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The way to connect the manipulator to the gaming device.

In general, such methods are divided into wired(in a conventional or serial format), wireless(radio, Bluetooth, or even both at once) or combined(a combination of wired and wireless formats in one model). Here is a more detailed description of the different options:

— Wired. The classic wired connection is a very popular option, especially among PC/Mac controllers and desktop consoles (see "Platform Compatibility"). But for portable gadgets, it is practically not used (and for AppleTV it is not used in principle). A wired connection is usually carried out via a USB connector, but other options are possible (again, depending on the supported platforms). The main disadvantage of controllers of this format is the limited freedom of movement; this is especially true when playing on a large screen, when you need a considerable distance from such a screen for comfortable viewing. On the other hand, wired accessories are noticeably lighter and cheaper than wireless ones, and the vast majority of such models receive energy from a USB port or a network (see "Power"), so the operating time is unlimited (although there are some exceptions). And the length of the cable is not so often critical: for example, a steering wheel or joystick mounted on a table right in front of the computer usually does not need a lon...g cable, and accessories for desktop consoles usually make the cable quite long.

— Wired serial. A variation of the wired connection described above, in which the controllers are connected in a “chain” through one port: one manipulator is connected to the gaming device, and the second to the first manipulator. In general, this is a rather rare option, used only in some paired sets of gamepads (see "Device type"). However, in some cases, such a connection turns out to be more convenient than the traditional one: it allows you to reduce the number of wires stretching to the set-top box.

— Wireless. The main advantage of all types of wireless connection is obvious: the absence of a cable, which limits mobility and can create inconvenience. And for motion controllers (see "Device type"), this option is, in fact, the only possible one at all (otherwise it would be at least problematic to use such a manipulator). In addition, it is wireless communication (for a number of reasons) that is most convenient for working with portable gadgets — smartphones and tablets. At the same time, the range of such a connection is usually sufficient to work at least within a large living room, and more often at greater distances. On the other hand, wireless controllers are noticeably more expensive than their wired counterparts. In addition, most of them use autonomous power (batteries or accumulator), which limits the time of continuous operation. And although this time can be quite significant, and batteries (and some batteries) can be quickly changed, you still cannot do without interruptions in work, and the charge may end at the most inopportune moment. The exception is some models with mains power, but they have a wire, in turn, “binds” the device to the outlet. As for specific methods of wireless communication, nowadays there are such options:

• bluetooth. Connecting via Bluetooth is convenient primarily because many modern gaming devices initially have built-in modules for such a connection. The list of such devices includes, in particular, almost all desktop consoles, smartphones, tablets and laptops, as well as many advanced PCs (including all Mac computers). Thus, the controller can be made compatible with numerous different devices, and most often no additional adapters are needed for the connection itself. However, if necessary — for example, for a desktop computer without Bluetooth — such an adapter can be purchased separately. With all this, the connection is carried out in the radio range and does not require direct visibility, and its range in open space is standardly at least 10 m (and often much more).
• Radio. Non-Bluetooth radio connection (see above). The specific features of such a connection largely depend on compatibility with gaming platforms (see above). For example, native radio standards are used by many desktop consoles, and connections to such devices are often made directly, without additional equipment. In turn, controllers with the ability to work on a PC (Mac) are equipped with special adapters, usually connected via USB (in this case, such models can also support a direct connection to the game console). But for mobile gadgets, this method of communication is not used — in this case, the Bluetooth described above is more justified.
• Bluetooth / radio. Ability to work in any of the options described above. All such controllers are made immediately for several platforms — consoles (of a particular series), mobile devices and computers; the specific combination of these options can be any, but there is always more than one. However such versatility significantly affects the cost, so in general there are very few models with such a connection. However, if we take not variety, but the total number, then this method is not as rare as one might think — for example, it is provided in the “native” gamepad for Xbox Series S / X consoles of the 2020 model.

