. I like the analog sticks as well: they move smoothly, and firmly snap back to center when released. I do wonder why they're so small, but it's not a huge deal, as my thumbs rest in their bowls nicely and they feel sturdy.
The Xbone controller is well-made, and I like it more than the Xbox 360 controller. It also helps its case that recent multi-platform games I’ve played are based on the Xbox 360 or Xbox One version (e.g. Ryse: Son of Rome, Lords of the Fallen, Ultra Street Fighter IV) and thus use the Xbox’s ABXY button prompts.
DualShock 4.
The DualShock 4 sells for around $60/£40—possibly a few bucks less depending on the retailer. To get it working, all you should need to do is download and install the latest version of DS4Windows (Update: commenter Asami recommends this version, and at a glance, it does look better) which will detect prerequisites and install any that are missing, followed by the software. After that, plug in the controller (also a micro-USB cable), let Windows detect it as a USB input device, and run the software. It should detect the controller, and now you can leave it alone (the default profile is fine), or you can create a new profile and play with the button mappings, axis tuning, and even adjust the LED colors.
I love customization, so I give the DS4 (and the creators of DS4Windows, of course) a lot of points for it. I can mess with the analog stick sensitivity, make the LED glow PC Gamer red or cycle through the rainbow, and use the trackpad as a mouse (not a very good one, but still). It can also be used wirelessly via Bluetooth, giving it even more points as Microsoft isn't releasing a wireless Xbone controller dongle—at least, we haven't heard plans for one yet.
The DS4 should work with any game an Xbox 360 controller works with, which is to say, practically any game with controller support. I haven't had a problem yet. That said, I more often see people reporting problems with it in troubleshooting forums than I do for 360 or Xbone controllers. It's not officially supported, so if you run into problems, the only help is the community.
How it feels.
second opinion.
I don't have the world's only hands, so I asked GamesRadar's Ashley Reed, who prefers the DS4, to offer her opinion:
"While the Xbox One controller has its upsides (and you gotta love the click of the face buttons), the DS4 is just a nicer fit. The joysticks' raised centers create a larger surface area and more space for me to grip, which gives a better sense of control. The shape also makes all the buttons easily accessible, particularly the bumpers, which are awkward to reach on the Xbox controller but in just the right place on the DS4. Plus, you can reach the menu button without moving your hands around. Have you tried that with the Xbox controller? Sad."
The DualShock 4 is smaller than the Xbox One controller (Update: more accurately, it feels smaller, because it is wider, but not as tall), and I have to hold it loosely and arch my index fingers to press the triggers and bumpers with their tips. If I grip it with my palms fully touching the handles, which is my preference, the triggers hit the middle of my fingers and my thumbs land near the top of the controller, so that doesn't work. The bonus of that loose grip is that my palms, and their sweat, stay off the controller. Those with smaller hands will probably find it more comfortable, though. I find it awkward.
As I mentioned, I prefer the Xbox One controller’s offset analog sticks. To me, it feels like the DS4 was designed as if the thumbs will most commonly be on the D-pad and face buttons. If yours are, then you might prefer it, but I usually use controllers for third-person action games like Lords of the Fallen where I largely ignore the D-pad. The sticks themselves are bigger than the Xbone's and have enough resistance to feel sturdy, which I like, but I don’t like their slightly raised centers, which my thumbs tend to slip over.
I like that the triggers have more resistance than the Xbox One controller's, giving them a less-mushy action, but they're much smaller so it feels like my fingers are going to slip off the edges. I really don’t like the way they creak when I push them down, either—it feels like I’m going to break them. The face buttons are flat and matte, which I slightly prefer to the Xbone's bulbous, shiny buttons, but they also have a less-clicky (and to me, less-satisfying) action. The ‘share’ and ‘options’ buttons (select and start, really) are hard to reach, pushed aside by the trackpad.
I think the DS4 is a fine controller, but I definitely prefer the Xbox One controller. I do love how much I can customize it with DS4Windows, but it feels awkward in my hands, and the only satisfying ‘click’ comes from pushing down on the analog sticks.
Conclusion.
My recommendation is the Xbox One controller—I just think it's better—with the caveats that the DS4 is more customizable and may be a better fit for smaller hands. If you've tried both and like their designs equally, then I'd recommend the DS4 just for all that customization, as long as you're aware that it might require a little more troubleshooting. Aside from the creaking I noticed with the DS4 triggers, I'd say they are equally well-made, and I haven't broken one of either yet.
It's a bit of a Pepsi vs. Coke situation, really, and though I don't like equivocating, I know that the same reasons I believe the Xbox One controller is better may also be reasons someone prefers the DS4. Preference obviously depends on hand-size and which layout you’re most familiar with—and I also have to figure that console gamers factor in which console they prefer, or what they grew up with. I feel like I come from a fairly neutral place with this 'console war' business, having little preference for either, except to say that the PS4 is obviously better. (Kidding, kidding.)
I just wish I liked the DualShock 4 more, because I'd prefer to use something hacked onto the PC over Microsoft's unenthusiastic PC support. The Xbox 360 and Xbone controllers are what we're expected to use by most games, and I'm all for being defiant. I just can't get over how awkward my thumbs feel on the analog sticks.
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Is ps4 controller as good as xbox one for FPS?
I am wondering how did you find the ds4.Is it good for FPS games?Is it better than xbox one?
Better. The triggers on the bone sucks bad.
@pankar94 : X1 feels much better in my hands.i don't play FPS much though, but mouse/keyboard combo destroys both.
Ewww, controller for FPS!
They're both pretty good for fps but i prefer the ds4 as the triggers are better for shooters. My housemate is an avid xbox fan and even he admits he prefers to play shooters on ps4.
I've only used a DS4 at best buy but I didn't like the feel. Joysticks felt cheap and the triggers we're too squishy.
Don't use the DS4 if you want rubber pealing off in your hands. While the DS4 feels nice and is Sony best controller to date, the Xbox One controller just fits like a glove. Now take that mastery a step further and get the Elite version.
The problems with the ds4 aren't ergonomic, they're the battery and lightbar.
The ps4 controller just plain sucks, unless you have very small hands. I wear a medium glove and with my thumbs comfortably on the sticks I can't reach the bumpers.
DS4 is the best Sony pad ever but still falls behind Dreamcast, Gamecube, 360 and Xbone controllers.
It does what it needs to do though.
The ps4 controller just plain sucks, unless you have very small hands. I wear a medium glove and with my thumbs comfortably on the sticks I can't reach the bumpers.
Your hands must be freakishly small then.
Ewww, controller for FPS!
Ewww, controller for FPS!
Steam controller may be the only exception.
Xbox always for FPS just prefer the analog locations don't like Playstations.
Can't wait for the Xbox One Elite Controller!
Ewww, controller for FPS!
I never played Xbox One, but DS4 is really good and confortable! I would say it's as solid as 360 controller, and infinitely better than the cheap previous DS models.
Ewww, controller for FPS!
Steam controller may be the only exception.
maybe , but when I'm laying on couch.
Honestly no . "Triggers" are a minor advantage . XBOX One analog sticks are far nicer though.
OFc this is cowspot. so no one will be honest with you about it. As a Manticore, I can confirm the Xbox one controller is better. only idiots care about triggers more than the actual analog sticks. its not fkin hard to press any back buttons to shoot. but aiming/movement being fine tuned is much more important.
Dual Shock analog sticks are pretty bad. not as bad as previous ones mind you, but not as good as Xbox Controllers. (any of them)
TC has like three accounts.
Not even close. Also its battery is straight garbage.
Don't use the DS4 if you want rubber pealing off in your hands. While the DS4 feels nice and is Sony best controller to date, the Xbox One controller just fits like a glove. Now take that mastery a step further and get the Elite version.
That only happened with the initial batch of DS4's, happened to my launch controller, but my other controllers that have seen more use are still perfectly fine and the rubber is still completely in tact.
Better. The triggers on the bone sucks bad.
i love the XBOX ONE controller but man, those triggers are the worst.
Better, the triggers aren't slanted crap like the Xbox One controller and the bumpers aren't the worst thing ever.
@pankar94 : All opinions, I personally find the X1 controller to be better for everything in general, it's my favorite. The DS4 is incredibly solid though, never had an issue with it, either should be fine for a shooter.
