Gamespot: Best Controllers - PS4 vs. Xbox One

With each new console comes a new controller, and both Sony and Microsoft put significant revisions into their next-gen hardware.

[THC CELL]

Ps4 pad look amazing

[ZodTheRipper]

- touchpad
- light bar
- headset input
- new trigger buttons
- new analogue sticks
- no batteries
agree, can't wait <3

[DivineAssault]

dont forget the speaker buddy! thats gonna be cool to hear certain chimes or sound effects up close.. Not to mention the 6axis & gyroscope.. PS4 controller is far superior to xbox one pad

[nveenio]

I didn't know that the One controller took regular batteries. That sucks unless they last 10 years. (They don't.) I'm not buying the Xbox One (at least not for the first 3-5 years), but still... I hate having to keep AA batteries in the house. They die so quickly and are so expensive.

The only thing the PS4 controller is missing is feedback in the triggers. That's a nice touch.

[badboy776]

Xbox One still uses Batteries?

[logan_izer10]

So dumb! $500 dollar console and they can't put a measly rechargeable battery in the controller. Once again, another Microsoft money grab. "Buy our play and charge adapters!"

[fattyuk]

Of course!

Can't charge for a battery pack otherwise.

[Mystogan]

How is it money grabbing? They don't get money when you buy new batteries xD

[teemo]

and don't forget you can't use back your x360 charger pack $_$ "cha-ching"

[Genuine-User]

Yep.

[True_Samurai]

Yeah but it consumes lesser power now so the batteries will last longer or if your batteries goes dead and don't feel like getting more. You can use a USB cable. Sort of like to a Samsung phone charger to keep it on.
↓↓
And also there is a setting to turn off the motors. Also it's not like the rumbles are used entirely it's up to developers to implement and up to players if they want to use them

[RiPPn]

Not sure how 4 motors would consume less power, guess we'll see when real world play happens.

[sAVAge_bEaST]

"batteries goes dead and don't feel like getting more".--huh?- they should be built in.

"You can use a USB cable. Sort of like to a Samsung phone charger to keep it on." --over decade old tech.

[fardan85]

seriously? I thought the batteries wont make a return with XB1.

[Bzone24]

Just buy rechargeable batteries. I'm actually using the same rechargeable batteries that I bought when I bought my Xbox 360. That was 6 years ago. Surprised they've lasted that long. Cheap rechargeables at that. Under $7 for a four pack of Rayovac. Came with a charger too. Outlasted my original Xbox 360 by 4 years so far.

[Anon1974]

Or get the system with the controller that doesn't force you to buy anything extra. It's not rocket science. "Hey, if you flush bills down the toilet instead of coin, it'll go down faster!" Why waste your money at all when you don't have to?

[Bzone24]

Yeah, buying something under $10 really sucks. Of any of the reasons to not buy an Xbox One, this is really reaching for you sonyfanboy66.

[Anon1974]

Yep. Flushing away $10 just makes good sense to you, doesn't it now? I mean it's only $10. Woosh! Way to defend your position by name calling. You know your argument is weak when...

[CoLD FiRE]

So when MS gives you the option of user-replaceable batteries they're the devil? The fanboyism here is insane but laughable. I prefer to use my own rechargable AA batteries rather than a built-in "non-removeable" battery pack.

IMO, removable batteries for the controller are much better than having cables running through the living room just to charge the controller when they run out of juice.

[EasilyTheBest]

I don't know which controller is better as I haven't used either of them yet.

[TXIDarkAvenger]

This is the real answer for anyone else commenting.

Barely any of you, if not anyone has gotten their hands on BOTH PS4 and One controllers. But of course N4G is pro-Sony, so the hivemind always wins.

If they feel like their previous controllers, then I must say they are both amazing.

[CoolBeansRus]

I agree with both of you guys. IMO, from what i've seen, they both have made good improvements to the controller. Which is better? IDK, but good job on both companies for improving them. Hopefully one day they will figure out how to out the accuracy of a mouse in them.

[wishingW3L]

PS4 wins. So now the PS4 not only has the better hardware but the better controller too. ;)

[True_Samurai]

Haha yeah no. Only thing new is a touchpad and and 2 buttons vs Microsoft 40 innovations in the controller

[sourav93]

Ever heard of "If it ain't broke, don't fix it" ?

[True_Samurai]

^^ yes it ain't broke and that's why it's not changed much physically but technically they have enhanced it

[duplissi]

way to take pr speak to heart and regurgitate it....

