Side by side
DSTX 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 Linux
Choose DSTX if you use Linux and want to turn supported DualShock, DualSense, or Switch Pro controllers into virtual Xbox 360 controllers with configurable profiles. Look elsewhere if you need a platform other than Linux or want an AppImage containing the core package as well as the GUI.
Visit DSTX
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
| DSTX | PadLink | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Linux | 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 | dstxapp.org | padlink.nimets.com |
| On controller mapping software | #10 of 29 | #6 of 29 |
DSTX: what it does well
- Supports up to four controllers over USB or Bluetooth.
- Remaps buttons and adjusts deadzones, sensitivity, rumble, and LEDs.
- Saves and loads custom profiles.
- Offers graphical, terminal, and background-daemon interfaces.
- Free and open source under GPLv3, with no telemetry or tracking reported.
What to know first
- Linux is the only supported platform.
- The AppImage includes the GUI but requires a separate core package.
- Controller group permissions may require logging out and back in.
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.