Game performance issues come in a lot of random formats, especially with how lazy game devs have become over the years. However, there is one really random place most people never think to check when looking for stuttering and laggy phases in games, their controller. Believe it or not, controllers can cause random stuttering in games even though FPS remains fairly stable, especially if you are using a Bluetooth controller. So follow along as this guide shows you how to fix these issues in CONTROL Resonant and any other game you might currently be playing.

Can Controllers Really Cause Stutter and Lag in Games?

Controllers are a rather unlikely source of performance problems, but wireless connections can quite often introduce input latency, connection drops, and strange random stuttering. Most of the time, Bluetooth interference or old controller firmware is the cause, usually both at the same time, causing the problem. So before you start messing around with anything else on your computer or within the game settings, check the following things. They are quick checks, so don't skip them!

• Fully charge your controller or replace the batteries.
• Disconnect any controllers or wireless devices you aren't using.
• Connect your controller directly to your PC with a USB cable.
• If you're using a wireless dongle, move it away from other USB dongles and wireless receivers.

If the problem goes away after switching to a wired controller, then there is something wrong with your wireless controller or the Bluetooth connection it's using.

How to Fix Controller Lag and Stutter in CONTROL Resonant

The easiest solution is to make sure your controller is running the latest available firmware. Firmware updates can improve wireless stability, compatibility, and general controller performance, so this is worth doing even if your controller appears to be working normally. You'd be surprised how many other random little fixes firmware updates fix, so try to check for them every 6 months or so.

Update Xbox Controller Firmware

Xbox controllers get firmware updates from time to time, and these updates improve how the controller behaves when connected to a Windows PC and how they work in certain games. If you haven't checked for an update recently, now is a good time to do it.

• Install the Xbox Accessories app from the Microsoft Store.
• Connect your Xbox controller to the PC using a USB cable.
• Open Xbox Accessories and check whether a firmware update is available.
• Install the update if one is offered.
• Restart your PC once the process has finished.

Note: Keep your controller connected until the firmware update has completely finished.

Update PS5 DualSense Firmware

DualSense controllers also get firmware updates that improve compatibility and connection stability. If you're using a PS5 controller with CONTROL Resonant on Windows, updating the controller is another simple thing to try.

• Download and install the official DualSense Firmware Updater for Windows.
• Connect your DualSense controller to your PC using a USB cable.
• Open the firmware updater and follow the instructions.
• Allow the update to finish before disconnecting the controller.

Note: Do not disconnect the DualSense while its firmware is being updated.

Update Third-Party Controller Software (If Possible)

If you're using a controller from another manufacturer, check if the company provides firmware updates or dedicated software for Windows. Cheap controllers generally won't have any updates but if you are using a high-end third-party controller there should be firmware support available.

• Visit the official website of your controller manufacturer.
• Look for the latest firmware, drivers, or controller update utility.
• Install any available updates.
• Restart Windows before launching CONTROL Resonant again.