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Stick Drift Test
Plug in your controller, press any button, and leave the sticks alone. A resting stick should read close to 0.00. This guide uses our free gamepad test.
Connect a controller, then press any button on it.
How to read the stick drift test
Each stick has two axes. Left stick is usually Axis 0 (left/right) and Axis 1 (up/down). Right stick is Axis 2 and Axis 3. With your hands off, every axis should sit between about -0.05 and 0.05. A value that stays above 0.10 or below -0.10 means drift.
How to fix stick drift
- Clean the stick. Dirt and dust under the cap is a common cause. Rotate the stick several times and blow compressed air around its base.
- Recalibrate. Use your console's controller calibration, or Steam's controller calibration.
- Increase the deadzone in game settings. This hides small drift, but does not remove it.
- Replace the stick module. Replacement modules are cheap and fit most Xbox, PlayStation and Switch pad types.
- Warranty or repair. Many makers offer free repair, and some regions give extended cover for drift. Check your retailer.
Last updated: 2026-10-04
Frequently asked questions
What number is normal for a resting analog stick?
Close to 0.00. A little noise up to about 0.05 is normal. A steady 0.10 or more is drift.
Does this work on PS5, Xbox and Switch controllers?
Yes. If the browser sees the controller, it shows its values. Connect by USB or Bluetooth, then press a button.