Flydigi Vader 5s
Flydigi Vader 5s Input lag comparison
| # | Connection | Mode | LatencyAverage (ms) | Polling RateMedian (Hz) | Jitter | OSBuild ver. | FWTester ver. | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Latency P82 | ||||||||
1 | Cable | XInput | 3.33 3.85 | 498.75 | 0.70 0.68 | Win 11 10.0.26200 | 1.0.5.4 5.2.4.3 | |
Stick LatencyP82 2.43 ms 3.85 ms 5.43 ms 0.68 ms 498.75 Hz | ||||||||
2 | Cable | XInput | 3.37 4.24 | 500.25 | 0.77 1.01 | Win 11 10.0.26200 | 1.0.5.3 5.2.4.3 | |
Stick LatencyP82 ✓ Selected 2.48 ms 4.24 ms 6.46 ms 1.01 ms 500.25 Hz (see 📊) Polling Rate 1.67 ms 2 ms 2.53 ms 0.09 ms 500.25 Hz 498.74 Hz Note: This test are based on polling rate and do not represent actual input-lag. | ||||||||
3 | Cable | XInput | 4.53 4.41 | 245.64 | 1.23 1.24 | Win 11 10.0.26200 | 1.0.5.4 5.2.4.3 | |
Stick LatencyP82 1.82 ms 4.41 ms 7 ms 1.24 ms 245.64 Hz | ||||||||
4 | Cable | XInput | 3.54 4.52 | 500 | 0.73 0.66 | Win 11 10.0.26200 | 1.0.5.3 5.2.4.3 | |
Stick LatencyP82 3.24 ms 4.52 ms 6.03 ms 0.66 ms 500 Hz | ||||||||
5 | Cable | XInput | 4.72 5.08 | 250 | 1.22 1.26 | Win 11 10.0.26200 | 1.0.5.3 5.2.4.3 | |
Stick LatencyP82 2.61 ms 5.08 ms 7.75 ms 1.26 ms 250 Hz | ||||||||
6 | Cable | XInput | 4.52 5.61 | 249.94 | 1.22 1.65 | Win 11 10.0.26200 | 1.0.5.3 5.2.4.3 | |
Stick LatencyP82 2.44 ms 5.61 ms 9.97 ms 1.65 ms 249.94 Hz (see 📊) Polling Rate 3.28 ms 4 ms 6.06 ms 0.38 ms 249.94 Hz 246.26 Hz Note: This test are based on polling rate and do not represent actual input-lag. |
Latency
Our visualization focuses on Average Latency, presented as vertical bars to make comparing performance across different connection modes (Wired, Bluetooth, Dongle) instant and intuitive.
The chart differentiates between:
- Button Latency: How quickly the game registers a physical button press.
- Stick Latency: The delay in registering joystick movement (tested at 99% deflection).
Visualizing Stability (Jitter)
You may notice that the top portion of some bars is semi-transparent or "faded". This represents Jitter (instability):
- Solid Bar: Represents the stable, consistent average latency.
- Faded Top: Indicates the variance. A larger transparent area means higher jitter, implying the controller's response time fluctuates. A solid bar with little to no fading indicates a highly stable connection.
Deep Dive: Click the arrow to reveal Probability Distribution Charts. These show the exact breakdown of every input tested, displaying Probability (%) on the Y-axis and Latency (ms) on the X-axis.
Polling Rate vs. Latency
It is crucial to understand that Polling Rate and Latency are measured using two entirely different methodologies on our site:
- Latency (ms) is measured by the Prometheus 82 hardware. It captures the physical movement of the stick or button via hardware interrupts with microsecond precision. This is the "real-world" delay.
- Polling Rate (Hz) is measured via a Software Tool. It shows how often the OS receives reports from the USB stack.
Common Myth: A higher polling rate (like 8000 Hz) does not automatically guarantee lower latency if the controller's internal processing is slow. Conversely, a high polling rate on a chart might show fluctuations (e.g., 7800Hz instead of 8000Hz) due to OS jitter or CPU scheduling, which does not necessarily impact the hardware latency measured by the P82.
To test your own gamepad's polling rate, you can use our tool: Download Polling Rate Tester.
Testing Methods
Gamepadla ensures data integrity by combining three distinct testing methodologies:
-
Prometheus 82 (P82): Our gold standard. A custom-built hardware device that physically actuates buttons and sticks. It uses high-speed hardware interrupts to capture events, making it independent of the controller's polling rate. It provides an error margin of only ±1ms for buttons and sticks. View on GitHub.
-
GPDL Tester: An electrical monitoring tool for highly accurate button latency. While P82 simulates human-like mechanical movement, GPDL focuses on the electrical signal speed. View on GitHub.
-
Software Polling Test: A pure software diagnostic to check communication frequency. We use this to verify if a controller actually reaches its advertised specs (e.g., 1000Hz or 8000Hz) at the OS level. Download Software.
Note: By comparing hardware-level latency (P82) with software-level reports (Polling Test), we can identify if a controller has "fake" high polling rates or poorly optimized firmware.
