How To Fix Controller Drift?

Stick drift or controller drift has been upsetting the gaming experiences for years. If you are a proper gamer, you obviously know what ‘drift’ is.

Stick drift is a common problem when the joystick of a gaming controller does not follow the gamer’s command or move on the screen on its own. Since it causes unwanted movement on the screen, it makes you unable to play swiftly or at all.

Also called controller drift it is a huge issue that gamers encounter due to worn-out thumbstick pads, loose springs, or any other reason. Most gamers replace their controller with a new one just after a few months for this reason. While this is truly disappointing for them, they need a foolproof solution to Xbox, PS4, or PS5 controller drift fix promptly.

This blog explains in detail how to fix controller drift and prevent it from happening again. If you consider yourself a good gamer but stick drift is shaking your confidence every time, learn some potential ways to save your experience.

What is Controller Drift?

Controller drift also referred to as “stick drift,” is a common issue bothering gamers and interrupting their gaming experiences. It is especially caused by their faulty thumbsticks or analog sticks.

Controller stick drift prevents them from having flawless wins in the games, which is annoying. For games involving shooting, stick drift will detrimentally affect the gamer’s performance. It occurs when the thumbstick registers unintended movement or input even when the player is not touching or moving the stick.

In other words, your character or cursor on the screen may start to move on its own, or in a particular direction, without any input from you.

Why Do You Need To Fix Controller Drift?

Before you get into the details of how to fix controller drift, let’s give some time to understand what problems controller drift causes and why you need to fix it.

1. Constant use:

Controller drift mostly occurs due to wear or damage of the potentiometer inside the joystick module. It is usually worn out after repeat or constant usage of the joysticks, which causes dirt or dust to get stuck on the potentiometer.

2. Faulty manufacturing of the parts:

When you buy a low-quality gaming controller from a non-trusted provider, it usually does not provide a warranty. The parts either wear out or become non-functional within a short time, causing Xbox, PS5, or PS4 controller drift.

While these are the most potential causes, the problems arising from them explain why you should know how to fix controller drift.

3. Random inputs:

When you encounter controller drift, the joysticks cause random movements and inputs on your controller. This immediately disrupts the flow of your game. Sometimes, the menu can open on its own; a character can start moving, and so on. Any input-sensitive games, like shooting, steering, or fighting, become nearly impossible to play when you experience controller drift.

4. Annoying casual gaming experience:

In the case of casual games that do not require spot-on inputs or accuracy, controller drift results in abrupt inputs. For that, you need to hold on to your joystick still in a particular position off the center and keep canceling the inputs.

Despite that, you will encounter many other problems, including random spikes in movements or frequent unpredictability, which is annoying for a gamer.

Key Benefits of Fixing Controller Drift

If you have found the answers to what causes controller drift or why to get rid of it, it is time to know how fixing the drift will benefit you.

1. Enhanced precision and speed in gameplay

Of course, the first benefit of fixing the drift of your game controller is improved gameplay experience with accuracy and speed. Fixing the drift prevents the involuntary movement of the joystick and the cursor/character in your game.

It stops all appropriate in-game actions and ensures you have complete control over your gaming actions. The controller responds well to your every command and lets you have an unmatched gaming experience.

2. Get rid of frustration

Facing controller drift is supremely troublesome and irks gamers. Missed shots at the aims, unpredicted movement of the characters, loose maneuvers, etc., are some of the disturbances you face while dealing with controller drift.

So, when you fix it and stop all these from happening, it reduces all your frustration and offers you a pleasant gaming experience.

3. Extended life span of the controller

Of course, when you opt for PS5, PS4, or Xbox controller drift fix instead of replacing the parts or buying a new device, it extends the lifespan of the controller.

Stick drift occurs due to the persistent use of the controller, leading to the fast wear and tear of its components, including joysticks. Therefore, if you know how to fix controller drift, you can quickly repair it on your own and prevent further damage to the controller.

Thus, the lifespan of your gaming controller increases.

4. Gameplay consistency

When you fix the controller either by replacing parts or adjusting the settings, it fine-tunes the functionality of the controller. This results in consistency of the gameplay and helps you to have stunning game experiences.

