Best D-Pad for Hollow Knight: Top Controllers for Precision 2025
Struggling with the White Palace? Finding the best d-pad for Hollow Knight is crucial for nailing those pogo jumps. We test top controllers with mechanical switches and classic feels to help you conquer Hallownest. 🎮⚔️
The Agony of the Wrong Input
Anyone who has attempted the Path of Pain in Hollow Knight knows the absolute frustration of a mushy D-pad. One accidental diagonal input and you are sent back to the start... soul crushed. In 2025, you don't need to suffer through bad hardware. Whether you are speedrunning Hallownest or battling the Radiance, precise input is non-negotiable. Let's look at the gear that actually keeps up with your reflexes. 🎮
Why the D-Pad is King in Metroidvanias
In modern 3D games, the analogue stick reigns supreme. But for 2D platformers like Hollow Knight, Celeste, or Blasphemous, the D-pad (Directional Pad) is the heart of movement. You need distinct, tactile separation between "Up" and "Right." If your controller blends these inputs, you miss that critical pogo-jump.
For South African gamers looking to invest their Rands wisely, the trend has shifted. We aren't just looking at standalone gamepads anymore; we are looking at all-in-one portable powerhouses. The latest handheld gaming consoles have evolved to feature some of the most responsive, clicky inputs on the market, effectively giving you a premium controller with a PC attached.
Top Contenders for Precision in 2025
When looking for that perfect "click," different brands offer unique tactile experiences. It often comes down to the shape of the pad—cross vs. dish—and the membrane underneath.
The Clicky Tactile Feel
If you prefer a distinct mechanical click that confirms every move, the ASUS ROG Ally series is a standout. They utilise a dish-shaped D-pad which is fantastic for rolling your thumb quickly between directions without losing precision. It is arguably the best setup for nailing those downward strikes on spikes.
The Versatile Powerhouse
For those who want a larger grip and detachable options, Lenovo brings the Legion Go to the party. The controllers here are robust, and the D-pad offers a more traditional feel... solid and reliable. It’s perfect for gamers with larger hands who find smaller controllers cramp-inducing during long sessions in the Deepnest.
Ergonomics First
We also have to talk about the MSI Claw. MSI has focused heavily on ergonomics and the natural resting position of the thumb. Their D-pad implementation is designed to minimise fatigue, which is essential when you are on your fiftieth attempt at a Godhome boss rush. ⚡
TIP FOR YOU
Precision Pro Tip 🔧
If you are playing on PC or a handheld, dive into Steam Input settings. You can adjust the 'Dead Zone' of your analogue sticks or change the D-pad layout to '4-way' instead of '8-way.' forcing 4-way input eliminates accidental diagonals, making pogo-jumping in Hollow Knight significantly easier.
Conclusion: Don't Blame Your Thumbs
Sometimes, it really is the controller's fault. Upgrading to a device with premium inputs does more than look good; it lowers your input latency and improves consistency. Whether you choose a dedicated handheld or a high-end gamepad, ensure the D-pad feels right for you.
Ready to Conquer Hallownest? Precision matters, and so does value. Whether you need a high-performance handheld or the ultimate gaming rig to power your adventures, we have the gear SA gamers trust. Explore our massive range of handheld consoles and controllers and find the perfect machine to conquer your world.
The 8BitDo Pro 2 and Xbox Series controllers are top choices due to their precise, tactile D-pads perfect for complex platforming maneuvers.
Yes, a D-pad offers digital precision, preventing accidental diagonal inputs which are fatal during tight platforming sections like the Path of Pain.
A good platforming D-pad requires distinct pivot points, tactile feedback, and low actuation force to ensure rapid, accurate directional changes.
Absolutely. Mechanical keyboards offer the highest precision, but many players prefer the ergonomic comfort of a gamepad with a high-quality D-pad.
The DualSense D-pad is decent but uses segmented rubber membranes. Many platformer enthusiasts prefer the clicky, mechanical feel of Xbox or 8BitDo pads.
Misinputs often stem from mushy D-pads. Upgrading to a controller with a mechanical switch D-pad usually solves ghost input issues immediately.
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