The DS4 is worse than the XB1 controller in every way possible.
Ewww, controller for FPS!
Correct me if I am wrong.
-better analog placement(more comfortable in hand)
-better triggers(But I think than more important in racing games)what else?
I am not talking about material quality.
@pankar94 Listen to @MBirdy88 he's being completely honest.
My point of view.
Ewww, controller for FPS!
Honestly no . "Triggers" are a minor advantage . XBOX One analog sticks are far nicer though.
OFc this is cowspot. so no one will be honest with you about it. As a Manticore, I can confirm the Xbox one controller is better. only idiots care about triggers more than the actual analog sticks. its not fkin hard to press any back buttons to shoot. but aiming/movement being fine tuned is much more important.
Dual Shock analog sticks are pretty bad. not as bad as previous ones mind you, but not as good as Xbox Controllers. (any of them)
Yep, the analog sticks. that's why I got an Xbox1 controller for PC instead.
Playing Bloodborne with PS4 controller analog sticks after playing Dark Souls with an X1 controller pretty much made me hate the damn things.
Use l1/r1 to aim/shoot and its better than Xbone controller. So good that its 'almost' better than 360's controller.
I prefer the X1 controller but its not a night/day thing. The DS4 is a great controller. I can play with it easily. Triggers on X1 are better imo.
Honestly no . "Triggers" are a minor advantage . XBOX One analog sticks are far nicer though.
OFc this is cowspot. so no one will be honest with you about it. As a Manticore, I can confirm the Xbox one controller is better. only idiots care about triggers more than the actual analog sticks. its not fkin hard to press any back buttons to shoot. but aiming/movement being fine tuned is much more important.
Dual Shock analog sticks are pretty bad. not as bad as previous ones mind you, but not as good as Xbox Controllers. (any of them)
Hmm, one thing I actually like about the PS4 analog sticks is that they feel tight and responsive, that may be just me though. And the D-Pad for 2D games is fantastic. But the melting grips is just embarrising. The DS4 needs some improvements like protruding options/share buttons, a seperate low brightness LED to let you know the controller is on, so you can disable the light bar when need be.
I haven't got an Xbox One so I won't say anything on behalf of it, but I like the 360 controller a lot, probably my favorite controller of all time.
The only problem with the DS4 is durability. These controllers don't last nearly as long as the DS3 did. Don't expect these things to last even a year without noticeable wear and tear if you're heavily using them. Everything else is fine. It's extremely comfortable for FPS games, definitely a huge step over the DS3. Even a lot of the MLG Call Of Duty players(who've played on Xbox for years) say they like the PS4 controller better. Battery life isn't an issue as long as you plug it in while you're not playing it. Also the Share button and built in 3.5" audio jack are really nice features.
Do yourself a favor and get some Kontrol Freeks though. They save the rubber on the base analogs and the extra height/grip is nice for FPS games.
PS4 controller feels more rugged for me like the 360 controller.
XBone controller feels like a plastic kids toy i can't stand it i literally cant.
ths ps4 brings me back tto days like snes/n64/360 beefy fun controllers.
xbone feels like a cheap tiger hand held im done with my xb1 only for exclusives.
Hell no! Lots a lying a** cows in here. That DS4 is cheap sh*t.
Replace the DS4 sticks with X1 and you're golden. But standard was fine, if not for the deterioration of the DS4 sticks.
For sure. It's a decent controller.
Xbox One Controller>PS4 Duelshock: Only good for FPS only.
PS4 Duelshock>Xbox One Controller: Good for everything else but not FPS.
Xbone controller is like a fisher price toy. AA batteries and all.
I haven't used the X1 pad enough to make an honest judgement.
Honest question: do those with both prefer the X1 pad to the 360? The little I've played with the X1 pad felt a bit awkward compared the the 360 pad, but I knew that could be getting used to the sticks, ect.
DS4 is the best Sony pad ever but still falls behind Dreamcast, Gamecube, 360 and Xbone controllers.
It does what it needs to do though.
DS4 is the best Sony pad ever but still falls behind Dreamcast, Gamecube, 360 and Xbone controllers.
It does what it needs to do though.
as a owner with both i can confirm the xb1 controller feels "Ligher" and plasticier than the ps4 while holding both up in the air.
people like kings and some other on here don't understand the differences between xb1 controller and the 360.
the 360 controller is 4x as heavy and sturdy as the xb1 just a fact of life.
the xb1 controller is nothing like the 360 thats ntoher fact.
I have both and I prefer the PS4 controller, except for the battery live. Those AA batteries (LOL) in the Xbox One controller actually last longer than the rechargeable lithium battery in the PS4 controller.
If you're a PC gamer then this what you use for first person shooters:
DS4 is the best Sony pad ever but still falls behind Dreamcast, Gamecube, 360 and Xbone controllers.
It does what it needs to do though.
as a owner with both i can confirm the xb1 controller feels "Ligher" and plasticier than the ps4 while holding both up in the air.
people like kings and some other on here don't understand the differences between xb1 controller and the 360.
the 360 controller is 4x as heavy and sturdy as the xb1 just a fact of life.
the xb1 controller is nothing like the 360 thats ntoher fact.
I can't take you seriously. LOL, but do go ramble on, please.
I can't take you seriously. LOL, but do go ramble on, please.
go insert some more aa batteries into a controller made in 2013.
rechargeable batteries have been the normal for a fucking decade a literal decade this isn't the 90's this isn't niche anymore this is the real world were living in.
the batteries recharge now a days kings thats just how technology evolves.
Ewww, controller for FPS!
You won't perform worse with it as it's not a worse controller. It will all come down to preference. Personally I like the Xbox One's controller more. The placement of the sticks, the feel of the sticks, and the amazing triggers win me over.
I am wondering how did you find the ds4.Is it good for FPS games?Is it better than xbox one?
Coming from mainly playing console FPS on the 360 last gen, it took me some time to get used to the DS4. I have relatively small hands, and after adjusting my grip such that my pinky, ring, and middle finders wrap around the handles I grew to prefer the ergonomics of the DS4 to the 360 and X1's controllers. Other than general comfort, I find the analog sticks to be more precise on the DS4 (the X1's controller has noticeable dead zones, and seem looser to me) and easier to click for sprinting. As well, the triggers feature a shorter pull, which I prefer. I also appreciate that the DS4 is quieter than the X1 controller, which is too "clicky" in my opinion.
On the downside, I find my left thumb sometimes slips off of the DS4's left analog stick when sprinting. What's more, the shoulder buttons seem awkwardly positioned, and strain my index fingers slightly when pressed. Of course the battery life is poor (I use a charging dock w/ 2 controllers to remedy this issue), and I could honestly do without the touch pad, speaker, and light.
go insert some more aa batteries into a controller made in 2013.
rechargeable batteries have been the normal for a fucking decade a literal decade this isn't the 90's this isn't niche anymore this is the real world were living in.
the batteries recharge now a days kings thats just how technology evolves.
Microsoft Xbox Elite Controller.
The good The Elite controller is an ultra-satisfying, high-end Xbox One and PC controller that offers an impressive amount of customization on its analog sticks, D-pad and triggers, and introduces back paddles. The Xbox Elite app allows for even more personalization, including the ability to remap every button on the controller.
The bad It's tough to justify that hefty price. The back paddles are very easy to hit accidentally if you're not accustomed to them. Rechargeable batteries would not have been too much to ask.
The bottom line Its $150, £120 or AU$200 price tag certainly puts it in an exclusive class, but the Elite controller is one of the most customizable, comfortable and luxurious controllers we've ever used.
CNET review.
Luxury gaming and customization, at a price.
The Elite Wireless Controller for Xbox One and PC is one of the most comfortable controllers I've ever held. It's head and shoulders ahead of other controllers for Microsoft's console and other platforms. The only problem is its eyebrow-raising price: $150, £120 or AU$200.
Odds are you probably don't need to spend that kind of money -- two and a half times more than a regular wireless pad -- on an Xbox One controller. But for the privileged few, the Elite is an indulgence that delivers in ways no other controller can.
