Side by side
Joystick Gremlin vs Recontrol
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.
Joystick Gremlin offers extensive input mapping and configuration options for Windows, including virtual-device output and Python scripting. Account for its vJoy and redistributable requirements, its device-visibility limitation, and the incompatibility of older profiles.
Visit Joystick GremlinRecontrol offers configurable controller-to-keyboard and mouse mappings for macOS, including thumbstick tuning and automatic mapping activation. Its one-controller and one-monitor limits, macOS requirement, and Accessibility permission are important setup constraints.
Visit RecontrolThe facts
| Joystick Gremlin | Recontrol | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Windows | Mac |
| Lowest paid plan | Not published | Not published |
| Plans published | None | None |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | whitemagic.github.io | recontrol.danneu.com |
| On controller mapping software | #18 of 29 | #22 of 29 |
Joystick Gremlin: what it does well
- Free software for Windows.
- Merges multiple physical devices into one virtual device.
- Supports axis curves, dead zones, and macros.
- Includes calibration and automatic 1:1 mapping tools.
- Python scripts can define variables and input callbacks.
What to know first
- Requires vJoy and VC++ redistributables.
- Cannot hide physical device inputs from games.
- Pre-Release 14 profiles have no conversion tool.
- Macros need matching or higher privileges for admin games.
Recontrol: what it does well
- Free to use.
- Mappings can activate when a controller connects.
- Supports keyboard, mouse movement, and scrolling.
- Thumbsticks offer Smooth and 8-Way modes.
- Mappings can be imported and exported as JSON.
What to know first
- Supports one controller at a time.
- Officially supports one monitor.
- Requires macOS 15.6 or later.
- Requires macOS Accessibility permission.
Alternatives to Joystick Gremlin Alternatives to Recontrol The whole list