You no longer have to adapt your gaming style to cope with the unpredictable behavior of the controller, and so you have an immersive gaming experience every time.

7 Steps On How To Fix Controller Drift

If your controller is gaming controller is having issues with stick drift and you want to get rid of it, replacing seems the only solution at first. But, what if you purchased the controller 2-3 months ago?

Won’t that be too early to waste your money on another gaming controller?

In our expert opinion, you should not waste your time, effort, and money in trying to fix the drift issue. Rather, we suggest avoiding it right from the beginning. Wondering how? Well, with the use of the top-notch and revolutionary controller drift software by Driftaline.

Installing the software helps you enjoy a marvelous and uninterrupted gaming experience and prevents controller drift. We understand your love for games, hence the suggestion.

Try it today before investing your time in trying various controller drift-fixing recommendations. Instead, use this software and invest your time to reach another level in your game.

The choice is yours.

But to keep you informed here are few steps on how to fix controller drift.

1. Learn Well About Controller Drift

Before you learn how to fix stick drift for Xbox One, PS4, or PS5, let’s take a look at what is stick drift or controller drift.

‘Controller drift’ is a terminology for a major issue of gaming joystick, where drift occurs on one or both analog sticks. You experience the issue when the thumbsticks start moving without touching them or giving instructions. You may also notice that one of the analog sticks keeps moving in a direction even after you have taken your thumb from the stick.

For instance, a character of the game starts moving or running automatically without touching the controller and you intend to do that. While this is extremely annoying for a gamer, solving the problem usually involves buying a new gaming controller or replacing the joysticks.

Controller drift issues can arise on any device or video game console, including PC, PS5, PS4, and Xbox.
If you are wondering what causes controller drift in a gaming controller, here are the chief reasons.

• Wear and tear of thumbstick pad: There are left and right sticks in the game controller that you use to control the characters or objects of the game. Each thumbstick has a boxy sensor part, which signals the game about your movement of the sticks.
• On the top of the boxy sensor part, there is attached a movable shaft, which you can push with your thumb to interact with gaming objects on the screen. Now, a drift issue occurs after continuously playing games when the rubber/plastic component that covers the sticks wears out.
• Dust: Dust and greasy dirt on the controller is a prime cause of the controller’s drift issue. Any environmental contaminants, including food particles, pet fur, etc., enter the inside of delicate and sensitive areas of the controller, causing it to drift.
• Flawed springs: The boxy sensor part of the thumbsticks consists of two springs. They help you snap back the thumbstick to the center every time you take off your thumb. So, when the springs wear out or are flawed, you can experience a drift. The thumbsticks do not snap back automatically, which disrupts your smooth gaming experience.
• Poor thumbstick unit: Sometimes the entire thumbstick unit, which includes the controller circuit board, can malfunction. This causes drift, and the only solution that seems to be this is getting a new unit.
• Before trying to fix the controller’s drift issue, we advise diagnosing the problem. Knowing the specific problem with your controller will help fix it. For that, first, you need to clean your controller well by rubbing a small amount of alcohol with the help of a cotton swab. After you clean it, reset the controller, and see whether the problem exists; if it does, recalibrate your controller.

Go to Settings and select the joystick you are having a problem with. Following the given instructions on the settings, recalibrate the joystick’s dead zones.

2. Get All The Necessary Tools

Whether it’s cleaning for maintenance or recalibrating the controllers, you need some essential stuff to do that cautiously. The necessary cleaning tools for cleaning your game controllers are the following.