It's immediately noticeable how much heavier the Elite is than the original Xbox One controller. It feels substantial and luxurious. Every button on the controller operates with flawless tactile feedback and satisfying smoothness. A matte rubberized coating wraps most of the controller, with the grips getting an extra textured detailing. It feels like you're holding a really high-end gadget. The included molded carrying case demands it not be left on a coffee table or couch.
Impressive build quality aside, the Elite controller's main selling point is the massive amount of customization possible with the analog sticks, triggers, D-pad and more. It comes with three sets of magnetic, stainless steel analog sticks that can be easily swapped in and out. Two sets of concave-topped sticks, one of normal height and another twice the height, and one set of domed sticks can be mixed and matched to your specific taste.
The analog ball joints feel really solid too and they have a certain buttery springiness that the original controller just doesn't offer. I enjoyed using the taller concave right stick for first-person shooters -- it makes precision aiming much easier.
There are two D-pads included with the Elite, a traditional "plus" design and a circular, almost octagonal shape that makes hitting diagonal directions a bit easier. Both easy swap out with magnetic fittings.
Even the controller's back triggers can be altered. A lever underneath each trigger can activate hair-trigger mode, which prevents a trigger from needing to be fully pulled. The idea is that you don't need to wait the extra half second or so it takes for the trigger to spring back to its resting spot and instead it can be fired rapidly. It definitely appears to make shooting that much quicker, but only if you're firing in bursts or single-round shots from a weapon that will fire as quickly as you can pull the trigger.
Finally, the controller lets you remap buttons to a set of four detachable paddles, which can be programmed through a free Xbox app specifically designed for the controller. Some players find the option to bind a command to the back of a controller beneficial, be it the gas on a race car or a quick grenade toss. I found some success making a back paddle the button for switching weapons in Gears of War: Ultimate Edition, as I didn't have to remove my thumbs from the sticks.
I'm not used to having paddles on the back of the controller, however, so I found myself accidentally hitting them more often than not. It's probably something I could get used to with practice, but for someone who's been playing a certain way for decades it might be tough unlearning that.
The free Elite app not only lets you program the back paddles, but it can also let you remap any of the 14 digital inputs from the controller. Two control scheme profiles can be stored on the controller itself, which can be accessed via a switch below the Xbox Guide button. Microsoft says that developer-created alternate control schemes for specific titles will be offered through the app down the road as well.
A $150 controller needs some added value, doesn't it? So it's good to know the Elite plays nicely with Windows 10, as does the free app. It's ready to use on your PC right out of the box with an included USB wire. You can even use it wirelessly with your PC too, you'll just need the Xbox Wireless Adapter -- another $25, £25 or AU$30. But at $150, I wish there was a rechargeable battery inside the Elite. Unfortunately, it only takes AAs.
It's tough to justify spending $150, £120 or AU$200 on a video game controller, especially one that won't necessarily make you "better" at games. The Elite provides plenty of functionality improvements over a standard Xbox One controller, but a lot of these benefits are luxuries. If money isn't an issue, yes, the Elite controller is the best one for your Xbox One and PC gaming needs. But if you're not a pro gamer, that $150 could likely be spent on more exciting items, like a regular controller and a game -- not to mention you'd still have $30 left over.
If owning the Elite is a must, but you just can't come to terms with spending $150, you may want to look at the Elite Xbox One bundle. Of course this only applies if you don't already own an Xbox One. The bundle goes for $500, £400 or AU$600, which knocks about $50, £20 or AU$100 off the price of an Elite controller, making it a much easier pill to swallow. Plus, the console also comes with a 1TB solid-state hybrid drive, which presumably increases loading speed, but we'll still need to check that out to know for sure.
PC Gamer.
Choose your weapon.
The mouse and keyboard will always be our first choice for playing games on PC. But some games are better suited to a controller, and as more and more console games make their way to the PC, it makes sense to have a great controller on-hand. But what controller works best on the PC? We've tested the DualShock 4, Xbox 360 controller, every official version of the Xbox One controller, and a few dedicated PC pads to pick our favorite. These are the best gamepads for PC, chosen for comfort, control, and how compatible they are with PC gaming.
Primary testing by Tyler Wilde, with additions by Wes Fenlon and James Davenport.
The best controller for PC.
Triggers and bumpers have a more tactile feel than Xbox controllers Great analog trigger feel Sturdy construction Some users report damaged analog sticks after prolonged use Requires unofficial software tool to work on PC.
It isn't intended for use on the PC, but the DualShock 4 is my favorite controller anyway. I've used each of its predecessors, the two current Logitech controllers, the Mad Catz C.T.R.L.R., the Razer Sabertooth, the Xbox 360 and Xbox One controllers, and just about every console controller from the NES to present day. The DualShock 4 isn't superior in every way to every one of these competitors, but it's the superior all-around choice.
It doesn't look as durable as the Xbox One controller, but it's durable. When I squeeze the handles with as much force as I can, I can barely hear the strain. I also pushed each of the buttons, triggers, bumpers, and analog sticks down with as much force as I could, and each sprang back as if untouched. Long term, I've heard reports of damaged rubber on the analog sticks and sticking triggers. The former can be fixed with GelTabs, and while the latter sounds bad, the only trigger wear I've personally experienced is a slight creaking after a lot of use. They still feel springy, and I've never had one stick.
The flat, matte face buttons, though not as pronounced as the Xbox 360's bulbous, glossy things, are easy to feel my way around. They feel firm and clicky, but their shape puts very little pressure on my thumb, which I appreciate. I find that extended sessions with the Xbox 360 controller's harder buttons are more likely to give me those calloused gamer-thumbs.
Unlike the 360's triggers, which better take after their name by being long and skinny, the DS4's triggers are short and fat. I haven't found that the design makes any difference to me when I play—both are equally easy to reach and pull. What I do prefer about the DS4's triggers is that completely pressing them down brings them to a clear halt with a click, while the Xbox 360's triggers softly recede into the housing. The same goes for the Xbox One triggers. It doesn't really affect their functionality, but it's a better tactile experience.
The DS4's bumpers also beat the 360 controller in that respect with a clear, firm action. The Xbox One bumpers are better, but I find that their placement requires me to hit them with the edge of my index fingers, which is slightly awkward, and they come down with a meek click to the outer side. The DS4 bumpers are much smaller, but move straight up and down with a more intuitive action.
The Xbox 360's wobbly circle is a functional but mediocre d-pad, and an immediate deduction. The Xbox One's d-pad is a great improvement—a clicky cross that responds well to rapid direction changes—but the DS4's is just as good with the only caveat being that I don't like how soft it is. There's very little feedback, but in practice, I've found that I don't need it. It's accurate, and when muscle memory took over I had no trouble spamming Cannon Spikes in USFIV.
After some getting used to, the DS4 is a nice fit for my hands, and I much prefer it to the smaller (and all-around awful) DS3. The triggers don't quite land on the pads of my index fingers, which I find slightly uncomfortable, but I hardly notice once I'm playing. The Share and Options buttons (Select and Start) are awkwardly placed and recede into the body a little too much, but those are the least important buttons, so that's barely a demerit.
This is a point of much debate, but I find the DS4's analog sticks to be slightly better than the Xbox One's. They're a little larger, which I like, and they have more resistance and spring back to center with more force. I only wish they were offset, as I don't find their close proximity to each other comfortable. I've found, though, that this comes down to personal preference, so it's hard to call it a design flaw.
Drivers and software.
The biggest caveat, which doubles as a positive, is that the DS4 is not designed with Windows PCs in mind. Whereas it's very easy to get an Xbox 360 or Xbox One controller working, and most PC games will use their ABYX button prompts, there won't be any official drivers for the DS4 until Sony releases the recently announced wireless USB adapter, due in September. In the meantime, the unofficial DS4Windows is excellent. The software essentially tricks Windows into treating the DS4 like an Xbox 360 controller, so just about any game which supports an Xbox 360 controller (basically any game with controller support) should work with the default profile. It also allows for a ton of customization (I love messing with the LED settings).
I had to fiddle with the Bluetooth pairing for about 15 minutes before it worked, but once it worked I had no issues. DS4Windows did its job perfectly, and even let me use the controller's central trackpad as a mouse. (Not a very good mouse, but still, it's cool.) If you're willing to do a little bit of setup work, the DS4 is a fantastic wireless PC controller with all the customization you could want. Yes, it's a console controller , but controllers are the domain of consoles, after all, and taking the DS4 for ourselves despite its lack of official support just feels like a very PC gaming thing to do, doesn't it?