Stick test of Flydigi Vader 5s
Stick test results for Flydigi Vader 5s gamepad • Cable connection • XInput mode • FW 1.0.5.3, by John Punch
Comment: The asymmetry test may not be accurate due to the design of the sticks
- Inner D.ZoneNone
- Outer D.Zone0.1 mm
- Asymmetry1.1 / 2.4%
- Circle Error0.0 / 0.0%
- Stick Bitness12.3 bit
- Stick Centering1.9 / 2.1%
- Polling Rate503.4 Hz
Inner Dead Zone
The Inner Dead Zone is the area around the center of the stick where small movements are not registered. This helps prevent stick drift or accidental inputs, but if the dead zone is too large, it can make aiming less precise, especially in games requiring fine control. We evaluate the Inner Dead Zone based on how much you need to move the stick before it responds—the less movement required, the better.
The Flydigi Vader 5s has no Inner Dead Zone. The stick responds immediately to even the slightest movement, which is excellent for aiming accuracy and micro-control. This makes it a great choice for precision-heavy games like first-person shooters (e.g., Valorant or Apex Legends).
For comparison, many budget gamepads often have a moderate to large Inner Dead Zone, while premium controllers typically aim for a slight or no dead zone for better precision.
Want to learn more? Check out our video explanation of how the Inner Dead Zone works.
Outer Dead Zone
The Outer Dead Zone is the area near the edge of the stick’s range where further movement isn’t registered. This can make the stick feel less responsive at full tilt, affecting actions like quick turns or maximum speed in games. We evaluate the Outer Dead Zone based on how much 'lost' range there is—the smaller the dead zone, the better, as it allows full use of the stick’s range for more precise control.
The Flydigi Vader 5s has no Outer Dead Zone. The stick registers movement all the way to its physical limit, providing full range and responsiveness. This is ideal for games where maximum input is crucial, like racing or fighting games.
For comparison, budget gamepads often have moderate to large Outer Dead Zones, while premium controllers strive for minimal or no dead zone to maximize control.
Want to learn more? Check out our video explanation of how the Outer Dead Zone works.
Stick Asymmetry
Stick Asymmetry measures the consistency of the joystick's response across different directions. Ideally, if you physically deflect the stick by 80% from the center, the software should report an 80% deflection regardless of the direction. A high asymmetry score indicates a problem where for the same physical movement, the reported coordinates are inconsistent—for example, 60% in one direction and 90% in another. This creates an uneven, often 'egg-shaped,' response zone, which negatively impacts aiming and control predictability.
For the Flydigi Vader 5s, the Stick Asymmetry is 1.1% for the left stick and 2.4% for the right stick. Higher values can lead to noticeable inconsistencies, potentially impacting aiming or movement in games.
Testing Methodology: It's crucial to note that this test is performed at partial stick deflection (~80%), using special physical limiters (clips). Testing at 100% deflection often hides asymmetries because the controller's output is clamped at the maximum value, artificially 'smoothing' the resulting shape. Our method reveals the true performance of the stick in the ranges most critical for gameplay. This precise approach was also utilized by Linus Tech Tips in their controller review.
For comparison, many budget gamepads show asymmetry levels above 30%, while high-end controllers typically stay below 10% for better uniformity.
Learn more about how different gamepads perform in the Stick Asymmetry test and how to conduct such a test in this article. You can learn how to test joystick asymmetry yourself from this video.
Circle Error
Circle Error evaluates how closely the stick’s movement follows a perfect circle. A high Circle Error means the path is more square-like, which can cause inconsistent speeds when moving diagonally—your character might move faster or slower than expected. The lower the percentage, the better, as it ensures smooth, uniform movement in all directions.
For the Flydigi Vader 5s, the Circle Error is 0.0% for the left stick and 0.0% for the right stick. This is a good result, providing smooth diagonal movement similar to premium controllers.
For comparison, budget gamepads often have Circle Errors above 12%, resulting in 'square' feeling sticks, while high-quality ones aim for under 8% for better smoothness.
Want to learn more? Check out our video explanation of how Circle Error impacts performance.
Stick Bitness
Stick Bitness measures the precision of the joystick’s analog input, similar to bit depth in audio. Higher bitness means more distinct positions the stick can register, leading to smoother and more accurate control. Lower bitness can result in 'stepping' or less fluid movement, especially noticeable in slow, precise actions like aiming.
The Flydigi Vader 5s has a Stick Bitness of 12.3 bits on both sticks. This is excellent precision, comparable to high-end controllers, ensuring smooth inputs in demanding games.
Note: This result was recorded with Stick Tracer version 2.5.2.9, before movement-based True Bitness was introduced. The values above represent digital bit depth only; metrics like Step Resolution are not available for this older test.
For comparison, many budget gamepads have around 8 bits, while premium ones often exceed 10 bits for superior accuracy.
Want to learn more? Check out our video explanation of how Stick Bitness affects control. It is important to note that the video specifies the resolution of the stick, not the bit depth; the higher the bit depth, the higher the resolution.
Stick Centering
Stick Centering measures how accurately the joystick returns to its neutral (center) position after you release it. A good Stick Centering value prevents stick drift—a common issue where your character or camera moves slightly in a game, even when you're not touching the stick. The lower the percentage, the better the centering, and the less likely you are to experience drift.
For the Flydigi Vader 5s, the Stick Centering is 1.9% for the left joystick and 2.1% for the right stick. Values above 2% may lead to noticeable drift in some scenarios, which can affect precision in games.
This test methodology intentionally employs a more rigorous approach by implementing small-angle deflection and release, which produces the most challenging conditions for stick re-centering. This technique differs from the conventional maximum-deflection method where the stick is pulled to its full range and released, as small-angle deflection better simulates the micro-adjustments typically executed during actual gameplay scenarios, providing more representative data on potential stick drift occurrence during normal use.
