When comparing iMpulse controller vs SteelSeries Free, the Slant community recommends SteelSeries Free for most people. In the question“What are the best third-party game controllers for Android?” SteelSeries Free is ranked 9th while iMpulse controller is ranked 16th. The most important reason people chose SteelSeries Free is:
The SteelSeries Free has a built in rechargeable battery that is charged through a USB cable. This makes it more convenient than a AA or AAA battery powered controller, as you won't have to worry about always having extra batteries on hand. Also, a rechargeable battery is cheaper in the long run.
Specs
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Pros
Pro Works great with emulators
The iMpulse works great with emulators in that the controls can be programmed from within the emulator application, thus creating no need for the iMpulse application.
Pro First party apps
There are three different apps for use on the iMpulse that add functionality to the device such as button mapping or a key finder.
Pro Rechargable battery
The iMpulse controller uses an in built rechargable battery that is charged through a USB port.
Pro Built in rechargeable battery
The SteelSeries Free has a built in rechargeable battery that is charged through a USB cable. This makes it more convenient than a AA or AAA battery powered controller, as you won't have to worry about always having extra batteries on hand. Also, a rechargeable battery is cheaper in the long run.
Pro Small and portable
The SteelSeries Free is pretty small and only weighs 1.91 ounces, meaning it is very pocketable and easy to carry around.
Pro 3rd party app support
Luckily there is a third party app that allows for customization of the inputs on this device. It is called Game Controller 2 Touch and has full support for the SteelSeries Free.
Pro First party app available
SteelSeries provides a free app on the Google Play Store to set up ones device.
Cons
Con No analog sticks
Without the inclusion of analog sticks playing 3D games may be troublesome.
Con Apps do not work that great
There does seem to be a multitude of problems with the first party apps available for this device including a horrible UI and non working functions.
Con Only two shoulder buttons
Many ports and games utilize four shoulder buttons, meaning some games will not work with this controller.
Con First party app is useless
Apparently the SteelSeries Engine app does not work as advertised and is pretty much useless.
Con The tiny size makes your hands feel cramped after a while
While it's very portable, your hands are going to be squished after playing on it for a few hours.