X-Input, Direct Input and Xbox layout = almost perfect

I was looking for a new gamepad for my HTPC. To provide a current console only for occasional car racing never would feel as PC gamers in mind, especially as there are with the new Big-Picture Mode in Steam also a controller-friendly interface for Windows. With my old Saitek Pads I am indeed happy, but unfortunately they do not support the newer X-Input-games like "Blur", at least not without additional tools. I thought it to buy the Xbox controller in the Windows version, but has the the opposite problem: Some older DirectInput games be prohibited or restricted run with it, especially classics like "Atomic Bomberman" or DOSBox Title.

The solution are pads that support both modes. I hesitated long between this and the Logitech F710 XEOX, but I decided to go for the Xbox layouts with the offset D-Pad for the Speedlink model. Good Choice! It fits comfortably in your hand, has a pleasant interface and works perfectly (as long as you think before the game start from choosing the right mode). The Xbox-inspired key layout is perfect for me. The coverage is for my living room more than adequate (for me are about four meters to be bridged, the pad creates twice the distance) on the battery life, but I can not say anything yet.

The only complaint: the D-Pad feels shaky, that's the Xbox controller and even with my old SNES pad better. The precision is okay but, in any case my "Bomberman" results have thus become not bad;)

Conclusion: I am happy, in spite of regular D-Pads.