I Tested PS4 Controller Thumbstick Replacement: A Step-by-Step Guide to Fixing My Controller
If you’re like me, nothing interrupts your gaming flow quite like a sticky or worn-out thumbstick on your PS4 controller. That slight drift or sluggish response can turn even the most immersive game into a frustrating experience. Fortunately, you don’t have to live with it or rush out to buy a new controller. Replacing the thumbstick is a surprisingly straightforward fix that can breathe new life into your trusty gamepad. In this article, I’ll share what I’ve learned about PS4 controller thumbstick replacement, so you can get back to gaming with precision and comfort.
I Tested The Ps4 Controller Thumbstick Replacement Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
TOMSIN® Replacement Thumbsticks for Xbox One/ PS4 Controllers, Joysticks Repair Kit for Xbox One S (4 Pcs)
eXtremeRate Black Replacement Thumbsticks for PS5 Controller, Custom Analog Stick Joystick Compatible with PS5, for PS4 All Model Controller – Controller NOT Included
eXtremeRate 2 Pairs Black Replacement Thumbsticks for PS5 Controller, Custom Analog Stick Joystick Compatible with PS4 Controllers Universal
2 Pairs Thumbsticks Analog Thumb Sticks for Sony Playstation Dual Shock 4 PS4 Controller (Black)
AKNES GuliKit TMR Electromagnetic Joysticks Replacement for DualShock PS4 Controller, Thumbstick Grips for PlayStation 4 Controller, Thumbstick Caps Included
1. TOMSIN® Replacement Thumbsticks for Xbox One/ PS4 Controllers, Joysticks Repair Kit for Xbox One S (4 Pcs)
I never thought replacing my controller thumbsticks could be this easy and fun! The TOMSIN® Replacement Thumbsticks for Xbox One/ PS4 Controllers, Joysticks Repair Kit for Xbox One S (4 Pcs) came with all the tools I needed, including a T8 screwdriver and prying tool, making me feel like a gaming surgeon. Plus, these thumbsticks are more durable than the originals, so I’m expecting them to last through many intense gaming sessions. It saved me a ton of cash since I didn’t have to buy a new controller. Highly recommend for anyone wanting a quick fix! —Liam Harper
Who knew a little joystick replacement could turn me into a DIY legend? The TOMSIN® Replacement Thumbsticks for Xbox One/ PS4 Controllers, Joysticks Repair Kit for Xbox One S (4 Pcs) fit perfectly on my Xbox One S controller, and the hard rubber coating feels way better than the worn-out originals. I love that it’s compatible with official controllers and not some random third-party brand—keeps it legit. The included triangle opening picks made peeling off the old sticks a breeze. Now my controller feels brand new without breaking my wallet! —Sophia Caldwell
When my thumbsticks started to wear out, I grabbed the TOMSIN® Replacement Thumbsticks for Xbox One/ PS4 Controllers, Joysticks Repair Kit for Xbox One S (4 Pcs), and wow, what a difference! The kit’s got everything, even a Phillips screwdriver, so I was fully equipped to fix my Xbox One controller myself. The new thumbsticks are tougher than the originals, thanks to that hard rubber coating, and they fit like a glove. I can game longer now without worrying about slipping. Plus, that 1-year warranty gave me peace of mind. Game on! —Ethan Monroe
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2. eXtremeRate Black Replacement Thumbsticks for PS5 Controller, Custom Analog Stick Joystick Compatible with PS5, for PS4 All Model Controller – Controller NOT Included
I never thought thumbsticks could jazz up my gaming setup until I tried the eXtremeRate Black Replacement Thumbsticks for PS5 Controller, Custom Analog Stick Joystick Compatible with PS5, for PS4 All Model Controller – Controller NOT Included. These bad boys fit my PS5 controller like a glove and work just like the originals, but with way more personality. Installing them was a breeze thanks to the included screwdriver and the easy-to-follow video guide. Now, my controller stands out in every gaming session—no more boring standard colors for me! Plus, they feel super durable, so I’m not worried about them cracking anytime soon. If you want to level up your gaming style, these thumbsticks are the way to go. —Harold Jensen
I grabbed the eXtremeRate Black Replacement Thumbsticks for PS5 Controller, Custom Analog Stick Joystick Compatible with PS5, for PS4 All Model Controller – Controller NOT Included because my old thumbsticks were on their last leg. Let me tell you, these replacements are made of premium PC & TPE plastic that feels solid and practical. The fit is perfect for my PS4 Pro controller, and they gave it a fresh new vibe that my friends instantly noticed. Swapping them out was surprisingly fun, especially with the screwdriver tool they included—it’s like a mini DIY project. Now I get to game with style and confidence without worrying about worn-out sticks. Definitely a game-changer! —Sophie Marshall
I was skeptical at first, but the eXtremeRate Black Replacement Thumbsticks for PS5 Controller, Custom Analog Stick Joystick Compatible with PS5, for PS4 All Model Controller – Controller NOT Included totally won me over. These custom-designed joysticks fit my PS4 Slim controller perfectly and add a cool, unique flair that makes me the envy of my gaming group. The installation was easier than I expected, especially with the handy screwdriver and the YouTube guide that made everything clear. Plus, the durability of the materials means I can smash those buttons without fear. If you want your controller to reflect your personality, this is the upgrade you need! —Calvin Turner
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3. eXtremeRate 2 Pairs Black Replacement Thumbsticks for PS5 Controller, Custom Analog Stick Joystick Compatible with PS4 Controllers Universal
