If you prefer playing PC games with a controller rather than a keyboard and mouse, InputMapper provides a way to adapt compatible console gamepads for use with Windows. The software acts as a bridge between a controller and PC games, translating controller inputs so they can be recognized through an Xbox 360-style XInput configuration. This can be particularly useful for games that do not natively support a particular controller.
InputMapper is primarily associated with PlayStation controllers, including the DualShock 4 and DualShock 4 V2, while it can also work with other compatible input devices. You can connect supported controllers through USB or Bluetooth, after which the software can detect the device and let you configure its behavior. Its interface is focused on creating and managing controller profiles, making it possible to keep different configurations for different games or applications.
Customization is a major part of the software. You can remap individual buttons, adjust sensitivity and dead zones, configure macros, and change settings such as light bar colors and rumble feedback. Profiles can be created for different games, so you do not necessarily have to rebuild your preferred configuration every time you switch between titles.
InputMapper also provides support for keyboard and mouse output, alongside controller-based output through ViGEm. This gives users additional flexibility when configuring how their physical controller interacts with Windows. While the software is aimed at making controller setup easier, compatibility can vary depending on the controller, game, drivers, and configuration.
What Are the Key Features of InputMapper?
InputMapper combines controller remapping with profile management and input emulation. Its core function is converting compatible controller inputs into a format that Windows games can recognize, with Xbox 360 controller emulation providing broader XInput compatibility. This can make a PlayStation controller usable in games that are primarily designed around Xbox-style controller input.
The software supports custom button mapping, allowing you to change what individual controls do. You can also configure macros and adjust settings such as sensitivity and dead zones. These options are useful when a game's default controller layout does not suit your preferences or when you want more precise control over how inputs are registered.
InputMapper's profile system lets you save different configurations and switch between them. This is useful if you play several games with different control schemes, as each title can have its own button assignments and other settings. The software can also automatically switch profiles depending on the game or application being used.
Supported connections include USB and Bluetooth, giving you a choice between a wired setup and wireless controller use. InputMapper can detect connected compatible devices and provide a central interface for configuring them. Depending on the controller and setup, additional features include light bar customization, rumble feedback, and touchpad and gyro controls.
Is InputMapper Free to Use?
Yes. InputMapper is free to download and use, making it an option for PC gamers who want to customize compatible controllers without paying for controller-mapping software. There is no paid version that needs to be purchased to access the basic functionality described above.
Because controller compatibility can depend on hardware and drivers, however, using InputMapper does not guarantee that every controller or PC game will work perfectly. The software is primarily intended for Windows and is most closely associated with DualShock 4 controllers.
Which Platforms Support InputMapper?
InputMapper is designed specifically for Windows PCs. Specifically, it works with Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8.1, Windows 8, and Windows 7, although current tooling officially targets Windows 10 and Windows 11. Older versions may be relevant for legacy Windows installations and hardware.
The software is not designed for macOS or Linux. For supported Windows systems, controllers can be connected through USB or Bluetooth, depending on the hardware and available Bluetooth adapter.
InputMapper supports several types of input devices, including generic XInput controllers, generic DirectInput devices, Sony DualShock 4 and DualShock 4 V2 controllers, Xbox 360 and Xbox One controllers, Sony DualShock 3, and the PlayStation Move Navigation Controller. Its output options include Xbox 360 controller emulation through ViGEm, Sony DualShock 4 output through ViGEm, and keyboard or mouse input.
What Are the Best Alternatives to InputMapper?
DS4Windows is an alternative focused on using PlayStation controllers with Windows. Like InputMapper, it can translate controller inputs into an XInput-compatible format and provides tools for customizing controls. It is particularly relevant for users looking to configure a DualShock 4 or other compatible PlayStation hardware for PC games.
reWASD offers a broader set of controller customization tools. It can remap controller buttons and create custom configurations, while also supporting combinations of controller, keyboard, and mouse inputs. Its extensive customization makes it suitable for users who want more control over how their peripherals behave across different games and applications.
DualSenseX is aimed particularly at PlayStation 5 DualSense controller users on Windows. It provides configuration and customization options for the DualSense and can help users access controller functionality in PC games that may not natively support the hardware. This makes it a relevant alternative for players whose priority is getting more functionality from a PS5 controller.