[resi5]

Lol you're buying that 40 innovations crap? point out 10 of these so called innovations the only things I see are the gimmicky rumble triggers. Don't get fooled most of those innovations won't make any difference whatsoever and the number 40 definitely includes small component changes that affect manufacture process of the controller

[BitbyDeath]

PS4 controller has also added a headphone jack, light-bar, speaker, and improvements to just about everything. (Rumble, triggers, deadzone improv, handles etc)

[Why o why]

Im still waiting for these 40 innovations....just like I was looking for the cloud computing proof...seems like I'm looking for Loch Ness and yeti in the same week.

Hands on will be the ultimate decider. I have my preference but that doesn't mean both cant be great pads.

Glad ms done away with the protruding battery unit but surprised they went with normal batteries. That was a bit old skool

[HammadTheBeast]

Not gonna lie, it looks EXACTLY the same, only thing I see is smaller sticks which I believe is negative.

[ZodTheRipper]

@TrueNinja
40 innovations (!), huh? You must be one of those who also believe that the Xbox does "rocket-science stuff" and all that. You should google "innovation", and while you're at it, also "marketing gibberish".

[InTheLab]

Let's see...

1. Wifi Direct
2. rumble triggers
3. a not s*** d pad
4. Batteries..
5.-40. PC friendly.

There ya go.

*****spoiler alert*****

Numbers 1-40 are not actual innovations.

[ShwankyShpanky]

Actually, they adjusted the ergonomics on the triggers, joysticks, and the overall controller, added a speaker and headphone jack, and light bar.

"40 innovations..." I believe they count the fact that the battery compartment is now flush with the controller as an "innovation." OOOOOOOOOHHH!

And a D-pad that isn't hot garbage: another "innovation." OOOOOOOOOHHH!

As others have said... please list these 40 innovations. Let's see if you can even do 20.

[dark_101]

@wishingW3L

Nah, I think that is up to gamers and personal preferences

I mean the controller part for sure

[Mystogan]

Xbox controller always beats Playstation controller. Ask pro-gamers and MLG players.

Keep dreaming.

[Parapraxis]

Why don't YOU go ask them which they think will be better on the next consoles and get back to us there buddy.

[SilentNegotiator]

Those teenage boys that demand that game rules be "their" way or else "teh noobs are ruinin'!"?

They don't exactly play Xbox controllers v. PS controllers, or even use Ps3s at 95% of the events, so....how the heck do they know?

All of those Mountain Dew, Doritos, and Xbox ads, along with Xboxes forced into all of the tournaments, probably don't do anything either. Because bloodshot-eyed teenage boys aren't susceptible to suggestion and the extra powerful teenage Id would never believe that the tools they're ALREADY using are the best. /s

And as a mooting point...they haven't used NEXT GEN controllers.

[HammadTheBeast]

You mean those 19 year old's with no future who play CoD 24/7?

[FITgamer]

Considering that Xbox is a primarily shooter based console, it's odd that they made the analog sticks shorter and the pads smaller. Shorter sticks means less precise aiming. I don't think a lot of pro-gamers will like that.

[tigertom53]

Impulse Triggers – Xbox One’s Wireless Controller sports four vibration motors – a small one behind each trigger that adds precise haptic feedback to the finger tips, and a larger in each grip for large scale rumbles. This gives users a sense of in-game directionality and depth, creating rich, immersive experiences where gunshots, car crashes and explosions can come to life.

Higher Quality Headset Audio – The data transfer rate between the controller and console has been improved, allowing for higher fidelity audio in communication headsets. In-game chat over Xbox Live, according to the team, will be in many cases clearer than talking on a phone.

Revamped Thumbsticks – The thumbsticks are built for precision and comfort. They’re smaller and outlined with a knurled texture for better grip. Competitive gamers will be pleased to hear the sticks require 25 percent less force to move, allowing you to adjust your aim in a first-person shooter or execute a half-circle sweep in a fighting game faster and more accurately. The controller also uses advanced electronics that reduce thumbstick deadzone in the center.

Brand New D-Pad – The old Xbox 360 D-pad is replaced by a new design that pays homage to classic controllers and is architectured to deliver more precision and tactile feedback for gaming. The D-pad’s cross shape is honed to provide accurate cardinal direction input, sweeping movements and combinations – important factors for sports and fighting games, and other experiences.

Buttons, Buttons, Buttons – The A, B, X and Y buttons are lower to the controller with tighter spacing, making the transition between each one smoother. A new, three-step manufacturing process gives these buttons a more premium look, as if the letters on them are suspended in 3-D space. The size and placement of the Xbox button has also changed so the view and menu buttons are more accessible.

Seamless Connectivity – Each controller uses a combination of invisible reflective technology and LEDs to send a patterned infrared signal to your console and Kinect sensor. Not only does this make pairing the devices seamless, but it enables Kinect to associate the controller with whoever is holding it. This introduces innovative experiences, such as player switching, where a split screen display can swap positions on the TV if users change seats on the couch.