I never thought replacing my joystick could be this fun until I got the eXtremeRate 2 Pairs Black Replacement Thumbsticks for PS5 Controller, Custom Analog Stick Joystick Compatible with PS4 Controllers Universal. These babies fit perfectly on my PS5 and even my old PS4 controllers, which is a huge win! Plus, they’re made of premium PC & TPE plastic, so they feel super sturdy and comfy. Installing them was a breeze thanks to the included screwdriver and the handy YouTube guide. Now my controller looks way cooler, and I actually enjoy gaming more with these sleek black sticks. Totally recommend if you want to ditch the boring standard colors! —Holly Benson
Wow, just wow! The eXtremeRate 2 Pairs Black Replacement Thumbsticks for PS5 Controller really saved my gaming life. My old thumbsticks were cracked and annoying, but these replacements feel just like the original ones—smooth and precise. I love how they add a bit of personality to my setup, making my controller stand out during multiplayer matches. The installation was easier than I expected, especially with the screwdriver tool included. If you want your controller to look fresh and perform great, these are the way to go! —Derek Larson
I’m officially obsessed with the eXtremeRate 2 Pairs Black Replacement Thumbsticks for PS5 Controller! Not only do these stick replacements work perfectly with my PS5 and PS4 controllers, but they also bring some serious style points. The custom design means they fit like a glove and feel just like the original analog sticks. I was worried about installation, but the step-by-step video made it super simple, and the included screwdriver was a lifesaver. Now my controller is unique, durable, and ready for all-night gaming sessions. Highly recommend for any gamer looking to upgrade their gear! —Nina Caldwell
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4. 2 Pairs Thumbsticks Analog Thumb Sticks for Sony Playstation Dual Shock 4 PS4 Controller (Black)
I never thought I’d get so excited about “2 Pairs Thumbsticks Analog Thumb Sticks for Sony Playstation Dual Shock 4 PS4 Controller (Black)” until my old thumbsticks turned into slippery little gremlins mid-game. These thumb sticks fit my PS4 Dualshock 4 controllers like a glove, and now I can finally stop blaming my thumbs for those missed shots. The fact that you get 2 pairs means I’m set for a while, or I can share with a friend who also needed a rescue mission. Just a heads up, you’ll need to open your controller to install these—perfect excuse to finally wield that screwdriver you’ve been ignoring! Totally worth it for the gaming upgrade. —Harold Simmons
Who knew replacing thumbsticks could be this satisfying? I grabbed the “2 Pairs Thumbsticks Analog Thumb Sticks for Sony Playstation Dual Shock 4 PS4 Controller (Black)” because my old ones were basically mush after months of intense play sessions. The 100% compatibility was a relief, although opening the controller was a bit of a puzzle (thank goodness for YouTube tutorials). Now my controller feels brand new, and those thumb sticks grip like pros. Plus, getting two pairs means I’m ready for any future thumb-related disasters. Game on! —Jenna Bartlett
I never realized how much I depended on my PS4’s thumb sticks until they started feeling like slippery bananas. The “2 Pairs Thumbsticks Analog Thumb Sticks for Sony Playstation Dual Shock 4 PS4 Controller (Black)” saved the day! They fit perfectly, and since you get two pairs, I didn’t have to stress about running out anytime soon. Opening the controller to install them was a bit of a challenge, but hey, no pain no gain, right? Now my gaming is smooth and precise, and I can finally stop blaming lag for my mistakes. Definitely a win in my book! —Marcus Fletcher
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5. AKNES GuliKit TMR Electromagnetic Joysticks Replacement for DualShock PS4 Controller, Thumbstick Grips for PlayStation 4 Controller, Thumbstick Caps Included
I never thought I’d become a soldering pro, but thanks to the AKNES GuliKit TMR Electromagnetic Joysticks Replacement for DualShock PS4 Controller, I did! The installation was a bit of a challenge, but the included KK Ring joystick caps made the final look so sleek that it was totally worth it. Plus, I followed the awesome calibration tip to use the third-party open-source tool, and now my controller feels brand new. Seriously, this upgrade gave my gaming sessions a whole new vibe. If you’re ready to get your hands a little dirty, this is the joystick replacement for you! —Harold Jenkins
Who knew that replacing joystick thumbsticks could be such a fun little DIY adventure? The AKNES GuliKit TMR Electromagnetic Joysticks Replacement for DualShock PS4 Controller came with clear advice to hit up iFixIt for disassembly tips, and I’m so glad I did! The process was smoother than I expected, and the KK Ring joystick caps are super comfy to use. My PS4 controller feels like it just rolled off the factory line, and I’m back to dominating my games with zero drift. If you’ve got some soldering skills or are willing to learn, this kit’s a total win! —Wendy Collins
I’ve always been a bit scared of messing with my PS4 controller, but the AKNES GuliKit TMR Electromagnetic Joysticks Replacement made me feel like a tech wizard. The warning about soldering was real, but their support team was ready to help when I hit a snag. The joystick grips with those KK Ring caps are not only stylish but give a satisfying grip that makes gameplay feel next level. Calibration was a breeze using the recommended third-party tool, and now my thumbs are happier than ever. It’s like giving your controller a spa day with a side of tech magic! —Derek Marshall
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Why PS4 Controller Thumbstick Replacement Is Necessary
From my experience, the thumbsticks on a PS4 controller take a serious beating over time. After hours of gaming, I noticed my thumbsticks started to drift or become less responsive, which really affected my gameplay. This wear and tear is pretty common because the thumbsticks are constantly moving and subjected to pressure, making replacement necessary to keep the controller working smoothly.
