Comparison iPega PG-9076 vs Hori Horipad Mini

Game platforms that the manipulator is compatible with.

A gaming platform can be described as a list of devices with which a given model can be used. Nowadays, you can find controllers for the following types of platforms:

— computers: PC (PC), mainly under Windows, as well as Mac from Apple ;
— desktop game consoles: Playstation (PS3, PS4, PS5), Xbox, Nintendo ( Wii, Switch);
— portable devices: primarily smartphones and tablets for Android and iOS ;
— other specific types of devices (in particular, Apple TV set-top boxes).

Note that many models are made compatible with several platforms at the same time. And here is a more detailed description of each of the options mentioned above:

— PC. In this case, PC refers to PCs — desktop computers and laptops running Windows, and sometimes also other operating systems, primarily Linux. Only devices under macOS from Apple are not included here, they are placed in a separate category. Anyway, wired manipulators for PC (see “Connection”) usually use the USB interface, wireless ones use Bluetooth, less often radi...o.

— Android. Portable gadgets running Android OS. Note that such compatibility is found not only in specialized overhead gamepads and virtual reality weapons (see "Device type"), but also in more traditional manipulators — primarily classic gamepads. At the same time, connection features and compatibility with specific gaming devices may be different, it depends both on the type of controller and on more specific features. So, traditional gamepads are usually connected via Bluetooth and can be used with any Android gadget on which a game with software support for such manipulators is installed. Likewise, VR weapons and over-ear gamepads require compatible games, but these accessories are almost exclusively for smartphones (not tablets) and are equipped with appropriate mounts.

— Mac. Under this term, they combine Apple computer equipment that uses the proprietary desktop OS macOS. First of all, these are desktops and laptops from different Mac and MacBook lines, respectively. This technique has software and hardware features that distinguish it from other types of PCs and laptops; therefore, such compatibility for gaming accessories is specified separately.

— iOS. Portable gadgets from Apple running under the proprietary mobile "OS" iOS — iPhone smartphones, iPad tablets and iPod touch players. Features of game controllers for such electronics are completely similar to the models for Android described above; in fact, many accessories for mobile games are initially made compatible with both of these platforms. And overhead gamepads (see "Device type") of mechanical design are universal by definition.

— AppleTV. A family of smart set-top boxes manufactured by Apple. Starting from the 4th generation (2015), such set-top boxes allow you to install applications from the corresponding section of the App Store, and software developers can not only create their own applications for this platform, but also port ready-made iOS programs to it without much difficulty (see above) . As a result, nowadays, games are also available for AppleTV — accordingly, game controllers for such consoles are being released. Such accessories are connected only wirelessly; many of them can be used not only for games, but also as a replacement for a standard remote control.

— switch. Game console from Nintendo, which has a hybrid format of work. Consists of a tablet that can be used on its own and a desktop adapter to connect the tablet to a TV, so it can be used as both desktop and portable. As a result, the controllers for this platform are very diverse. For example, the native Joy-Con consists of two motion controllers that can be used individually by two players, held by one player in two hands, combined into one gamepad for tabletop play, or attached to the sides of the tablet for on-the-go use. ". Joy-Con halves are sold individually. Other Switch accessories may be similar in design or less versatile, such as traditional gamepads, on-ear gamepads for the tablet portion of the console, and arcade controllers (see "Device Type").

— Wii. A family of desktop game consoles from Nintendo, the predecessor to the Switch. The original Wii, released back in 2006, was the first mass-produced console to be controlled by motion controllers (see "Device type") and actually set the standard for such control for the entire market. The next model, Wii U, appeared in 2012. She introduced her own original manipulator — a gamepad with a built-in display, on which (in some games) you can broadcast the image from the console and play without a TV; while maintaining full compatibility with motion controllers from the previous console. In general, the Wii family of consoles are considered obsolete in light of the release in 2017 of the Switch described above; new controllers for them are almost never produced.

— Xbox. A whole line of desktop game consoles from Microsoft; one of the most popular platforms in this market, directly competing with the PlayStation. As of 2020, it includes 4 generations: original Xbox (2001), Xbox 360 (2005), Xbox One (2013) and Xbox Series X/S (2020). The last two are actually the most relevant of them (for the same year 2020), and they use the same protocol to communicate with wireless controllers. Therefore, modern Xbox accessories are usually compatible with both generations. And the “native” wireless gamepad from the 2020 models supports Bluetooth and allows you to work with mobile devices, but this possibility is not guaranteed for third-party accessories. In general, the list of controllers for Xbox includes mainly gamepads (wired and wireless) and steering wheels. Also at one time, the Kinect motion controller was popular, capable of tracking the movements of the entire body, but its release (in the game version) was discontinued in 2017.

— PlayStation. A series of game consoles from Sony; one of the main players in the desktop console market, along with the Xbox described above. Portable gadgets were also produced under the PlayStation (PS) brand, but in 2019 Sony completely abandoned their production. The desktop versions include several generations that are not completely mutually compatible; so it’s worth choosing accessories for such a console that have the ability to work with the corresponding generation directly. On the other hand, many controllers are initially made for several PS versions at once, so finding a compatible model does not arise any particular problems. The classic types of such manipulators are wired and wireless gamepads, as well as the PS Move motion controller (see "Device type"); however, other types of accessories are also produced — primarily steering wheels, although the matter is not limited to them. As for specific generations, here are the most relevant options:

• PlayStation 3. The third generation of the PlayStation, introduced by Sony in 2006. It was here that the aforementioned PS Move was first used — however, only in 2010. It was also very successful, produced for 11 years. As of the end of 2020, you can find a lot of controllers compatible with this platform on the market — and among them there are not only models for new generations with the ability to work on PS3, but also accessories designed only for this version.
• PlayStation 4. Generation released in 2013 with a lineup update in 2016. As of the end of 2020, the most popular PS version and the second best selling desktop console of all time (behind PS2); continues to be released. Accordingly, there are a lot of controllers for this platform on the market.
• PlayStation 5. The latest generation of PS, introduced in 2020. The stock gamepad for this version is called the DualSense, based on the DualShock predecessor with a number of modifications: force-feedback triggers, a built-in set of microphones and an improved speaker that allows you to communicate with other players directly through the controller, as well as a touchpad (hence the name; more see below for this feature). There are still very few other accessories specifically for this platform, but given the level of demand for the console itself, we should expect a quick change in the situation. Note that the manufacturer claims limited compatibility with previous generation controllers, but only controllers for this version of the console can be used in your own PS5 games.