• Canned air/compressed air can: It will be useful for blowing away the dust from the nooks and crannies of the gaming controller, like the gaps around the buttons and joysticks. Dirt or loose debris collected in those areas is hard to remove with a duster or paper towel.
• Alcohol and wipes/cotton swab: You will need isopropyl alcohol (with a concentration of 70% or higher) to deep clean the controller’s surfaces. You will also need a cotton swab or wipes to rub the alcohol on the buttons, small crevices, and in between seams of the controller.
• Paper towel: A soft paper towel or microfiber cloth is essential to gently wipe the surface of the controller without scratching it.
• Toothbrush: You might need a brush with soft bristles to scrub away the sticky dirt or grime that accumulates on the textured areas of the controllers.
• Screwdriver: To deep clean the controller, you will need a screwdriver to open it and get access to several components present inside it.
• 3. Do The Cleaning and Maintenance

The most basic step on how to fix stick drift for PS5, PS4, or Xbox is to keep it clean and in top-notch condition.

Stick drift isn’t always an internal issue of your game controller. It can also be caused by a polluting or dirty environment. Several contaminants like greasy dirt, salt particles, liquid spills, pet dander, etc., can get into your controller through the crevices or seams of the controller.

Many times, using the controller repeatedly with untidy or unwashed hands will also cause dirt particles to enter inside your gaming controller.

While we recommend storing the gaming controller in a proper clean area, here are some basic tips for maintaining and cleaning your controller regularly.

• Get some alcohol on the cotton swab or microfiber cloth and wipe the joysticks properly.
• Move a stick towards the right and then left while cleaning to ensure you clean every area of it. Repeat this step for the other joystick.
• Take the compressed air/canned air and shake well before using. Hold the canned air upright and press the side of the joystick.
• Spray air fully around the joystick from a slight distance. Spraying compressed air from too close might freeze the stick.
• Repeat the above step for another joystick.

4. Use Appropriate Software Solutions

If you want to know if there are some other ways to fix a controller drift, there are software solutions. Windows and game consoles both have built-in features or tools that you can adjust to fix a drift.

However, you should keep in mind that controller drift is purely a hardware issue, and you cannot completely solve it using software solutions. However, you may resolve it if the problem is basic. If you choose software solutions for fixing your Xbox, PS4, or PS5 joystick drift, here are the steps for troubleshooting problems.

Executing these steps carefully will either help you fix the issue completely or at least identify the key issue.

Calibrate the controller: You can do it either through the controller’s settings on the system (Windows of your PC) or directly on the console’s settings. Doing this step will help you first identify the neutral position of the controller. Upon recognizing that, you can calibrate the controller by following the next steps.

In the case of Windows:

• Open ‘Control Panel’.
• Click on ‘Hardware and Sound’.
• Select ‘Devices and Printers’.
• Right-click on your controller and select ‘Game controller settings’.
• Select your controller and choose ‘Properties’.
• Search for an appropriate calibration option on the Properties window.

In the case of game consoles:

Check controller calibration options on your console’s settings.

• Update Firmware: Most manufacturers of gaming controllers unleash Firmware updates periodically to enhance controller performance. You should update the Firmware of your controller. To know how to do that, we advise you to check on your manufacturer’s website or blogs regarding instructions on how to update firmware.
• Reset the controller settings: Many times the controller drift issue arises due to some custom configurations or changes in the controller settings. In that case, resetting the default settings of the controller will restore its normal and smooth operation.
• Driver updates: Having the latest drivers installed on your computer is essential to ensure there’s no lag or drift issue in the controller. If you are operating your controller on a computer, then install a new driver or update the existing one.
• Deadzone adjustment: Another convenient software solution on how to fix stick drift PS5, PS4, or Xbox controller drift is adjusting the deadzone threshold adjustment. Deadzone is the adjacent area around the sticks of the controller, which purposely does not register any input. Increasing or adjusting the dead zone will alleviate any drift issue. You can adjust the dead zone from the controller’s settings.

5. DIY Controller Repair

If after troubleshooting your game controller, you face some common issues that need repairing, you can first try to do it yourself. Here are a few DIY tips for repairing your controller.

Disconnect the controller for safety: Ensure your safety first if you are trying to repair your controller on your own, which operates on electricity or battery. Unplug the controller from any power source or remove the batteries.

