8 best generic controllers

Generic controllers, specifically gamepads and standard controllers, are alternative input devices designed for gaming and compatible with various gaming platforms, including legacy systems like Wii. Here's what you should know about them:

  1. Compatibility:

    • Generic controllers are often designed to work with specific gaming platforms. They can be compatible with consoles such as PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo, and PC. Make sure to choose a controller that matches your gaming system.
  2. Design and Layout:

    • Generic controllers typically mimic the design and button layout of official controllers for the respective gaming platform. This familiarity allows gamers to use them comfortably.
  3. Wired and Wireless:

    • Generic controllers come in both wired and wireless variants. Wired controllers are usually straightforward to set up and don't require batteries. Wireless controllers offer more flexibility but need power from batteries or rechargeable sources.
  4. Features:

    • Many generic controllers come with additional features such as vibration feedback, motion controls, and touchpad functionality to enhance the gaming experience.
  5. Build Quality:

    • The quality of generic controllers can vary widely. Some offer good build quality and durability, while others may be less robust. It's essential to read reviews and choose controllers with positive feedback on build quality.
  6. Price:

    • Generic controllers are often more affordable than official branded controllers. This makes them an attractive option for budget-conscious gamers.
  7. Button and Stick Sensitivity:

    • The sensitivity of buttons and analog sticks can differ between generic controllers.Some may have a stiffer feel, while others are more responsive. Your preference may vary depending on the type of games you play.
  8. Durability:

    • Durability can be a concern with generic controllers. They may not withstand heavy use as well as official controllers. Consider your gaming habits and the expected lifespan of the controller.
  9. Warranty and Customer Support:

    • Check if the manufacturer offers a warranty or customer support for the generic controller. This can provide peace of mind in case of defects or issues.
  10. User Reviews:

    • Before purchasing a generic controller, read user reviews and ratings to gauge the overall satisfaction of other gamers who have used the controller for similar purposes.
  11. Wii and Legacy Systems:

    • For legacy systems like the Wii, generic controllers can be a cost-effective way to replace or expand your gaming setup. Ensure that the controller is designed to work with your specific legacy system.
  12. Third-Party Accessories:

    • Some generic controllers come from reputable third-party accessory manufacturers that specialize in creating gaming peripherals. These may offer better quality and compatibility.

Remember that while generic controllers can save you money, there may be trade-offs in terms of build quality and performance compared to official controllers. Consider your gaming needs and budget when choosing a controller for your gaming setup.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best generic controllers on the market
  

PS3 Controller, 2-Pack Wireless Bluetooth Gamepad Double Vibration Remote Joystick for Playstation 3 with Charging Cord (2-Pack)

SKILEEN

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Noted: 3rd Party Products, Not Original Product from SONY.

Features:

High-performance Bluetooth controller for PS3.

4-way button with 2 analog joysticks.

Compatible with PS3 only.

Bluetooth Wireless Game Controller.

Ergonomic design and easy to use.

Built-in Rechargeable Lithium Ion battery pack.

Supports lithium battery charging and double motor vibration.

When charging, the controller the light will be flashing; when fully charged, the light turns off.

How to connect wirelessly

1. Connect to console with cable(USB mini) while the controller is off, charge for 10 minutes, press and hold HOME button ( round button) for 3 seconds until only 1 indicator works.

2. Then disconnect the cable, wait for one or two minutes. It will pair Redtooth automatically with the console (The 4 indicators will stop blinking, instead only 1 indicator remains bright, meaning it is connected already).

3. If the initial sync fails or it can't be charged normally, put a needle (pin or paper clip) into the mini hole at the back of the controller and press the button to reset it.

How to turn on/off

The controller will start when you press the round button or connect with computer by date cable. It will turn off when it takes 5 minutes after it is disconnected. If it can not stop working after a long time, please plug the data cable in computer then pull it out, thus it will be power off.

Package Included:

2 x Controller

2 x manual

2 x USB cable

4 x Thumb Grip

  • Compatible with Playstation 3 PS3 only.
  • Astonishing Gaming Experience:Built-in double vibration motors make the game more realistic for ps3 controller, feel every hit, crash, and explosion with hand-vibrating double shock response. Anticipate a realistic gameplay thanks to the 6 built-in sensors characters and objects in the game will move and react as you tilt, push and shake the controller.
  • Wireless Bluetooth: High-Performance Wireless Controller for PS3, with wireless transmission technology, you won’t suffer from data loss or signal interference. Bluetooth connection eliminates any lags and delays.
  • Upgrade Analog Sticks & Buttons: Premium analog sticks/ 360-degree positioning with ultra-accuracy(without dead zone). With high sensibility and accuracy buttons help you do better PlayStation 3 games.
  • Ergonomics Design: This controller's shape fits your hands naturally, grip design on the back fit your fingers perfectly, completely comfortable for people even for long time game playing.

