DS3 Tool can connect PlayStation Sixaxis or DualShock 3 controllers to your Windows machine. It supports a connection through both USB and Bluetooth, and allows up to four gamepads to be connected.

Easy to set up

Setting up your controller is relatively straightforward. After you start the DS3 Tool you must plug the gamepad into the PC (this is also the easiest way to pair your controller for a Bluetooth connection), then click on the Enable button to activate it.

To test the connection is active there is the Vibration Test button. A quick click on this should see the pad vibrate - confirming everything is work order. After setup, you can use the controller in any game just as you would an official Microsoft controller.

Chaotic design

Unfortunately the DS3 Tool's interface is unstructured and rather bloated. With nothing really holding it together, you get the sense that every time the developer thought of something they wanted to add they just put it in without a second thought towards usability.

This leads to a lack of unity within the interface, making it hard for less tech savvy users to navigate. Not that I am really complaining, DS3 Tool is a free app the fills a much needed gap in the market.

Functional control software for console controller

There may be interface issues, and some annoying banner ads, but DS3 Tool runs smoothly and allows those who prefer PlayStation 3 controllers to use them on their PC with ease.