Want to learn more? Check out our video explanation of how Stick Centering works.
Axis Magnet
Axis Magnet is a form of stick processing where movement tends to 'snap' or cling to the X or Y axis when the stick passes close to it within a certain part of its travel. This can make pure horizontal or vertical movement feel cleaner, but it also alters the real stick path and can distort diagonal or subtle player input.
The Flydigi Vader 5s shows no Axis Magnet. That means the stick does not artificially cling to the horizontal or vertical axes, so your real movement path is preserved more accurately. This is the preferable behavior for consistent aiming and natural analog control.
Want to learn more? Check out our video explanation of how Axis Magnet affects stick behavior.
Polling Rate
Polling Rate describes how often the controller sends stick data to the system, measured in Hertz (Hz). Higher values mean the controller reports its position more frequently, which can reduce the time between updates and make input feel more responsive.
The Flydigi Vader 5s recorded a Polling Rate of 503.4 Hz in this test mode. This value helps describe report frequency, but it should not be treated as a direct substitute for real latency, since response time also depends on firmware, processing, and the wireless or wired stack.
Polling Rate is measured separately from latency, so it is best used as supporting information rather than a standalone quality verdict. In addition, this reading is approximate: Stick Tracer is not a specialized tool for precise polling-rate measurement, so some margin of error is expected.
Center Skip
Center Skip, also known as Stick Skipping, is a rare behavior where the joystick does not begin moving smoothly from its neutral position. Instead of a gradual response, it suddenly jumps to a noticeable deflection as soon as movement starts, which makes fine control much harder.
The Flydigi Vader 5s shows no Center Skip. That means the stick begins moving gradually from neutral, which is the expected and desirable behavior for precise aiming, camera control, and micro-adjustments.
Want to learn more? Check out our video explanation of how Stick Skipping affects performance.
Disclaimer
We tested the Flydigi Vader 5s gamepad using a single unit, so keep in mind that other units of this model might perform slightly better or worse. In most cases, these differences are minor and shouldn’t affect your experience significantly. The results were obtained with the Stick Tracer program, and some values might vary if you use different software or testing methods.
Testing conditions, such as the gamepad’s firmware version (FW: 1.0.5.3) or connection type, can also influence the results. If you have this gamepad, we’d love for you to share your own test results! This will help us build a more comprehensive picture of the Flydigi Vader 5s’s performance across different units.
Full test results can be viewed on the test page.
Stick test results for Flydigi Vader 5s gamepad • Cable connection • XInput mode • FW 1.0.5.3, by John Punch
Comment: The asymmetry test may not be accurate due to the design of the sticks
- Inner D.ZoneNone
- Outer D.Zone0.1 mm
- Asymmetry0.6 / 1.5%
- Circle Error0.0 / 0.0%
- Stick Bitness11.5 / 11.3 bit
- Stick Centering2.5 / 1.9%
- Polling Rate503.8 Hz
Inner Dead Zone
The Inner Dead Zone is the area around the center of the stick where small movements are not registered. This helps prevent stick drift or accidental inputs, but if the dead zone is too large, it can make aiming less precise, especially in games requiring fine control. We evaluate the Inner Dead Zone based on how much you need to move the stick before it responds—the less movement required, the better.
The Flydigi Vader 5s has no Inner Dead Zone. The stick responds immediately to even the slightest movement, which is excellent for aiming accuracy and micro-control. This makes it a great choice for precision-heavy games like first-person shooters (e.g., Valorant or Apex Legends).
For comparison, many budget gamepads often have a moderate to large Inner Dead Zone, while premium controllers typically aim for a slight or no dead zone for better precision.
Want to learn more? Check out our video explanation of how the Inner Dead Zone works.
Outer Dead Zone
The Outer Dead Zone is the area near the edge of the stick’s range where further movement isn’t registered. This can make the stick feel less responsive at full tilt, affecting actions like quick turns or maximum speed in games. We evaluate the Outer Dead Zone based on how much 'lost' range there is—the smaller the dead zone, the better, as it allows full use of the stick’s range for more precise control.
The Flydigi Vader 5s has no Outer Dead Zone. The stick registers movement all the way to its physical limit, providing full range and responsiveness. This is ideal for games where maximum input is crucial, like racing or fighting games.
For comparison, budget gamepads often have moderate to large Outer Dead Zones, while premium controllers strive for minimal or no dead zone to maximize control.
Want to learn more? Check out our video explanation of how the Outer Dead Zone works.
Stick Asymmetry
Stick Asymmetry measures the consistency of the joystick's response across different directions. Ideally, if you physically deflect the stick by 80% from the center, the software should report an 80% deflection regardless of the direction. A high asymmetry score indicates a problem where for the same physical movement, the reported coordinates are inconsistent—for example, 60% in one direction and 90% in another. This creates an uneven, often 'egg-shaped,' response zone, which negatively impacts aiming and control predictability.
For the Flydigi Vader 5s, the Stick Asymmetry is 0.6% for the left stick and 1.5% for the right stick. Higher values can lead to noticeable inconsistencies, potentially impacting aiming or movement in games.
Testing Methodology: It's crucial to note that this test is performed at partial stick deflection (~80%), using special physical limiters (clips). Testing at 100% deflection often hides asymmetries because the controller's output is clamped at the maximum value, artificially 'smoothing' the resulting shape. Our method reveals the true performance of the stick in the ranges most critical for gameplay. This precise approach was also utilized by Linus Tech Tips in their controller review.
