Preferred controller: PS3 vs. Xbox360

[Wuffykins]

Here's the deal folks, I'm looking for a new game pad for my PC, namely for some older games of mine that the ol' Keyboard & Mouse combo aren't the most efficient way of playing (or comfortable after 15-20 minutes for that matter). That said I'm debating on purchasing either a PS3 or Xbox360 pad as a) They come off as better designed and field tested than the average PC made one, and b) I've read enough on getting them to work in different OS environments so that's not an issue for me.

What I need help with is a few opinions on the pros/cons of each controller as I'm kind of at an even split between the two for what I'm looking for, and that I haven't really touched either that much to begin with (Note: I own neither console and can't be really arsed to buy one anyway, so comments to that respect please). I'm thinking the Xbox would be handier for racers and space sims (without paying extra for a full steering wheel or joystick/throttle combo), where the PS3 would edge out on older arcade titles or platformers as the dpad seems a little better placed.

So, seeing as I can get either one for about the same price, what are your thoughts?

(Thought of doing this like a poll, but I'm looking more for proper argument than just controller popularity to be honest)

 

[Mcface]

XBOX is far superior imo.

PS3 is too small for a lot of people.

also, if its for the PC, the 360 controller is supported by a lot more games, some even designed for it.

(edit: this is from someone who owns a gaming PC and a ps3. But I use a 360 controller on a few PC games.)

 

[Cooperblack]

My PS3 controller always seem to small and delicate in my hands so i would say the favorite is the X360 here as well.

 

[Legion]

The PS3 controller is too small and feels too fragile which is why I prefer the Xbox 360 one.

I am also now used to having a trigger rather than four sets of shoulder buttons (I had a PS2) so switching over to a PS3 now would feel awkward.

 

[Gahars]

The 360 controller

I grew up with the PS2, but the PS3 controller's lack of triggers and small size (for me, anyway) make the 360's the optimal choice.

 

[Save us.A7X]

I like the ps3 controller better but for PC you're better off with 360 controller, it's easier to set up and quite a few games are designed with the 360 controller in mind.

 

[pretentiousname01]

xb360, Especially now if you check out the twistable dpad controllers

 

[omega 616]

Both are the same to me, both feel the same, can do perfom the same way on either, I don't have to adjust to either.

Grab a PS3 one, then grab a 360 and decide which you like more. Most people prefer (what I call) the baby 360.

(I call it that 'cos babies stuff is oversized and chunky, due to there dexterity not being great)

 

[Jazoni89]

The PS3 controller is too small and feels too fragile which is why I prefer the Xbox 360 one.

I am also now used to having a trigger rather than four sets of shoulder buttons (I had a PS2) so switching over to a PS3 now would feel awkward.

You can buy triggers for Ps3 controllers, it makes things alot better.

 

[Halo Fanboy]

Some games (like Just Cause 2) are designed for 360 controllers and it can be a pain to get a different controller to work for them. The biggest problem with the 360 pad is a shoddy directional pad while the biggest problem with the PS3 pad is the relatively fragile trigger buttons. It depends a lot on what you want to play.

 

[DustyDrB]

I have both systems, and prefer the 360. I like the triggers and bumpers a lot better, plus the design just feels better in your hands. People do harp on the 360 D-pad for Fighters. I almost never play those games, though.

 

[GiantRaven]

The 360 controller wins out for me solely because the PS3 L2 and R2 buttons are far too fragile. You can literally brush them and empty a clip into the scenery. However, If this was between the PS2 and 360 controllers I think I would be answering differently. I always liked it's relative simplicity (compared to it's competitors controllers) and symmetrical look.

 

[strum4h]

Ps3 controller for me. Grew up on the ps1 and never looked back. Dont really own either though so whatever. Keyboard and mouse for me.

 

[Gammaj4]

Wavebird.
Hah.

But seriously, Xbox controller is pretty nice. I do prefer Wavebirds over everything.

 

[Monshroud]

Overall I prefer the 360 controller, the only exception being for Action games like God of War, Dante's Inferno, etc.. For some reason I prefer the PS3 controller for those types of games.

 

[Jamash]

I use a 360 controller on my PC and I'd say it's almost perfect, apart from the slightly inaccurate d-pad, which isn't really a problem.

When I had a PS2 and it's controller I used to use that on my PC and it was a pain in the arse to calibrate in some games, but a lot of PC games seem to compatible with the 360 controller straight out of the box. I suppose being a Microsoft product, it would be fully compatible with supported by Windows. I don't know if the PS3 controller is as compatible with windows and games, but I don't like it's shape or build so I can't really think of anything good to say about it.

If the d-pad is really important to you and you don't mind spending a bit more, you could consider a Razer Onza, which has all the ergonomic niceties of the 360 controller, but has a better d-pad and is also fully PC compatible.

 

[sam42ification]

I find the ps3 contoller too small. The 360 controller is just much more confortable and i like how the 360 contollers don't try to be symetrical but instead move the buttons and analog stick to make it easier.

 

[zxBARRICADExz]

360 for everything BUT! fighting games...

the 360 controller is more comfy for my hands. the layout is perfect.. but it lacks a good D-Pad.

PS3 controllers are GREAT for fighting games..or anything that uses the D-Pad..

but overall? i'd go with the 360.

 

[bak00777]

360, without a doubt