Sometimes it’s easier, more economical, or more desirable to replace the gamepad outright.
Game controllers take a lot of abuse.
This can cause the joystick to eventually register a change in voltage even when the stick is at rest.
Corbin Davenport / How-To Geek
Unfortunately, very few companies are using these yet including Sony, Microsoft, and Nintendo.
The only fix is to replace the joystick module with a new one.
Some systems, like the Nintendo Switch, feature joystick calibration in the console controls.
iFixit
This allows you tocounter stick drift by resetting the deadzone.
Keep in mind that this is a temporary fix.
A more permanent fix is to replace the joystick modules.
you’re free to find most of the parts you need for major brand joysticks online.
you’re able to evenreplace the worn-out joystick on your old Nintendo 64 controller.
Depending on your controller, the difficulty can vary wildly so verify you use a guide to help you.
Tim Brookes / How-To Geek
Nintendo Switch ownersmay even be eligible for a free Joy-Con replacement.
You may also find that a deep clean is all it takes to get your buttons back to normal.
Press the button repeatedly to work any grime loose, as the alcohol soaks into the mechanism.
Setex
you’ve got the option to repeat this until the buttons feel normal again.
The alcohol will evaporate quickly and you’ll be able to test your controller in no time.
Work the grime free as you do this, using the cotton bud to deposit alcohol as needed.
Aftermarket thumb grips for your DualSense, DualShock 4, Xbox, Switch Pro Controller, and Valve SteamDeck.
Check outour other tips for cleaning up your game controllers.
Failed or Dislodged Springs
Controller triggers can be temperamental since they rely on small springs and plastic.
Over time, springs may lose tension, dislodge, or break entirely.
Microsoft
Replacement spring sets can be found for a range of controllers including theDualSense,DualShock 4, andXbox One.
In addition to being less comfortable, plastic can be slippery and impact your gameplay.
Fortunately, there’s a simple and cost-effective solution: aftermarket thumb grips.
Make your Xbox controller rechargeable or replace a failing rechargeable battery with a new one. A fully charged battery should allow for around 30 hours of play.
Aftermarket thumb grips for your DualSense, DualShock 4, Xbox, Switch Pro Controller, and Valve SteamDeck.
Turn both on and a connection between the two should be established.
This works for the PlayStation 4 and 5, Xbox One and Series, and Nintendo Switch.
Extend your DualSense playtime by 10 hours with this battery back that slots into the back of your controller and adds only around 1.8oz (51 grams) additional weight.
Poor Battery Life
Rechargeable batteries lose capacity over time, and controllers are no different.
Regardless of how you treat your controller batteries, they will eventually need replacing.
You may also find a better deal on third-party Xbox batteries.
Make your existing Joy-Cons more comfortable by slapping the Satisfye ZenGrip Pro 3 on your Switch. This latest version is compatible with both the original Switch and revised OLED model.
Make your Xbox controller rechargeable or replace a failing rechargeable battery with a new one.
A fully charged battery should allow for around 30 hours of play.
This isn’t the case for PlayStation batteries, including both the DualShock 4 and DualSense.
The Xbox Core Wireless controller is available in a range of colors and designs and allows other players to join you in local competitive and co-op multiplayer experiences.
Fortunately you’re free to buy replacement batteries forPlayStation 4andPlayStation 5, not to mentionJoy-ConandSwitch Pro Controller.
Consult a guide on a website likeiFixitto help you replace the internal battery correctly.
If you have an issue with Nintendo’s detachable Joy-Con controllers, you’re not alone.
You could evenmount your Switch above your Pro Controller with a Fixture S1.
Make your existing Joy-Cons more comfortable by slapping the Satisfye ZenGrip Pro 3 on your Switch.
This latest version is compatible with both the original Switch and revised OLED model.
