stickdriftestController calibration and deadzone settings
Controller calibration describes how a system interprets a stick’s center and range. A game deadzone ignores small inputs around the center. These are related settings, but neither should be confused with repairing a worn joystick.
Open calibration preview →What this browser calibration preview does
Start live view on the homepage and release both sticks. “Use current position as preview center” stores that position in page memory. The preview subtracts that center from later readings, then applies your chosen radial deadzone. Values inside the deadzone become zero; outside it, the remaining radial range is rescaled towards full scale.
The raw plots and timed stick drift results never use this correction. Switching controllers, stopping observation or leaving the page clears the preview center. Settings are not uploaded or saved to controller firmware, operating-system drivers or games.
How to check drift before adjusting settings
- Run a raw resting check with the sticks untouched. Repeat it if you moved the controller.
- Try the preview with a small deadzone and move the sticks slowly. Notice how ignoring movement near center can reduce fine control.
- If you want a similar effect in a game, inspect that game’s own settings. Our preview value is not a recommended setting and may not match the game’s formula.
PS5, PS4 and Xbox controller calibration
This website cannot perform hardware calibration on DualSense, DualShock 4 or Xbox controllers. Available calibration options depend on the model, firmware, operating system and official software. Use manufacturer instructions for device-specific procedures; do not assume every controller has the same calibration feature.
For setup help, visit the PS5, PS4 or Xbox controller tester. Standard browser mappings are preferred. Nonstandard mappings require you to select the correct axes before using the preview.
| Setting | What it changes | What it does not fix |
|---|---|---|
| Game deadzone | How much stick movement the game reacts to. | A worn sensor or a stick that does not return to center. |
| This browser preview | A temporary local correction shown beside the raw plots. | Hardware calibration, firmware or game settings. |
| Official recalibration (Xbox Accessories) | The controller's reported center/range on supported Xbox Wireless models. | Drift caused by normal wear and tear, or older/third-party controllers. |
| Hardware-writing tools (WebHID) | Device calibration data through Windows/Chrome on supported Sony models. | A stick that is mechanically worn; changes may be irreversible. |
Can calibration fix stick drift?
A center adjustment may change how an input is interpreted, and a deadzone may conceal small offsets. Neither establishes the cause of drift or fixes damaged components. If unwanted movement persists, compare raw readings, connection methods and game settings before consulting the manufacturer’s support or repair guidance.
For the background, read controller deadzones explained or what causes stick drift.