If you’ve ever tried to customize your controller beyond the basics, you’ve probably heard of reWASD. It’s a popular tool that lets you remap buttons, combine inputs, and tweak your gamepad to your liking. But here’s the kicker: it comes with a price tag that might not sit well with everyone, and for some folks, its interface can be a bit overwhelming.
So, what if you’re hunting for something just as capable but either cheaper or easier to use? Or maybe something that supports more devices or platforms? You’re in the right place. Let’s dive into some of the best alternatives to reWASD — weighing their pros, cons, and what makes them stand out.
What is reWASD? Why Look for an Alternative?
Before we dive in, a quick refresher on reWASD. It’s a dedicated controller remapping tool for Windows that lets you:
- Remap buttons and triggers
- Create combos and macros
- Emulate keyboard/mouse inputs
- Customize Xbox Elite Series 2 controllers extensively
It’s powerful but not perfect. Its pricing can be a sticking point; the Pro license costs around $15, and some features require the pricier Ultimate license at $25 or more. Also, it’s Windows-only and primarily Xbox controller-focused. The interface, packed with options, can feel intimidating if you’re not tech-savvy.
With that out of the way, let’s explore solid alternatives.
Top Alternatives to reWASD for Gamepad Remapping
1. InputMapper
Overview: InputMapper is a free and open-source remapping tool focused on DualShock (PS4) controllers but also supports Xbox controllers.
| Feature | reWASD | InputMapper |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $15-$25 | Free |
| Controller Support | Xbox, DualShock, generic | DualShock 4, Xbox, generic |
| Platform Support | Windows only | Windows only |
| Macro Support | Yes | Limited |
| Ease of Use | Moderate | More user-friendly |
Why consider it?
InputMapper shines if you’re using a PS4 controller on Windows. It allows easy button remapping, lightbar customization, and tweakable profiles. Unlike reWASD, it’s completely free, which is a huge plus if you’re on a budget. The interface is also more straightforward, making it accessible to newcomers.
Limitations:
It’s Windows-only and lacks advanced macro functions. If you want deep customization, reWASD still wins.
2. AntiMicro
Overview: AntiMicro is an open-source tool that lets you map keyboard and mouse controls to gamepads, great for older controllers.
| Feature | reWASD | AntiMicro |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $15-$25 | Free |
| Controller Support | Modern controllers | Broad (older & new) |
| Platform Support | Windows only | Windows, Linux (unofficial) |
| Macro Support | Yes | No |
| Ease of Use | Moderate | Simple |
AntiMicro is perfect if you want a no-fuss remapper that just works. It supports almost any gamepad recognized by your OS, which means even older devices get a second life. It’s not fancy—no macro support, no combos—just straightforward remapping.
Who should use it?
Gamers who want a reliable, free tool without extra bloat. It’s especially good for Linux users, as there’s unofficial support.
3. JoyToKey
Overview: JoyToKey converts joystick input into keyboard and mouse events. It’s been around forever and remains popular.
| Feature | reWASD | JoyToKey |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $15-$25 | $7 (one-time) |
| Controller Support | Xbox, PlayStation, generic | Almost all Windows controllers |
| Platform Support | Windows only | Windows only |
| Macro Support | Yes | Limited |
| Ease of Use | Moderate | Easy to moderate |
JoyToKey is known for its simplicity and wide controller support. It’s not as feature-rich as reWASD but gives you solid basic remapping plus some macro ability. The interface is more old-school but easy to grasp after a few minutes.
Cool thing:
It’s much more affordable, costing less than reWASD and offering a free trial. If price is a big factor, this is a great pick.
4. DS4Windows
Overview: DS4Windows is designed mainly for PlayStation controllers but lets you emulate Xbox controllers on Windows.
| Feature | reWASD | DS4Windows |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $15-$25 | Free |
| Controller Support | Xbox, PS4, generic | Primarily DualShock 4 |
| Platform Support | Windows only | Windows only |
| Macro Support | Yes | Limited |
| Ease of Use | Moderate | User-friendly |
If you have a DualShock 4 and want to use it comfortably on Windows games that support Xbox controllers primarily, DS4Windows is your go-to. It allows remapping buttons, adjusting touchpad behavior, and even customizing light and rumble settings.
The interface feels like a breath of fresh air compared to reWASD’s complex menus. You’ll likely get up and running faster, especially if you’re new to controller remapping.
5. Steam Input
Overview: Steam Input is built into Steam and provides powerful controller customization for any controller Steam recognizes.
| Feature | reWASD | Steam Input |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $15-$25 | Free |
| Controller Support | Xbox, PS, generic | Wide range (including Switch Pro) |
| Platform Support | Windows only | Windows, macOS, Linux |
| Macro Support | Yes | Yes |
| Ease of Use | Moderate | Moderate |
If you primarily game through Steam, you might not need any external remapper. Steam Input supports Xbox, PlayStation, Switch Pro, even generic controllers, letting you remap buttons, create action sets, and use macros.
The best part: it’s completely free and integrated with the Steam client, so no extra software to juggle. The downside is that customization only applies within Steam games, so it’s less helpful for non-Steam titles.