For comparison, many budget gamepads show asymmetry levels above 30%, while high-end controllers typically stay below 10% for better uniformity.
Learn more about how different gamepads perform in the Stick Asymmetry test and how to conduct such a test in this article. You can learn how to test joystick asymmetry yourself from this video.
Circle Error
Circle Error evaluates how closely the stick’s movement follows a perfect circle. A high Circle Error means the path is more square-like, which can cause inconsistent speeds when moving diagonally—your character might move faster or slower than expected. The lower the percentage, the better, as it ensures smooth, uniform movement in all directions.
For the Flydigi Vader 5s, the Circle Error is 0.0% for the left stick and 0.0% for the right stick. This is a good result, providing smooth diagonal movement similar to premium controllers.
For comparison, budget gamepads often have Circle Errors above 12%, resulting in 'square' feeling sticks, while high-quality ones aim for under 8% for better smoothness.
Want to learn more? Check out our video explanation of how Circle Error impacts performance.
Stick Bitness
Stick Bitness measures the precision of the joystick’s analog input, similar to bit depth in audio. Higher bitness means more distinct positions the stick can register, leading to smoother and more accurate control. Lower bitness can result in 'stepping' or less fluid movement, especially noticeable in slow, precise actions like aiming.
The Flydigi Vader 5s has a Stick Bitness of 11.5 bits for the left stick and 11.3 bits for the right stick. This is excellent precision, comparable to high-end controllers, ensuring smooth inputs in demanding games.
Note: This result was recorded with Stick Tracer version 2.5.2.8, before movement-based True Bitness was introduced. The values above represent digital bit depth only; metrics like Step Resolution are not available for this older test.
For comparison, many budget gamepads have around 8 bits, while premium ones often exceed 10 bits for superior accuracy.
Want to learn more? Check out our video explanation of how Stick Bitness affects control. It is important to note that the video specifies the resolution of the stick, not the bit depth; the higher the bit depth, the higher the resolution.
Stick Centering
Stick Centering measures how accurately the joystick returns to its neutral (center) position after you release it. A good Stick Centering value prevents stick drift—a common issue where your character or camera moves slightly in a game, even when you're not touching the stick. The lower the percentage, the better the centering, and the less likely you are to experience drift.
For the Flydigi Vader 5s, the Stick Centering is 2.5% for the left joystick and 1.9% for the right stick. Values above 2% may lead to noticeable drift in some scenarios, which can affect precision in games.
This test methodology intentionally employs a more rigorous approach by implementing small-angle deflection and release, which produces the most challenging conditions for stick re-centering. This technique differs from the conventional maximum-deflection method where the stick is pulled to its full range and released, as small-angle deflection better simulates the micro-adjustments typically executed during actual gameplay scenarios, providing more representative data on potential stick drift occurrence during normal use.
Want to learn more? Check out our video explanation of how Stick Centering works.
Axis Magnet
Axis Magnet is a form of stick processing where movement tends to 'snap' or cling to the X or Y axis when the stick passes close to it within a certain part of its travel. This can make pure horizontal or vertical movement feel cleaner, but it also alters the real stick path and can distort diagonal or subtle player input.
The Flydigi Vader 5s shows no Axis Magnet. That means the stick does not artificially cling to the horizontal or vertical axes, so your real movement path is preserved more accurately. This is the preferable behavior for consistent aiming and natural analog control.
Want to learn more? Check out our video explanation of how Axis Magnet affects stick behavior.
Polling Rate
Polling Rate describes how often the controller sends stick data to the system, measured in Hertz (Hz). Higher values mean the controller reports its position more frequently, which can reduce the time between updates and make input feel more responsive.
The Flydigi Vader 5s recorded a Polling Rate of 503.8 Hz in this test mode. This value helps describe report frequency, but it should not be treated as a direct substitute for real latency, since response time also depends on firmware, processing, and the wireless or wired stack.
Polling Rate is measured separately from latency, so it is best used as supporting information rather than a standalone quality verdict. In addition, this reading is approximate: Stick Tracer is not a specialized tool for precise polling-rate measurement, so some margin of error is expected.
Center Skip
Center Skip, also known as Stick Skipping, is a rare behavior where the joystick does not begin moving smoothly from its neutral position. Instead of a gradual response, it suddenly jumps to a noticeable deflection as soon as movement starts, which makes fine control much harder.
The Flydigi Vader 5s shows no Center Skip. That means the stick begins moving gradually from neutral, which is the expected and desirable behavior for precise aiming, camera control, and micro-adjustments.
Want to learn more? Check out our video explanation of how Stick Skipping affects performance.
Disclaimer
We tested the Flydigi Vader 5s gamepad using a single unit, so keep in mind that other units of this model might perform slightly better or worse. In most cases, these differences are minor and shouldn’t affect your experience significantly. The results were obtained with the Stick Tracer program, and some values might vary if you use different software or testing methods.
Testing conditions, such as the gamepad’s firmware version (FW: 1.0.5.3) or connection type, can also influence the results. If you have this gamepad, we’d love for you to share your own test results! This will help us build a more comprehensive picture of the Flydigi Vader 5s’s performance across different units.
Full test results can be viewed on the test page.
