A Closer Look at the new OUYA controller

A Closer Look at the new OUYA controller

In addition to double the storage space, the new 16GB OUYA brings with it a new controller. OUYA has listened to the concerns of the community and refined their controller to address the biggest issues. So what exactly did they change?

Materials

The controller now features a textured surface on both the front and back on the controller. This texture even extends to the capacitative touchpad.

The aluminum faceplates of the original are replaced with plastic, giving it a less substantial feeling. After playing with it for a short time I realized how enjoyable the feel of the cold aluminum on my palms was with the original controller. Luckily the original aluminum faceplates can be swapped onto the new controller if you so desire.

Face Buttons

The new buttons remain well above the faceplate when pressed down, meaning no more buttons sticking beneath the plate.

controller_2

Analog Sticks

The analog sticks have a bit more resistance to movement, making them more controllable compared to the original.

controller_1

 

Response Time

“Improved Bluetooth for faster response” was billed as a feature of the new controller, and thus far I haven’t found evidence to refute that. It’s difficult to measure, but it feels more responsive than the original, and I have yet to experience a moment of massively slow latency like I would with the original.

Conclusion

While these aren’t colossal changes, they make a big difference in the overall user experience and bring the controller up to the quality standards we expect from a serious console.

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