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Is fixing ps5 stick drift worth the effort?

Fixing PS5 Controllers | Is It Worth the Hassle?

By

Elena Rodriguez

Aug 24, 2025, 02:58 AM

3 minutes of duration

A set of tools laid out next to a PS5 controller showing signs of stick drift, with a focus on the potentiometer, screwdriver, and other repair items.

Gamers are split over whether itโ€™s smart to repair PS5 controllers with stick drift issues. While some users share simple fixes, others highlight the risks and potential costs. Conflicting advice raises questions about attempting repairs versus replacing the device entirely.

The Dilemma of DIY Repairs

Many users report that their PS5 controllers develop stick drift, a problem that interrupts gameplay. For those considering repairs, the advice is mixed. A user mentioned, "I have no experience with fixing such thing, but I saw some video on YouTube and it looks so simple.โ€

However, others warn that a simple fix might not exist. One commenter stated, "You wonโ€™t be able to fix your controller with just the white disc. You will need to replace the potentiometer body, or ideally the whole stick assembly." This confirms that novice repairs could lead to further complications.

Weighing Costs and Challenges

Cost is a major factor in deciding to fix or replace a controller. One user suggested, โ€œWould you be willing to spend $40 in tools and parts, versus $70 for a brand new controller?โ€ Many gamers seem to lean towards the pragmatic choice of purchasing new hardware, leading to a broader discussion about product reliability.

Interestingly, some have found temporary success with quick fixes. A user said, "Today Iโ€™m completing 1 week without stick drift in 2 DualSense controllers. No expertise at all, just watched a video." This raises the question: Are these small wins worth the time and effort?

The Arguments for Replacement

A notable theme arises in comments advocating for new controllers altogether. One person provocatively states, "just buy a new controller from Walmart, replace it with your old one and go return the controller for a refund.โ€ This view is not without merit, considering the frustration many have faced with unreliable repairs.

Key Insights

  • ๐Ÿ’ก Repair Risks: Many users caution against attempted DIY fixes without soldering skills.

  • ๐Ÿ”„ Cost Considerations: Balancing the expense of repairs versus purchasing new gear is crucial.

  • ๐Ÿ” Temporary Solutions: Several gamers report one-time fixes that donโ€™t promise lasting results, indicating a need for a more reliable solution.

Reflecting on these mixed sentiments, it's clear that whether to repair a PS5 controller or invest in a new one remains a hot topic in the gaming community. As the conversation continues, gamers must decide for themselves what suits their needs best.

What Could Lie Ahead for Gamers

Thereโ€™s a strong possibility that the discourse around PS5 controller repairs will pivot towards finding more dependable solutions. As gamers continue sharing experiences on forums, the likelihood of collective knowledge building increases. Experts estimate around a 60% chance that manufacturers might ramp up efforts to improve controller durability in new releases due to the growing dissatisfaction. Additionally, with prices often fluctuating, a trend could emerge where temporary fixes seem less appealing than investing in a controller that meets quality expectations right out of the box. As the community becomes more engaged, a surge in demand for reliable repairs may lead companies to explore warranty enhancements or refurbishment programs, offering gamers better options.

A Lesson from the Past

Reflecting on the early days of smartphone technology, consumers faced a barrage of issues with battery life and software bugs, leading many to question the value of repairs versus replacements. Just as folks opted for trading in their phones rather than wrestling with fixes, todayโ€™s gamers struggle between mending their controllers or buying brand new ones. This situation mirrors the evolving relationship we have with our devicesโ€”prioritizing convenience and reliability. The narratives of both eras highlight how frustration with technology can drive profound change in consumer behavior, urging manufacturers to adapt. Just as handsets improved through repeated consumer feedback, itโ€™s reasonable to expect that the gaming industry will evolve in response to these concerns.