When comparing SteelSeries Stratus XL vs Nyko PlayPad Pro, the Slant community recommends SteelSeries Stratus XL for most people. In the question“What are the best PC gaming controllers?” SteelSeries Stratus XL is ranked 15th while Nyko PlayPad Pro is ranked 17th. 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
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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 Different modes expand the utility of the controller
Typically, you will want to stay in Game/HID mode - this is the standard Bluetooth controller mode. iCade mode can be used for games that don't support Bluetooth controllers, although the Android recognises it as a keyboard instead of a gamepad. This trick allows you to use the controller where you wouldn't be able to use other controllers, however you will be missing out on the full experience as some of the controls may be wonky or simply not usable depending on the app.
Mouse mode doesn't help much as far as gaming goes, but for navigating the UI it works well. The last mode is App mode which allows remapping of the buttons (requires root access).
Pro Comfortable to game on for hours at a time
The Nyco Playpad Pro is a full size controller comparable to a PS3 or XBox controller. Because of its size, it's a bit less portable, but much more comfortable to game on as your hands aren't wrapped around a tiny controller.
Pro Internal rechargeable battery
The Nyko PlayPad Pro lasts about 30 hours of gameplay per charge, and uses an internal rechargeable battery that is charged through a USB port. This is cheaper in the long run, and also generally more convenient than worrying about disposable batteries.
Pro First party app available
Nyko offers a first party app to is used to customize controls (Android 4.0+ required) and find compatible games.
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 Face buttons small
The face buttons are on the smaller side which may cause discomfort to some.
Con Nyko Playground app is inconsistent
You can map some buttons, but you can't outright switch the controls (if you are left handed and want to switch the D-pad and 4-buttons actions you can't). Also, syncing the controller through the app often doesn't work.