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A sip-and-puff gaming controller from The Controller Project is a DIY prototype in active development, not a tested off-the-shelf product. Its creator, Caleb Kraft, estimated roughly $40 for off-the-shelf components, but that figure is not a verified all-in build cost. Make: reported in August 2026 that the prototype was usable but had not been tested with a gamer.
How the controller works
The device uses mouth-based sip and puff actions as inputs that can be mapped to game controls. The Controller Project describes six sensors and twelve total inputs, with adjustable sensitivity and configurable mappings. A player could therefore assign the available actions to controls that suit a particular game, though the sources do not establish compatibility with specific games or platforms.
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The project page lists eight game-profile slots, standard, repeating, and latch behavior, recalibration through a web interface, and an input-status screen among its described features. These are project-page descriptions, not a guarantee that every feature has been tested or works reliably in all setups; the page says the software still needs bug testing.
What the DIY build uses
The parts list published by The Controller Project on August 25, 2026, includes:
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- Six pressure sensors
- One ESP32-S3 and an ESP prototyping board
- A thumbstick
- A round GC9A01 display
- 3 mm silicone tubing
- M3 socket-head screws and M2 self-tapping screws
An ESP32-S3 development board is one component in the build, not a standalone controller. The project page links component listings, but availability and compatibility can change; check the linked parts and instructions before buying. The same page warns that its provided Arduino code is an old version that needs updating, so the documentation should not be treated as a current, novice-ready build recipe.
What the roughly $40 estimate covers
Caleb Kraft, founder of The Controller Project, told Make: that “the cost to build one is roughly $40 in off-the-shelf components.” This is the creator’s estimate as reported by Make: on August 26, 2026—not an independently verified final cost or a retail price. It does not establish the total once tools, 3D printing, assembly, shipping, or revisions are included.
Rank #2
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Is it tested and ready to use?
No. Make: characterized the prototype as “usable but untested” and reported that it had not been tested with a gamer. The Controller Project also says the device is in active development, with features still being added, and notes that the implemented software features have not been fully tested for bugs. The available evidence therefore supports calling it a working prototype, not a validated or finished controller.
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Kraft told Make: that the enclosure wiring and assembly need attention, and raised open questions about whether a standard thumbstick suits mouth movements and how durable the sensors will be. Those are practical issues for anyone considering a build: the design may require further work, and the sources do not establish long-term reliability.
Rank #3
- Note: Not suitable for MacBooks released after 2023 or devices with a protruding front camera; Not applicable to full-screen or notch-style tempered glass screen protectors; Do not use on the rear camera of the phone.
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The project page places a joystick, physical recalibration and profile buttons, Bluetooth, and capacitive touch outputs on its future-feature lists. They should not be mistaken for features already implemented.
How to assess it against another accessibility option
The prototype may interest people who want to experiment with customizable mouth-operated inputs, but a useful comparison with any other option needs more than a component estimate. Check these points before choosing:
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- Retractable Mouse Pad - Retractable laptop mouse pad extends on both directions for the left/right handed with elevation along the edges for stopping mouse from falling off. The size of laptop tray is 14" X 9.7" and the size of mouse pad is 7.4" X 6.1".
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- Readiness and testing: Is the device still a prototype, or has it been tested with players in the situations you need?
- Inputs and configuration: Which actions and mapping behaviors are currently available, and can they be adjusted for the intended game?
- Platform compatibility: Which systems and games are confirmed to work? The sources here do not name supported platforms or games.
- Mounting and ergonomics: Can the device be positioned comfortably and securely for the user?
- Support and maintenance: Are current build instructions, software, replacement parts, and troubleshooting help available?
- Total delivered cost: Include fabrication, tools, assembly, shipping, and any changes needed—not just the listed components.
Make: notes that other sip-and-puff controllers exist, but the sources do not provide current specifications, prices, or compatibility details for a named alternative. The Controller Project says it has supplied controller modifications to disabled gamers for more than a decade; that organizational experience does not establish that this particular prototype has been tested or validated.
Where to follow the project
The The Controller Project sip-puff gaming controller page has the parts list and its current feature and development notes. Make:’s August 26, 2026 report describes Kraft’s estimate and the prototype’s testing status.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Spacious Design: Measuring 21.1" wide and 12" deep, our lap desk comfortably fits most laptops up to 15.6". Extra room for accessories ensures convenience.
- Enhanced Functionality: Packed with handy features, including a 5x9" precision tracking mouse pad and a built-in phone slot for seamless work or video calls. Plus, enjoy laptop support with the integrated device ledge.
- Cool Comfort: Enjoy a stable surface with our lap desk's dual bolster cushion, designed for comfort and airflow, keeping your lap cool during extended use.
- Durable Surface: Work with confidence on our lap desk's solid surface, featuring a blush pink color, ensuring optimal air circulation to prevent your laptop from overheating.
- On-the-Go Convenience: With an integrated handle and lightweight design (2.14 lbs), our lap desk is portable for travel or moving around the house, offering flexibility in any space.
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