If Xbox is very strong when it comes to controller choices – especially colors – third-party manufacturers aren’t left out. Experience this rematch controller from PDP Gaming. The world’s number 1 in 3rd party controllers has sent us their latest. Can it find a place in the abundance of what is already on offer? She certainly seems to have the arguments for it!
Concludes to the point
What immediately strikes you when you take the controller out of the box is his finish. Obtained in the color Purple Fade, its iridescent mauve hue gives the most beautiful effect. The LT/RT triggers and sleeves have a 3D effect that provides additional texture to the grip without being at the level of a grip. When I first saw the controller in photos, my concerns centered on the joysticks, which felt “cheap”. I couldn’t have been more wrong! The thumbs lie perfectly on it and they too benefit from a material to increase friction. Once in hand, it’s a second element that catches the eye: its lightness. 195 gr on the counter, 41g less than an official controller without a battery. However, the controller lies well in the hand and does not make a fragile impression.
In terms of features, the PDP Rematch Controller offers a whole lot of them: USB-C connection, integrated volume controls, 3.5mm audio jack and two programmable and remappable buttons on the back with the free PDP application. Compatible with the Xbox Series X | S in particular we find the capture button directly on the controller. During our tests, I noticed that the button only took pictures. Unable to take a screenshot or remap the button. The position of the function button for muting the microphone has been improved. Volume, sound mixing and microphone mute can still be controlled via a keyboard shortcut.
An effective but perfectable application
As with any controller, it comes down to real life sensations. In this regard, PDP is once again successful. When switching from an Elite Series 2, I had no trouble switching from one to the other. The programmable buttons on the back are almost prettier and offer better precision than the paddles on the former. However, they are significantly louder and produce a loud click with each press. Oddly enough, like the Directional Cross, the Xbox Nexus have more drag than they do on an official controller.
You have certainly noticed that the PDP rematch is a wired control. Despite having a detachable cable, it cannot function without it. If this element is prohibitive for some, in my case the distance between my TV and my sofa was sufficient for the 2.5m of it not to be a problem. Everything depends on your configuration and usage. If it’s not a defect in my opinion, I still prefer the wifi.
One of the strengths of the gamepad is thePDP application available for free on PC and Xbox. Here you can change all functions of the controller. Both vibration intensity, button mapping, updates, calibration, etc. It’s easy to learn and deserves some improvements in terms of responsiveness and user interface.
A good alternative at a very reasonable price
The PDP Rematch has real arguments to make. It offers additional features to the official models (volume control, mute, sound mixing) and borrows the triggers from the Elite series, so it has nothing to be ashamed of in the face of its two big cousins. As a second additional controller or for on the go, it proves to be perfect. Suggested around $40 With Game Pass Ultimate offered for a month, it makes no mistake and presents itself as a real alternative.