Stick test results for Flydigi Vader 5s gamepad • Cable connection • XInput mode • FW 1.0.5.3, by vCuda
Comment: Done with "circular" setting enabled
- Inner D.ZoneNone
- Outer D.ZoneLow
- Circle Error0.0 / 0.0%
- Stick Bitness11.1 / 11.5 bit
- Stick Centering1.6 / 1.2%
- Axis MagnetYes
Inner Dead Zone
The Inner Dead Zone is the area around the center of the stick where small movements are not registered. This helps prevent stick drift or accidental inputs, but if the dead zone is too large, it can make aiming less precise, especially in games requiring fine control. We evaluate the Inner Dead Zone based on how much you need to move the stick before it responds—the less movement required, the better.
The Flydigi Vader 5s has no Inner Dead Zone. The stick responds immediately to even the slightest movement, which is excellent for aiming accuracy and micro-control. This makes it a great choice for precision-heavy games like first-person shooters (e.g., Valorant or Apex Legends).
For comparison, many budget gamepads often have a moderate to large Inner Dead Zone, while premium controllers typically aim for a slight or no dead zone for better precision.
Want to learn more? Check out our video explanation of how the Inner Dead Zone works.
Outer Dead Zone
The Outer Dead Zone is the area near the edge of the stick’s range where further movement isn’t registered. This can make the stick feel less responsive at full tilt, affecting actions like quick turns or maximum speed in games. We evaluate the Outer Dead Zone based on how much 'lost' range there is—the smaller the dead zone, the better, as it allows full use of the stick’s range for more precise control.
The Flydigi Vader 5s has a slight Outer Dead Zone. There’s a small portion of the stick’s range that isn’t registered, but it’s minimal and unlikely to affect gameplay noticeably.
For comparison, budget gamepads often have moderate to large Outer Dead Zones, while premium controllers strive for minimal or no dead zone to maximize control.
Want to learn more? Check out our video explanation of how the Outer Dead Zone works.
Circle Error
Circle Error evaluates how closely the stick’s movement follows a perfect circle. A high Circle Error means the path is more square-like, which can cause inconsistent speeds when moving diagonally—your character might move faster or slower than expected. The lower the percentage, the better, as it ensures smooth, uniform movement in all directions.
For the Flydigi Vader 5s, the Circle Error is 0.0% for the left stick and 0.0% for the right stick. This is a good result, providing smooth diagonal movement similar to premium controllers.
For comparison, budget gamepads often have Circle Errors above 12%, resulting in 'square' feeling sticks, while high-quality ones aim for under 8% for better smoothness.
Want to learn more? Check out our video explanation of how Circle Error impacts performance.
Stick Bitness
Stick Bitness measures the precision of the joystick’s analog input, similar to bit depth in audio. Higher bitness means more distinct positions the stick can register, leading to smoother and more accurate control. Lower bitness can result in 'stepping' or less fluid movement, especially noticeable in slow, precise actions like aiming.
The Flydigi Vader 5s has a Stick Bitness of 11.1 bits for the left stick and 11.5 bits for the right stick. This is excellent precision, comparable to high-end controllers, ensuring smooth inputs in demanding games.
Note: This result was recorded with Stick Tracer version 2.5.2.8, before movement-based True Bitness was introduced. The values above represent digital bit depth only; metrics like Step Resolution are not available for this older test.
For comparison, many budget gamepads have around 8 bits, while premium ones often exceed 10 bits for superior accuracy.
Want to learn more? Check out our video explanation of how Stick Bitness affects control. It is important to note that the video specifies the resolution of the stick, not the bit depth; the higher the bit depth, the higher the resolution.
Stick Centering
Stick Centering measures how accurately the joystick returns to its neutral (center) position after you release it. A good Stick Centering value prevents stick drift—a common issue where your character or camera moves slightly in a game, even when you're not touching the stick. The lower the percentage, the better the centering, and the less likely you are to experience drift.
For the Flydigi Vader 5s, the Stick Centering is 1.6% for the left joystick and 1.2% for the right stick. These are excellent results, as most high-quality gamepads typically have values below 2%. This means the Flydigi Vader 5s is unlikely to have any drift, making it a great choice for games requiring precise control, like shooters or racing titles.
This test methodology intentionally employs a more rigorous approach by implementing small-angle deflection and release, which produces the most challenging conditions for stick re-centering. This technique differs from the conventional maximum-deflection method where the stick is pulled to its full range and released, as small-angle deflection better simulates the micro-adjustments typically executed during actual gameplay scenarios, providing more representative data on potential stick drift occurrence during normal use.
Want to learn more? Check out our video explanation of how Stick Centering works.
Axis Magnet
Axis Magnet is a form of stick processing where movement tends to 'snap' or cling to the X or Y axis when the stick passes close to it within a certain part of its travel. This can make pure horizontal or vertical movement feel cleaner, but it also alters the real stick path and can distort diagonal or subtle player input.
The Flydigi Vader 5s shows Axis Magnet. In practice, this can make movement feel more linear along straight axes, but it is generally considered a harmful behavior because the controller modifies your real input instead of reporting it naturally. This is especially undesirable in aiming-heavy games, where small diagonal corrections and natural stick motion matter.
If this behavior cannot be disabled in the controller software, it may permanently affect how the gamepad feels across many games, not just in synthetic tests.
Want to learn more? Check out our video explanation of how Axis Magnet affects stick behavior.
Disclaimer
We tested the Flydigi Vader 5s gamepad using a single unit, so keep in mind that other units of this model might perform slightly better or worse. In most cases, these differences are minor and shouldn’t affect your experience significantly. The results were obtained with the Stick Tracer program, and some values might vary if you use different software or testing methods.