User questions & answers

Question: Can I buy a cheap psp
Answer: You can buy anything you want
Question: Do the key functions of the right side of the screen all black or in color as shown in the description
Answer: The buttons on the right are in color
Question: Can I get a honest rating from 1-10 from a long time user
Answer: All in all it's not to bad. See I don't know what I do but I guess I go to hard, I never throw or smash controllers but after some time if you hit 1 button and something else happens. However my son uses them they last forever.. id say 6-7
Question: Does this work with Mac
Answer: I mean, the one I bought barely works on the playstation.

Generic Orange Spice Controller Pad for Gamecube and Wii

Generic

Based on 580 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This controller features built-in rumble, two analog control sticks, ergonomic design, and an intuitive button layout. Product Description Get the Gamecube Controller so you can play in style! This Gamecube controller features increased stability and ease of use by adding two grips and grouped controls for the left and right hands, an analog trigger on both the right and left, a second analog control stick and a rumble function that has been implimented into the controller itself.

  • Controller can be used for both Gamecube and Nintendo Wii
  • Built-in rumble feature.
  • Intuitive button lay-out.
  • 2 analog control sticks.

User questions & answers

Question: Is this controller worth buying? How does it hold up to light/moderate usage
Answer: Buy and original gamecube controller they do make them in orange. The one I bought still works but wire got pulled out and knob broke. Buy if you want cheap.
Question: Do you sale orange spice Japanese GameCube memory card
Answer: No.
Question: Does this include the wires and if so, how long are they
Answer: The only wire in it is the one that connects to the game system, as is the default. The cord is about 6 ft...(average length).
Question: Is it wireless
Answer: No, honestly I have a problem with some of the buttons id recommend a different Controller
Question: How long is the cord
Answer: I believe it is roughly 5' long. it is a good length for comfortable play.
Question: Does this controller work for Steam
Answer: I believe so. It is usb and most steam games allow for customizable control layouts. So really the bigger question is does your game allow for a controller to be used.
Question: Does it have vibration motors
Answer: No it does not
Question: I cant connect it to Xbox 360 only PC
Answer: Don't buy it, the soldering is horrible and it'll break in a couple weeks. Don't be cheap

Easyget 2 Player Zero Delay Generic Game Controller USB to Joystick for MAME & Raspberry Pi 1/2/3 RetroPie DIY Projects (Renewed)

Easyget

Easyget 2 Player Zero Delay Generic Game Controller USB to Joystick for MAME & Raspberry Pi 1/2/3 RetroPie DIY Projects Support for SANWA Parts

Easyget

Based on 78 reviews Check latest price
  • Zero Delay Arcade USB Encoder For Your Pc Game DIY!
  • 2 Player Generic Game Controller support PC & Raspberry Pi 1/2/3
  • Use this Encoder you can build your own Arcade Game Machine!
  • 100% Zero Delay USB Encoder to Arcade Joystick! High Quality!
  • Support All Joystick and Push Button types which with 2.8mm Terminal!

User questions & answers

Question: Can these be used with happ buttons and cherry microswitches? sorry im new to this . thanks
Answer: This kit is for Japanese parts but their are kits that can support suzo-happ parts your looking for a kit with.187 quick disconnects.
Question: Will this work with led joysticks and buttons
Answer: If your leds have their own terminals, you can power them using the red ports on the board.
Question: Do multiple boards hooked to the same computer ever get mixed up (ie does the computer loose track of which one is for player one and two
Answer: I have had no problem. They map as joysticks so they show up as j1-b1 j2-b1 etc. just like having 2 JS on the computer. You just configure the software accordingly.
Question: How long are the included USB cables
Answer: 6 foot

Product features

Whole 1 Player Kit

Each encoder will contain a separate USB Cable.

The kit perfect support for SANWA Joystick and SANWA Buttons.

Support LED Joysticks!

This set of encoder require to use 5Pin Type terminal Joystick and 2.8mm size terminal push buttons. SANWA Style Joysticks & Push Buttons can fit for this set perfectly.