A good budget controller.
Affordable Officially supported by most games Poor D-Pad.
The DualShock 4 is my favorite controller, but the Xbox 360 and Xbox One controllers are still excellent choices. I've had an Xbox 360 controller since 2006 which, aside from desperately needing a cleaning, still works great. The slightly-smaller Xbox One controller feels just as well-made, and has an improved d-pad. Both have official drivers (Xbox 360 and Xbox One) and have required no troubleshooting—most PC games which support controllers are made with these controllers in mind.
And even though the DS4 is my overall winner, I'll probably still use an Xbox 360 controller often simply because I prefer the analog stick layout. I also prefer its triggers and bumpers to the Xbox One's.
Getting an Xbox 360 controller is a good way to save a bit of money compared to the DualShock 4. A wireless Xbox 360 controller is only a few dollars cheaper. But the wired version is cheaper still.
The best thing about a wired 360 controller is that it's dead simple to use. Most PC games have button prompts based on the Xbox controller and immediately autodetect that the controller is plugged in. With DS4Windows, the DualShock 4 works just as well as the Xbox controllers, but it does require a bit more setup.
The Xbox One controller with a micro USB cable (there is no wireless option) is the most expensive of the first-party console controllers. If you're not especially concerned with the d-pad (and the 360's is workable, if not great), I'd recommend saving some money and going with a wireless Xbox 360 controller.
The best luxury controller.
Beautiful, sturdy design Easy to swap out components Robust companion software for mapping Triple the price of a normal gamepad for the same basic shape and feel.
The ‘Elite’ nomenclature is typically marketing nonsense, but in this one instance, I think it applies. For those who like their PCs state of the art, clean, and beautiful; for those with Swedish headphones made of volcanic glass; for those who make their PB&J from scratch, the Xbox Elite controller is for you.
It’s a sturdy, configurable, and gorgeous controller for enthusiasts of fancy. The shell and button layout don’t feel distinct from the vanilla Xbox One controllers, though it feels heavier than most pads I’ve used. I like a bit of weight in my controllers and mice, but it might not feel good on tiny wrists after a long play session. The face buttons are large and still mushy, the bumpers and triggers have a responsive click and pull—they just feel identical to using an Xbox One controller.
Four metallic back paddles are easy to swap out via some light magnets. They’re easy to reach, and each pushes with a light, distinct click. The stick thumb pads snap in and out via magnets as well, offering a few sizes and convex or concave options. It’s convenient variability for different finger sizes and play preferences. The paddles are especially useful in games where taking your fingers off the right stick to hit a face button can slow down reaction time. In Dark Souls 2, I mapped the roll button to a paddle. In a few minutes, it didn’t just feel natural—it felt better.
There are two D-pad configurations, one in the traditional four-point design, and another omnidirectional disc that might find good use in fighting games. The four-point pad feels pretty similar to the vanilla Xbox One controller, but the ease of variability between the two designs is hugely beneficial for games (or players) that rely on the D-pad in different ways. They pull out with a light magnetic snap and never fell out incidentally during play.
A subtle rubber texture is layered on the back of the grips to prevent sweat slippage while the face is a smooth, sexy black rubber matte texture. Even though it feels nice, it’s not entirely necessary, which seems to define the Elite controller. It’s made for people who can afford a nicer version of the Xbox One controller with easy customization options.
The addition of some slick software that allows for tweaking of trigger min/max values, stick sensitivities, button assignments, and profile designations makes it even more attractive for PC experimentation. It has a sturdy build, and could probably withstand drop after drop, maybe an angry throw or two (but don’t do that). Everything about the Xbox Elite controller feels precise and considered, so even though its familiar design isn’t stepping outside of what’s tried and true, the configurable, sleek design makes it an easy recommendation for those who can afford it.
The controller for games that don't support controllers.
Can be used to control mouse-keyboard games Highly configurable control mapping Design isnt comfortable, feels like a prototype Niche utility and big learning curve.
Valve’s first attempt at making the living room a viable PC gaming space doesn’t feel complete yet. Sure, the Steam Controller can control games, but it still feels like an awkward midpoint between gamepad and keyboard-mouse control.
The grips are huge, part of an intentional convex design meant to arch your thumbs over the touchpads comfortably. Problem is, they’re too bulbous and jut out a bit too hard into the heel of each hand. My fingers tense up after a few minutes of play, which leads to a few too many accidental back paddle presses and thumb cramps.
The circular track pads work pretty well as a mouse replacement, especially with a bit of practice. In an FPS, if the gyroscopic sensor is enabled, using the pad to look around and the acceleration to tweak cursor precision feels like a viable way to play twitch games, just maybe not competitively. For RTS games, it’s possible to assign certain macros to buttons, while using the trackpads as mice and camera substitutes, but it would take no short amount of time to acclimate to a very particular control scheme just for the sake of sitting on a couch.
Beyond the novelty of living room play, the face buttons feel too small and indistinct for big thumbs, and the bumpers and triggers don’t always have the responsive surety required for some games. In Super Hexagon, the paddles and triggers wouldn’t respond once out of every fifty or so presses because the buttons were too slow to recoil.
It’s not possible to outright recommend the Steam Controller, even though with enough tinkering and patience, it’s a completely viable way to control a ton of PC games from the couch. Give Valve a few years to iterate, and maybe they’ll nail down the design and give a bit more incentive to make the leap to the living room.
So why is it listed here, instead of at the bottom with the rest of the controllers we tested? Because the Steam Controller does ultimately occupy a unique space: it's the only gamepad specifically built to let you play games that don't support controllers out of the box. For games that do support controllers, we prefer the DualShock and Xbox pads. But if you insist on playing PC games away from your mouse and keyboard and want to replicate their functionality as closely as possible, the Steam Controller is the best game in town.
Adjusting to the Steam Controller does mean a steep learning curve, but it's a cheaper gamble than the Xbox Elite or Razer Wildcat. And even if it’s not your favorite controller, maybe it’ll be your favorite midi player.
How we test controllers and others we tested.
Ignore those who seem to think every game is best with a mouse and keyboard. Grid Autosport is not best played with a keyboard. Super Meat Boy is not best played with a keyboard. Ultra Street Fighter IV is ridiculous with a keyboard. True, we play most games with a mouse and keyboard, but for PC gamers with ranging tastes, a good controller is a must.
Microsoft and Sony’s own console pads, the Xbox One controller and the DualShock 4, set the standards by being the default, first-party options for the two most popular consoles, while third-party controllers tend to mimic them. In this case, the standard is the best: I haven't found a controller better than the DualShock 4 for PC gaming, though the wireless Xbox 360 controller is very close.
It's a slightly surprising conclusion when the Xbox 360 and Xbox One controllers are the industry's accepted Windows controllers, and even contradicts a previous article I wrote in which I recommended the Xbox One controller over the DualShock 4. In that article I explain that I prefer the shape and layout of Microsoft's controllers, but after further testing I've decided that when I put aside my personal preference for offset analog sticks, the DS4 stands out. The older Xbox 360 controller is still great, but the DS4 is slightly better in a few areas, and the Xbox One controller can't currently be used wirelessly on PC, which is a major flaw.
Testing controllers.
My hands are an average size for a man: 7.5 in long (from the base of the palm to the tip of my middle finger) and 3.5 inches wide across the palm. Obviously, I can’t test controllers with your hands, but I have asked around to ensure that others find the same controllers comfortable. Most notably, both women and men have told me that the DualShock 4 feels comfortable to them.
What I can test is the quality of the materials and construction, how the buttons feel and if their placement makes sense with my average man hands, the feel of their d-pads and analog sticks, and their software. I tested the three most commonly used console controllers—Xbox 360, Xbox One, and DualShock 4—as well as two Logitech controllers, a Mad Catz controller, and a Razer controller.
Though I've done some testing with first-person shooters, I've largely ignored the genre. While it may be important for console gamers, we're almost always going to use WASD for any kind of shooter. That in mind, the games I primarily used for testing are the ones I mentioned above:
Super Meat Boy : A game which requires excellent d-pad control and responsive face buttons.
