Unleash Your Controller: The Best InputMapper Alternatives for PC Gamers
InputMapper has long been a go-to solution for connecting your PS4 DualShock 4 gamepad to Windows, allowing seamless wired and wireless gameplay. Designed to bridge the gap between your devices and games, InputMapper enables extensive controller mapping to keyboard keys, mouse actions, and complex macros. However, if you're looking for an InputMapper alternative that offers different features, compatibility, or simply a fresh experience, you're in the right place. This guide explores the top alternatives to InputMapper, helping you find the perfect tool to customize your gaming experience.
Top InputMapper Alternatives
Whether you're seeking more robust mapping, broader controller support, or open-source solutions, these alternatives provide excellent functionalities that rival InputMapper.
JoyToKey
JoyToKey is a commercial utility for Windows that enables game controllers to emulate mouse and keyboard input for all applications. If you need a straightforward InputMapper alternative focused purely on mapping your gamepad to keyboard and mouse actions without advanced DS4-specific features, JoyToKey is a solid choice.
Xpadder
Xpadder is a commercial Windows utility known for its comprehensive key mapping and full controller support, making it an excellent InputMapper alternative. It allows you to map keyboard keys and mouse button actions to virtually any game controller, offering extensive remapping capabilities for PC gaming.
DS4Windows
DS4Windows is a popular free and open-source InputMapper alternative for Windows, specifically designed for DualShock 4 controllers. It allows your DS4 controller to emulate an Xbox 360 controller via USB or Bluetooth, offering extra features like using the DS4 touchpad for mouse input and customizable LED bar settings. It's highly recommended for PS4 gamepad users.
Pinnacle Game Profiler
Pinnacle Game Profiler is a commercial Windows software that allows you to emulate your keyboard and mouse with your video game controller, making it a powerful InputMapper alternative. It offers extensive customization of your controller's behavior for PC gaming.
ScpToolkit
ScpToolkit is a free and open-source Windows Driver and XInput Wrapper for Sony DualShock 3 and 4 controllers. As an InputMapper alternative, it focuses on providing native support for PlayStation controllers, allowing them to be recognized as Xbox 360 controllers for broader game compatibility.
ControllerMate
ControllerMate is a commercial "building block" controller programming tool for Mac. While not a direct InputMapper alternative for Windows, it offers similar advanced customization capabilities for users on macOS, allowing complex functions to be built by joining various blocks.
reWASD
reWASD is a commercial gamepad mapper for Windows, notably the first and only one to make Xbox Elite paddles separate buttons. It works with Xbox Elite, Xbox One, and Xbox 360 controllers, allowing extensive mapping of gamepads to keyboard and mouse actions, including unique features like shift mode, making it a powerful InputMapper alternative, especially for Xbox controller users.
JoyXoff
JoyXoff is a free Windows tool that integrates your keyboard and mouse in one place and allows you to easily turn off your Xbox 360 Controller on PC. It serves as an InputMapper alternative for basic gamepad mapping and key mapping needs, particularly for Xbox 360 controller users.
Joystick 2 Mouse
Joystick 2 Mouse (also known as joy2mouse) is a free Windows application that lets you control the mouse and keyboard using your joystick or gamepad. It's a simple yet effective InputMapper alternative for those primarily seeking to use their controller for mouse and keyboard emulation.
With a wide array of InputMapper alternative options available, from specialized DS4 tools to universal mappers, you can find the perfect software to enhance your PC gaming experience. Consider your specific controller, desired level of customization, and platform to choose the best fit for your needs.