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Controller Input Lag: How to Reduce It

Cut down delay between pressing a button and seeing the action on screen.

Use USB instead of Bluetooth

A wired connection removes wireless latency entirely — typically saving 5–15 ms.

Use the Xbox Wireless Adapter

On PC, Microsoft's wireless protocol is faster and more stable than generic Bluetooth.

Check polling rate

Some controllers poll at 125 Hz over Bluetooth (8 ms per update). Wired or adapter connections often poll at 1000 Hz.

TV and display lag

Enable Game Mode on your TV. Display lag often dwarfs controller lag.

Verify with a tester

Our Gamepad Tester shows inputs the instant the browser receives them — a quick way to compare wired vs wireless response.

Test your controller now: Gamepad Tester · Stick Drift Test