My favorite controller needs its right thumbstick replaced and I found the correct thumbstick on AliExpress. I'm wondering if I can order some more of the same model thumbsticks for different controllers and whether it'll yield me the same feel and response as my favorite controller. I'm not sure what it is about this old PowerA Spectra that I have but my aim is so accurate on it, and it feels so good to use. On every other controller I've used (and I've used most of them) I can't aim as well. I think it could be differences in the the acceleration curve, but I'm not sure. I'm wondering whether these differences are mainly caused by the thumbsticks themselves, or whether they're due to differences in controller firmware. I've heard mixed answers. In another thread someone claimed that the numbers on potentiometers refer to their sensitivity, curve type (logarithmic vs. linear), and dead zone space, but I couldn't find much supporting info online. On AliExpress I also found the same thumbsticks but slightly larger. I bought them preemptively, but it would be great if I could install them on some other controllers I have to make aiming feel the same as on the controller I really like.
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Question about controller thumbsticks (replacement)
- Thread starter jakeeer
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The thumbsticks themselves are usually just two potentiometers moved by the stick. The quality of the potentiometers and joystick mechanicals can affect their reproducible/reliable behavior which affects how well your body learns to use them, but I doubt the potentiometers themselves have a curve. Probably the curve is firmware or software controlled.
I replaced my joystick and it feels great. I also disassembled my newer PowerA Spectra controller to compare the thumbsticks and they do actually use the same exact thumbstick module actually, so yes, the differences in how the sticks feel must be due to a difference of firmware.
Ruru
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Cleaning the sensors may also help. I had problems with a Dualshock4 but cleaning its left stick's sensor helped.