— Combined. The combination of a wired connection with support for wireless standards — Bluetooth, radio, sometimes both at once. The features of each of these options are detailed above. And the combined format of work theoretically provides maximum versatility, allowing you to choose the best connection method for different situations. However, in fact, the specifics of the work of such accessories may be different — depending on the compatible platforms and even the features of individual models. For example, some combination controllers use different connection methods for different devices — for example, wired for a PC and radio for a desktop console. Others work mostly wireless, with the cable used to recharge the battery while playing (or when you need to save battery for later). Still others may combine these formats, etc. Anyway, such nuances should be clarified separately. The same goes for general connection features: for example, the "wired / radio" option in a device for PC and consoles can mean both the presence of a wireless USB adapter and the inability to wirelessly connect to computers.

The range of the wireless connection provided by the gamepad.

Almost all modern wireless models work confidently at a distance of at least 2 – 3 metres. So you need to pay attention to this parameter mainly when the device is planned to be used at a greater distance from the computer. At the same time, when evaluating the range, note that it is indicated for perfect conditions: the absence of interference and obstacles in the signal path, the battery is fully charged, etc. In fact, the communication range may be somewhat less, so when choosing, it is worth taking a certain margin. Nevertheless, according to the claimed range, it is quite possible to evaluate the practical capabilities of different models and compare them with each other.

The total number of buttons provided in the design of the manipulator.

The more buttons — the more additional features you can "tie" to the manipulator, the lower the likelihood that during the game you will have to turn to other controls (for example, a PC keyboard). However, many game consoles (see "Platform Compatibility") provide a certain minimum number of buttons for a compatible gamepad — a smaller number simply would not allow full use of all the functions of the console. For example, the original PlayStation 4 controller has 11 buttons.

Note that the D-Pad (see below) is not included in this calculation: it is considered a specific control, although it is based on buttons.

The presence of the D-Pad manipulator in the controller design; the type of such a manipulator can also be specified here.

D-Pad is used to move the character, cursor, etc. in strictly defined, standard directions. In some cases, this can be more convenient than using analogue levers that tilt to either side (see below). As for the varieties, nowadays there are such options:

— 4-position. The classic D-Pad, which appeared at the dawn of game consoles and does not lose popularity nowadays. Available as a set of 4 buttons in a distinctive cross-shaped layout, or as a single solid "multi-sided" button. Anyway, such a device provides 4 fixed directions: up, down, right, left. But to move diagonally, you need to select 2 corresponding directions at once; this is not always convenient, so in this regard, 4-way D-Pads are considered somewhat less practical than the 8-way ones described below. On the other hand, they are also quite functional, while being simpler in design, reliable and inexpensive; and strictly diagonal movements are not required as often as horizontal and vertical ones. So this type of D-Pads can be found even in accessories for the latest generations of game consoles.

— 8-position. A variation of the D-Pad, in which 4 standard directions (2 horizontal, 2 vertical) are supplemented by 4 intermediate — diagonal. In this case, we are usually talking about full-fledge...d fixed positions of the manipulator; in other words, to move diagonally, you need to click not on two standard directions, but on one intermediate one. The classic design of this type of D-Pad is a multi-sided button, which is the most suitable option in this case. However, this variety also includes some solutions for 4 separate buttons — provided that these buttons are placed very close, and pressing two at once with one finger is not difficult. Anyway, 8-position manipulators are somewhat more expensive, but more convenient than 4-position ones.

The material from which the steering wheel itself is made in manipulators of the corresponding type (see "Device type").

Note that the basis of the steering wheel is traditionally plastic. Therefore, this parameter is indicated by the material of the outer surface of the steering wheel: it is with this surface that the user's hands are in contact, it is she who is primarily responsible for the appearance of the device and the general impression of its use.

