There are multiple styles and designs of gamepads on the market, so how do you decide which one is the best for you? There are a few key elements to look at: features, design, convenience and support. The Logitech Wireless Gamepad has all the features we were looking for, including programmable buttons, pressure-sensitive triggers and wireless connectivity. We were also pleased with the physical design and button layout that closely mimic the look of PlayStation controllers. However, those who prefer the Xbox layout may not appreciate it as much. As far as the product support goes, they offer all the help you need and a one-year warranty. The Logitech Wireless Gamepad F710 earns the TopTenREVIEWS Silver Award for all-around convenience and flawless performance.
There are certain features to look for when trying to find the perfect gamepad. These features include programmable buttons, the available buttons, vibration feedback and whether the gamepad is wireless or corded. The Logitech Wireless Gamepad is wireless. This means you will have a longer range and won't be tripping over cords. The wireless controllers use a 2.4 GHz signal so it shouldn't interfere with your other wireless devices.
When looking for a PC game controller, the buttons are important, not just how many buttons or where they are located, but the physical design as well. To get the numbers out of the way first, there are the A, B, X, Y buttons, left and right buttons on top, left and right analog triggers, start and back buttons, two clickable analog mini-joysticks, an 8-way D-pad and a home button. There is also a button to switch between sports and flight mode and one for turning the vibration on and off.
The physical designs of the buttons may not seem important, but they play a big role in the gameplay. The D-pad on the Logitech Wireless Gamepad is a floating button. It doesn't revolve around a single point – it actually has four switches. This makes it more responsive to sudden changes in direction. The triggers are pressure-sensitive, which is useful in games that require repeated rapid pressing of the same button. We were also pleased that the mini joysticks are also pressable buttons.
One of the main reasons to purchase a gamepad is you can program the buttons. If you don't want the right trigger to control the main attack but would rather have the left button attack, that is completely possible. All of the buttons on the Logitech Wireless Gamepad F710 are programmable, including the joystick click. There are two different methods of input, XInput and DirectInput. The mode is determined by a switch on the gamepad. The XInput is the current standard for Windows games. The new games that support gamepads will typically use this method. DirectInput is for older games. The gamepad will work for these games even if you are in XInput, but not all of the features will be available. For games that do not support either mode you can use the Logitech Profiler, so long as the PC game controller is in XInput mode. Not only can you program your gamepad, but you can customize it for multiple games. You don't have to worry about reprogramming your controller when you switch between games since the controller is designed to contain multiple profiles.
When you look at the PC game controller you will probably notice the button layout is what you would expect to find on a PlayStation controller. This can make it a little more difficult if you want to run Microsoft games that are built for the Xbox controller. This just means that you might have a little steeper learning curve. But, since you can reprogram the buttons this can remove some of the hassle.
Most gamepads have a similar layout, so what this really comes down to is how it feels in your hand. The Logitech Wireless Gamepad F710 has rubber grips along the back of the handles so you will have a solid grip on the controller. Don't worry about losing hold even during those stressful, sweaty-palm moments while you're trying to sniper the last enemy still standing.
As mentioned before, this particular gamepad is wireless, which is a huge positive. Although, while having a cordless PC game controller is useful, there are coupe limitations. It can be glitchy if you wander too far from your computer or if your controller is lined up just right with the receiver. When you first get the gamepad it would only take a moment to test out the range and mobility so when you are in the middle of a heated moment you don't accidentally lose your connection. The receiver plugs directly into a USB port and is small and unobtrusive. It won't be a problem to leave it in your laptop even during transit.
Something to keep in mind with all wireless controllers is that they require batteries. The Logitech Wireless Gamepad F710 has a fairly long battery life, especially if you remember to turn it off when it isn't in use. There isn't a low battery indicator, which can be troublesome since you will eventually run out of power unexpectedly. This is the one major gripe we have with this gamepad.
As with any electronic device, you might require help of some kind while using this controller, if only to get started. The Logitech Wireless Gamepad has several options for help and support. There is a one-year warranty on the gamepad. We were also pleased that there are plenty of FAQs and electronic versions of the documentation available on the website. There are multiple phone numbers you can call if there is a problem. An email is also available, so long as you register with Logitech. This extra step is a momentary hassle, but the additional support is worth it, especially since it is free.
The Logitech Wireless Gamepad is the best gamepad we looked at for a variety of reasons. We liked the fact that it was wireless. Though that does mean you will have to supply batteries, the battery life is extensive. We like the fact that it has both methods of programming the buttons, DirectInput and XInput. We also thought that the design itself with the rubber grips was a nice touch. This PC game controller will bring your game to that next skill level. It offers maximal customization options and familiar gaming technology that's simply way more fun than using a keyboard and mouse.
