QUEST · LV.09

Gamepad & controller test

Connect a controller, press a button, and see every input live — including stick drift.

Runs in your browser · Nothing uploaded

Free · No install

Connect a controller and press any button

For privacy, browsers only show a controller after you press one of its buttons. USB and Bluetooth both work.

Still not detected?

Click inside this page first — if another window (like System Settings) is in front, the browser ignores the controller.
Close apps that grab controllers (Steam, emulators, DS4Windows) and reload the page.
Use Chrome, Edge or Safari. On a Mac, Switch Pro and DualShock/DualSense pads work over Bluetooth; if it still fails, re-pair or try a USB cable.
Third-party pads in Switch mode (8BitDo, etc.) appear to the Mac as a “Pro Controller”, and Chrome often can’t read them. Try Safari, a USB cable, or the pad’s X-input/D-input mode.

Result

Not tested

Waiting for you to start the test.

How to use

1Connect the controller by USB or Bluetooth, then press any button.
2Press every button and move both sticks. Tested buttons turn green.
3Let go of the sticks and run the drift check.

Troubleshooting guide

The FreeComTools mascot holding a gamepad to check its sticks and buttons

What the gamepad tester checks

Every button and trigger, including analog trigger pressure.
Both analog sticks, live, with their position and distance from centre.
Stick drift: how far each stick sits from centre when you aren’t touching it.
Vibration (rumble), where the browser supports it.

Controller not detected?

Press any button after connecting — browsers hide controllers until you interact with them.
Try a USB cable; if Bluetooth, unpair and pair again.
Close Steam Big Picture, DS4Windows or other remapping apps that may take exclusive control.
Use Chrome or Edge for the widest support. Some controllers report a “non-standard” layout; buttons still appear but positions may differ.

Understanding stick drift

Analog sticks rest near, not exactly at, the centre. Under about 10 % is normal and hidden by games’ dead zones. Between 10 and 25 % you may notice your character or camera creeping. Above 25 % is clear drift.

Drift is caused by worn potentiometers or dust inside the stick. Recalibrating (Windows: “Set up USB game controllers” → Properties → Settings → Calibrate), a burst of compressed air around the stick base, or raising the dead zone in your game can help. Persistent drift usually needs a stick module replacement — or warranty service.

Buttons that don’t respond

If a button never lights up, try it wired. If it works only sometimes, dirt under the button is likely. Firmware updates (Xbox Accessories app, PlayStation’s firmware updater) fix many Bluetooth input issues.

Frequently asked questions

Which controllers work?

Any controller your system recognises: Xbox, PlayStation (DualShock 4, DualSense), Switch Pro, 8BitDo and most generic USB pads.

Why can’t I test vibration?

Vibration from the web is supported mainly in Chromium browsers (Chrome, Edge) and not for every controller. If the button is disabled, your browser or controller doesn’t expose it.

What drift percentage is acceptable?

Below 10 % is normal. 10–25 % may be noticeable in some games. Above 25 % is a fault for most people.

Does it work on phones?

Yes, many Android phones support Bluetooth controllers in Chrome. iOS support depends on the controller.