Get essential tools or supplies: When it comes to repairing your Xbox, PS4, or PS5 controller stick drift, you will need some essentials to open and repair the controller. They include:

• Screwdriver
• Alcohol for cleaning the surface
• Compressed air for blowing away dirt or dust
• Small brush with softer bristles
• Tweezers for extra precision works
• Replacement parts, which may be thumbsticks, buttons, or sensors.
• Disassemble: Once you have collected all the supplies and essentials, you need to dismantle or disassemble the parts of the controller. Do that carefully using a screwdriver.
• An important note for this step- Keep track of the screws as you gradually remove them one by one. Take pictures of the controller’s internal components as they are before dismantling them one by one.
• Also, be gentle and cautious while separating the controller into halves as it can damage wiring or connections inside.
• Clean the parts: Clean the controller’s parts inside after disassembling them with the help of compressed air, a brush, and a cotton swab soaked in isopropyl alcohol.
• Fix the stick drift issue: After identifying the main faulty part, the next step is to fix the drift issue. It could need you to replace the buttons, triggers, thumbstick covers, or the sensor module.
• Assemble the parts: Once you have replaced the parts, assemble all other parts of the controller and tighten the screws securely in their positions.
• Test: Test the controller once you are done with repairing it to ensure the issue is completely resolved. Operate using all the controls and both thumbsticks to ensure the controller operates accurately and smoothly.

DIY repairing of the controller means you might lose the manufacturer’s warranty. Therefore, consider these before doing the repairs yourself. If you are uncomfortable with the situation, we suggest you consult professional repair services or contact your manufacturer’s support executive.

6. Controller Replacement

If the game controller is not fixed after repairing it yourself, the next step is replacing the analog sticks. You can also buy a new one but if you are eager at saving costs, we recommend replacing the thumbsticks yourself.

Since opening up the controller will cancel the warranty of the manufacturer, be double sure whether you want to do it. If you are sure about doing it, you will need a soldering iron, small repairing tools, and a desoldering tape. You need them to replace the analog sticks and their sensors (or potentiometer).

If you are sure about replacing the analog sticks or controller parts for the Xbox, PS4, or PS5 stick drift fix, follow the given instructions.

• Unscrew the back side of the controller carefully open it, and then disconnect/take out the battery.
• Unscrew the motherboard and gently pull it out of the controller.
• Desolder and remove the potentiometer from the motherboard.
• Put the new potentiometer carefully in the right place, while ensuring all the contact points are soldered correctly.
• Carefully reassemble all the parts of the controller.

If you are sure about replacing the analog sticks or any other essential parts of the controller, you have to be sure about the manufacturer or company from where you will buy the parts.

Some key providers of superior quality parts of gaming controllers are Microsoft, Nintendo, Sony Corporation, Razer Inc., and Logitech. These companies focus on innovation and product development and hence have made some groundbreaking developments in the gaming controller market. We advise you to buy your parts from any of these companies to ensure the quality and swiftness of the controller.

If you are willing to buy new parts for your controller, the following pro tips will help you.

• Check whether the replacement parts come with a warranty and return policy. It gives you peace of mind if the part turns out defective or incompatible with your controller.
• If you are buying from a third-party seller or online marketplace, ensure to check the authenticity of the products with the company or manufacturer.
• Seek some useful advice or suggestions from different online gaming communities or forums where often pro gamers are active. They can provide you with valuable recommendations based on their experiences.

7. Troubleshoot The Controller and Testing

If you want to learn how to fix Xbox controller drift or PS5 controller drift, this step for troubleshooting and testing the game controller is crucial. It is necessary once you have identified the issue and fixed it.
Now, you need to troubleshoot the repaired controller and test it to ensure it is once again ready to boost your gaming experience.

Here are the steps to troubleshoot and test the controller.

