Trigger Pressure Tester
Free Online Analog Trigger & Pressure Sensitivity Test Tool
Test your gamepad's analog trigger sensitivity, pressure response, and dead zones. Calibrate L2/R2, LT/RT triggers for PS5, PS4, Xbox, and PC controllers. No download required.
Trigger Pressure Test
Connect your controller and test analog trigger sensitivity
Live Trigger Monitor
How it works: Press your controller's analog triggers (L2/R2 or LT/RT) slowly from released to fully pressed. The visualizations below will show the exact pressure value being registered.
This helps identify dead zones, linearity issues, and maximum range problems with your triggers.
Left Trigger (L2/LT)
Axis 2Right Trigger (R2/RT)
Axis 5Pressure Response Curve
This graph shows how your trigger pressure translates to input values over time
Precision Test
Try to hold your trigger at the target pressure level
Test Results Summary
How to Use the Trigger Tester
Follow these simple steps to test your controller's trigger sensitivity
Connect Controller
Connect your gamepad via USB cable or Bluetooth. Press any button to activate it in the browser.
Press Triggers Slowly
Slowly press each trigger from fully released to fully pressed. Watch the gauges respond in real-time.
Check for Issues
Look for dead zones (no response at start), jumps in values, or inability to reach 100%.
Review Results
Check the summary for trigger health rating and any detected issues with your analog triggers.
Understanding Analog Triggers
Learn how analog triggers work and what to look for when testing
What are Analog Triggers?
Unlike digital buttons that are either on or off, analog triggers detect how hard you're pressing them, providing a range of values from 0% to 100%.
- Used for acceleration in racing games
- Variable speed movement in shooters
- Pressure-sensitive actions in sports games
- Gradual zoom or aim adjustments
Dead Zones Explained
A dead zone is the initial range of trigger movement where no input is registered. Some dead zone is normal, but excessive dead zone affects gameplay.
- 0-5%: Normal/Acceptable
- 5-10%: Slightly high but usable
- 10-20%: May affect precise control
- 20%+: Significant issue, needs repair
Linearity & Response
Ideally, trigger input should increase smoothly and proportionally to how far you press. Issues include:
- Non-linear response (jumps in values)
- Sticky spots (same value over range)
- Early saturation (reaches 100% too soon)
- Limited range (can't reach full 100%)
Trigger Types by Controller
Different controllers have different trigger mechanisms
PlayStation Controllers
PS5 DualSense: Advanced haptic triggers with adaptive resistance. L2/R2 are fully analog with 256 pressure levels.
PS4 DualShock 4: Standard analog triggers with smooth linear response.
Xbox Controllers
Xbox Series X|S: Textured analog triggers with improved grip. LT/RT provide full analog range.
Xbox One/360: Traditional analog triggers with rumble motors built into the triggers (impulse triggers on One).
Other Controllers
Switch Pro: Digital triggers only (ZL/ZR are buttons, not analog).
Third-party: Varies widely. Some have analog triggers, others are digital-only.
Troubleshooting Trigger Issues
Common problems and solutions for analog trigger issues
Trigger Not Reaching 100%
Possible Causes:
- Physical obstruction or debris
- Worn trigger mechanism
- Calibration issues
- Damaged potentiometer
Solutions:
- Clean around the trigger with compressed air
- Recalibrate controller in system settings
- Update controller firmware
- Consider professional repair if persistent
Large Dead Zone
Possible Causes:
- Worn spring mechanism
- Software dead zone settings
- Potentiometer wear
- Manufacturing variation
Solutions:
- Adjust in-game dead zone settings
- Use controller software to reduce dead zone
- Replace trigger spring if accessible
- Consider controller replacement if severe
Erratic/Jumping Values
Possible Causes:
- Dirty potentiometer
- Loose internal connection
- Electrical interference
- Failing trigger sensor
Solutions:
- Clean potentiometer with contact cleaner
- Check and reseat internal connections
- Try different USB port or cable
- Replace potentiometer or trigger assembly
Trigger Stuck/Not Returning
Possible Causes:
- Broken or weak spring
- Physical debris jamming trigger
- Sticky residue (spills)
- Mechanical damage
Solutions:
- Gently work trigger to free any debris
- Clean with isopropyl alcohol
- Replace trigger spring
- Open controller and inspect mechanism
Tips for Maintaining Triggers
Keep your analog triggers in top condition
Clean Hands
Always play with clean, dry hands. Oils and dirt can seep into the trigger mechanism and cause issues over time.
Regular Cleaning
Use compressed air monthly to blow out dust and debris from around the triggers. Avoid liquid cleaners near electronics.
Gentle Pressure
Avoid slamming triggers to full pressure repeatedly. Smooth, controlled presses extend the trigger mechanism's lifespan.
Proper Storage
Store controllers in a clean, dry place. Avoid leaving them trigger-down as constant pressure can wear springs.
Avoid Extremes
Don't expose controllers to extreme temperatures or humidity. These can affect the trigger mechanism and electronics.
Firmware Updates
Keep your controller firmware updated. Updates can improve trigger calibration and response characteristics.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about trigger testing and maintenance
Why doesn't my trigger show any response?
+Some controllers (like Nintendo Switch Pro) have digital triggers that only register as buttons, not analog axes. Additionally, some third-party controllers may not have true analog triggers. If you have a PlayStation or Xbox controller and see no response, ensure the controller is properly connected and try pressing any button first to activate it in the browser.
What is an acceptable dead zone?
+A dead zone of 0-5% is normal for most controllers. This small dead zone helps prevent accidental inputs when your finger is resting on the trigger. If your dead zone is above 10%, you may notice it affecting gameplay, especially in racing games or situations requiring precise throttle control. Most games allow you to adjust dead zone settings to compensate.
My trigger shows values even when not pressed?
+This is called "trigger drift" and indicates the trigger isn't properly returning to its resting position or the potentiometer is miscalibrated. Try recalibrating your controller through your system settings. If that doesn't help, the trigger mechanism may need cleaning or the spring may be worn. In-game dead zone settings can compensate for minor drift.
Can I fix trigger issues myself?
+Many trigger issues can be resolved at home. Cleaning with compressed air, recalibrating through settings, and adjusting in-game options are safe to try. Opening the controller for deeper cleaning or part replacement is possible but requires care and may void warranties. For valuable controllers or those under warranty, professional repair or replacement is recommended.
Why do my triggers feel different from each other?
+Manufacturing tolerances mean triggers may have slightly different feel or response curves. Small differences are normal. However, if one trigger has significantly more dead zone, less range, or different resistance than the other, there may be wear or damage to that specific trigger. Use this tester to compare the exact values and identify any significant discrepancies.
Do PS5 adaptive triggers work with this test?
+This test measures the analog pressure values from your triggers, which works with all controllers including PS5 DualSense. However, the adaptive trigger resistance feature (where triggers can push back) is a separate system controlled by games and isn't testable through the browser's Gamepad API. The pressure sensing itself will work normally.