Belkin PowerStick Pro - joystick

Advantages: It's one of best game controllers I've found
Disadvantages: Not for people who hop from one game to another

...Although there have been previous versions of this Belkin pad, it only has one competitor that I'm aware of: the Saitek Pro-Gamer Command Unit. I bought the Belkin product first, and loved it. Lured by the fancy lights, and my good experience with Saitek in the past, I bought the Saitek product to replace this, and I only half regret doing so. I've never liked using the keyboard to play a game, and this is an excellent solution. The software that comes with it does the job, and I've never had a problem with it. There is a bit of a learning curve, but it's worth the perseverance. I've got very large hands, but the unit is adjustable and it's quite comfortable. The underside of the pad is a lurid orange plastic that does a passable job at keeping the unit in place. If you're upgrading from using a keyboard, you'll notice a big... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful

Advantages: 6 Plug Holes Heavy Duty Case
Disadvantages: Rubber Plug Caps

...I purchased a Belkin SurgePro for the protection of my new Computer on 31st March 2004. I am very pleased with the quality of the product and having a metal construction it makes it ideal for heavy duty work (unlike me just having it for my computer). It has a long lead (5m) and has lights to tell you its on and that it is protected. It also comes with product insurance so if you do get a surge/spike and it damages something you have plugged into it you can claim (I dont know how easy it is to claim as I have not had any problems). The price is very good under £15 most places, so you get a lot for your money ie 5 meter lead and 6 sockets. The only problem I would say is that the hole protectors get in the way when plugging in large plugs (speakers etc) so for such a good product its a shame belkin didn't notice this! You can get... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful

Advantages: Good design, improves gameplay
Disadvantages: Hardware conficts with other Saitek products (?)

...This product makes a huge difference to gameplay. I've never got used to using a keyboard to play games, and this is a sensible alternative. This is great for FPS's, RPG's, and action games like Hitman and Gun. It's a companion to using a mouse, and has a logical, intuitive layout, with keys that are much easier to locate by feel than those of the keyboard. The central pad of keys are few enough that you don't lose track of them or get them confused, the "pinkie" keys on the left are ideally placed and easily located by touch, and the thumb joystick and buttons are well laid out. All in all, the layout is perfect. The main alternative to this product is the Belkin Nostromo. Although it didn't suffer from the glitch described below, the keys are grouped together and easily confused, it doesn't stay put and the thumb buttons aren... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful