How to Remap any Controller to Keyboard Keys on Windows and MacOS

Last Updated: Feb 1, 2024 by

Gaming on a computer can be a lot of fun, but sometimes using a controller can make the experience even better. However, not all games are compatible with controllers, and some players may prefer using a keyboard and mouse. Luckily, there is a solution for those who want to use a controller but still have the functionality of a keyboard. In this article, we will discuss how to remap any controller to keyboard keys on both Windows and MacOS.

What is Controller Remapping?

Before we dive into the steps, let’s first understand what controller remapping is. Controller remapping is the process of assigning keyboard keys to the buttons on a controller. This allows the controller to emulate a keyboard, giving the player the ability to use the controller in games that do not have controller support.

Windows

Step 1: Download a Keyboard Emulator

The first step to remapping your controller on Windows is to download a keyboard emulator. There are many options available online, but one of the most popular and user-friendly ones is JoyToKey. This software allows you to map keyboard keys to your controller buttons.

Step 2: Connect Your Controller

Connect your controller to your computer using a USB cable or Bluetooth. Make sure your controller is recognized by your computer before moving on to the next step.

Step 3: Configure JoyToKey

Open JoyToKey and click on the “Create” button to create a new profile. Name your profile and click on the “Create” button again. A new window will open, and this is where you can map your controller buttons to keyboard keys. Simply click on the button you want to map and press the corresponding key on your keyboard. Once you have mapped all the buttons, click on the “OK” button to save your changes.

Step 4: Save and Run

Once you have mapped all the buttons, click on the “File” menu and select “Save.” Now, whenever you want to use your controller as a keyboard, simply open JoyToKey and click on the “Run” button. Your controller will now emulate a keyboard, and you can use it in any game or application.

MacOS

Step 1: Download a Controller Emulator

The process for remapping a controller on MacOS is similar to Windows, but instead of a keyboard emulator, you will need a controller emulator. One of the most popular options is Enjoy2, which is available for free online.

Step 2: Connect Your Controller

Connect your controller to your Mac using a USB cable or Bluetooth. Make sure your controller is recognized by your computer before moving on to the next step.

Step 3: Configure Enjoy2

Open Enjoy2 and click on the “New” button to create a new profile. Name your profile and click on the “Create” button. A new window will open, and this is where you can map your controller buttons to keyboard keys. Simply click on the button you want to map and press the corresponding key on your keyboard. Once you have mapped all the buttons, click on the “Save” button to save your changes.

Step 4: Save and Run

Once you have mapped all the buttons, click on the “File” menu and select “Save.” Now, whenever you want to use your controller as a keyboard, simply open Enjoy2 and click on the “Start” button. Your controller will now emulate a keyboard, and you can use it in any game or application.

By following these steps, you can easily remap any controller to keyboard keys on both Windows and MacOS. This allows for a more customizable gaming experience and gives players the option to use a controller in games that do not have controller support. Have you tried controller remapping before? Let us know in the comments.

Gulrukh Ch

About the Author: Gulrukh Ch

Gulrukh Chaudhary, an accomplished digital marketer and technology writer with a passion for exploring the frontiers of innovation. Armed with a Master's degree in Information Technology, Gulrukh seamlessly blends her technical prowess with her creative flair, resulting in captivating insights into the world of emerging technologies. Discover more about her on her LinkedIn profile.