What Are the Benefits of PC Gaming With a Console Controller?

Projections show that by 2027 the global gaming controller market will reach a value of $2.974 billion.

For decades console controllers have been the go-to for video gaming. PC gaming, however, is not without its disadvantages, and many people prefer to play using a keyboard and mouse.

These days it is fairly simple to connect a console controller to a PC to use over the keyboard/mouse option. But which is actually the better choice? 

For a rundown of some of the main benefits of gaming on a PC using a console controller, keep reading. 

Unbeatable Comfort

The gaming controller that led to modern designs was for the Nintendo Entertainment System, released back in 1983. This original version was essentially a small rectangle with four directional buttons, two control buttons, and select and start buttons.

Since then the gaming industry has seen many different controllers made for different consoles, and several advancements have been made. One of the most notable changes over the years is the style and shape of the design.

While these older controllers had more angular, blocky designs, modern controllers are made with comfort as one of the main focuses. This is very visible in the latest designs.

Recent generation controllers for both Playstation and Xbox systems follow similar designs, made to fit comfortably in the hand for extended periods. Buttons are placed in suitable locations making for a more seamless, intuitive gaming experience.

Most of the time when you are using a console controller for gaming you will forget it is even there.

Beyond the comfort of the controller in your hand, you also have more flexibility. When gaming with a keyboard and mouse you are essentially restricted to playing at a desk.

With a controller, you are free to move to a sofa or even your bed. You will just need to be sure you are close enough to your monitor to be able to see things clearly.

Convenience

Recent generations of games consoles have benefited from a number of advancements. One of the most useful is the implementation of wireless technology.

This is used primarily for WiFi connections and wireless controllers. For years gamers were used to being connected to their console by a wire trailing across the room, but that is now a thing of the past. Now the main reason for using a cable is to simply charge controllers.

Playstation uses Bluetooth technology, so connecting the DUALSHOCK 4 to a PC is as simple as connecting any other Bluetooth device.

While the controller is turned off, hold the PS button and the SHARE button at the same time. This will put it into pairing mode, and you can then scan for it from your PC.

With Xbox controllers, things are even easier. Microsoft deliberately designed Xbox controllers to connect to PCs with ease, and you can do this with a micro USB cable, an Xbox wireless adaptor for Windows, or via Bluetooth. Some windows devices also have Xbox Wireless built-in, removing the need for an Xbox wireless adaptor.

Connecting either of these to a Mac is also possible, but can be a bit more tricky. Fortunately, there is a helpful guide on https://setapp.com/ so feel free to head over to their site to check that out.

Higher Levels of Immersion

Console controllers have followed a similar concept for decades, and it has always proved successful. They are incredibly intuitive, and even when switching between consoles it takes very little time to adapt to differences in the controllers.

Gaming with a keyboard and mouse does have its advantages, but at the end of the day, they are not designed specifically for gaming. 

If you are a bit of a video game geek you have probably used a gaming keyboard and mouse, which move away from traditional designs to make gaming more comfortable and natural, but they still don’t stand up to a typical console controller. 

The natural feel of a console controller adds a degree of immersion that is simply not possible with a keyboard and mouse.

The number of keys and keyboard layout may require you to have to pause and think about what you’re doing from time to time, even if you’ve grown used to a keyboard.

Your seating position is also often less comfortable. Wrist rests are available to help reduce the strain that may come with extended periods of gaming.

Some PC gamers also like to sit with their keyboard on their laps. This may be more comfortable, but can interfere with your experience, especially if you have to get up for any reason. 

Easier to Use

Professional gaming on PCs is always done with a keyboard and mouse, but most of us aren’t professionals. Gaming with a keyboard is nowhere near as natural as with a console controller, so if you are new to gaming, or have only ever used controllers, then it is probably your best choice.

Getting used to gaming with a keyboard and mouse can take a lot of time. If you really want to move in that direction then taking the time to adapt could be the way to go.

If instead you are just interested in some casual gaming or want to keep things simple, a console controller will probably be the better choice.

Should You Use a Console Controller for PC Gaming?

At the end of the day, it is all about personal preference. The reasons above should give you some sort of guidance of what notion is best for you, but it is safe to say that if you aren’t an experienced PC gamer you may want to start with a console controller simply because it is easier.

If you’re interested in reading more articles on technology or how-to guides, check out some of our other blog posts!