How Many PC Gamers Use a Controller?

If you're considering whether to buy a controller for your PC, you're not alone in wondering how many others use one and if it's truly worth it. While controllers are widely used for consoles, they are also becoming more popular among PC gamers, though the percentage isn't as high as you might expect.

What Percentage of PC Gamers Use Controllers?

Estimates vary, but it's generally understood that around 20% to 25% of PC gamers use a controller, according to several gaming community surveys and hardware usage reports. This number has been slowly increasing over the years, as many games designed for consoles are also making their way to PC, where controllers can offer a more comfortable or familiar experience.

Controllers have been gaining popularity, particularly for specific genres of games like racing, platformers, and fighting games, which often benefit from the analog input and button layout that controllers provide.

Which Games Require a Controller?

While a keyboard and mouse setup dominates the PC gaming world, some types of games are specifically designed to be more enjoyable or easier to play with a controller:

Racing Games (e.g., Forza Horizon, Need for Speed): The analog input of a controller makes it much easier to control acceleration, braking, and steering in racing games.
Fighting Games (e.g., Mortal Kombat, Street Fighter): Many players prefer controllers for these games because of the precise input needed for combos, and controllers offer a more intuitive layout for quick button presses.
Platformers (e.g., Super Mario Bros., Celeste): Platformers often require precision movement, and controllers can make it feel more fluid compared to a mouse and keyboard setup.
Action/Adventure Games (e.g., Dark Souls, Assassin’s Creed): These types of games often involve complex combos or fast-paced movements that can feel more natural with a controller.

Should You Buy a Controller for PC?

Before making a purchase, consider these factors:

Your Game Preferences: If you’re into FPS or RTS games (such as Call of Duty or StarCraft), you might find a keyboard and mouse more responsive and precise. However, if you enjoy genres like racing or platformers, a controller could improve your gameplay.
Comfort: Some gamers prefer the comfort of holding a controller, especially during long sessions, as opposed to using a keyboard and mouse. A controller can feel more ergonomic for certain types of play.
Versatility: Many PC games are optimized to support controllers, especially titles on platforms like Steam or through Xbox Game Pass. If you play a lot of games that are cross-platform or you want to play games that are designed for console controllers, a controller is a great investment.
Budget: Controllers range from budget-friendly options to premium models with extra features like customizable buttons or special designs. If you’re unsure whether a controller will suit your gaming style, it’s worth checking reviews and seeing what works best for others in your favorite genres.

Final Thoughts

So, should you get a controller for your PC? If you play games that benefit from the fluid movement and ease of analog inputs, like racing or fighting games, the controller is absolutely worth it. Plus, with many games supporting controllers on PC, it can enhance your gaming experience. However, if you mainly play fast-paced shooters or real-time strategy games, you may find that a mouse and keyboard provide greater precision.

As a user, it's crucial to consider your gaming habits and the games you play the most. If your favorite titles are controller-friendly, it might just be time to make the switch and experience PC gaming from a new perspective.

At YouweiTrade, we offer a variety of gaming controllers tailored for different playstyles, so feel free to check out our collection and find the one that works best for you!