Gamepad Drift Test
Graph analog-stick drift precisely with a rest capture and verdict.
Test stick drift precisely
Drift is hardware: dust, wear or a tired spring. Software deadzones mask it but never fix it.
Test stick drift precisely
- Connect the controller, press a button, and pick a stick.
- Center the sticks, hands off, set the rest position and capture 3 seconds.
- Read the worst rest drift: under 0.03 is healthy, over 0.15 needs repair.
Drift questions
What counts as drift?
Any reported direction while the stick is untouched. Under 0.03 magnitude is normal sensor noise; steady readings above that are real drift.
Does raising the deadzone fix drift?
It hides it: the game ignores small deflections. It never repairs the sensor, and huge deadzones eat fine aim control.
Why test both sticks?
Sticks wear independently. The movement stick dies from travel; the aim stick dies from clicks and edge grinding. Always test each one.