Ultra Street Fighter IV : I've put a lot of hours into SFIV with both controllers and fight sticks, so I know how it ought to feel. If I can't crush an AI opponent as Cammy, something isn't right.
Grid Autosport : I chose Grid primarily to test the analog sticks, which according to my preferences need three qualities: springy enough to quickly snap back to center, sensitive and resistant enough to make slight steering adjustments, and comfortably contoured so my thumbs aren't bloody stumps at the end of a few hours.
Wrapping up: competitors and future testing.
I tested several controllers before choosing the DualShock 4 as the best. None were quite as good in all aspects, though Logitech's wired controller is cheap enough to make it noteworthy.
Razer Wildcat:
It’s hard to recommend the Razer Wildcat specifically for gaining an advantage in competitive eSports, even though that’s the marketing message behind it. The pad feels very similar to the Xbox One’s controller design in terms of size and shape, and with optional adhesive grips, holding the controller for long periods of time is made a bit more comfortable. I can’t speak much to the build, as it looks and feels like a similar plastic to most standard controllers, which may make it more prone to damage from an accidental fall or angry throw than the denser Xbox Elite controller.
The triggers have an easy pull, which can be shortened via two sliders on the back of the controller. Every other button presses with a satisfying and super responsive click, exactly like using a mouse. A caveat: the negligible amount of pressure required for a press means accidental button bumps aren’t out of the question.
D-pad design does away with omnidirectional inputs and sticks to four buttons. That means fighting game inputs might be hit or miss, but at least the cardinal directions are harder to fudge. The addition of two inner bumper buttons and two rear-positioned trigger buttons mean you can spend more time with your thumbs on the sticks, but for smaller hands, they might be a bit awkward to reach.
The optional adhesive grip is awkward to attach, similar to putting on a decal without air bubbles or wrinkles around the edge. It feels cheap and the harsh green is a bit garish, but probably won’t bother most. It gives the controller a mushier, comfy grip, which could do wonders for those who tense up while playing games. While it feels nice, I preferred the simpler black look before throwing it on. Fashion or function? A difficult choice.
It’s not an impulse buy, but the Wildcat definitely carries the features and build to warrant a higher price point— especially when the Xbox Elite costs the same. The Wildcat has a few of the same customization options and extra buttons, but the implementation isn’t as elegant. The optional back triggers need to be unscrewed and detached with tiny switches as opposed to the Elite’s simple magnetic swap design. It’s a time consuming process, and actively discouraged me from experimenting with different controller layouts as I played. As a result, the Wildcat settled into feeling more like an expensive, slightly customizable take on Xbox controller design.
The Elite, for the same price, felt like a luxurious, highly customizable take on Xbox controller design that consistently encouraged me to play around with its bits and pieces. Its software customization took things a step further, and the Wildcat can only save trigger/bumper button mappings to a pair of profiles.
Wireless Xbox One controller (Xbox One S update)
The latest version of the Xbox One controller comes with a few new features that PC gamers are sure to love, at least on paper. Most notably, it comes with Bluetooth connectivity, so it no longer requires a wireless USB dongle as long as your computer has Bluetooth functionality. Like the Elite, there’s also a 3.5mm headphone jack built into the bottom. The triggers are snappy and don’t feel nearly as squishy as the old controller’s. And the hand grips are now lightly textured, which gives sweaty palms a bit more to hold on to. It feels like a lighter, plastic version of the Elite—without the customizable d-pad and sticks of course. But with a few steps forward in supposed convenience, the new Xbox One controller takes a few steps back in ease of use.
Logitech F310 Gamepad:
This controller is my favorite if you're on a tight budget—say, if you want two controllers for the price of one. At half the cost of a DualShock 4, you lose the wireless capability but still get a solidly-constructed gamepad, and it worked as soon as I plugged it in. The thing is light, but feels like a tank, so I have no fear of abusing it.
That said, the d-pad is nowhere near the quality of the DS4's—it feels loose and I had trouble accurately maneuvering in Super Meat Boy. The triggers and bumpers are housed on outcroppings that the knuckles of my middle fingers rub against uncomfortably, and the analog sticks, while pleasantly springy, have a convex shape that isn't great for sweaty hands. I also found that the triggers offer too much resistance. In Grid Autosport, my finger got tired from holding down for the gas, which I didn't experience with the DS4, Xbox 360, or Xbox One controllers.
Logitech F710 Wireless Gamepad:
I just can't recommend the Logitech F710 over the wireless Xbox 360 controller, which is only slightly more expensive. Aside from the batteries making it heavier, it's almost identical to the F310. It's not as comfortable as the Xbox 360 controller, and the triggers are small, shallow, and again, have too much resistance.
Mad Catz C.T.R.L.R.:
I absolutely love the look and design of Mad Catz's controller, which is like an Xbox One controller but with bigger analog sticks, a bigger d-pad, and better bumpers. I don't recommend this version, though, because it's immediately clear that it's targeted at Android devices. None of my testing games recognized it properly. Super Meat Boy got halfway there, accepting input from a few buttons, but I ended up having to use Mad Catz's slow-loading, minimal software to map buttons to keyboard commands. That's not what I want from a PC controller.
However, there is the Mad Catz Pro Controller for Xbox 360. It's not the one marketed for PC gaming, though as an Xbox 360 controller, it should work fine on PC—actually, it should work a lot better than the C.T.R.L.R. controller. It's expensive, but with that you get something unique: the analog stick and d-pad can be swapped. That's great, but unfortunately I wasn't able to test it this time around. Once I have one in, I'll put it through its paces.
Razer Sabertooth:
This is a popular, well-reviewed third-party Xbox 360 controller, but I haven't found much to like about it. One of its big draws are two extra bumpers, which mean you can do most of the things you need to in a shooter without lifting your thumbs off the analog sticks. But that's why we have keyboards, and when you ignore the extra buttons and novel LED screen, it's a more angular Xbox 360 controller with clicker triggers (which are a little better), awkward bumpers, and individual d-pad buttons that feel designed for supplementary actions more than precise platforming control. The face buttons are my biggest issue: they barely depress and do so with a weak, pitchy click that makes me cringe the way finger nails on a chalk board do.
Future testing.
There are tons of controllers out there to try, including the Mad Catz Pro I mentioned, but for now I'm very confident in recommending the DualShock 4. Sony is far from new to this game, and its years of R&D show. Meanwhile, tinkerers have made reliable tools to get it working on the PC with loads of customization options.
The Xbox 360 controller is still a great choice (and the offset analog sticks are my preferred design), as is the Xbox One controller, though I mark it down heavily for having no wireless PC support. Logitech's cheap wired controller is sturdy and comfortable enough for the price, but that's the best it can muster—it's just not as well-designed as Sony and Microsoft's controllers.
We've also found out that both the Pro Controller as well as the Joy-Con remotes for the Nintendo Switch are compatible with PC. We're planning on playing around with both of those in the future, and will report back if either manages to dethrone any of our picks here.
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Xbox One vs PS4 – Discrepancies between resolutions and FPS.
Ever since the launch of the Sony Playstation 4 and the Xbox One, fans of both consoles have been battling it out through various arguments in an attempt to decide a clear victor. Of course, there are also those that have a more objective perspective on things, arguing that both consoles have their pros and cons, which is obviously true. It’s also worth considering that the two consoles bring exclusives titles too, which again are a matter of taste, with some catering to certain gamers, while others catering to different groups. However, one thing that is worrying and cannot be contested is the tendency of PS4 to handle games at higher resolutions than the Xbox One, with the Xbox One lagging behind considerably.
How this affects your gameplay experience may vary. Some fans of the Xbox One often argue that the difference between 720p and 1080p is hard to notice unless you have a large TV screen or are sitting close enough to the TV. This however doesn’t excuse Microsoft, as the current-gen console has just been released, and we’re already seeing its hardware being limited. At first, this was the case with only a few games, but as time went by, the increasing number of games to be scaled down on the Xbox One (at least when compared to the PS4) has increased and has been forming a pattern of sorts.