The Zero delay USB Pc Encoder is the most cost effective encoder option. Use this encoder set you can easily DIY your own arcade game machine.

You just need simply connect your arcade controls into the encoder board with the included wires, plug the encoder into your computer USB Port.And then just enjoy your arcade Games with your PC / Raspberry Pi.

It can support all the windows system including windows XP,Windows 7,Windows 8 ect.

The Encoder can support not only PC but also Raspberry Pi 1/2/3 with RetroPie!

Easyget 2 Player Zero Delay Generic Game Controller USB to Joystick for MAME & Raspberry Pi 1/2/3 RetroPie DIY Projects

Easyget

Based on 143 reviews Check latest price
  • Zero Delay Arcade USB Encoder For Your Pc Game DIY!
  • 2 Player Generic Game Controller support PC & Raspberry Pi 1/2/3
  • Use this Encoder you can build your own Arcade Game Machine!
  • 100% Zero Delay USB Encoder to Arcade Joystick! High Quality!
  • Support All Joystick and Push Button types which with 4.8mm Terminal!

User questions & answers

Question: Can you use 2 sets of these for a 4-player system
Answer: Yes you can just make sure you have 4 free usb. Not sure if a usb hub will work.
Question: Do you have to use happ switches and joys, or will any normal open momentary work? i'm looking for smaller buttons than traditional arcade style
Answer: any NO buttonts will work. curious, what buttons are you using.
Question: do you have to daisey chain the ground for this encoder to every button
Answer: No. Each connector comes with its own ground.
Question: Will this encoder support 5 pin joystick
Answer: My joysticks has 5 pins, 4 are the directions and one was ground.

Product features

We are updating the Encoder Board

We are updating the Encoder Board into a new version type to improve product quality.

New version and Old version encoder will shipped randomly.

All the functions of the encoders are the same. Both Old Version and New Version Encoders are Zero Delay Encoders.

We will cover all the old version encoders by new version encoders step by step.

We can't specify the version for an order. All the goods will shipped by Amazon randomly.

High Quality Build Encoder & Supper Easy to Install

Arcade USB Encoder, Generic Game Controller PC Game Joystick Circuit Board, Controller Control Board Assembly for PC Fighting Games

Wendry

Product description

Features:

Circuit board formation without deformation, cutting surface without burr, in line with the standards. Solder joint does not stick, no virtual welding, full, smooth, work with high performance. The surface of the circuit board is very clean, no tin residue, the handwriting is clear, easy to recognize. Using the latest technology, the entire network of unique precision technology patch type electronic board. Plug and play, do not need to install the driver. High precision material, environmental protection, fire resistance, high temperature, deformation resistance. Specifications:

Material: ABS

Color: Green

Interface: USB Interface, Support PC, Laptop For Windows 98/ME/XP/Vista/7/8

LED Indication: Electronic Intelligent Red Green Light Switching

Key Mapping: 1-12 Universal Key, MODE, TURBO, AUTO, CLEAR Function Keys

Joystick: Domestic Rod Has 4 2P Keys, For Shimizu 3-bar Has One 5P key

Package list:

1 x F10 Chip Version

1 x USB Cable

4 x Rocker Bar Micromotion Cable

8 x Button Cable

Note:

When the function keys and AUTO keys at the same time is on time, then the function keys into AUTO - FIRE mode, the corresponding DLED or ALED with 12 hz flicker frequency.

As the key and the CLR key at the same time is on time, it out of the AUTO - FIRE mode, DLED or ALED returns to the normally on state at this time.

If the function key and the TURBO key are pressed simultaneously, the function key enters TURBO mode.

  • Circuit board formation without deformation, cutting surface without burr, in line with the standards.
  • Solder joint does not stick, no virtual welding, full, smooth, work with high performance.
  • The surface of the circuit board is very clean, no tin residue, the handwriting is clear, easy to recognize.
  • Using the latest technology, the entire network of unique precision technology patch type electronic board.
  • Plug and play, do not need to install the driver.

