Everything There Is To Know About the Xbox: Technology, Games, Accessories and What's At Stake

Interact PowerPad

This pad looks a lot like the standard Xbox one, which is a good thing. It is even a little wider and so more comfortable for adult hands that are slightly larger. The grip is excellent, maybe even better than on the Microsoft pad, thanks to much more ergonomic handles. The analog sticks and the joysticks are as precise as the ones on the standard pad. However, the click is a little less sensitive. The direction pad is fine and the directions are easy to locate. The buttons are borrowing from the ones found on the standard pad as far as their positioning. That works but it is not always easy to reach the black and white buttons. The vibrations are strong, you get maximum vibration feedback. There is a small button on the controller that lets you turn the rumble on and off, which is great. The materials are cheap and the feel is less pleasant than the standard pad, but it is not a big deal and the smaller price of $25 makes it all OK. For those who like it better, the pad also comes in translucent blue and green.

Mad Katz Control Pad Pro

First of all, it has a nice look. It comes in translucent green, yellow, red or blue with two side rubber grips and a joystick that cannot be missed. The pad has two memory slots and a very long wire (almost three meters long). The shape borrows from the standard pad. The grip is excellent, better than on the standard one. Both joysticks are easy to handle, accurate and well placed. The D-pad borrows from Nintendo which, I think, has the best system. The analog sticks are just as ergonomic and accurate. The only problem here is the spacing between the A and White buttons. There is a good vibration feedback, even though not as strong as on the standard controller. And as an added feature, you can configure your buttons differently with a macro, just like on the Thrustmaster. At $35, this pad is not cheap, but it's also the one everyone likes best.

Joystick Thrustmaster Top Gun Fox 2 Pro

Obviously, games that justify buying a joystick don't abound at this time with Xbox. There is hardly anything but Delta Storm which applies. But that will probably come soon. Some people will prefer this joystick for action games or car racing. But the fact remains, for those interested, it is here: the Top Gun Fox 2 Pro. This joystick looks great, is ergonomic and precise. It has everything: the twisting handle rudder control, the 8-way hat-switch, the throttle! The ergonomics is great for right handed people. The clearance of the handle is long enough and the resistance can be adjusted via a small knob located under the base. A programming utility even lets you assign buttons freely. If you need a joystick, this one will be perfect. Even the price of $39 is reasonable for the quality you're getting.