Setting Up Back Buttons on Your New Pro Controller: Recommended Settings from 20+ Reviews

If you were fortunate enough to unwrap a new gaming controller this holiday season, you might notice it has more buttons than you’re used to. Whether it’s for the Switch 2, PS5, Xbox, or PC, modern controllers often come equipped with extra buttons or paddles. Typically, these are back buttons integrated into the grips, but you might also spot additional clickers next to the bumpers (R1, L1, RB, LB).

Each controller has its own way of customizing these buttons, but the overall process is generally similar. As someone who has tested numerous controllers, setting up back buttons is always my first step when I get a new review unit.

Before diving in, my first tip is to locate the small instruction manual that came with your controller. It will provide the specific details you need for your model. Whether you’re a back button veteran or a newbie, I’ll keep this guide straightforward, as the setup process is quite simple. If you’re unsure how to utilize the back buttons, I’ve included my personal preferences and recommendations below.

Most controllers don’t require companion software or a mobile app for setting up extra buttons. A few do, but we’ll cover that later. Many controllers offer optional software for those who prefer it.

If you have a controller from brands like GameSir, PowerA, Turtle Beach, Victrix (PDP), Razer, or 8BitDo, you can set up back buttons without needing software, though each brand has its own unique steps.

**Step 1: Locate the function button**

First, identify your controller’s assignment button. On GameSir controllers, this is typically the “M” button; for 8BitDo, it’s the button with the logo. Razer controllers usually have a button with a small circle. Your manual will clarify this for you.

**Step 2: Enter mapping mode**

Next, press the function button and wait for a flashing light that indicates the controller is in mapping mode. Sometimes, this requires pressing the function button and the back button you want to assign simultaneously. Other times, it activates when you hit the function button and the button you wish to map.

When the light starts flashing, press the button you want to duplicate to the back button. For instance, if you want to map the “A” button to your right back button, you would enter mapping mode by pressing:

“Function button” + right back button.

Now that mapping mode is active, press the “A” button, and the flashing will stop, indicating the button has been successfully mapped.

If you entered mapping mode by pressing:

“Function button” + “A”…

Then press the right back button to complete the mapping.

It can be helpful to do this while gaming so you can immediately test if your button mappings are working.

**Step 3: Verify and create profiles**

Repeat step 2 until all buttons are mapped to your liking. You can then jump into a game to ensure everything is set up correctly.

Many controllers also allow you to create multiple profiles, which can be handy if you want different back button assignments for various games. To map a new profile, find the switch (usually on the back of a pro controller) to change profiles, then repeat step 2 to create new button assignments.

If you encounter issues switching profiles, refer to your controller’s instructions.

If your new pro controller features back buttons, it likely has optional PC or mobile software for further customization. Controllers like the Manba One, Nacon Revolution X Unlimited, or similar models with screens may offer limited customization options directly on the controller.

Companion apps can be incredibly useful, allowing you to fully utilize your gamepad. You can assign button mappings, customize profiles, adjust trigger and thumbstick sensitivities, and tweak other features.

**Step 1: Locate the software**

Start by finding your controller’s official software. There may be a QR code on the box or in the instruction manual that directs you to it. Ensure you download from the official website to avoid scams or malware.

**Step 2: Connect with a USB cable**

Most controllers, especially from Nacon, require a wired connection to a PC to make changes in companion software. You may need to switch your controller to wired mode using a toggle on the back, so keep that in mind.

The good news is that most controllers come with a USB to USB-C cable, so you should have one handy.

**Step 3: Access the back button menu**

This step is straightforward: open the software, navigate to the button assignment tab or sub-menu, and use the diagram to map your desired buttons.

So, what should you assign to these extra buttons? The beauty of back buttons is that the choice is entirely yours! Depending on your favorite games or the functions you find most comfortable, you can assign them however you like. There are no strict rules.

If you need some inspiration, consider why back buttons are beneficial in the first place. They were introduced to help level the playing field in competitive shooters, where PC players have more functionality at their fingertips. You might want to assign back buttons to controls that frequently pull your thumbs away from the movement sticks, allowing you to aim or move without interruption.

Having used controllers with back buttons for about five years, I often adjust my settings based on the games I play, but I have a go-to setup that works well across many titles.

If I have two back buttons:

– The right back button is set to “A” (or X on PlayStation). This is great for navigating menus and in-game interactions, allowing for quick jumps.
– The left back button is set to “X” (or Square on PlayStation). This is useful for quick menu navigation and reloading while on the move.

If I have four back buttons:

– I’ll use the two assignments mentioned above for the bottom back buttons.
– The top right button is mapped to “R3” (clicking the right stick). This is handy for various functions, like aiming or changing camera angles. I originally set it as my melee key in Hunt: Showdown, which allowed me to attack without losing aim.
– The top left button is set to left on the D-pad. In Hunt: Showdown, this pulls out my first tool, usually a knife for stealth kills, which I frequently need without taking my thumbs off the sticks.

If I have additional bumper buttons:

– I’ll map these to the other two face buttons I haven’t already assigned to back buttons, ensuring my thumbs stay on the movement and camera sticks.

If my back button assignments seem unconventional, that’s okay. The key is to make these extra functions as useful as possible for your playstyle. If you’re into Fortnite or Call of Duty, your assignments will likely differ.

Experiment with your settings to find what works best for you and your favorite games. Remember the “rule of thumb”: keep your thumbs on the sticks, so it’s often more efficient to map back buttons to face buttons to minimize movement.