Testing conditions, such as the gamepad’s firmware version (FW: 1.0.5.3) or connection type, can also influence the results. If you have this gamepad, we’d love for you to share your own test results! This will help us build a more comprehensive picture of the Flydigi Vader 5s’s performance across different units.
Full test results can be viewed on the test page.
Stick test results for Flydigi Vader 5s gamepad • Cable connection • XInput mode • FW 1.0.5.2, by John Punch
Comment: The asymmetry test may not be accurate due to the design of the sticks
- Inner D.ZoneNone
- Outer D.Zone0.1 mm
- Asymmetry1.3 / 3.0%
- Circle Error0.0 / 0.0%
- Stick Bitness12.3 bit
- Stick Centering2.4 / 1.4%
- Polling Rate251.9 Hz
Inner Dead Zone
The Inner Dead Zone is the area around the center of the stick where small movements are not registered. This helps prevent stick drift or accidental inputs, but if the dead zone is too large, it can make aiming less precise, especially in games requiring fine control. We evaluate the Inner Dead Zone based on how much you need to move the stick before it responds—the less movement required, the better.
The Flydigi Vader 5s has no Inner Dead Zone. The stick responds immediately to even the slightest movement, which is excellent for aiming accuracy and micro-control. This makes it a great choice for precision-heavy games like first-person shooters (e.g., Valorant or Apex Legends).
For comparison, many budget gamepads often have a moderate to large Inner Dead Zone, while premium controllers typically aim for a slight or no dead zone for better precision.
Want to learn more? Check out our video explanation of how the Inner Dead Zone works.
Outer Dead Zone
The Outer Dead Zone is the area near the edge of the stick’s range where further movement isn’t registered. This can make the stick feel less responsive at full tilt, affecting actions like quick turns or maximum speed in games. We evaluate the Outer Dead Zone based on how much 'lost' range there is—the smaller the dead zone, the better, as it allows full use of the stick’s range for more precise control.
The Flydigi Vader 5s has no Outer Dead Zone. The stick registers movement all the way to its physical limit, providing full range and responsiveness. This is ideal for games where maximum input is crucial, like racing or fighting games.
For comparison, budget gamepads often have moderate to large Outer Dead Zones, while premium controllers strive for minimal or no dead zone to maximize control.
Want to learn more? Check out our video explanation of how the Outer Dead Zone works.
Stick Asymmetry
Stick Asymmetry measures the consistency of the joystick's response across different directions. Ideally, if you physically deflect the stick by 80% from the center, the software should report an 80% deflection regardless of the direction. A high asymmetry score indicates a problem where for the same physical movement, the reported coordinates are inconsistent—for example, 60% in one direction and 90% in another. This creates an uneven, often 'egg-shaped,' response zone, which negatively impacts aiming and control predictability.
For the Flydigi Vader 5s, the Stick Asymmetry is 1.3% for the left stick and 3.0% for the right stick. Higher values can lead to noticeable inconsistencies, potentially impacting aiming or movement in games.
Testing Methodology: It's crucial to note that this test is performed at partial stick deflection (~80%), using special physical limiters (clips). Testing at 100% deflection often hides asymmetries because the controller's output is clamped at the maximum value, artificially 'smoothing' the resulting shape. Our method reveals the true performance of the stick in the ranges most critical for gameplay. This precise approach was also utilized by Linus Tech Tips in their controller review.
For comparison, many budget gamepads show asymmetry levels above 30%, while high-end controllers typically stay below 10% for better uniformity.
Learn more about how different gamepads perform in the Stick Asymmetry test and how to conduct such a test in this article. You can learn how to test joystick asymmetry yourself from this video.
Circle Error
Circle Error evaluates how closely the stick’s movement follows a perfect circle. A high Circle Error means the path is more square-like, which can cause inconsistent speeds when moving diagonally—your character might move faster or slower than expected. The lower the percentage, the better, as it ensures smooth, uniform movement in all directions.
For the Flydigi Vader 5s, the Circle Error is 0.0% for the left stick and 0.0% for the right stick. This is a good result, providing smooth diagonal movement similar to premium controllers.
For comparison, budget gamepads often have Circle Errors above 12%, resulting in 'square' feeling sticks, while high-quality ones aim for under 8% for better smoothness.
Want to learn more? Check out our video explanation of how Circle Error impacts performance.
Stick Bitness
Stick Bitness measures the precision of the joystick’s analog input, similar to bit depth in audio. Higher bitness means more distinct positions the stick can register, leading to smoother and more accurate control. Lower bitness can result in 'stepping' or less fluid movement, especially noticeable in slow, precise actions like aiming.
The Flydigi Vader 5s has a Stick Bitness of 12.3 bits on both sticks. This is excellent precision, comparable to high-end controllers, ensuring smooth inputs in demanding games.
Note: This result was recorded with Stick Tracer version 2.5.2.8, before movement-based True Bitness was introduced. The values above represent digital bit depth only; metrics like Step Resolution are not available for this older test.
For comparison, many budget gamepads have around 8 bits, while premium ones often exceed 10 bits for superior accuracy.
Want to learn more? Check out our video explanation of how Stick Bitness affects control. It is important to note that the video specifies the resolution of the stick, not the bit depth; the higher the bit depth, the higher the resolution.
Stick Centering
Stick Centering measures how accurately the joystick returns to its neutral (center) position after you release it. A good Stick Centering value prevents stick drift—a common issue where your character or camera moves slightly in a game, even when you're not touching the stick. The lower the percentage, the better the centering, and the less likely you are to experience drift.
