Software Alternatives & Startups

DS4Windows VS InputMapper

Compare DS4Windows VS InputMapper and see what are their differences

DS4Windows

DS4Windows is an open-source gamepad input mapper and virtual emulator designed to use and connect your PlayStation controller (DualShock 3/4 and DualSense 5) to a Windows 10 & 11 PC.

Rating
0 reviews
InputMapper

Input Mapper is designed to bridge the gap between the devices you use and the games you play.

Rating
0 reviews

Which is more popular?

Based on our record, DS4Windows seems to be a lot more popular than InputMapper. While we know about 172 links to DS4Windows, we've tracked only 8 mentions of InputMapper.

social mentions
172 vs 8
Gaming popularity
68% vs 32%
alternatives listed
54 vs 77

Base details

Website, pricing, platforms and company facts side by side.

DS4Windows
InputMapper
Website kanuan.github.io beta.inputmapper.com
Listed in

Features and specs

What each product offers, as listed by its team.

DS4Windows 6 features
InputMapper 4 features
  • Customization
    DS4Windows allows users to create custom control mappings, apply profiles for specific games, and personalize the user experience.
  • Compatibility
    The software makes it easy to use the DualShock 4 and DualSense controllers on a Windows PC, offering good compatibility with various games and applications.
  • Macro Support
    Users can create and assign macros, which can automate repetitive tasks or complex button sequences, enhancing gameplay or productivity.
  • Bluetooth and Wired Support
    DS4Windows supports both Bluetooth and wired connections, providing flexibility in how users connect their controllers.
  • Open Source
    Being open source, DS4Windows allows for community contributions and continuous improvement, ensuring that the software evolves to meet user needs.
  • Ease of Use
    The software is designed with a user-friendly interface, making it easy for even less tech-savvy individuals to set up and configure.

Possible disadvantages

  • Potential Instability
    Like many community-driven projects, DS4Windows may have occasional bugs or stability issues, which can impact the user experience.
  • Limited Official Support
    Since DS4Windows is not an official software from the controller manufacturers, users may find limited official support or documentation.
  • Driver Installation
    Users might need to install additional drivers, which could be a hassle and might not always be straightforward for everyone.
  • Manual Updates
    Updates need to be manually downloaded and installed, which can be inconvenient compared to automatic updates.
  • Compatibility Issues
    There can be occasional compatibility issues with certain games or Windows updates, requiring troubleshooting by the user.
  • Learning Curve
    Although the interface is user-friendly, fully utilizing all features and customizations may still present a learning curve for new users.
  • Versatility
    InputMapper supports a wide range of controllers and devices, making it highly versatile for different gaming setups.
  • Customization
    Users can customize button mappings and profiles extensively to suit their personal preferences or specific game requirements.
  • User-Friendly Interface
    The application offers a user-friendly interface, making it accessible even for those who are not technically proficient.
  • Community Support
    InputMapper has an active community and official support which offers assistance and plugin development for new features.

Possible disadvantages

  • Performance Issues
    Some users report performance issues, particularly with latency and connection stability when using certain controllers.
  • Limited Updates
    The software doesn't receive updates as frequently as some users would prefer, which can lead to issues with newer games or devices.
  • Compatibility
    There can be compatibility issues with certain games or operating systems, requiring workarounds or additional tweaking.
  • Complex Setup
    For some users, especially newcomers, the initial setup process can be complex and may require following detailed guides.

Analysis

An editorial look at what each product does well and who it suits.

DS4Windows
InputMapper

Overall verdict

  • Yes, DS4Windows is generally considered a good tool for those looking to make the most out of their DualShock controllers on a Windows PC. Its continuous updates and active community support further enhance its reliability and functionality.

Why this product is good

  • DS4Windows is a popular utility for Windows that emulates an Xbox controller for DualShock 4/5 controllers, enabling compatibility with a wide range of PC games that do not support PlayStation controllers natively. It offers extensive customization options such as button mapping, trackpad usage, gyro control, and profile management, making it a versatile tool for diverse gaming needs.

