Controller Compatibility
PadIO uses Apple's GameController framework, which abstracts all connected controllers behind a unified GCExtendedGamepad interface. Any controller macOS recognizes will work.
Button name mapping by controller
| PadIO name | Xbox | PlayStation | Nintendo Switch Pro |
|---|---|---|---|
A |
A | Cross (✕) | B |
B |
B | Circle (○) | A |
X |
X | Square (□) | Y |
Y |
Y | Triangle (△) | X |
LB |
Left Bumper | L1 | L |
RB |
Right Bumper | R1 | R |
LT |
Left Trigger | L2 | ZL |
RT |
Right Trigger | R2 | ZR |
L3 |
Left Stick click | L3 | Left Stick click |
R3 |
Right Stick click | R3 | Right Stick click |
options |
View / Back | Create | − |
menu |
Menu (≡) | Options | + |
Note
The menu button is reserved for the Help HUD and cannot be rebound.
Pairing controllers with macOS
- Xbox: Bluetooth pairing via System Settings → Bluetooth. USB also works.
- DualShock 4 / DualSense: Native support on macOS 12+. Hold PS + Share (DS4) or PS + Create (DualSense) to enter pairing mode, then pair via System Settings → Bluetooth.
- Nintendo Switch Pro: Pair via System Settings → Bluetooth (hold the sync button on top of the controller).
Haptic feedback (rumble) support
Haptic feedback requires macOS 11+ and a controller with rumble motors. Confirmed working:
| Controller | Handles | Triggers |
|---|---|---|
| Xbox Wireless | ✓ | ✓ |
| DualSense (PS5) | ✓ | ✓ (adaptive) |
| DualShock 4 (PS4) | ✓ | — |
| Nintendo Switch Pro | — | — |
See rumble action type for configuration.