You may be wondering if getting a gamepad is really worth the extra money. The gamepad transfers the control from the keyboard to your hands. Having two mini joysticks plus a D-pad give you more control than any arrow key or mouse combination can. The Logitech Rumble Gamepad is the TopTenREVIEWS Bronze Award winner because it has two methods of input as well as a good button design. Something to keep in mind is the fact that it isn't wireless, you are restricted in how far you can sit from your computer, but this also means you won't be scrambling for batteries.
Having a gamepad can be the difference between being the last man standing and winning the "Easiest Kill" award. With the Logitech Rumble Gamepad you will be able to keep a firm hand on what your character is doing in the game. One of the ways that this gamepad offers you an edge is the profile software that comes with it. A lot of games already have support for gamepads, but for those that don't you are still covered. Just plug in the gamepad and open the profile to get all the buttons set up for the game.
There are two different modes to connect the gamepad to your computer, XInput and DirectInput. The reason you need both input methods is that different games use the different methods. Older games typically use the DirectInput method while newer games use XInput. You can toggle between the modes using a switch on the back of the Logitech Rumble Gamepad. An important note is that when you are in DirectInput mode, not all of the button functions are available. For example, two of the triggers can't be used.
One of the other features that could influence your decision is that this gamepad is wired. Wireless remotes mean you aren't tethered to the computer. But, with a wired remote, you don't have to worry about batteries. You don't have to worry about your connection flaking out if you turn the PC game controller the wrong way. We would have liked a little longer cord on the Logitech Rumble Gamepad. Six feet isn't bad, but if you have to plug it into the back of your computer or want to sit farther back than the cord would allow, you might wish you had a wireless controller – or at least a longer cord.
The button layout of the Logitech Rumble Gamepad is based on the PlayStation design. There are two mini joysticks located across from each other. On the right are the four action buttons labeled X, Y, A and B, which is actually based on the Xbox design. We liked having the triggers at the front, but some of the other products had a few more button options when it came to the triggers.
Part of the design is how it feels in your hand. When you are playing for extended periods of time you don't want to worry about losing your grip. The Logitech Rumble Gamepad has rubber grips located along the back of the gamepad so that even during those stressful, palm-sweating moments, you will retain control over your game. We also took into account the button motion. Every gamepad has a different feel for the buttons, and what is really important is the reliability and the pace so you can get rapid fire. The D-pad rests on four switches and not just a single pivot point. This design means that it responds quickly to abrupt changes in direction. The same can be said for the triggers. They pick up on repetitive motions that come with games that require using the same button over and over.
There are a lot of reasons why this particular gamepad is convenient. While some may not appreciate the fact that it is wired, there is an advantage: you don't need batteries. It is stressful to be in the middle of a mission and have your PC game controller die. It could mean the difference between success and failure. Keep in mind that you will have to remain within 6 feet of your computer.
One thing that we would have liked to see is an option to use this controller on other platforms. Some of the other products are cross-platform compatible, but this one is restricted to only the PC. Having a gamepad that works on an Xbox or PlayStation means you don't have to purchase multiple controllers for all your gaming needs. The Logitech Rumble Gamepad is great for the PC, but that is the only platform.
When you purchase any electronic device, you should also make sure that you will get the help and support you want. Those who are tech-savvy may not need as much help as those who don't have as much experience. Logitech provides a lot of good support. One of the support options we like the best was the fact that the manuals are located on their website. There are email options available, but you have to create an account. It is free, but it's a little bothersome that you have to be a member of their community to receive any email support.
When there are a variety of products to choose from, picking the one that will be perfect for your needs is the difficult part. With the Logitech Rumble Gamepad you not only get the trusted name of Logitech and all of their support options, but you also get a quality product. This gamepad is wired so you don't have to worry about running out of batteries, but that also means you have a 6-foot tether. We were impressed that it includes both the XInput and DirectInput modes to work with the various games. Overall, this gamepad is a good choice for anyone who wants to take their gaming to the next level.
