How to Choose the Best PC Gamepad For You

When selecting the perfect PC Gamepad for you, what's most important is to find out what exactly your gaming needs are. If you are looking to purchase a PC Gamepad, it's best to have an idea of what you're going to need. There are hundreds of different types of game pads or controllers to choose from, and selecting the correct gamepad for you can be a difficult and time consuming process. Consider these questions to help you make your choice.

1. Do you find yourself playing a certain genre of game more then others?

Some people prefer PC gamepads such as an arcade joystick for fighting games, while others like hand held controllers. Massively Multiplayer Online Games or MMOs, such as World of Warcraft, work best with gamepads with many buttons that are easy to reprogram.

Like racing games such as Need for Speed? Check out a PC steering wheel, or maybe you are looking for a general purpose all around PC game pad that will serve as a controller for any game you're looking to play.

2. How many buttons do you you need?

Many gamepads have a great deal of buttons, some with dual analog sticks, 8 way directional pads, and many other features. Finding the perfect PC game pad for you depends largely on the kinds of things you will be doing in your game.

3. Wired or Wireless PC Gamepad?

There are many exceptional wireless PC gamepads on the market, and it can be quite annoying dealing with cords in the middle of intense gameplay. Some wireless controllers offer amazing battery life of up to 100 hours and a range of 30 ft.

4. Is the gamepad you are looking to purchase supported by your operating system?

Make sure the gamepad you are looking to purchase has up to date drivers and software for your operating system. Most PC gamepad manufacturers will provide drivers for widely used operating systems such as Windows XP, Windows Vista, and Linux. Newer operating systems such as Windows 7 may not be supported for every device, it's best to check to make sure.

5. How much are you willing to spend?

Some newer gamepads can be quite expensive, while others can be found at a bargain price. A gamepad should be looked at as an investment, which will improve your gaming experience significantly. Although, that doesn't mean one must spend a fortune for one.

With so many PC Gamepads on the market, choosing the correct one can be an intimidating experience, but before you make a purchase, make sure you consider the questions above. Most of all, have fun and pick the PC gamepad you feel will elevate your gaming experience the most.