For the Flydigi Vader 5s, the Stick Centering is 2.4% for the left joystick and 1.4% for the right stick. Values above 2% may lead to noticeable drift in some scenarios, which can affect precision in games.
This test methodology intentionally employs a more rigorous approach by implementing small-angle deflection and release, which produces the most challenging conditions for stick re-centering. This technique differs from the conventional maximum-deflection method where the stick is pulled to its full range and released, as small-angle deflection better simulates the micro-adjustments typically executed during actual gameplay scenarios, providing more representative data on potential stick drift occurrence during normal use.
Want to learn more? Check out our video explanation of how Stick Centering works.
Axis Magnet
Axis Magnet is a form of stick processing where movement tends to 'snap' or cling to the X or Y axis when the stick passes close to it within a certain part of its travel. This can make pure horizontal or vertical movement feel cleaner, but it also alters the real stick path and can distort diagonal or subtle player input.
The Flydigi Vader 5s shows no Axis Magnet. That means the stick does not artificially cling to the horizontal or vertical axes, so your real movement path is preserved more accurately. This is the preferable behavior for consistent aiming and natural analog control.
Want to learn more? Check out our video explanation of how Axis Magnet affects stick behavior.
Polling Rate
Polling Rate describes how often the controller sends stick data to the system, measured in Hertz (Hz). Higher values mean the controller reports its position more frequently, which can reduce the time between updates and make input feel more responsive.
The Flydigi Vader 5s recorded a Polling Rate of 251.9 Hz in this test mode. This value helps describe report frequency, but it should not be treated as a direct substitute for real latency, since response time also depends on firmware, processing, and the wireless or wired stack.
Polling Rate is measured separately from latency, so it is best used as supporting information rather than a standalone quality verdict. In addition, this reading is approximate: Stick Tracer is not a specialized tool for precise polling-rate measurement, so some margin of error is expected.
Center Skip
Center Skip, also known as Stick Skipping, is a rare behavior where the joystick does not begin moving smoothly from its neutral position. Instead of a gradual response, it suddenly jumps to a noticeable deflection as soon as movement starts, which makes fine control much harder.
The Flydigi Vader 5s shows no Center Skip. That means the stick begins moving gradually from neutral, which is the expected and desirable behavior for precise aiming, camera control, and micro-adjustments.
Want to learn more? Check out our video explanation of how Stick Skipping affects performance.
Disclaimer
We tested the Flydigi Vader 5s gamepad using a single unit, so keep in mind that other units of this model might perform slightly better or worse. In most cases, these differences are minor and shouldn’t affect your experience significantly. The results were obtained with the Stick Tracer program, and some values might vary if you use different software or testing methods.
Testing conditions, such as the gamepad’s firmware version (FW: 1.0.5.2) or connection type, can also influence the results. If you have this gamepad, we’d love for you to share your own test results! This will help us build a more comprehensive picture of the Flydigi Vader 5s’s performance across different units.
Full test results can be viewed on the test page.
Stick Movement Linearity Test
Linearity test for Flydigi Vader 5s • Firmware 1.0.5.3 • Stick Analyzer 2.3.0.2 • Cable connection • Xinput mode • Manual Input. Uploaded, by John Punch
Comment: 500 Hz polling rate. Stick Rebound disabled.
Stick Motion Resolution Analysis
This test evaluates the analog stick's ability to register unique positions during a controlled, linear motion from the center to the edge of its range. The analysis was conducted using the Line program, ensuring precise measurement of the stick's resolution, linearity, and response characteristics.
Data Points
Data Points represents the total number of unique positions registered during the smooth movement of the stick from center to edge. This includes both the stable analog values and positions affected by signal processing or jitter. In this test, we recorded 1121 data points, which is an excellent result that indicates very precise stick movement registration. For a more accurate assessment of stick precision, it's important to also consider the Straight Points metric, which filters out noise and signal processing artifacts.
Straight Points
Straight Points represent the number of unique positions detected after filtering out tremor and signal processing artifacts during stick movement. This filtering process identifies points that follow a consistently increasing trajectory, showing the true analog values without noise. The test registered 1019 straight points. This is an excellent result, indicating very smooth and precise stick movement. This value highlights the stick's ability to provide stable and reliable position data during smooth motion.
Resolution
Resolution in this test refers to two complementary measurements:
Total Resolution: 1083 positions across the entire stick range. This number represents how many distinct positions the analog stick can detect from center to edge. This might result in somewhat stepped or less smooth movement
Step Resolution: 0.00092 per increment. This value represents the average size of each step between detected positions (smaller values indicate higher precision). It determines how smoothly the stick can transition between positions, which directly impacts precise aiming and subtle movements in games.
A high total resolution combined with a low step resolution provides the optimal experience for precise control in games requiring fine adjustments.
Tremor
Tremor percentage represents the amount of signal processing that occurs between raw stick movement and the final output. It is calculated as the percentage of data points that don't follow a consistently increasing trajectory. The test measured 9.1% tremor. This indicates very stable stick movement with minimal noise in signal processing. Different controllers have different signal processing characteristics, and lower tremor values typically indicate more direct translation of physical movement.
Linearity
Linearity represents how closely the stick movement follows an ideal linear path. It's calculated as 100% minus the nonlinearity percentage, where nonlinearity measures deviations from a perfectly straight line. The test measured 96.9% linearity. This indicates excellent stick linearity, providing consistent and predictable movement.
