PadForge vs reWASD

PadForge is a free Windows application that maps physical input devices to the virtual controller format a game expects. It remaps gamepads, wheels, flight sticks, keyboards, mice, touchpads, MIDI devices, HOTAS, arcade sticks, and VR controllers, producing keyboard-and-mouse or virtual-controller output. Up to 16 virtual controllers can run at once, including Xbox, PlayStation, Nintendo, Steam, VR, MIDI, and keyboard-and-mouse shapes. Per-app profiles can switch automatically when a game takes focus, and 13 starter profiles are included. Gyro tools provide calibration, smoothing, and gyro-to-stick or gyro-to-mouse mapping. Supported Steam community layouts can be imported. Razer Chroma and Logitech LIGHTSYNC lighting are supported through their local software engines. A browser on the same Wi-Fi network can serve as a controller for up to 16 phones without installing an app. Remote Link shares controllers between PadForge PCs over a network or the internet. The maker says there is no telemetry.

reWASD remaps controllers, keyboards, and mice for PC use. It can translate joystick inputs into keyboard keys or mouse buttons, and map keyboard and mouse inputs in the other direction. Per-app profiles and macros are supported, with actions for single, double, and triple presses, as well as press start and release. Advanced tools include combos, up to four simultaneous configuration slots, Rapid Fire, a Radial Menu, and Custom Crosshair. The site says the software supports dozens of controllers; Basic supports over 100 gamepads and nearly all keyboards and mice. Users can find and share game configurations through reWASD Community. The mobile app for Android and iOS can turn a phone or tablet into a gamepad, control pad, or touchpad for a PC on the same local network. The seven-day trial offers full features on up to two PCs and cannot be extended. Basic is a 14.99 USD one-time fee for lifetime access on one PC; Advanced is 39.99 USD on the same basis.