Ironically (and frustratingly), it’s a modern issue, as it rarely occurred in older consoles.

Fortunately, there are a few options for overcoming drift.

Here are a few options that can mitigate the damage.

A blurry image from Astro’s Playroom with a circle PNG showing Nintendo Switch Joycons.

Updated September 2, 2024 by Jacqueline Zalace:Still dealing with the ever-frustrating controller drift?

We’ve added a bit more information to this guide to help you deal with stick drift.

Has the controller been improperly stored during a trip, or have unwashed hands used it?

Ryu, from Street Fighter stands in front of various gaming controllers commonly used for fighting games.

Both might cause contaminants to enter unwanted areas.

Whatever the case,external agents can easily cause even the best-designed controllers to drift.

Additionally, we recommend not snacking while gaming.

Seven pairs of Switch Joycons surrounding a Nintendo Switch.

While this may be tempting, you could get bits of food stuck in your control.

If you better snack, be sure to have a napkin or something to wipe your hands on.

Pressured air can be purchased at any office supply store, as well as online.

The callibration screen for the Nintendo Switchm

If you have never used it before,be cautious!

Cleaning An Already-Dirty Controller?

Has your controller gotten a bit too dirty?

A dusty PS3 controller.

Don’t worry, there are some extra steps that you could take.

First, see to it any big crumb pieces are removed.

If grime is your issue, this can be dealt with carefully.

A Dual Sense contoller on a blue and white background.

First and foremost, do not use water on your controller.

Both of these can be used carefully to clean electronics.

Want To Game Longer?

A stock image of a Xbox One S controller.

Tossing your controller, whether out of boredom or anger, is a bad idea.

A good idea, on the other hand, is totreat the joysticks with extreme care.

Dutiful kindness may not prevent eventual drift entirely, but it will prolong the golden days.

A Wall Mimic attacks the Convict in Enter the Gungeon.

On the back, you should see a little hole.

How To Deal With Meta Quest Controller Drift

Controller drift can also occur in your Meta Quest.

Thankfully, there is a recalibration feature right in the parameters menu.

Astro bots surrounding a DualSense controller against a blue background.

Below, you could check out some helpful videos to help you on your DIY journey.

That’s all there is to it!

A Meta Quest and controllers on a purple background.

An image of the tools used to fix a controller.

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