— Rubber. Rubber coating is relatively inexpensive, while it is quite convenient and practical. So, due to its softness and elasticity, such a surface is pleasant to the touch, at the same time it looks quite authentic — similar materials are often used in steering wheels of real cars. Therefore, it is this option that is most popular nowadays. Of the disadvantages of rubber, one can note only poor scratch resistance, but this is a common feature of many fairly advanced steering wheel materials.

— Plastic. Steering wheel made entirely of plastic; the outer coating may differ somewhat from the base, however, both belong to the same class of materials. The key advantage of this option is low cost; in addition, plastic can be made sufficiently resistant to scratches, scuffs and other damage. On the other hand, the plastic surface is somewhat less comfortable than the same rubber, and it does not always look solid and reliable enough. In addition, smooth plastic tends to slip in the hands...(although embossed protrusions or other similar solutions may be provided to compensate for this disadvantage). Therefore, this material is used less often, mainly in relatively inexpensive steering wheels (although there may be exceptions using high-quality plastic grades).

— Leather. The cover is made of artificial, occasionally — genuine leather. These materials belong to the premium class: they have a stylish appearance, are pleasant to the touch, but they also cost accordingly. However a leather substitute can be both high-class and relatively inexpensive — however, in the latter case, there is no need to talk about durability and durability; natural leather, in turn, is by definition quite expensive. On the other hand, such coatings provide maximum authenticity — to the point that the controller "smells like a real steering wheel, and not like a plastic toy."

— Alcantara. A material also known as "faux suede". In fact, it is a variety of the leather (imitation leather) described above, however, it stands out in a separate category, as it has specific features — primarily a characteristic velvety surface. Thanks to this, this material is pleasant to the touch, while it looks great and at the same time is quite durable and practical; It is worth saying that Alcantara is widely used in the decoration and external tuning of real cars, including luxury cars. At the same time, the cost of such a finish, including for game steering wheels, turns out to be considerable; therefore, only some high-end models are made from Alcantara.

The type of gearbox provided in the steering wheel (see "Device type").

— Gear lever. The switch is in the form of a classic lever, as on most serial cars. To work with such a lever, you need to remove your right hand from the steering wheel, but this is not a drawback, but a characteristic feature — this is how everything happens during real driving, and many users appreciate this option precisely for realism. At the same time, the device of the gearshift lever can be different: in the simplest steering wheels it moves back and forth, allowing only sequential gear changes, in more advanced ones it allows you to immediately engage any gear, like on a real manual gearbox.

— Paddle shifters. Switches in the form of petals located under the steering wheel (more precisely, behind the wheel, when viewed from the user's side). This method is used in premium passenger cars, as well as many racing cars. Gear shifting is carried out only sequentially; on the other hand, you do not need to remove your hand from the steering wheel, which increases the reaction speed and provides full control over the steering.

— Gearshift lever and paddle shifters. The presence at the steering wheel of the two methods of gear shifting described above. This allows the user to choose the option of their choice, depending on preferences and the situation: for example, in fast-paced racing, it is more con...venient to use the paddles, and in a leisurely truck simulator, the lever provides more realism.

A method of attaching a game pad to a table or other surface. Note that not all types of devices (see above) use mounts — gamepads, for example, do not need them by definition, and the pedals are made on a massive stable base and installed on the floor, so they also do not need latches. In other cases, the following options may be provided:

— Suckers. Classic suction cups that "stick" to the surface of the table. Such fixtures require a fairly flat surface, but in most cases this is not a problem, given the materials used for modern tables. Another advantage of suction cups is that they can be mounted anywhere on the table — not necessarily on the edge, as is the case with many clamps. Among the disadvantages of this option, one can name the fact that as the material of the suction cups wears out, it loses its elasticity, and the reliability of fastening decreases — especially with frequent attachment / detachment. On the other hand, in most cases, the period of effective operation of suction cups is quite comparable with the life of the manipulator itself, so this disadvantage is usually not critical.