Wireless Controller Compatible with Xbox 360, Astarry 2.4GHZ Game Controller Gamepad Joystick Compatible with Xbox & Slim 360 PC Windows 7, 8, 10 (Blue)

ASTARRY

Based on 7 reviews Check latest price
  • Play where you want - A 2.4 GHz wireless connection with up to a 30-foot range means you have more room to move.
  • Feel the action - action feedback gives you riveting gaming experience. Adjustable action feedback for longer battery life.
  • Ergonomic: Play in total comfort. Great new look with a matte black finish and gloss accents. Award winning compact ergonomics provide a more comfortable gaming experience.
  • PC gaming at its best - Precise thumbsticks, two pressure-point triggers, and an 8-way directional pad help you stay in control. New left and right shoulder buttons are designed for ease of use.
  • [Compatible with Xbox 360 and PC ] The Wireless Controller Compatible with Xbox 360 and Windows 7 and 8 and 10PC, Delivering a Consistent and Universal Gaming Experience.(Package Contents:Wireless Controller*1)Note: Pairing with a PC Requires a 360 Receiver

User questions & answers

Question: All the controller does when I turn it on is blink. It won’t flash the way it’s supposed to for connecting to the console. Am I doing something wrong
Answer: Do u have a charger cord, I bought this for my daughter for Christmas and to my surprise it actually works. We have 4 xbox 360 controllers now and 3 of them don't really stay on. My niece switched the battery packs on the controllers and it works better for both controllers now. Maybe this would help you too.
Question: I can't connect to my pc's xbox wireless adapter
Answer: Check the following ; (1) PC game supports the use of this controller, (2)do you have the USB to wireless adapter if your trying to use it as wireless, (3) have you tried wired functionality.
Question: Does this use bluetooth for the wireless connection? If not are any other parts required
Answer: It’s wireless .. like a cordless phone . I don’t think it’s “ blue tooth “ it takes AA batteries Nothing else is necessary..
Question: Can this case fit in a pocket
Answer: If you have big pockets

Product features

AUDIO PORT

Integrated headset port for Xbox Live play

Button no delay

Reject button delay. The new chip increases sensitivity by 60%. Perfectly compatible with all new games and games.

NEWLY DESIGNED D-PAD

The enhanced version of the arrow keys for better accuracy

New joystick

The newly designed joystick provides better accuracy and reduces errors.

DUAL ACTION FEEDBACK

The trigger action motor adopts a new design, and the finger touches the feedback accurately, making the weapon, impact and action experience realistic and creating a real game experience.

TRIGGER KEY AND BUFFER KEY

Well-designed trigger and buffer keys provide a professional gaming experience.

ERGONOMIC DESIGN and RAPID RESPONSE

The asymmetrical design of the joysticks is based on ergonomics and designed for the most comfortable thumb position, and all buttons are easy to press and respond immediately. Ensure your optimal feeling when playing.

WIDE COMPATIBILITY

Wireless Controller compatible with Xbox 360, Xbox 360 Slim and Windows 7 8 10

Wii Nunchuck Controller,MODESLAB 2 Pack Nunchuck Joystick Gamepad Controller for Wii/Wii U Console (Red)

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

MODESLAB 2 Pack Nunchuck Controller for wii console

Product Features:

◆100% new high quality Nunchuck Controller

◆Full accelerator support for motion based game-play.

◆Ergonomic design fits comfortably in either left or right hand.

◆Replacement for Wii and Wii U video game console.

Specification:

Two buttons - C, Z

Motion sensor function (3 axes)

Cable of nunchuck: 120cm (3.94ft)

Color:white,black,white/black

Compatiable with: Nunchuk controller for wii video game console

Material : Plastic

Weight: 5.29 oz (150g)

Package Includes:

2 x Nunchuck controller



  • 🎮PACKAGE INCLUDE:Set of two replacement nunchuk controllers,fully compatible with Wii Console.THIRD PARTY PRODUCT, but works great with the Wii Video Game Console.
  • 🎮3-AXIS MOTION-SENSING -- Features the "C" and "Z" buttons as well as an analog stick. Frees you to aim and fire using a more natural motion with the Wii Remote.
  • 🎮LEFT/RIGHT HAND USE -- Greatly suitable for either right or left hand use.Use it to have a better control of your character, promote the accuracy all kinds of specific action whether it's throwing a pass in football or aiming a ranged in an action game
  • 🎮EASY TO INSTALL: Connect the Nunchuk controller to the Wii Remote and get ready. You will be begin a journey into the most immersive, heated gameplay experience ever offered.
  • 🎮WHAT WE CAN DO: Any problem about our product or service, please feel free to email or send message to us.We will reply to you within 24 hours. We promise to resolve all problems and mistakes for you immediately.

Latest Reviews

View all