Low Power State – If you’re watching a movie or need to step away from the TV, the controller enters a low power state that conserves your battery. The moment you pick it up again, it will be ready for use without having to resynch with the console.

Refined for Comfort – The controller’s design is deliberately honed to the closest tenth of a millimeter to offer the most comfortable fit in users’ hands, and was tested extensively by a broader age group than ever before to ensure it is optimized for as many people as possible. According to the team’s research, this improves gameplay performance and allows comfortable gaming for longer periods of time.

Angled Triggers and Bumpers – The triggers and bumpers are carefully designed for performance and comfort. The specific angling allows for a natural fit for your fingers, and the triggers require a lighter pull, so squeezing it repeatedly is an easier and more precise action.

Internal Battery Cavity –The compartment that houses AA batteries is built into the interior of the controller, providing more room at the bottom for your fingers to grip. Another convenient improvement is that the controller is both wireless and a wired– simply plug it into your console with a mini USB cable and the connection automatically switches to preserve battery life.

[Parapraxis]

So...about those other 30 improvements???

Also bravo on the wall of text copy & paste.
A simple link would have sufficed.
http://news.xbox.com/2013/0...

Also, there's been a few people on N4G from time to time who act like Microsoft employees.
If there has EVER been one person who most likely is, it's YOU.
http://n4g.com/user/comment...

Keep up the good work, maybe a pay bonus is in line for you.

[tigertom53]

PS4 still using outdated Bluetooth 2.1 which it's data rate under 3mbps vs Microsoft's WIFI Direct chipset that delivers 250Mbps. which can also be used with most cellphones and tablets....

[tigertom53]

Xbox has change every button to be more responsive if you where to take every little and big change they have done you could easily count 40 changes....

[HammadTheBeast]

I hope you realize how stupid you look. MS rocking those AA's since 2005.

[tigertom53]

much easy to read with out linking to their site instead of making up some stupid stuff..

[ZBlacktt]

LOL at that write up's wording.... Look at it, plan plastic boring look is really all you see with that X1 controllers. It shakes, wow, it still uses batteries... what?

The DS4 looks very futuristic. With it's touchpad. multi color light bar.

[badz149]

you're talking shit there, buddy! what's the comparison between BT 2.1 profile and the WiFi Direct has to do with anything?? the 2 are not even doing the same thing for god sake...do some research 1st before talking will ya?

BT 2.1 is all the PS4 need to communicate with the intended devices and putting in profile 3.0 or 4.0 will be unnecessary because those are for data transfer as in if the PS4 allow internet connection via BT which it doesn't!

why even bother with BT internet if you can put a more high speed and cheaper WiFi 802.11n which peak at 300Mbps? the only thing WIFi Direct is doing the 802.11n isn't is the ability to connect 2 WiFi Direct deviced without the need of access point like BT but get this...

http://www.wi-fi.org/knowle...

so...there's no saying that the PS4 cannot have WiFi direct in the future!

[tigertom53]

well I guess you need to look at this info

http://www.pcworld.com/arti...

[fattyuk]

Why was the all mighty kinect not involved? As that's a controller.

[Parapraxis]

No, that's a camera.
Don't you know, YOU are the controller.

[elhebbo16]

yea they have there differences but at the end of the day they both look and FEEL good.

[Jac5al]

General consensus; both are great.

[AznGaara]

I mean if we look at price alone the DS4 gives you more bang for your buck. LED, Touch pad, small speaker and a lithium rechargeable battery. While Xbone just has the impulse triggers and that infrared thing that connects to the Kinect. If we go by what MS did this gen then the rechargeable battery pack might be around $20 again.

[PositiveEmotions]

The xb1 controller looks nice but the ps4 controller wins because it works with the ps move/pseye and i really love that and i can move a car just by moving the controller :). Xb1 doesnt have that feature :).

[Mystogan]

Thats a silly feature lol.

[Urusernamesucks]

Xbone controler Cooperates with the kinect aswell, so yes it does have that feature.

[dethpuck]

The eye that no one will have cuz it's sold seperately

[IBleedXbox]

it is common sense. xbox didn't bother changing the controller because everyone know that controller is so fucking comfortable. it doesn't need a touch pad. unlike the Dualshock which actually changed. it is wider so you thumbs don't rub on each other. the triggers and shoulder buttons got better because the Dualshock 3 was horrible. and the analog sticks on the dualshock 3 were to loose.