The first title to display significant differences and to gain considerable attention because of them was Tomb Raider: Definitive Edition. The game runs at 1080p and 60 FPS on the PS4 (well, at least close to 60 FPS, to be fair), but the Xbox One only handles the 1080p resultion at 30 FPS, with cut-scenes being rendered at 900p and 30 FPS. But the list doesn’t stop here, not by a long-shot.
Assassin’s Creed 4: Black Flag? 1080p and 30 FPS on the PS4, same FPS but 900p on the Xbox One. Battlefield 4? 900p and 60 FPS on the PS4, but only 720p and 60 FPS on the Xbox One. The same for Call of Duty: Ghosts, with the difference that the PS4 actually runs it at 1080p and 60 FPS, and given how out-dated Ghosts actually looks, it’s one of the most frustrating examples of low-resolution rendering on the Xbox One.
We know that the Xbox One still has some power within, it’s not terrible hardware in an appealing box. Forza Motorsport proved that Xbox One games can and SHOULD look great even at high performances and resolutions, running at 1080p and 60 FPS. So yes, the Microsoft console can manage Full HD, but it’s exceedingly rare. Many developers have complained that programming for the Xbox One is more difficult than for the PS4 for instance, explaining that the difference in visual quality and performance are often a result of this aspect. Metal Gear Solid: Ground Zeroes is a good example, running at 720p and 60 FPS on the Xbox One, while the PS4 variant easily handles the same frame-rate at 1080p.
Signs of significant visual quality differences between the Xbox One and PS4 versions are already rumored for Watch Dogs.
The latest game to adhere to this trend and cause quite a stir of disappointment from Xbox One fans is the upcoming Watch Dogs. Signs already hint that Ubisoft’s action-adventure will most likely not be running in 1080p and 60 FPS on the Xbox One, and the lack of concrete numbers confirms this belief.
However, there’s one more aspect we need to consider. Both the Sony and Microsoft consoles are spanking new, right? The previous models, mainly the Xbox 360 and PS3 had a life-time that surpassed most expectations, still providing quality entertainment today, despite being released many, many years ago. So the same should be expected from the Xbone and PS4. In truth, we’re already seeing game developers struggle with what the two consoles are offering. Let’s be fair, the feeling of limitation has been felt already on both, although it is more evident on the Xbox One. In this light, how can we expect the new consoles to keep up the pace for many years to come?
CD Projekt Red is already squeezing whatever resources the two consoles have with The Witcher 3: The Wild Hunt. Recent reports suggest that even the most powerful PC GPU’s (such as the GTX 780) are currently struggling with the game’s impressive engine. So if PC’s can’t keep up, how can consoles? Granted, The Witcher 3 still needs better optimization, that’s not even up for questioning. But at the rate graphical fidelity is evolving, how long before the new Sony and Microsoft consoles become obsolete?
The Xbox One is said to receive DX12 support next year, and multiple software updates that should increase its performance considerably. That also means that a lot of issues such as over-heating have to be considered and rectified. It’s also true that the Xbox One is more media-center oriented, so to speak, and this costs the console some performance when compared to the PS4. However, at its core, the console is still a gaming device first and foremost, so is this a viable excuse for the weaker performances? Compromising gaming quality for a better interface and possibly better media-viewing support might not be the best approach from Microsoft.
How do you feel about the differences between visual quality and performance among the two leading consoles? Is Microsoft losing the Xbox One vs PS4 war? Sales suggest so, game performances suggest so, but how are you, the gamers and users feeling about it? Does it even matter to you if you’re playing at 720p or 1080p, or if the game runs at 30 or 60 FPS? Share your thoughts through the comment section below!
Bungie: Planets in Destiny are same size as Halo: Reach.
Titanfall sales up over 200% after Xbox 360 release.
I have a 1080p tv and a nice surround sound setup. I expect my ps4 to deliver 1080p, much as I expect my audio to deliver dolby digital, dts, dts hd master audio, dolby true hd, etc. etc. Compromises shouldn’t have to be made for these consoles, at least not the way they’re being made for the xbone at the moment. What, exactly, did Microsoft do with all our live gold money? Because they certainly didn’t develop a powerhouse with it. I don’t understand how any gamer who has a fairly decent tv capable of 1080p would accept less than that. If you own a 720p tv, then maybe it doesn’t matter to you, and that’s fair enough. But we gamers have gotten so used to being run over by these companies we’ve come to settle for just about anything. How many among us bent over and purchased an additional 360 due to red ring issues. (My hand is raised, I must admit). We accept this from our consoles, but would we accept it from our refrigerators, microwaves, or televisions? Could you imagine a 50 plus percent failure rate on televisions as there was for the 360? There would be riots and boycotts, complete with torches and pitchforks!! I don’t think it’s acceptable to spend 500 dollars on a console in 2014 and get less than 1080p consistently, and lower framerates on top of it all. Every time I hear someone talk about the xbone, it’s to offer yet another excuse for the system. It’s 2014, the time for excuses for Microsoft should have ended with the red ring fiasco.
Looks like Microsoft have really screwed up with the hardware – a new console that already feels behind the times? They should release a new version with updated graphics hardware and reach deep into their pockets to pay for existing users to upgrade … Ouch … Better to backtrack sometimes than to see something through to failure …
But having said that, right now it is the console to own … There’s very little games-wise to attract you to PS, and Xbox feels like a much better platform, with its OS and entertainment … But I’m not sold on either … I just want Microsoft to fix their current design disaster.
As it stands, the PlayStation 4 is the significantly better system. And just like the PlayStation 3, it will have the better games throughout its life. Sony owns 15 major gaming studios and has a library of thousands of games from PS1, PS2, and PS3 which the PS4 should be able to run through their Gaikai online service. Sony made a major commitment when they included 8 GB of ultra fast GDDR5 graphics memory with 18 Compute Units for the PS4. In contrast, MS gave us 8 GB of the slower DDR3 PC memory with only 12 Compute Units (CUs). This is just one example of the compromise in the Xbox ONE. And as for Forza running at 1080p @ 60 fps (frames per second), this game has so many static elements like buildings, cars, and embankments which do not require strong graphics performance that it should have performed at the given specs. It is when the games get graphically intensive like requiring massive clouds, smoke, waves, explosions, and battles that the Xbox ONE cannot handle and then drops down to 720p at 30 fps. This is unacceptable on what should have been a next generation console. But the bottom line is that as everyone know, the emphasis in its design was on its media functions.
I think Microsoft thought that given the Nintendo Wii’s success in-spite of its weak hardware, that Kinect and the Media Center functionality would be the killer application for the Xbox ONE. Boy did they misread the market. I think that MS was blinded by their desire to own the living room and thought the the Xbox ONE was their chance to do just that. The bottom line is that the Xbox ONE is not a next generation console. But also that the PS4 graphics (1.84 TFLOPS) is 50% faster than the Xbox ONE (1.2 TFLOPS) is quite surprising in a system that was expected to be competitive. This is raw hardware performance (or limitation) which cannot be improved upon by the Xbox ONE.
The fact that the PlayStation 4’s graphics performance is 10 times faster than the PlayStation 3 gives us a clear indication of how powerful its hardware is. Any game running on the PS4 at anything less than 1080p @ 60 fps is clearly a developer problem and not a hardware issue. We have seen repeated cases where software bugs or an old software graphics engine (developed for the PS3) caused a PS4 game to drop below 60 fps. The bottom-line is that the PS4, with its superior hardware and innovative features such as its motion sensor controller with Touch-pad and Share buttons is what we expected in a next generation console, and Sony has delivered!
I don’t own an Xbox One but having played Killer Instinct on my uncles machine, man, its a lot of fun. I’d be super annoyed if I did own one though, its more expensive, less powerful, less performance, Kinect doesn’t work properly(and this is what apparently jacks up the price) and even if the Kinect did work properly I’d still have no interest in it. Also, with Forza being 1080p 60fps, I don’t think that says much since Gran Turismo 5 and 6, and Wipeout HD were all 1080p 60fps last-gen so, we had racing games of this quality last-generation.
So far, the PS4 has been damn near flawless for me, with BF4 being the only game that has disappointed me. Really, when every other game is 1080p apart from this one, a broken, glitch-filled, unfinished, non-functional rushed piece of crap game like BF4 does not worry me at all, I don’t think the 900p for BF4 says anything about the console itself, given how crappy the final product of BF4 is on all platforms, even the PC. The Witcher is really a PC game, made with PC’s in mind, it does kinda suck though if they can’t get 1080p.