Recommended for

    PC gamers who use DualShock 4/5 controllers and want to ensure compatibility with games requiring Xbox controller input. Also, those who appreciate advanced customization of controller settings for an optimized gaming experience.

Overall verdict

  • Overall, InputMapper is considered a helpful tool for gamers looking to customize their device inputs. While the beta version may have some bugs or stability issues, its functionality and flexibility make it a worthwhile option for tech-savvy users who are willing to troubleshoot potential issues or those who require specific control configurations.

Why this product is good

  • InputMapper is a popular tool primarily used for mapping input devices such as controllers to different configurations. Its utility comes from its ability to enhance the gaming experience by allowing users to customize controls for better comfort and gameplay. This can be particularly beneficial for games that have limited control customization options natively. The tool also supports multiple devices, making it versatile for a wide range of input needs.

Recommended for

  • Gamers seeking customizable controller configurations
  • Users with non-standard input devices
  • Individuals who enjoy tweaking and optimizing their gaming setups

Videos

Walkthroughs and reviews on video.

DS4Windows 3 videos + Add
InputMapper 2 videos + Add

[How To] Connect PS4 Controller To PC Using DS4Windows Tutorial (Windows 7/10)

More videos

  • - Game Controller To Cull & Review Photos | PS4 DualShock DS4Windows
  • - Steam vs DS4Windows - Which Do I feel is best for DualSense on Windows

Use a PS4 Controller in Steam with Inputmapper

More videos

  • - How to connect your ps4 controller to your pc windows 10 Using InputMapper 2019!!!

Category popularity

How often each product is chosen within a category, 0–100% relative to the other.

Score bands 0–20 21–40 41–50 51–60 61–100
DS4Windows
InputMapper
68% 68%
32% 32%
67% 67%
33% 33%
66% 66%
34% 34%
100% 100%
0% 0%

User comments

Share your experience with using DS4Windows and InputMapper. For example, how are they different and which one is better?

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Reviews and articles

External articles and on-site reviews we used to compare the two products.

DS4Windows no reviews yet
InputMapper no reviews yet
  • Top 5 REWASD Alternatives in 2021
    keyboardkings.com · Jul 2022

    InputMapper uses PS4 and virtual Xbox 360 controllers for key mapping of keyboards to make sure different games and applications work effectively. It is free to use, and you can expect it to evolve a lot, so it would...

  • Fantastic Controller Mappers and Where to Find Them
    www.rewasd.com · Oct 2018

    In general, InputMapper (which is also called DS4Windows) is a good controller mapping software for those who have a DualShock 4 controller. But if you’re looking for deeper features, or using any controller except...

Social recommendations and mentions

Recommendations tracked on public social media and blogs since March 2021.

DS4Windows 172 mentions
InputMapper 8 mentions
  • Problems with controller drift/game not detecting controller?
    If your gamepad is not supported by our service, you can try to install DS4Windows. Its function is to “trick” the PC into recognizing any controller as if it were an Xbox 360 or DualShock 4, which in turn might allow you to use it on... Source: about 3 years ago
  • Controller Issues
    Use DS4, its a controller emulator that helps with stuff like that, don't really know how to explain it but with it I can use my ps5 controller for salt and sacrifice on pc instead Https://ds4-windows.com. Source: over 3 years ago
  • Hellp.Pace Wheel not working right
    From what I see online, it only officially supports PS3+PS4, and not PC. You might be able to get it to work using https://ds4-windows.com/ . Source: over 3 years ago

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  • I feel like I’m digressing
    You can use either this or this I believe to change shit around to where you can figure out one way or another of playing with two people despite the issues you mentioned. Source: over 3 years ago
  • Controller Issue
    This may be of some use to you, maybe? Source: over 3 years ago
  • free alternative to reWASD
    It mentions some alternatives, though, such as Input Mapper and Xpadder. If your games are on Steam, you could try Steam's controller config thing. Source: over 3 years ago

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Alternatives to DS4Windows and InputMapper

When comparing DS4Windows and InputMapper, you can also consider the following products.