[IMightBeRetarded]

Well I can tell that your opinion will be unbiased and only state facts. *looks at your username*

[IBleedXbox]

what does a user name have to do about anything. i didn't know what to think of so i just picked that. what i am saying is common sense. and of course people don't like the truth. playstation had to change the controller while the xbox only fixed the d pad. the dualshock when i used it, it was so small to the point that my fingers would constantly touch while i used it.the triggers were horrible and didn't feel like triggers. that is why a lot of shooters for the playstation you shoot with the R1 button and use the R2 for like the equipment like grenades. while the xbox the trigger was actually nice to press. the analog sticks on the playstation were to loose and mad it difficult to shoot while you aim. the only good thing about the playstation controller was the dpad. but the xbox has finally fixed the problem. what is going to be the touch pad for on a game like batttlefield. the only time you will get to use the touch pad is for exclusives only and that is if they want to make it part of the game.

[InTheLab]

Xbox controller sucks for extended use in something like Forza where you have to hold down the triggers for 15 minutes at a time. The triggers are too stiff. The controller also sucks for fighters and platforms.

While you may prefer one for a genre, the dualshock is at least useable in ALL genres.

[IBleedXbox]

doesn't change the fact the my fingers are rubbing on each other when i use the analog sticks. or the fact that it make you miss a good percent of your shots because how lose it is. or how it is too small to fit my in hands leaving extra space of emptyness. and the triggers are not stiff. they are just right. for fighters you are right about that. but if the dualshock 3 is so overall a better controller then why is sony changing a lot about it

[FITgamer]

Unless you use the middle of your thumb on sticks they should never touch. Also how often are you ever pushing both sticks towards each other?

[mydyingparadiselost]

I've never been a fan of the 360 controller and it seems it's going to pretty much be the same on the Xone so I have a feeling the dualshock is going to do it for me. I am however curious in trying out the extra rumble motors in the Xone controller, I think those sound pretty awesome.

[PerryCaravello]

Just remember. When talking about the PS4 and XboxOne, "PS4" always comes BEFORE XboxOne.

A lot of american gaming press blogs tend to mention 360 before PS3, but with PS4 set to dominate xboxone in sales, we will ALWAYS refer to the PS4 and XboxOne as I've just displayed.

PS4 before E, except after C. ..oh, and nintendo is there somewhere as well, whatevz.

[A-laughing-horse]

Wtf

[Benchm4rk]

Just what we need. Another Xbox vs Sony controller thread. Personal preference will always prevail

[PerryCaravello]

Sony vs Microsoft.

I had to correct you.

[Benchm4rk]

You got what I meant though. Sony was just quicker to type. I'm using my phone at work haha

[badboy776]

Does the xbox one include rechargeable batteries? Or do you have to purchase them?

[PerryCaravello]

Dude, let me give you the best battery charging advice. This is for your smartphone though.

You can microwave your phone for 1 minute. After 1 minute the battery will be completely full. 100%.

This is why batteries are bs. Especially AA's. And those mini-me AAA's... forget about it!

[Chidori]

Only an idiot would stick their smartphone in a microwave.

[Father__Merrin]

xbox one pad has batteries, battery cells are all 80's

[BitbyDeath]

Nothing wrong with either of them. (Except the AA batteries i suppose).

My main hate for both controllers have been fixed-
Playstation - (L2/R2) buttons.
Xbox - Battery pack jutting out the back.

Both look to be great improvements.

[Benchm4rk]

Ami the only one that wasn't really bothered by the battery pack on the 360 controller. Honestly don't really see the fuss about it. I don't even notice it while I'm holding it. Guess some people grip the controller a little differently to me

[despair]

yea it didn't bother me at all, I was more annoyed with the d-pad.

[panbit86]

DOES ANYONE KNOW IF THE DS4's HEADPHONE JACK IS FOR FULL GAME AUDIO OR JUST CHAT?!

[Parapraxis]

I THINK IT IS JUST FOR CHAT, BUT MAYBE BOTH!

Also, YOU DON'T NEED CAPS LOCK TO GET PEOPLE TO READ YOUR POSTS.

[panbit86]

Sorry for the caps... i just was a bit desperate for attention on the matter. I think it is very important if it is for full game audio! A great selling point and extremely usefull imo! I just couldn't find any info about it!

[nypifisel]

For both I believe.

[aNDROiD17_]

i cant wait to get my hands on the DS4!!!

[stage88]

DS4 for me.

[ZBlacktt]

This is so not even close.... PS4 DS4 is worlds ahead.

[Swiggins]

It definitely has more features, only time will tell if they're implemented well though.

I'm very curious to find out what developers are going to do with that touchpad and lightbar.

[KontryBoy706]

I can't believe Microsoft still uses those batteries in their controllers they must have a contract with Duracell or something lol. It's 2013. What in the world is going on with them. I just can't see people enjoying going out and buying those play and charge kits this whole generation. That's gonna suck. I still have the same 2 DualShock 3's that I originally got with my PS3 years ago and they still hold a charge.

[despair]

Sucks about the Xbox batteries but I think both controllers are awesome. PS4 has many more features but each has their strengths.