The debate over whether PC gamers should use controllers or a keyboard and mouse continues to rage. Ultimately, your choice should depend on the type of games you play.
Some types of games benefit from a controller, such as fighting games that require quick button-pressing. However, other games benefit from a mouse and keyboard, such as competitive shooters that require flexible keybinds and precise cursor movements.
Comfort and Convenience
Many people use a controller instead of a mouse and keyboard for comfort and convenience. This is particularly true of gamers who play FPS games, where long gaming sessions require a lot of time sitting still. A mouse and keyboard can cause discomfort in the hands for extended periods, but a controller is much more comfortable to hold.
A mouse and keyboard are also less portable than a controller. They must be plugged into a desktop PC, making them inconvenient for mobile gamers and those who want to game at work or school. While there are ways to facilitate a high-end PC gaming experience from the couch with a laptop and a wireless keyboard and mouse, it is still not as convenient as using a standard controller.
Another drawback of a mouse and keyboard is that they don’t have a different level of precision than a controller. This can be a disadvantage in games where the player must precisely target an enemy or control their character’s movement. However, controllers can often offer aim assist features to help players who could be more precise.
Keyboards and mice are also better for a broader range of games than controllers. Although consoles have been gaining ground in the gaming market, most games released for PCs are designed with keyboard and mouse support.
More Customizable
Some games are just better with a mouse and keyboard. The most obvious example is the ever-popular first-person shooter, where it’s much easier to control your character and execute pixel-precise shots with a mouse and keyboard. But other genres also benefit from this input device, including real-time strategy games and other action titles that require precise control.
The downside is that a mouse and keyboard are less portable than a controller, meaning you’ll need to sit at a desk or have some flat surface on your lap if you want to use one. They also tend to be less customizable than the best PC controller, which can be problematic for gamers who want to tailor their gaming experience to fit their preferences.
On the plus side, many modern controllers feature advanced haptic feedback that can help to improve the gaming experience. This is missing from most mice and keyboards, which can make a difference to some gamers playing particularly immersive titles. Another benefit of a controller is that it’s compatible with most console games, so you won’t have to worry about switching between input devices when playing different games.
More Versatile
The keyboard and mouse setup is a more versatile input device than a controller. This is particularly true when gaming on a desktop PC, where you can utilize the mouse and keyboard for tasks other than gaming. This allows for greater customization for your gaming experience, which can be helpful if you’re an avid gamer.
Another benefit of a mouse and keyboard is that they can be used with any game. This is especially important if you enjoy playing games that require a lot of precision aiming, such as first-person shooters or real-time strategy games. While consoles can support these games, a mouse and keyboard can provide a more precise and comfortable experience.
Controllers, on the other hand, are typically only used for console gaming. This means they need to be more versatile in other types of games. Moreover, they can be uncomfortable to use after several hours of gameplay. For this reason, they may not be the ideal choice for gamers who want to play long sessions of FPS games.
Overall, there is no clear-cut winner regarding the controller vs. mouse and keyboard debate. Each has pros and cons, but the decision essentially boils down to your preferences and what genre of games you like to play.
More Compatible with Consoles
In some cases, a keyboard and mouse may not work with consoles. This can be a problem for gamers who want to use one input method with all of their games. However, this is becoming less of an issue with time. More and more gaming keyboards are being made compatible with consoles.
A controller’s most significant advantage over a mouse and keyboard is simplicity and comfort. They are easy to use and feel natural for most gamers. This is especially true with modern controllers, which often include advanced haptic feedback. This can add a whole new level of immersion to the gaming experience.
Additionally, a controller can make playing certain games easier, particularly first-person shooters and real-time strategy games. While many game developers have incorporated aim assist systems for controller players, these can be problematic if used too often.
On the other hand, a keyboard and mouse offer greater accuracy and precision for aiming. This can be a significant advantage in some games, especially in competitive situations. However, it is essential to remember that a keyboard and mouse require a flat surface for optimal operation. This can be a drawback for some gamers, especially those who like to play in different positions or for long periods.
