Analysis: PS3 vs Xbox 360 which controller is better for games

[goddog]

MikeB said:

Of course there are alternative controllers available, but here's Mike Ferro's analysis on the standard 360 and PS3 controllers:

http://gamer.blorge.com/2008/11/22/analysis-ps3-vs-xbox-360-controller-comparison/

My take: Overall a nice analysis, but does not address all aspects.

For games like Ape Escape or Super Stardust HD (games I like and own) the symmetrical nature of the analog sticks feels a lot more natural and is far more effective on the PS3.

I also like the motion sensing ability of the DH3 which the 360 controller does not provide. For example the flying parts in Ratchet & Clank: Tools of Destruction or a game like Super Ruba Dub. With LittleBigPlanet you can make a lot of gestures, like shaking your head or looking at and pointing towards something when playing online with people (next to chat communication). I like the triggers, pressing them a little further you can get your sackboy to point fingers at things instead of just waving your hands for various gestures.

Although I can manage with both controllers myself, I will have to note my girlfriend and sister both got hand cramps from using the 360 controller (and from using the PS3 controller). Of course there are others who say they experienced the exact opposite to be the case for them, but note there are hundreds of million of gamers out there who used similar controllers as those standard with the PS3.

In the end its all very subjective and depends on personal preferences. But you hear 360 fans all the time about how the PS3 controller sucks and the 360's controller is vastly superior, I thought this analysis to be an interesting read.

My opinion as a physical therapist and the ergotherapists I know is that the PS3 controller is better designed overall, it more easily fits more different kinds of hands. For the symmetrical nature of the analog sticks this is also the case, better suited for both left and right handed people, the active range of motion is a handicap for the left 360 analog stick (especially an issue if you have left-hand problems or small thumbs).

See i have to disagree with you on hand craps, ive played with both controllers, and i can not use the ps3 or ps2 controller for more then an hour without getting cramps where with the 360 i have never had that problem (I did with they s type on the xbox but mainly due to its size, and award placement of the black/whit button). 

I work with people who do industrial design for a living, and they complimented the 360s controller based on its contoured layout and asymmetrical design, as being better ergonomically. granted this is only true for the right handed. there evaluation was based on the average size of a right handed user.  

on motion sensing That is personal preference, until it is a one to one, on any console, im not buying into it.  

 

as to your latter comments 

"Place both thumbs on the PS3 contoller and perform full circles.

Place both thumbs on the 360 controller and perform full circles.

For the PS3 controller this should be easier and comfortable, considering the active range of motion of the thumb in those positions like medical people refer to this.

Then while having the thumbs on the sticks, try to reach all the d-pad directions (like used for weapon select) and the action buttons while returning the thumbs to the sticks. Then try to alternate as quickly as possible with left and right hands, of course returning the thumbs to the original starting position.

This should also be far more easier to do on the PS3 controller."

I find the exact opposite is true. but this may be due to the nature of my hands which are far lager then average. I can because of placment of the dpad reach it with both thumbs, so in game i can decided which finger to use where i can only do it with my left thumb on the ps3. 

one issue you dont touch on is the shoulder/triggers which thought he ps3 has made an advancement on, the 360 has far more comfortable placement and execution 

 

(I found the duke to be very comfortable last generation, and hated the stype).