If you’ve ever picked up a game controller, you might have heard gamers mention the “pads.” But what exactly are these pads, and what do they do? In this blog, we’ll break down the different types of pads found on game controllers and how they enhance your gaming experience.
What Are Controller Pads?
In the world of video game controllers, pads generally refer to the flat, touchable areas or buttons designed for input. Most commonly, this term applies to:
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Directional Pads (D-pad)
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Touchpads
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Sometimes button pads (face buttons arranged in a pad-like layout)
Each “pad” serves a unique purpose in game control and navigation.
1. Directional Pad (D-pad)
What Is It?
The D-pad is a cross-shaped directional control usually found on the left side of the controller. It lets players navigate menus or move characters with simple up, down, left, right inputs.
Functions:
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Movement in 2D games or menu navigation
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Secondary control in 3D games
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Quick weapon or item selection in some games
Why It’s Important:
Before analog sticks became standard, the D-pad was the primary way to control movement in classic games like Super Mario Bros. and Street Fighter. It’s still widely used today for precise digital inputs.
2. Touchpad
What Is It?
Modern controllers like the PS4 DualShock 4 and PS5 DualSense include a touchpad — a smooth, flat, touch-sensitive surface in the center of the controller.
Functions:
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Acts as an additional button when pressed
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Supports swipes, taps, and gestures in games
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Used for map navigation, menus, or unique in-game controls
Why It’s Important:
The touchpad adds a new layer of interaction and versatility, enabling innovative gameplay mechanics and easier UI navigation.
3. Button Pads (Face Buttons)
While not usually called “pads,” the four face buttons (like A, B, X, Y on Xbox or ◯, ✕, △, □ on PlayStation) form a pad-like cluster on the right side of the controller.
Functions:
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Execute actions such as jumping, attacking, interacting
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Context-sensitive commands depending on the game
Why It’s Important:
These buttons are the core interaction points in most games, and their layout is designed for fast and intuitive access.
Bonus: Analog Stick Pads (Sometimes Called Thumb Pads)
Some gamers refer to the thumbsticks as “pads” because they are small, round pads controlled by your thumbs. These provide analog input for smooth movement and camera control.
Why Knowing Your Controller Pads Matters
Understanding the function of each pad helps you:
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Customize controls more effectively
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Improve gameplay precision
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Navigate game menus faster
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Discover advanced game mechanics
Where to Get Quality Controllers with Great Pads?
Check out Gameloopx’s collection of gaming controllers to find gamepads with comfortable D-pads, responsive touchpads, and well-designed button layouts perfect for your favorite games.
Final Thoughts
“Pads” on a controller might seem simple, but they’re essential to how we interact with games. From classic D-pads to modern touchpads, these features shape your gaming experience, making play smoother, faster, and more immersive.
Got questions about specific controller features? Just ask — I’m here to help!