How Do These Alternatives Compare in Terms of Features and Ease of Use?
Feature-wise, reWASD offers arguably the most robust set for remapping and macro creation. But it comes with complexity and a price tag that can scare off casual users.
InputMapper and DS4Windows are easier to pick up, especially if you own DualShock controllers. They cover most remapping needs and some customization but don’t go as deep as reWASD.
AntiMicro and JoyToKey strip things down to basics but are fantastic if you don’t want to pay a dime. AntiMicro’s cross-platform support is a rare perk, while JoyToKey’s affordability makes it attractive for budget-conscious gamers.
Steam Input is a bit of a wildcard—it’s powerful and free but locked to Steam games.
Here’s a quick look at user experience in a nutshell:
| Software | Beginner-Friendly | Advanced Features | Price | Controller Support |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| reWASD | Moderate | High | $15-$25 | Xbox, PS, generic |
| InputMapper | Easy | Moderate | Free | PS4, Xbox |
| AntiMicro | Easy | Low | Free | Many (incl. old) |
| JoyToKey | Moderate | Moderate | $7 (one-time) | Almost all |
| DS4Windows | Easy | Moderate | Free | PS4 |
| Steam Input | Moderate | High (Steam only) | Free | Wide range |
Are There Free or More Affordable Options Than reWASD?
Absolutely. Most alternatives mentioned here are free or cost much less than reWASD:
- InputMapper and DS4Windows are completely free.
- AntiMicro is free and open-source.
- JoyToKey charges a modest one-time fee of around $7, making it more affordable.
- Steam Input comes baked into Steam at no extra cost.
If you’re on a budget but still want solid remapping capabilities, these are your best bets. Keep in mind, though, that free tools sometimes mean fewer bells and whistles or less frequent updates.
Which Alternative Supports the Widest Range of Controllers and Platforms?
When it comes to sheer compatibility, Steam Input takes the crown. It supports controllers from Xbox, PlayStation, Nintendo Switch Pro, and many generic brands, working across Windows, macOS, and Linux.
If you want support outside of Steam, AntiMicro is notable because it runs on Windows and Linux, supporting various controllers both old and new.
reWASD, InputMapper, JoyToKey, and DS4Windows are mostly Windows-only solutions with varying ranges of controller support, typically focusing on Xbox and PlayStation pads.
Addressing reWASD’s Pain Points: Pricing, Support, and Complexity
Pricing
If you find reWASD’s price too steep, then InputMapper, DS4Windows, Steam Input, and AntiMicro offer great free alternatives. JoyToKey sits comfortably in the middle with a very reasonable one-time fee.
Limited Support for Controllers or Platforms
reWASD shines with Xbox and Elite controllers but can be iffy with others. For PS4 fans, InputMapper or DS4Windows are much better. Steam Input covers the widest range but only works inside Steam games.
If you game on Linux or want broader OS support, AntiMicro is your best free option—something reWASD doesn’t offer.
Complexity or Steep Learning Curve
reWASD’s interface is powerful but can be overwhelming. If you want something easier, DS4Windows and InputMapper have friendlier UIs that get you going quickly. JoyToKey is also straightforward for basic remapping.
Even Steam Input, while not the simplest, integrates neatly into your existing gaming workflow on Steam.
FAQ: reWASD Alternatives Explained
Q: Can I use these alternatives with non-Steam games?
A: Most tools like InputMapper, AntiMicro, and JoyToKey work system-wide, so yes. Steam Input is Steam-only.
Q: Will these alternatives work with Xbox Elite Series 2 controllers?
A: reWASD is the best for Elite controllers. Others may support basic mapping but lack full feature parity.
Q: Is there a Mac or Linux version of reWASD?
A: No. reWASD is Windows-only. For Linux, AntiMicro is your best bet; Mac support is rare for these tools.
Q: Which free alternative is easiest for beginners?
A: DS4Windows (for PS4 controllers) and InputMapper are both beginner-friendly and free.
Final Thoughts: Which Alternative Should You Pick?
If you want the best all-around: go with reWASD — if you’re ready to invest and want the deepest customization, especially on Windows with Xbox controllers.
But if reWASD’s price or complexity feels like too much, try:
- InputMapper for PS4 users looking for free, friendly software.
- DS4Windows if you’re specifically on Windows with a DualShock 4.
- AntiMicro if you want a free, lightweight remapper with Linux support.
- JoyToKey if you want something affordable and straightforward.
- Steam Input if most of your gaming happens on Steam and you want broad controller support.
At the end of the day, each tool has its quirks, strengths, and limits—so pick what fits your controller, gaming habits, and wallet the best. After all, the point is to make gaming smoother and more fun, right?
References
[1] InputMapper Official Website, https://inputmapper.com/
[2] AntiMicro GitHub Repository, https://github.com/AntiMicro/antimicro
[3] JoyToKey Official Site, https://joytokey.net/en/
[4] DS4Windows GitHub, https://github.com/Ryochan7/DS4Windows
[5] Steam Support – Steam Input, https://support.steampowered.com/kb_article.php?ref=12430-FAQF-4586
If you have any questions about setting these up or want tips on specific controllers, just give me a shout!
Danny Inayat