Controller vs Keyboard and Mouse
Editor’s note, September 2026: This article was written in 2018 for the GAMER2GO store, which has since closed. The custom controllers it mentions are kept as an archive and are no longer sold.
Console controllers vs keyboard and mouse: It’s a divisive topic among gamers, especially those who have a strong preference for either console or PC gaming. While some passionate gamers may scoff at one or the other, the truth is that both have their place.
If you’re trying to decide whether you should use a controller or keyboard and mouse setup, start by learning about the pros and cons of each. Then you can make your choice based on your gaming style and customization preferences.
At the same time, what works for another gamer may not be ideal for you. Give both a shot and then stick with what feels best. Although some elite gamers may say otherwise, there’s nothing wrong with switching between them.
Yes, that’s right -- in the great debate of controller vs keyboard and mouse, you don’t necessarily have to choose a side. Modern computers and consoles have excellent compatibility for either. Just be prepared for staunch supporters of either one to give you an earful.
Why Use a Controller?
Controllers are most commonly used for console gaming, but many PC gamers incorporate them into their arsenals too. One of the major reasons why controllers often win out is simply because they’re more portable, especially if you use wireless controllers. Whether you’re on the couch, in bed, or over at a friends house, your controller can more easily go with you.
Another big reason why controllers may win when discussing controller vs keyboard and mouse is that they’re more comfortable. They’re ergonomically designed to fit your hands, and the buttons are specifically and only for playing video games. Most never need to take a break to rest your wrists when you’re gaming with a controller, and you’ll never accidentally hit caps lock.
If you’re deciding between a controller or keyboard and mouse, also consider what types of games you usually play.
Deciding by Game Type
If you’re into fighting, racing, sports, and arcade-style games, a controller is a no-brainer. If you’re more into games that require pinpoint accuracy -- shooting games for example -- you may find that a keyboard and mouse setup is more suited for you.
A big point of comparison for controller vs keyboard and mouse is the analog buttons and joysticks. Say you’re playing some Rocket League. If you press your controller’s triggers harder, you go faster. You can also use the joystick to vary turning angles slightly. In contrast, a keyboard and mouse setup only allows for binary control input.
Why Use a Keyboard and Mouse?
The major reason why you might want to use a mouse and keyboard is because of their precision. By nature of their design, mice provide a level of accuracy that you just can’t get with a controller.If you need to land headshots ten times out of ten and every second matters, a mouse can help you get you there. If you’re into competitive gaming, you may find that a keyboard and mouse setup can give you a competitive advantage.
Customization is a big point too. Keyboards allow you to choose the hotkeys you prefer, as well as set macros. Macros are similar to hotkeys, but instead of just setting up the standard buttons, you can customize them further with multiple actions.
Naturally, if you press one button to accomplish two actions, you’re going to be gaming faster and more efficiently. Just be aware that if you’re playing in an official tournament, macros may not be allowed. If you get used to using macros all the time, you may actually be putting yourself at a disadvantage when you’re not able to use them.
In considering a controller vs keyboard and mouse, you also need to think about who you’re typically gaming with. Do most of your friends play online, or are you planning on entering a tournament? It would be a shame to get ultra-fast on your keyboard and mouse setup only to find that your friends or competitors use controllers and consoles.
Let’s Recap:
Sill on the fence? Here’s a TLDR to help you choose between a controller or keyboard and mouse:
Controller:
- Portable
- Comfortable
- Classic feel
- Analog buttons and joysticks allow more precision for certain types of games
- Ideal for fighting, racing, sports, and arcade-style games
Keyboard and Mouse:
- Precise
- Customizable hotkeys and macros
- Ideal for first-person shooters and real-time strategy games
The Winner Is Up to You
If you’re still not sure about using a controller vs keyboard and mouse, use ‘em both! Part of the beauty of gaming is that everyone does it the way they enjoy most. Heck, you may find that your preference changes according to your mood.
Although passionate gamers may sing the praises of one or the other strictly with no wiggle room, it’s what works for you that counts. After all, having more tools in your kit is never a bad thing.
Try Customized Controllers
Personal preferences aside, there’s no denying how freakin’ cool a customized Xbox One or PS4 controller looks. Whether you’re an avid console or PC gamer, we can all agree on one thing: using custom gaming gear makes the experience more fun and immersive. The age-old debate of controller vs keyboard and mouse will continue, and that’s okay.
Check out our awesome line of customized, authentic Xbox One controllers and PS4 controllers. Regardless of which side of the argument you’re on, we think you’re going to be thoroughly impressed.