— Clamps. Clamps usually take the form of characteristic clamps that allow you to mount the device on the edge of the table top or in another similar place. The main advantage of this option can be called reliability: firstly, a well-clamped clamp holds the manipulator in place much more tig...htly than suction cups, and secondly, the quality of fastening practically does not deteriorate even with frequent attachments and detachments. On the other hand, the clip can only be used on the edge of a tabletop or on a special stand, which limits the choice of where to install the game pad.

— Bolts. A specific variant used mainly among high-end flight simulator instruments (see "Device type"); almost never found in other types of controllers. With the help of bolts, the instrument clusters are installed in a special rack that imitates the cockpit of an aircraft.

There are models that allow several mounting options: for example, the steering wheel with suction cups can also be equipped with a clamp, which allows you to choose the option at the discretion of the player.

The power source used by the gamepad.

This parameter directly depends on the type of connection (see "Connection"). So, power from a USB port or network (power supply) is provided mainly in wired models, and devices with wireless connectivity (both purely wireless and combined) are almost guaranteed to use a battery or batteries. Here is a more detailed description of each of these options:

— USB port. Powered by a USB port — usually the same one through which the controller directly interacts with the console, PC or other gaming device. This method of connection allows you to do without unnecessary wires. On the other hand, USB power is relatively low, which makes this option poorly suited for controllers with powerful feedback systems (in particular, advanced steering wheels) — you have to use separate PSUs with such accessories (see below).
Also note that this power supply method is also found in separate wireless models — usually controllers for mobile devices that interact with the gadget via Bluetooth, and are powered from the USB port of the same gadget. This format of operation allows you to do without batteries in the controller itself, however, it additionally consumes the charge of the main device.

— Network. Powered from a conventional outlet using a separate power supply unit (PSU). Mainly used...in high-end wired wheels (see Device Type) that require high power for feedback systems to work effectively. Theoretically, this option is not very convenient, as it requires the search for an additional outlet; however, in fact, this usually does not cause any particular difficulties (in extreme cases, you can use an extension cord).

— Accumulator. Powered by a built-in battery that does not belong to standard sizes (unlike batteries), and often also non-removable. This is the most popular way of powering wireless manipulators nowadays. Its main advantage over batteries is that this option does not require extra money and effort: the battery is initially included in the package, you do not need to buy it separately, and when the charge is exhausted, it is enough to charge the controller. However this procedure requires a certain time; however, the time for a full charge rarely exceeds a couple of hours, while the operating time can be measured for days (although there are also more modest figures). In addition, many controllers can be used without unplugging the charger; this somewhat limits mobility, but this moment is usually not critical.

— Batteries (AA, AAA). Powered by replaceable cells of a standard size — usually "finger" AA or "little" AAA. The number of elements used can be different; however, the general features of such a power supply are the same in all controllers. On the one hand, the batteries allow quick replacement, which allows you to play with a minimum of interruptions: when the charge is exhausted, it is enough to simply install fresh batteries instead of dead ones. At the same time, the user has a choice: either regularly buy disposable batteries, or invest in rechargeable batteries with an external charger. And if you purchase two sets of such batteries, you can keep one set on charge while the second is in use. On the other hand, the use of batteries is inevitably associated with additional costs: batteries are usually not included in the kit, and they must be purchased separately before the first use. As a result, this type of power is used much less frequently than batteries, although it can also be found in fairly advanced and well-known devices — in particular, regular gamepads for Xbox 360, Xbox One and even Xbox Series X|S.

The time of continuous operation of the controller with autonomous power supply (see above) without recharging or replacing batteries. When choosing according to this indicator, note that it is quite approximate, because. in fact, the operating time depends on the intensity of the game, the frequency of feedback, etc., and in models powered by replaceable batteries, it also depends on the quality of these batteries. Therefore, the actual battery life may be less, and sometimes more than the claimed one. Nevertheless, different models of controllers can be quite compared according to the time of operation on a charge given in the characteristics.