At the end of the day, its all about the games, witch controller you like the most, where your friends are and what your own personal needs are, you want an all-in-one box, go for the XB1. You want the best game performance possible on consoles? Go for the PS4.
I’ll just add though, I’m very happy that the price/performance ratio of these machines is being so heavily discussed, it keeps consumers informed, and these companies need to know that they can’t charge us more while giving us less.
Xbox One S vs PS4 Pro: Which console is better?
PS4 Pro vs Xbox One S: Which console should you get?
PS4 Pro vs Xbox One S: We take a look at Sony and Microsoft’s current flagship consoles and see how the specs, features, games and more compare to see which machine is right for you.
As well as comparing the two consoles, we’ll also answer plenty of common questions thrown around:
PS4 Pro vs Xbox One S: Console Performance.
The difference in performance between PS4 Pro and Xbox One S is pretty major, with the former having significantly higher specs while the latter represents a relatively modest upgrade over its predecessor.
Xbox One S is essentially the same machine as the 2013 launch model in terms of internal specs. There are minor differences when it comes to performance, although you’re unlikely to notice any discernible changes. PS4 Pro has received minor CPU improvements that have allowed for better performance in some kinds. Project Cars, for example, sees a 38 percent increase in performance with the PS4 Pro Boost Mode enabled. Unfortunately, visual quality remains unchanged.
We’ve compiled all of the specs below:
However, the Xbox One S is still the best Xbox One on the market. That is, until the Xbox One X launches in just a few weeks.
The PS4 Pro is a different beast when compared to the Xbox One S. Its internal components are a big improvement over the original model, as you can see in the above spec list. The newly implemented Boost Mode also allows players to gain extra benefits such as higher framerates across significantly more games, even those lacking a PS4 Pro-specific patch.
PS4 Pro vs Xbox One S – Dimensions.
The PS4 Pro is quite a bit wider than the Xbox One S, measuring in at 295 x 327 x 55mm where the One S is 229 x 292 x 63.5mm. It’s also longer, but ever so slightly thinner.
PS4 Pro vs Xbox One S – Resolution and HDR gaming.
Both the PS4 Pro and Xbox One S support HDR (High Dynamic Range). For more on this colourful new feature you can check out our HDR article. The standard PS4 and PS4 Slim also now supports HDR thanks to a post-launch patch.
The core difference here isn’t HDR, but instead resolution: the PS4 Pro has the ability to output games at a resolution higher than Full HD. Since release we have seen certain titles render at a native 4K resolution while others settle for an upscaled alternative. Several developers are aiming for something “close to 4K resolution” with all future projects.
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Whatever the elevated resolution is then be upscaled to 4K. If you’re playing in Full HD, you’ll end up with smoother anti-aliasing, meaning the divisions between objects on screen will be much smoother than on the regular PS4. Many of the PS4 Pro supported titles use a 4K “checkerboard” rendering technique that subsequently improves textures and specular effects, making for a cleaner, crisper overall image without putting out a native 4K resolution.
Developers are also free to take advantage of the additional power of the Pro however they see fit. In the instance of the recent, excellent Nioh, players were given the choice whether to play the game with a higher resolution or framerate with multiple settings, much like PC players enjoy.
The Xbox One S only upscales games to 4K with no enhancements aside from HDR, as mentioned above.
PS4 Pro vs Xbox One S – Boost Mode vs Ultra HD Blu-Ray.
Features-wise, the two are very similar, but there’s one key differentiator that gives the Xbox One S a massive boost, and that’s its Ultra HD Blu-ray player. Incredibly, despite owning the UHD Blu-ray standard, Sony has chosen not to include the technology in its flagship console.
4K streaming is supported on YouTube and Netflix for both consoles, with more services on the way.
When it first launched the PS4 Pro was only capable of improving visuals and performance on titles officially patched by developers. However, this all changed with the arrival of Boost Mode, a new feature introduced in the PS4’s 4.50 firmware update.
When activated from the settings menu, this feature will improve performance of all PS4 titles, regardless if they’ve been patched or not. Of course, the results are mixed.
We’ll discover more about this new feature as it emerges from beta testing in the near future, along with which games best benefit from the rewards of Boost Mode.
View now: PS4 Pro at Amazon.
PS4 Pro vs Xbox One S – What games can I play on it?
Both the PS4 Pro and Xbox One S support all existing games, whether they be physical or digital. Those wishing to upgrade don’t need to worry about re-purchasing their entire library.
In terms of games with visual benefits, specific games have been upgraded for both systems to support HDR content, with PS4 Pro being the only one to benefit from higher resolutions at the time of writing. We’ve compiled some specific games for each system below, including some of the things you can expect.
Resident Evil 7 – Capcom’s latest survival horror masterpiece benefits hugely from HDR. The virtual reality experience is also enhanced by PS4 Pro with enhanced visuals on PlayStation VR.
The Last Guardian – Having launched with support for 4K and 1080p performance modes, Team Ico’s latest effort is a sight to behold. HDR is also supported on the standard PS4.
The Last of Us Remastered – Naughty Dog’s modern classic is a great showpiece for HDR. It also supports 4K at 60fps, which is nothing to sniff at.
Hitman – HDR support is absent, although both performance and textures are boosted on PS4 Pro.
Rise of the Tomb Raider – One of the shining examples of PS4 Pro upgrades. Crystal Dynamics has implemented visual improvements in both 4K and 1080p for Pro owners.
Battlefield 1 – The framerate across epic multiplayer battles receives a huge boost thanks to PS4 Pro, helped further by additional terrain detail on each map.
Gears of War 4 – Acting as the pioneering example of HDR on Xbox One S, Gears of War 4 was the first of a few select titles to support the feature.
Forza Horizon 3 – Heralded as one of 2016’s best racers, Horizon 3 looks even better with a healthy dose of HDR on Xbox One S.
Final Fantasy 15 – It turns out HDR is just what Noctis and friends needed, adding an extra helping of colour to the JRPG’s gorgeous open world.
ReCore – It may have felt somewhat unfinished and underwhelming, but ReCore was a gorgeous sight to behold at times. The sandy environments are made even better with HDR enabled.
We’ll be updating this list as new titles are added, so be sure to check back.
PS4 Pro vs Xbox One S – Conclusion.
The Xbox One S and PS4 Pro are two very different consoles. It’s clear Microsoft has focused on delivering 4K video content, while Sony has tried its best to produce a more powerful console designed with gaming in mind. The upcoming Boost Mode feature is bound to sway a lot of consumers looking for a genuine difference between the Pro and original PS4.
Which of these consoles is best for you can differ depending on your love for fancy visuals, top notch games or 4K video content. If you haven’t found yourself wishing for higher framerates and crisper visuals on your current console than upgrading might not be the right choice, especially if you’re yet to invest in a 4K display.
You could also wait for the Xbox One X, which is just a few weeks away from launch, but costs more than both consoles.
Which console will you be buying? Let us know in the comments below.
Xbox One Elite Controller vs SCUF Infinity 1.
Which is the best pro gamepad for you?
When it comes to professional-grade Xbox One controllers, you’ve really only got two options if you want the best of the best.
There’s the Microsoft own Xbox One Elite Controller, which is a fully customisable pad with metal trimmings. But then there’s also the SCUF Infinity 1 from a well-established third-party manufacturer. But it’s another customisable pad that’s strongly worth your consideration.
We’ve put the two pads through their paces to make sure you’re spending your money wisely.
Xbox One Elite Controller vs SCUF Infinity 1: Price.
The biggest hurdle for upgrading to an enhanced gamepad will be the price. If you’re still classing yourself as a “casual gamer”, a controller that’s over the £100 mark might seem like a massive waste of money.
But the more hardcore and professional gamers among us will think that’s the price you have to pay in order to get the type of controller that serves all your gaming needs.
The Xbox One Elite Controller retails for £129.99 RRP, but it’s proving rather difficult to get your hands on, with most retailers currently sold out or with limited stock.
The SCUF Infinity 1 pricing is a little more complicated. Prices start at £95.99 for the basic black and white versions, but once you start personalising and customising the Infinity 1, prices can reach a lofty £202.50 if you go for all the bells and whistles.
