Guides
Stick drift guides and advice
Plain-English guides to diagnosing, living with and fixing controller stick drift, from the people who repair it every day.
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Stick drift: the complete guide
The complete guide to controller stick drift: what causes it, how to test for it, quick fixes that help, and the permanent fix for PS5, PS4 and Xbox pads.
Read the guideDeadzone settings explained
What controller deadzones are, inner vs outer deadzone, how to set them to hide stick drift, and why a smaller deadzone needs healthy sticks.
Reviewed
Does compressed air fix stick drift?
Compressed air and isopropyl alcohol can ease stick drift for a while. Here's why it sometimes works, why it doesn't last, and what actually fixes it.
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Does opening a controller void the warranty?
Will an independent repair void your PS5 or Xbox controller warranty? What UK buyers should know, when to claim first, and when to use independent repair.
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How long do controllers last?
How long controllers typically last before stick drift, battery fade or button wear, what shortens their life, and how to make yours last longer.
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How to post a controller safely
How to pack and post a PS5, PS4 or Xbox controller safely in the UK: what box to use, padding, which Royal Mail service to pick and what to leave out.
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How to test your controller for stick drift
A quick, free way to test any PS5, PS4 or Xbox controller for stick drift using a gamepad tester, plus how to read the results.
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TMR sticks for competitive gaming
How TMR joysticks help competitive players: a stable centre, lower deadzones, consistent aim and no drift. What changes, what doesn't and who benefits.
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Why do controllers drift?
Why PS5, PS4 and Xbox controllers get stick drift: potentiometers, carbon track wear, debris and weak springs, explained in plain English.
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Dead centre. Every time.
Both sticks upgraded to TMR for £35. Posted back Royal Mail Tracked 48.