Why Bother with Rear Paddles?

Some controllers have profiles that allow you to keep your setup.

You might find controllers have a single paddle on each side, while others have more than one.

Back of an Xbox Elite Series 2 controller with paddles in focus.

Syafiq Adnan/Shutterstock.com

These paddles are ideal for mapping face buttons infirst-person shootersbut have all sorts of utility.

One good example is to map jump or duck (slide) in a fast-paced title like Apex Legends.

Paddles can also be useful in other games for comfort or accessibility reasons.

Rear paddles on the Xbox Elite Series 2

Xbox

There are no hard rules to follow which is why these inputs are easily reprogrammable.

Sony produced theDualShock 4 Back Button Controller Attachmentfor PlayStation 4, but no such attachment exists for PlayStation 5.

There’s also thePowerA Fusion Profor those who want something for docked play.

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The ultimate Xbox controller features adjustable tension thumbsticks, additional rear paddles, customizable button mapping, replaceable components, and 40 hours of (rechargeable) battery life.

Ideal for those who find the Joy-Con uncomfortable, imprecise, or impractical for long play sessions.

Looking for a controller that’s perfect for retro gaming on your PC or Raspberry Pi?

Check outour picks for best retro controllers.

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Replace your Joy-Con with the HORI Split Pad Pro and enjoy a more comfortable and ergonomic Nintendo Switch handheld experience. Ideal for those who find the Joy-Con uncomfortable, imprecise, or impractical for long play sessions.

PlayStation