• Visually inspect: Check whether the controller’s surface and thumbsticks look fine and show no wear or damage after fixing.
• Restart the controller: Restart the controller and see whether the problem is solved, or not. If it is resolved, well and good. If not, you might need to buy a new one or send it to the manufacturing company for repairs.
• Firmware updates: Keeping your controller up-to-date is necessary if you want to ensure its smoothness and consistency after fixing its drift issues. Also, updating your controller with the latest firmware will ensure there are no bugs or minor issues that can again cause drift.
• Check the settings: Check your controller’s settings again to rule out any custom configurations or settings. They can once again cause drift. Reset them to default values to ensure no further glitches or drift issues in the controller.
• Test the controller: After checking the settings, test the controller by launching a game. While playing for some time at a consistent speed, check whether the drift issue still exists or if there are any other inconveniences with the controller. If you notice any minor drift issues, check if the joysticks’ base has dirt or debris. Clean the base well and check whether the controller is operating smoothly.
• Best Tips on How To Prevent Controller Drift

Controller drift is purely a hardware issue of the controller. The hardware degrades with time due to persistent use of the controller, and stick drift is one of the common issues you can encounter.

It is quite impossible to avoid the risk of PS4, PS5, or Xbox controller stick drift unless you do not use the controller. Hardware issue like drift issue is a part of the hardware’s lifecycle. However, there’s a way you can prevent a drift issue for a prolonged time. Below are some extra careful measures with which you can prevent drift in your PS4, PS5, and Xbox controller drift.

Keep the controller clean: Never store your controller in a dusty place or use it with dirty hands. If you are going for a trip or holiday, make sure you store it somewhere in a closed and clean box so that it will not gather any dust or debris.

Handle your controller carefully: You may wish to carry your controller here and there. But make sure you are handling it well. Just chucking it into your bag while taking it somewhere or throwing it on the table or shelf is not how you should handle your controller. It can cause the interior parts to dismantle or get dirt inside, which will soon lead to the risk of stick drift.

Never mash the thumbsticks: Well, this is the most important step for preventing stick drift. Pressing down your thumbsticks more often during shooting or other game actions will immediately hamper their stability and reduce their longevity. As a precautionary step, try remapping those actions to different buttons or use a controller with dedicated buttons. Also, do not flick your sticks harshly! Those put pressure on the potentiometer and can cause the thumbsticks to get stuck.

Regularly clean the analog sticks: We suggest cleaning the controller often by wiping it with a cotton swab soaked in alcohol. However, frequently, clean the analog sticks using a cotton bud soaked in a mixture of water and alcohol.

How Driftaline Can Help You To Fix Controller Drift?

If all the steps seem complex and you are still wondering how to fix controller drift for Xbox One, PS4, or PS5 easily, our software DriftAline is an outright solution. It is advanced software built by our handpicked tech experts to solve the common troublesome issue of ‘controller drift’ without any hardware repairs at all.

Our software fixes a ‘stick drift’ with multiple features such as Dead zone adjustment, Auto Dead zone adjustment, Sensitivity adjustment, and Offset calibration. With these, you can adjust the controller settings and get rid of stick drift. Also, DriftAline offers other features like random bounce and noise generator, which are testing features. They help you imitate stick drift and prevent that from happening.

Our software has AI tools like Kalman, variance, input delay, and uncertainty. It also offers button mapping for free, which is necessary to prevent aggressive and excessive use of the thumbsticks.

Worried How To Fix Controller Drift? DriftAline Is Your Ultimate Solution!

Controller drift is certain to happen for game controllers sooner or later. In their circle of life, the internal components and parts of the controller will deteriorate, and that occurs naturally with persistent use. Even though controller drift is a common issue, just tossing away the controller whenever it happens is just the worst idea!

Since the drift issue is caused by minor or major problems in the joysticks or other components, it is wise to identify the issue and then try to fix it. Replacing your controller with a brand new one every time you face the issue of stick drift will only make your gaming experience costlier too! We offered this guide on how to fix controller drift to prevent you from making such bad decisions.

On one hand, you need to use your controller, especially joysticks with care and keep it clean for prolonged longevity. On the other hand, whenever drift occurs, follow this guide or seek assistance from experts to fix it.

However, for a sure-shot solution and to enhance your gameplay experience, you can use our software, DriftAline, which offers calibration measures and a failsafe fix for the drift issue in game controllers. While we offer solutions to fix stick-drift, we are also an exceptional gaming controller and joystick tool provider to all types of controller users on PCs. Get DriftAline and game longer and more smoothly by extending the lifespan of your controller!