Stick drift, where a PS5 DualSense or Xbox controller registers phantom movement without user input, remains a persistent annoyance because neither controller uses drift-resistant Hall Effect thumbsticks. The issue stems mainly from hardware wear but can sometimes be fixed at home, saving users the cost or hassle of a warranty claim or replacement, provided the controller isn't opened up if still under warranty.

Fixes for both controllers follow similar steps: cleaning the sticks with compressed air or a cotton bud dipped in rubbing alcohol, resetting the controller (on PS5, via the rear pinhole with a paperclip), and updating firmware through the console's accessory settings. Owners of Sony's £200 DualSense Edge have a further option if these fail: a replacement Stick Module costs $30 and can be swapped in by releasing a latch, removing the faulty stick and fitting the new one. If none of these methods work, users are advised to contact Microsoft or Sony for repair or replacement rather than attempting to open the controller themselves.