Those available without personalisation are priced at a maximum of £127.99, though.
Xbox One Elite Controller vs SCUF Infinity 1: Design.
But if you’re willing to spend some serious dosh, the design of your professional controller will really swing your decision.
Whether it’s the triggers, rear paddles, button mapping or the analogue sticks that are really important to you, there’s a ton of difference between the SCUF and Microsoft pads.
Customisation options aside, there are some basic differences in the overall design. The Elite pad is kitted out with metal on the triggers, bumpers, D-pad and the shafts of the analogue sticks.
The rest is finished with a matte soft-touch plastic and a monochrome colour scheme, making for a far more sophisticated and mature look.
The SCUF Infinity 1 is also finished with a soft-touch matte plastic, which comes in a variety of colours. The analogue sticks are a glossy plastic, as is the D-Pad and triggers/bumpers.
In the build-your-own tool on the SCUF website, you can make your Infinity 1 as garish or as understated as you like – or even pick an eSports team’s colours.
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Xbox One Elite Controller vs SCUF Infinity 1: Triggers.
When it comes to games like FPS titles at a competitive level, the speed of your triggers for aiming and getting that kill in really matter.
The Xbox One Elite Controller features new Hair Lock Triggers, which allow you to restrict the travel of both triggers independently. You do this by flipping the shiny green switches on the back of the controller.
It’s quick and easy to do, and makes sure you have immediate control over your trigger travel – even on a per-game or mid-game basis.
However, you’ll need to do this for every single game if you want to go for the full personalisation option.
The Xbox One Elite Controller is certainly easier to adjust on the fly and feels more responsive.
Xbox One Elite Controller vs SCUF Infinity 1: Paddles.
Both the Xbox One Elite Controller and the SCUF Infinity 1 feature four rear paddles for providing alternative button options at the touch of a finger (rather than a thumb).
The SCUF Infinity 1’s paddles all hang vertically down the back of the gamepad from a boxy panel. They’re stiff, responsive, but sometimes feel a little out of reach.
They’re not permanent though, as you can remove them from the rear of the controller, meaning they’re not going to dangle there if you don’t want them to.
The SCUF Pad comes with the paddles automatically mapped to the face buttons, but in order to remap them you’ll need to have added the Electro-Magnetic Remapping feature during your build and then use the Mag Key to switch inputs.
It’s a little complicated to do, as you need to remap each button individually using the magnets and button pressing.
The Xbox One Elite Controller paddles on the other hand are all removable. Everything attaches using magnets and it’s just a case of flicking the paddles out of their rear sockets – which you’ll be tempted to fiddle with at first like a child with a loose tooth.
They’re much better positioned for your fingers, so you don’t have to adjust the position of your hands.
And it’s a lot easier to remap the Elite’s paddles. It’s done via the Xbox Accessories app available for Windows 10 and Xbox One and can be done on a per-game basis. I particularly like using them as alternatives for the L3 and R3 inputs.
Xbox One Elite Controller vs SCUF Infinity 1: Grip.
If you’ve ever felt like the Xbox One controller lacks that gripability, you’ll be pleased that both the Infinity 1 and the Elite come with enhanced grips.
The Xbox One Elite Controller’s monochrome colour scheme is broken up by grey, faceted matte rubber grips on each handle. They mould into your hands and make sure that, regardless of your sweaty palm situation, the controller stays put.
The standard option on the SCUF Infinity 1 features soft rubber grips, but when you build your SCUF pad, you have the option to add FPS grips to the controller.
For the extra £11.99, the FPS Grips also add Adjustable Hair Triggers and the Trigger Stop Mechanism, along with the circular SCUF logo detailing that adds extra grip.
It’s a bit sticky with a sweaty palm, though, but still miles better than the standard Xbox One controller. The Elite just has that extra comfort.
Xbox One Elite Controller vs SCUF Infinity 1: Analogue Sticks.
One of the key differences between the two pro-grade controllers is the analogue sticks, both in their material construction and the options available.
The Elite Controller comes with three different analogue stick options in the box, with the spares stored within the controller’s clamshell case. You get a set of standard concave sticks, a set of longer versions that improve reach and finally, a set of regular length domed analogue sticks.
All of the Elite’s analogue sticks feature metal shafts, with hard matte plastic pads. The rings around the analogue sticks themselves are reinforced with metal for enhanced durability.
The analogue sticks on the Elite Controller are held in by strong magnets, meaning swapping out the sticks is just a case of pulling out the current options and snapping on a different set.
You can opt for different choices for each analogue stick too, if you don’t want matching. It means you won’t be able to swap out analogue sticks on the fly from the off, though.
There is the option to purchase additional options from the SCUF store. For £10.99 you get a set of three analogue sticks – either three domed or three concave (regular, medium or long). That means if you want to upgrade both of your sticks you’re going to have to buy two packs to get matching.
And they’re a bit annoying to swap out. You’ll need to use the strange hubcap-style gadget, which slots over the analogue stick and twists to remove the outer ring. You can then pull off the analogue stick, replace it with a new one and reattach the ring.
The SCUF Infinity 1’s analogue stick and rings are also made out of a hard plastic rather than the metal on the Elite. SCUF explains that they’re actually made of a “high-grade self-lubricating material” that “provides a pro-grade finish offering improved smoothness, life and feel of thumbsticks”, but I’m not convinced.
Xbox One Elite Controller vs SCUF Infinity 1: D-Pad.
Both the Xbox One Elite controller and the SCUF Infinity 1 are available with a pair of D-pad options.
As with the analogue sticks, the Elite Controller comes with both options included in the box. There’s a metal version of the normal cross-shaped D-pad, or the rather more flashy metal faceted option that’s great for fighting games.
These also swap out using magnetic attachments for easy switching.
Again, the SCUF pad requires you to upgrade the D-pad when building. The option akin to the faceted Elite D-pad is called the Control Ring in SCUF land, and allows you to have a more lucid selection process. It’s an extra £6.99 on top of the base £95.99 price, but it’s well worth it to get this matte plastic ring D-pad.
That’s because when you don’t want to use it, you can simply prise it off and reveal a regular glossy plastic D-pad underneath.
Xbox One Elite Controller vs SCUF Infinity 1: Customisation.
We’ve outlined most of this before, but it’s important to remember that the Xbox One Elite Controller comes with all the various customisation options in the box along with a clamshell case to keep it all in.
For your £129.99 investment you get the three sets of analogue sticks, two D-Pads and four paddles. There’s no worries about having to buy additional kit (unless you lose something, because at present there are no spares available to buy).
But to get the same amount of customisation options for the SCUF, you’re going to need to personalise your controller with all the top-notch features and buy some additional accessories.
The base price for the SCUF Infinity 1 is £95.99. But to get the customisation on the triggers, the Control Ring D-Pad, paddle remapping, FPS Grip and your choice of a single set of analogue sticks bumps that price up to £142.53.
You’ve then potentially got the choice to buy additional analogue stick options, which will cost you either £10.99 for one set of three, or £21.98 to get three matching sets. That’s a whopping £164.51 (and you’ve still not got a carry case).
Xbox One Elite Controller vs SCUF Infinity 1: Button Mapping.
And then there’s the issue of button mapping.
The SCUF Infinity 1 only allows you to remap the paddles, which must be enabled in the build your controller menu before you buy – it’s known as Electro Magnetic Remapping. This will then allow you to customise your paddle configurations using the SCUF Mag Key included with the EMR option.
It’s a fiddly process and one I’ve not quite managed to master as yet.
However, that means you’ll need to adjust the paddle configurations for each game manually, as there’s no way to store profiles on the controller or your Xbox One itself.
The app gives you the option of remapping every button on the controller, using game specific presets, adjust various sensitivities including analogue stick respond and triggers and more.
You can also save two profiles to the controller itself, switching between them using the toggle you can see above.
Loading a new one only takes a few seconds too, if you’re playing multiple titles in one session and want to have the full customisation experience.
The Xbox One Elite Controller just has the edge on the SCUF. It features more customisation options out of the box for a lower price, is easier to customise, and has full button remapping.
Plus those metal details and the monochrome colour scheme make it feel far more premium.
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