Side by side
ControllerBuddy vs PadLink
Both stand on controller mapping software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan Open source LinuxMacWindows
ControllerBuddy offers gamepad remapping and simulator profiles for Windows and Linux at no cost. Its mode-action and trigger limits, along with best-effort backward compatibility, are worth considering.
Visit ControllerBuddy
Free plan AndroidiPhoneMac+1
PadLink offers flexible controller mapping, with a free one-controller plan and a one-time Pro license at $2.99, paid once. Windows users should note the ViGEmBus requirement for virtual gamepad output.
Visit PadLinkThe facts
| ControllerBuddy | PadLink | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Yes | Not published |
| Runs on | Linux, Mac, Windows | Android, iPhone, Mac, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Pro: $2.99, paid once |
| Plans published | 1 | 2 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | controllerbuddy.org | padlink.nimets.com |
| On controller mapping software | #2 of 29 | #6 of 29 |
ControllerBuddy: what it does well
- Maps controls to keyboard, mouse or virtual joystick
- Includes modes and an active-mode overlay
- Supports Xbox, DualShock 4 and DualSense controllers
- Free and open-source under GNU GPL v3.0
What to know first
- Mode actions cannot combine multiple buttons
- Triggers cannot be merged into one rudder axis
- Backward compatibility is not guaranteed
PadLink: what it does well
- Maps buttons to keys and analog sticks to several controls.
- Supports virtual DualShock 4 and keyboard-and-mouse output.
- Free Standard plan supports one active controller.
- Pro allows up to four active controllers.
- Optional trial lasts seven days without card or sign-up.
What to know first
- Windows virtual gamepad output depends on ViGEmBus.
- Free-tier Mobile Remote may show ads.
- Trial supports up to two controllers.
Alternatives to ControllerBuddy Alternatives to PadLink The whole list