Best Controller Settings for PC Games

Good controller settings make aiming smoother and movement more precise. The best values depend on your controller, so measure first.

These steps apply to most shooters, racing and action games on PC.

1. 1Measure your sticks

   Run the rest test in our deadzone test. It suggests the smallest safe inner deadzone for each stick.

   Use that value in the game instead of the default.

   

2. 2Choose a response curve

   A linear curve maps stick movement directly. An exponential curve gives finer control near the centre and faster turns at the edge.

   Start with the game's default curve and change one setting at a time.

3. 3Set sensitivity

   Lower sensitivity aids precision; higher sensitivity helps fast turns. Many players keep vertical slightly lower than horizontal.

   Adjust in small steps over several sessions.

4. 4Check polling and connection

   Use our polling rate test to compare USB and wireless. A steady rate matters more than a peak number.

   Use a cable for competitive play.

   

5. 5Tune vibration and triggers

   Strong rumble can disturb aim. Lower it, or turn it off in competitive games.

   Some games let you set a trigger deadzone so a light touch fires; use it if your triggers rest above 0.

6. 6Use Steam Input for older games

   Steam Input can add deadzones, curves and gyro aiming to games with poor controller support.

   Save a separate layout for each game.