The Qanba Drone is a great choice for those who want the full arcade experience without spending too much. It strikes a good balance between dimensions, quality and features.
SpecsUpdate
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Pros
Pro Decent build quality for its price range
This is a stick that can withstand some bashing quite well, even if the plastic used is not as sturdy as the one used on more expensive models. It feels better than most similarly priced alternatives.
Pro Comfortable and ergonomic
The Drone is much smaller than most high-end models. However, the cleverly positioned buttons and joystick creates a big enough surface for your palms to rest. The additional control buttons are placed on the top of the control and can be easily accessed.
Pro PS3/PS4/PC compatible
This stick is officially licensed by Sony and compatible with the PS4 and the PS3 (there’s a dedicated switch to toggle between the two platforms.). It can also be used on a PC, using the DirectInput standard, but third party software may be needed to get it to work with some games, like Street Fighter V.
Pro Internal wiring work is easy
This device's internal wiring is conveniently color-coded, making wiring changes quite easy.
Pro Extra functionality buttons can be disabled
There is a lock switch that disables the extra functionality buttons.
Pro Turbo can be manual or automatic
The Turbo button can be set to manual mode or automatic mode.
Pro Improved stability with padded surface grip
The bottom has an anti-slip padding that prevents surface slipping.
Pro Comfortable to use on lap
This controller weighs only 1.6 kg which makes its comfortable to use on a lap.
Cons
Con Somewhat unstable when positioned on a desk
This controller weighs only 1.6 kg which makes somewhat unstable when positioned on a hard surface, such as a desk.
Con Modding is not easy (but at least it's possible)
While it is possible to mod this controller, doing so is much more complicated that with most premium controllers. The buttons are relatively easy to replace, but you will need to swap the wiring harness if you want to replace the joystick. Despite these difficulties, it is worth noting that other budget controllers usually don't allow any modding at all.
Con Modding voids the warranty
If used mod this controller, its warranty becomes void.
Con The artwork can not be replaced
The Drone's artwork is directly printed on the upper surface, so it cannot be swapped.
Con Does not have a PS4 touchpad
Though this stick is PS4 compatible, it does not have the touchpad that's needed for some PS4 games.
Con Cable is not detachable
The Drone's USB cable is not detachable.
Con No closed compartment
There is no closed compartment for spare parts or cable storage, only a hollow space for the USB cable.
Con Lever and buttons feel loose
The Drone uses cheap buttons that perform reasonably well, but sometime they feel loose. The lever suffers from the same problem, making it hard to determine its neutral position.