Joystick Gremlin vs PadLink
Joystick Gremlin
whitemagic.github.io
PadLink
padlink.nimets.comSide by side
| Figure | Joystick Gremlin | PadLink |
|---|---|---|
| Price from | — | Free |
| Free plan | — | Yes |
| Free trial | — | Yes |
| Open source | — | — |
| Windows | Yes | Yes |
| macOS | — | Yes |
| iOS | — | Yes |
| Android | — | Yes |
| Plans published | 0 | 2 |
| Spec score · Controller Mapping Software | 7.3 (#21) | 8.1 (#11) |
| Purpose | Joystick Gremlin configures joystick-like devices, including devices from different manufacturers and custom devices that appear as joysticks to Windows. | PadLink turns controllers macOS does not recognize into standard gamepad or keyboard-and-mouse input for games. |
Plans
In their own words
Joystick Gremlin
Joystick Gremlin has no write-up on Specifiction yet; its figures are above.
PadLink
PadLink turns controllers that macOS does not recognize into game input, routing each as a virtual DualShock 4 or as keyboard and mouse. Different controllers can use those modes at the same time. Named profiles let users bind buttons to keys and assign analog sticks to Mouse, Arrow Keys, WASD, or off. The app reads USB HID controllers through per-device profiles, and its maker says it adds profiles over time. A companion iOS and Android app can act as a controller for a computer running PadLink on the same local network. PadLink is available for macOS, Windows, iOS, and Android. The free Standard plan supports one active controller; Pro costs 2.99 USD one-time and supports up to four, with ad-free Mobile Remote, Car Driving cockpit, and future updates. An optional Pro trial lasts 7 days, needs no card or sign-up, and supports up to two controllers. On Windows, virtual-gamepad output depends on the third-party ViGEmBus driver; keyboard-and-mouse output does not.