Key Details of ControllerMate

  • Granularly customize input device behavior.
  • Last updated on
  • There have been 8 updates
  • Virus scan status:

    Clean (it's extremely likely that this software program is clean)


Editors' Review

Download.com staff

ControllerMate for Mac gives you the ability to customize various devices, including the keyboard and mouse, joystick, gamepads, and more, for use with your computer. With a bit of experimenting, you can create all kinds of automated processes to streamline tasks.

ControllerMate allows users to create complex functions by combining over 70 types of building blocks, triggered by device controls or MIDI messages. These blocks perform tasks ranging from logic and math to triggering virtual keyboard or mouse actions, launching applications, or executing AppleScripts. 

Users can reconfigure driver settings for custom keyboard and mouse behavior, including acceleration curves. MIDI messages can activate blocks or be sent through a virtual source for application control. Virtual devices mimic actual hardware and respond to programming.

There are lots of options for users who want to create advanced shortcuts while working or configure additional devices to perform different types of functions.

The software’s ability to build macros that trigger under specific conditions makes it a valuable tool for productivity, allowing users to eliminate repetitive tasks and enhance workflow efficiency. Whether a user needs an automatic key sequence, a conditional response, or a multi-step function activated by a single input, ControllerMate offers extensive capabilities for creating such automations.

The app's kill feature adds significant convenience. When you create a shortcut that results in a "stuck key" or a "meandering cursor" effect, it can disrupt your workflow. ControllerMate addresses this issue by allowing users to turn off the Master Enable for the software with just one button. 

Although ControllerMate offers a vast range of customization options, it is not the most intuitive tool for beginners. The app’s three-window interface can feel intimidating, and despite the extensive documentation and help resources available, creating automated functions can be technical and unintuitive. 

The learning curve can be steep, especially for those unfamiliar with programming concepts or logic-based workflows, limiting its appeal to tech-savvy users or those who are willing to invest significant time to master its features.

Users have noted that while the functionality remains strong, the interface feels outdated compared to modern Mac applications. This design aspect might deter users accustomed to sleek and user-friendly software. Additionally, as macOS updates continue, compatibility issues sometimes arise, requiring patches or workarounds that can be inconvenient for those who rely on smooth integration with the latest system features.

Users who have experience with ControllerMate praise its extensive automation features and customization potential.

Bottom Line

Alternatives like BetterTouchTool and Karabiner Elements are frequently suggested for those looking for simpler customization tools. BetterTouchTool provides a more intuitive interface for basic customizations, while Karabiner Elements offers straightforward key remapping. 

Although these alternatives are user-friendly, they may not offer the same level of detailed control and logic-based automation as ControllerMate, which remains the preferred choice for users who need maximum flexibility.

ControllerMate for Mac offers an impressive range of options for customizing devices on your Mac. While it can feel technical and overwhelming, its comprehensive macro-building tools and support for various input devices make it powerful for users who can dedicate the time to mastering it. The app is also free to download, making it worthwhile to try even if you are unsure of your skill level.

What's new in version 4.11.1

  • Fixes an issue that would cause ControllerMate's background to sometimes reset a device's driver to its default configuration instead of using custom Driver Configuration settings.
  • Fixes an incompatibility between macOS 10.14 Mojave and some scripts that were run using ControllerMate's AppleScript building blocks.
  • Improves the compatibility with some versions of the X-keys XKE-124 T-bar to hide the unused joystick interface.


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Full Specifications

GENERAL
Release
Latest update
Version
4.11.1
OPERATING SYSTEMS
Platform
Mac
Operating System
Mac OS X
Additional Requirements
  • macOS Mojave
  • macOS High Sierra
POPULARITY
Total Downloads
54,835
Downloads Last Week
27

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Last Updated


User Reviews

3.8/5

12 User Votes


Developer's Description

Granularly customize input device behavior.

ControllerMate is a controller programming tool that allows users to add custom functionality to standard HID devices (joysticks, trackballs, gamepads, keyboards). Using a highly graphical interface and drag-and-drop editing, users can program controller buttons to perform complex keyboard and mouse sequences. Programming is accomplished using "building blocks". Each type of building block performs a different type of function. Building blocks can be individually configured and linked together to perform an endless variety of tasks. Common programming tasks that can be performed with ControllerMate include configuring controller buttons to act like individual keyboard keys, configuring controller buttons to generate simple text, configuring controller axes to act like mouse axes, assigning an AppleScript to a controller button, redefining keyboard keys, assigning a custom acceleration curve to a mouse.