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 length of the cable provided in the design or delivery set of the wired or combined controller (see "Connection").

In general, the meaning of this parameter is obvious: a longer cable gives more freedom of movement, but can create inconvenience at short distances. In fact, the length of the wire is important mainly in cases where a wired connection is used to play on a large screen: for comfortable viewing, it is desirable to be at a fairly large distance from such a screen. However, even in this case, a relatively short cable can be compensated for by the length of the wires going from the console (or other gaming device) to the screen, or even by connecting the set-top box to the screen wirelessly (many modern models have this capability). If the controller is used for a computer, this parameter can be ignored: the system unit or laptop is usually located in close proximity to the user, and even a fairly short wire is enough to connect.

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 type of feedback provided in the design of the manipulator (if any).

Feedback is the reaction of the manipulator to certain events occurring in the game. This reaction enhances the "immersion effect", giving the player the impression that he is holding on to a real airplane handle, car steering wheel, etc. It can be like this:

— Vibration. Feedback in the form of vibration allows you to simulate, for example, shaking from off-road driving, aircraft trembling when firing from airborne weapons or entering a turbulence zone, etc.

— Power. Force feedback controllers are able to create some resistance to the efforts of the player — for example, to simulate the difficulty in turning the steering wheel when the wheels are stuck in the mud.

— Vibration / power. Controllers that support both types of feedback described above. This option is the most advanced and at the same time the most expensive.

Bumpers or shifters are buttons on the top of the body of gaming controllers. They are supposed to be assigned various actions in games, and they are also used for user interaction with the menu interface and applications on board a gaming console or computer.

Such controls are a characteristic feature of gamepads (see “Type”) and are almost never found in other types of game controllers. Shifts are pressed, usually with the index fingers, when the user is holding the gamepad. Often, bump buttons can perform different functions depending on the game (for example, switching weapons, running mode, etc.), and they are also used to move between sections of the user interface. In any case, bumpers add additional control options to the player.

Auxiliary controls located on the top of the gamepad on the back of the case. Triggers are pressed using the player's index or middle finger.

Classic gamepads and joysticks have triggers. used to control various actions in games (for example, accelerating a car in racing, shooting in shooters, etc.). Moreover, in some models it is possible to press the trigger halfway for conditional aiming in the game or fully to fire at opponents. Also, such buttons can have a feedback function via vibration. The vast majority of triggers are based on potentiometers (variable resistors), less often on Hall sensors, which monitor changes in magnetic field fluctuations and do not have rubbing parts in their design (but are also more expensive).

Triggers are arranged somewhat differently in overhead gamepads for smartphones (see “Type”). Often, such controls are equipped with trigger-type mechanisms and moving contacts that are sensitive to the touch layer of the screen, which touch a certain area of the display when the triggers are pressed. Depending on the layout in the game, different control functions are supposed to be assigned to the triggers (shooting, aiming, squatting or jumping, etc.).

The type of smartphone mount provided in the controller for the respective devices (see “Platform Compatibility”).

This parameter is specified mainly for gamepads, including overhead ones (see "Device type"). Nowadays, such accessories can be equipped with an overhead, built-in or removable mount for a smartphone; Here are the features of each of these options:

— Overhead. The principle of operation of the overhead mount is that the gamepad is put on the sides of the smartphone, rotated to the horizontal orientation of the screen. Most of these manipulators are made double-sided, but occasionally there are also single-sided devices. The general design principle of double-sided models can also be different: some consist of two completely separate parts, in others these parts are fixed on a common base and can be moved apart to adjust to a specific screen size (the base plays the role of a guide). Anyway, controllers with this type of attachment are intended mainly for mobile devices — most often smartphones, but there are also solutions for tablets, including the portable part of the Switch console (see "Platform Compatibility"). Some models also allow use with a PC, but this is a rather rare option.

— Built-in. A mount that is originally part of the controller design and is not intended to be removed by the user. At the same time, the manip...ulators themselves have a more traditional design than the overhead models described above: for example, the gamepads are made in a single integral case. A smartphone in a built-in holder, usually, is installed above the controller, in the horizontal orientation of the screen, vertically or obliquely; the angle of inclination in some models can be adjusted. Also note that the built-in mount is often made folding and can be folded compactly when the portable gadget is not in use; similar models may have different application features. So, among them you can find multi-purpose accessories that are additionally compatible with computers or desktop consoles, and purely “mobile” solutions, where the mount folds for storage / transportation (or for working with a tablet that simply does not fit there). Gamepads are also available with a non-folding mount — they are intended only for smartphones.

— Removable. A completely separate mount that is put on the manipulator when using a smartphone and removed after hours. Except for the installation method, it is completely similar to the folding version of the built-in mounts described above: it is also used in controllers of a classic design, assumes a vertical or inclined position of the smartphone and can be installed both in purely “mobile” and in universal models that are also compatible with desktop equipment (computers , consoles).

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.