Controller Latency Tester
Free Online Input Lag & Response Time Test Tool
Measure your gamepad's input latency and response time with precision. Test reaction delays for PS5, PS4, Xbox, Switch Pro, and PC controllers. No download required.
Latency Test
Connect your controller and measure input response time
Reaction Time Test
How it works: When you click "Start Test", watch the target area. As soon as the circle appears and changes color, press any button on your controller as fast as you can.
The test measures the time between the visual signal appearing and your controller input being registered by the browser.
Test Results
Recent Results
Latency Graph
How to Use the Latency Tester
Follow these simple steps to measure your controller's input latency
Connect Controller
Connect your gamepad via USB cable or Bluetooth. USB typically provides lower latency than wireless.
Detect Controller
Click "Detect Controller" and press any button on your gamepad to activate it in the browser.
Start Test
Click "Start Test" and wait for the target to appear. React as quickly as possible when you see it.
View Results
After completing all rounds, review your average latency, best/worst times, and overall rating.
Understanding Controller Latency
Learn about input lag and what affects your controller's response time
What is Input Latency?
Input latency (or input lag) is the delay between pressing a button on your controller and the action being registered by your computer or game.
- Controller processing time
- Wireless transmission delay
- USB polling rate
- Software/driver overhead
Wired vs Wireless
Connection type significantly impacts latency. Wired connections are generally faster and more consistent than wireless.
- USB: 1-4ms typical latency
- Bluetooth: 10-30ms typical
- 2.4GHz wireless: 2-8ms typical
- WiFi Direct: 5-15ms typical
Factors Affecting Latency
Multiple factors contribute to overall input latency in your gaming setup beyond just the controller.
- Monitor refresh rate and response time
- Game engine input processing
- System performance (CPU/GPU)
- V-Sync and frame buffering
Tips for Reducing Latency
Optimize your setup for the lowest possible input lag
Use Wired Connection
Connect your controller via USB cable for the lowest and most consistent latency. Avoid USB hubs when possible.
Update Firmware
Keep your controller firmware updated. Manufacturers often release updates that improve response times.
Game Mode on Monitor
Enable Game Mode on your monitor/TV to reduce display processing lag and improve overall responsiveness.
Disable V-Sync
Turn off V-Sync in games when possible. It adds input lag by buffering frames before display.
Reduce Wireless Interference
Keep wireless controllers away from other 2.4GHz devices like routers and phones to minimize interference.
Keep Battery Charged
Low battery can increase latency on some wireless controllers. Keep your controller charged above 50%.
Troubleshooting High Latency
Common problems and solutions for controller input lag
Inconsistent Latency
Possible Causes:
- Wireless interference from other devices
- Background applications using resources
- Bluetooth connection issues
- USB power saving settings enabled
Solutions:
- Move away from WiFi routers and other wireless devices
- Close unnecessary background applications
- Try re-pairing the controller
- Disable USB selective suspend in power options
Very High Latency (200ms+)
Possible Causes:
- Using Bluetooth instead of dongle
- Outdated controller firmware
- USB 1.0/1.1 port instead of 2.0/3.0
- Driver issues
Solutions:
- Use manufacturer's wireless dongle if available
- Update controller firmware via official app
- Connect to a USB 3.0 port (usually blue)
- Reinstall controller drivers
Latency Spikes
Possible Causes:
- CPU or GPU throttling
- Windows updates running in background
- Antivirus scanning
- Overheating controller
Solutions:
- Check system temperatures and cooling
- Pause Windows updates during gaming
- Add game to antivirus exclusions
- Let controller cool down between sessions
Controller Not Detected
Possible Causes:
- Browser doesn't support Gamepad API
- Controller not in pairing mode
- USB cable is charge-only (no data)
- Driver not installed
Solutions:
- Use Chrome or Edge browser
- Press a button to wake the controller
- Try a different USB cable with data support
- Install controller drivers from manufacturer
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about controller latency testing
What is a good latency for gaming?
+For most gaming, under 100ms is considered good. Competitive players and fighting game enthusiasts should aim for under 50ms. Remember that this test measures your reaction time plus controller latency, so your actual controller latency is lower than your test results. Professional controllers typically have 1-8ms of pure input lag.
Why is my wireless controller slower than wired?
+Wireless controllers add latency due to radio transmission time, encoding/decoding, and potential interference. Bluetooth typically adds 10-30ms, while proprietary 2.4GHz dongles (like Xbox Wireless Adapter) add only 2-8ms. For the lowest latency, always use a wired USB connection.
Does this test measure actual controller latency?
+This test measures your total reaction time, which includes visual processing, neural response, muscle movement, controller input, and browser processing. True controller latency requires specialized hardware to measure. However, this test is useful for comparing controllers and detecting issues, as relative differences are meaningful.
Why are my results inconsistent?
+Human reaction time naturally varies by 20-50ms between attempts. Additionally, wireless interference, system load, and browser performance can affect results. For accurate comparisons, run multiple test sessions and compare averages. Close other applications and tabs for more consistent results.
Which controllers have the lowest latency?
+When wired, most modern controllers perform similarly (1-4ms). For wireless, Xbox controllers with the official wireless adapter are among the fastest (4-8ms). PS5 DualSense and Xbox Series controllers both offer excellent wired performance. Third-party "pro" controllers may offer faster response times with features like higher polling rates.
How can I improve my reaction time?
+Beyond controller optimization, you can improve reaction time through practice, adequate sleep, proper hydration, and minimizing distractions. Gaming-specific hand exercises and warm-up routines can help. However, remember that average human reaction time is around 200-250ms for visual stimuli - this is a biological limit that improves slowly with practice.