At the same time, a gamepad stick is not a perfectly linear mechanical system. The stick rotates around a pivot, the cap travels along an arc, and the sensor reads that rotational movement rather than a truly straight physical path. Because of this, a graph that bends slightly below the ideal straight line is often normal. In many cases, that lower arc-like bow reflects the real mechanics of the stick more faithfully than a response that was tuned mainly to look perfectly straight in this specific test.
What matters most is that the movement remains smooth, progressive, and predictable. A mild, even downward curve can be acceptable or even technically more natural, while sharp dips, waviness, uneven acceleration, or asymmetry still indicate worse response quality.
Test Duration
The time taken to complete the test was 3.94 seconds. This is an optimal test duration, providing reliable results. For the most accurate results, the stick movement should be smooth and controlled, typically taking between 5 and 8 seconds.
Reviews of Flydigi Vader 5s
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Flydigi Vader 5S Honest Review
Flydigi released what I think the GameSir G7 Pro should've been: cheaper, with more focus on one platform. Instead of making a ton of Xbox related sacrifices to support 2 platforms. The Vader 5S is the most interesting Xbox controller at its price point, but only time will tell if Flydigi has gotten their act together since the Vader 5 Pro drop a few months back.
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User comments
I'm really curious about the Vader 5s, especially if it’s a licensed wireless controller that includes all the features of the Vader 4!
I got this controler. And btw on Xbox she’s top1 with g7pro, might be little bit better cause of stick tension. But in fact she’s not perfect at all. You can’t turn off auto calibration and it’s a huge fail for the software.. Hope they bring this back like vader 5 pro cause this cause some trouble on m’y stick while playing fps with lower deadzone…And maybe add some inputdelay btw!
This honestly broke this controller for me. I love the way it feels and plays. But i noticed suddenly my stick in some games stopped responding. Turns out that if you hold the sticks in 10-40% input range steadily for about 2-3 seconds, the auto calibration thinks its drifting and resets the stick to the center. You have to let go of the sticks for it to re-calibrate. The fact that there is no option to toggle this off in the software or via shortcuts is indeed a massive blunder by Flydigi.
@Jot 177 Wait there isn’t? I thought there was?
@Jot 177 Yeah this is done I noticed that. I forgot to return it so now I’m stuck with it.
@Mass Controller Buyer I saw a guy on reddit who said that some firmware update apparently fixed it. Could you try that if possible and confirm?
@Kincior For sure. I’ll try tomorrow. I think the last time I used it was last week when I was cycling through my controllers while playing cod. I’ll report back if not tomorrow then Wednesday. Thank you for that update.
@Kincior Confirmed. Auto calibration option. I turned it off and it worked. 2% deadzones is all I needed compared to the Vader pro 5 which has required 3% and higher.
I will soon run tests in 500 Hz mode, which should show better results.
Hello, I just saw the results obtained with a 1000Hz polling rate. Is there a specific procedure I need to follow? I have the latest firmware installed on the controller. I tried overclocking, but I'm stuck at 850Hz this way.
@Musiblack But wait did you just remove the result of 1000hz a minute ago ? you had like 999hz 3.2 ms button and 2.5 joysticks?
@Musiblack Hi, I accidentally mixed up the gamepads and submitted the tests from Vader 5 Pro
@John Punch I have tried to overclock the vader 5s and I succeded to reach 850 Hz for 1.15 ms ( polling rate test) curious to see if it can help with tha latency =)
@Musiblack That’s interesting – which program did you use to overclock it?
@John Punch just the classic : hidusbf the option of 1000hz is shows up After that I have tesed the polling rate and it appears at 850, but only 87% stability. some 2 ms comes in the mix with 1 ms majority, and a final 1.2 ms.
I really hope the Flydigi Vader 5s features four back buttons like the Apex 5! That would make it an automatic buy for me. Two back buttons just don't cut it compared to other gamepads.
I wish it has paddles.
I've been waiting for the Flydigi Vader 5s, but I'm a bit worried about the analogue sticks, I had a bad experience with the GameSir G7 SE's TMR sticks, so I'm hoping the Hall effect tech on the Vader 5s will be a game-changer.
any idea if you can use the replacement sticks from the 4 pro to this one or 5 pro?
I did the Circularity Test on https://hardwaretester.com. I'm getting in the 12% range for Left and Right sticks. And about 10% range for the 8bitdo Ultimate 2. Amd 0% on the Gamseir G7 Pro. And when I adjust the tension rings on the Vader 5, it changes the circular values by .5% give or take). I don't understand any of this and wonder if my new Vader 5 is broken. Any advice, TIA?.....
It would be great to see stick linearity results. edit; just noticed latency results for the V5 Pro. I'm assuming they will be similar.
Done https://gamepadla.com/flydigi-vader-5s.html#linearity
20 ms on joystick is hard for a controller locked at 250 hz on xbox and PC. this latency is as bad as the old vader 4 pro. vader 5 pro is goated, in both joystick and button, but it concerning, cause, Flydigi is using the PG82 to right ?
Flydigi has not officially signed an agreement to use P82, so no. Most likely, they are only testing the buttons via the GPDL tester during development. As for the latency, it may be less at 500 Hz, but I have not yet been able to update my unit to the latest firmware to verify this.
I ran some fresh tests on the new firmware and got excellent results with a latency of less than 5 ms.
@John Punch amazing thank you for the update <3
This is probably the best gamepad in terms of joysticks for Xbox.