When comparing SteelSeries Stratus XL vs PDP Afterglow / RockCandy AX.1 wired Xbox 360 controller, the Slant community recommends SteelSeries Stratus XL for most people. In the question“What are the best third-party game controllers for Android?” SteelSeries Stratus XL is ranked 12th while PDP Afterglow / RockCandy AX.1 wired Xbox 360 controller is ranked 14th. The most important reason people chose SteelSeries Stratus XL is:
This is a full sized controller, and feels similar to the Xbox controllers. Its curves help it fit comfortably in your hand, and the controller doesn't become uncomfortable to hold even for extended periods of time.
Specs
Ranked in these QuestionsQuestion Ranking
Pros
Pro Comfortable to hold
This is a full sized controller, and feels similar to the Xbox controllers. Its curves help it fit comfortably in your hand, and the controller doesn't become uncomfortable to hold even for extended periods of time.
Pro Simple setup for both Android and Windows
Setup on Android is as simple as pressing the pairing button on top, and pairing it to your Android device like any other Bluetooth accessory. Windows setup is slightly trickier, but still easily manageable for nearly anyone.
Pro Great joysticks
The joysticks are indented on top, giving your thumb extra grip. The texture is also grippy, making the grip that much better. In addition, these joysticks can be pushed in like on console controllers which acts like an additional button.
Pro 40 hours of gameplay per 2xAA battiers
On a single pair of AA batteries you can expect 40 hours of game time. There are 4 lights on the front that indicate the battery life which will blink when there is about 20 minutes of battery life left.
Pro LED status lights
The 4 dots in the bar near the top of the controller are 4 LED lights which give you pairing information, as well as indicate battery life.
Pro Good value for money
The wired controller is often sold under $30.
Pro Good availability
You can find it almost everywhere. Easy to find and purchase.
Pro Plug and play
Works out of the box as Android recognizes USB peripherals. You will need a USB OTG cable (can be found online for $2-3 usually) to power the controller, but once you have that it's just plug and play.
Cons
Con Bulky
Unlike many of the other controllers mentioned here, this one doesn't fold, and it isn't flat so it can't easily fit into a pocket. You'll need a purse, murse, backpack or satchel to carry it around which makes this a less attractive option if you'll be gaming on the go.
Con Uses AA batteries
Instead of an incorporated battery which can be recharged via a cable, this controller uses disposable batteries. You'll need to keep some on hand, and this will add to the overall cost over a length of time instead of simply being able to recharge the controller.
Con USB OTG support required
In order to use this controller, you will need a third party OTG cable to connect to an Android device's micro USB port. Some devices won't have USB OTG support - to see if your device has USB OTG support check this out.