Joystick drift is a common issue that has affected millions of gamers worldwide, particularly those using the Nintendo Switch. This problem occurs when joysticks register false inputs, causing unwanted game movements even when the controller is not touched. While joystick drift is not exclusive to the Switch, it has affected controllers from other companies, including Sony, Microsoft, and third-party manufacturers.
The cause of joystick drift
Drifting occurs because of the wear and tear of the components inside the joystick. Traditional controllers use potentiometers to measure joystick movements. These sensors consist of a carbon film strip that wears down over time due to constant contact from moving parts, which causes inaccurate readings and eventual drift. Dirt and debris can also contribute to the degradation of these components.
As a result, many controller manufacturers are looking for alternatives to potentiometers to solve the problem. Technologies like Hall effect sensors have shown promise, but another solution that could offer even more benefits is tunnelling magnetoresistance (TMR).
How TMR can solve the problem
TMR is a technology that emerged from quantum mechanics and revolutionised hard drives in the early 2000s. It relies on magnetism and quantum tunnelling principles to measure joystick movements. Like Hall effect sensors, TMR sensors do not rely on physical contact between moving parts. Instead, they use magnets to measure movements without causing wear on the components.
TMR sensors were first introduced in hard drives, where they helped make read heads smaller and more sensitive. These sensors are now being adapted for gaming controllers, offering significant advantages over traditional potentiometer-based sensors.
Why TMR is better for gaming controllers
Compared to Hall effect sensors, TMR sensors are more sensitive and offer a more linear response. This increased sensitivity allows for greater accuracy in detecting joystick movements. Additionally, TMR sensors typically consume less power than Hall effect sensors, which could lead to better battery efficiency in controllers. They also perform better across a wider temperature range, which is important for devices like game controllers that are often held for extended periods.
One of the biggest advantages of TMR technology is that it can be retrofitted into existing controller designs. This makes it easier for manufacturers to adopt the technology without significantly changing the overall controller design. This simplicity could also reduce manufacturing costs and speed up the adoption of TMR sensors in mainstream gaming controllers.
Although TMR technology has not yet been widely adopted by companies like Sony, Microsoft, and Nintendo, some third-party manufacturers have already sold controllers with TMR sensors. For example, PB Tails, GameSir, and 8BitDo have all released gamepads featuring TMR joysticks. In 2024, GuliKit became the first company to offer upgrade kits that bring TMR technology to PS5, PS4, Xbox, and Switch controllers.
Despite its potential, TMR technology may take a few more years before it becomes mainstream in gaming hardware. The technology is still more expensive than Hall effect sensors, especially in smaller quantities. However, as TMR technology becomes more common, the cost is expected to decrease, making it a more viable option for controller manufacturers.
 technology could solve joystick drift by offering better accuracy, lower power consumption, and more stability.){kind=link}