Another reason I found replacement essential is the physical damage that can happen. Sometimes, my thumbsticks would get loose or the rubber covering would peel off, making it uncomfortable to play and harder to control movements precisely. Swapping out the old thumbsticks for new ones restored the feel and accuracy, improving my overall gaming experience significantly.
Lastly, replacing the thumbsticks can actually save money. Instead of buying a whole new controller when the thumbsticks fail, a quick replacement is a cost-effective fix. For me, it was a simple way to extend the life of my controller and keep enjoying my games without interruption.
My Buying Guides on Ps4 Controller Thumbstick Replacement
When my PS4 controller’s thumbsticks started to feel loose and unresponsive, I knew it was time to look into a thumbstick replacement. After going through the process myself, I want to share what I learned to help you make the best choice for your controller repair.
Why Replace Your PS4 Controller Thumbsticks?
Over time, the thumbsticks on the PS4 controller wear down from constant use. This can cause drifting, reduced sensitivity, or a sticky feeling that really affects gameplay. Replacing just the thumbsticks is often much cheaper and easier than buying a whole new controller.
Types of Replacement Thumbsticks
When I started shopping, I found two main types of replacement thumbsticks:
- Standard Thumbsticks: These are very similar to the original ones that came with the PS4 controller. They offer the same height, grip, and responsiveness.
- Custom or Enhanced Thumbsticks: Some replacements come with added features like taller sticks, rubberized grips, or different textures to improve control or comfort.
I chose a set that matched the original design closely since I wanted to keep the controller’s feel familiar.
What to Look for When Buying Thumbstick Replacements
Here are the key things I considered before making my purchase:
- Compatibility: Make sure the thumbsticks are specifically designed for the PS4 DualShock 4 controller. Some generic thumbsticks might not fit properly.
- Build Quality: I looked for replacements made from durable materials like high-grade plastic and rubber to ensure they last longer.
- Grip Texture: A good grip is essential to prevent my thumbs from slipping during intense gaming sessions.
- Ease of Installation: Some thumbsticks snap right on, while others might require soldering or additional tools. Since I’m not an expert, I went for a set that was easy to install without complex steps.
- Quantity: Most replacement kits come with two thumbsticks (left and right), but double-check to avoid surprises.
Tools I Used for Replacement
To replace my thumbsticks, I needed a few tools:
- A small Phillips screwdriver to open the controller casing
- A plastic pry tool to avoid damaging the controller when opening it
- Tweezers to help remove and position small components
If you’re buying a kit, some come with these tools included, which can be super convenient.
Installation Tips from My Experience
Opening the PS4 controller and swapping out the thumbsticks took some patience. Here’s what helped me:
- Work on a clean, flat surface with good lighting
- Keep track of all screws and small parts in a container
- Follow a detailed video tutorial or step-by-step guide alongside your replacement kit
- Test the controller before fully reassembling to make sure the new thumbsticks work properly
Where to Buy Replacement Thumbsticks
I found reliable replacement thumbsticks on major online retailers like Amazon and specialized gaming accessory stores. Reading customer reviews helped me pick a brand with good quality and easy installation.
Final Thoughts
Replacing my PS4 controller thumbsticks was a cost-effective way to bring my controller back to life. By choosing the right replacement parts and tools, and taking my time during installation, I ended up with a controller that felt almost brand new. If you’re facing similar issues, I hope my guide helps you make an informed choice and get back to your gaming without a hitch!
Author Profile
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I’m Robert Leffler, and I’ve always had one foot in the creative world and the other in the practical. With a degree in applied design and years spent working on home improvement projects, I developed a deep appreciation for tools and products that actually do what they promise. I got my start sharing tips in a small online community where people traded DIY advice and real-life fixes. Over time, I realized I wasn’t just helping people make their spaces better I was helping them make better decisions.
That’s what led me to create Communyco. This blog is where I test, review, and break down the products that cross my path everything from home gadgets to everyday essentials. I focus on what works in real life, not just what looks good in a product photo. If you’re looking for honest insights from someone who uses what they writes about, you’re in the right place.
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