This controller was tested on a PS4 Pro and PC by a multi-console owner.
---SETUP---
The ASTRO C40 controller works out of the box with the PS4 without the need to update anything, though it is recommended that you connect it to a PC or Mac and update the firmware. If you want to customize your controller, you do need a PC to download the free software.
---FEATURES---
The key feature of this controller is that you can swap the D-PAD and left thumbstick with each other, making the left and right thumbsticks be offset, similar to an Xbox One controller. Additionally, you can customize two extra buttons that are below the controller (UL and UR) to function as any of the face buttons or triggers. Each trigger has a switch that allows you to shorten the distance required before a full press. Another switch allows you to change between 2 pre-programmed profiles on the fly. It features wired or wireless use and there is no light bar, like all original PS4 controllers have.
---PERFORMANCE---
I currently own well over 10 controllers for various platforms. The most common problem with third party controllers is that the D-PAD and face buttons always feels unresponsive. I’m happy to say that this is the first third party controller that feels as good as the original. Arguably, the gaming community prefers the weight and offset thumbsticks of the Xbox One controller. Though it doesn’t come out of the box like that, I was able to swap the D-PAD and left thumbstick in under 1 minute. After that, I played Apex Legends on PS4 and PC using the controller, and I was more comfortable with the Astro controller than the original PS4 controller. To test the D-PAD, I popped in Mortal Kombat X, and it was just as responsive as I wanted it to be. There is a touchpad, a menu, and a share button on the Astro that all work as they should. If you are worried about this controller not feeling as good as the original PS4 controller, then you can rest assured that this will feel great in your hands and on your gaming sessions.
---EXPECTATIONS---
The product meets my expectations but a few hiccups prevent it from achieving the coveted 5 stars. To start with, if you are using this with your PS4, there is no app on the PS4 to customize the controller. As a multi-console owner, the Xbox One Elite Controller (XOEC) can be customized from the Xbox itself without needing a PC. Next, this controller only has 2 giant extra customizable buttons where the XOEC has 4 paddles. I prefer the paddles from the XOEC because the can be removed and won’t interfere when unneeded. The Astro C40’s under-buttons can’t be removed and are located where most gamers rest their middle fingers, so you might accidentally press them. Another thing I noted was that the Astro C40 controller can’t turn on your PS4 wirelessly, even from standby mode. I had to use my older controller then switch to the Astro after the USB dongle was recognized by the PS4. Every time you want to switch the D-PAD and thumbstick back, or if you want to swap out types of thumbsticks (convex vs concave), you need to use the included hexagonal screw removal tool, unlike the XOEC which doesn’t require a tool because everything on that is magnetic and can be swapped in seconds. Also, though the Astro C40 controller charges with a micro-USB cable, the entrance of the cable was made in such a way that if it needs replacing you will probably have to buy another cable directly from Astro because of a tunnel entrance to the connection.
---SOFTWARE---
The software on PC is easy to use and understand. After connecting your Astro C40s to a PC, the drivers are automatically installed and the software recognizes your controller. Customizing profile 1 and 2 is a breeze and helps tremendously with remapping face buttons to the under-buttons. In games like Apex or Call of Duty, you can now reload without losing sight of your target. Other games, like Bulletstorm, don’t have customization of buttons within their menus. I created a profile specifically for this game and I was able to change running to UL (under left) and made my experience of that game much more enjoyable.
---VALUE---
The price for the Astro C40 controller is 50 dollars more than the XOEC. It is definitely a steep investment, but one that is well worth it if you game often and like having a competitive edge.
---APPROVAL---
I highly recommend this controller for gamers who want to train for competitive gaming and get that edge needed to come out on top. This controller has a great feel in terms of weight, has amazing customization options, and has a response time that’s just as good as the original. Despite a few flaws, it’s worth getting it.