Wireless Gamepad Market

Market Overview

The global wireless gamepad market revenue was valued at USD 4.49 Billion in 2022. It is estimated to reach USD 8.4 Billion by 2031, growing at CAGR of 6.17% over the forecast period (2023–2031). In recent years, there has been a dramatic growth of the gaming industry, which is ultimately driving the market for gaming accessories like gamepads. Along with this, there has also been a tremendous advancement in wireless technologies like Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, etc., which is further anticipated to boost the global wireless gamepad market. Moreover, there has also been a surge in the launch of new wireless gamepads by the key players, which is anticipated to create market growth opportunities.

A wireless gamepad is an input device designed to play video games on gaming consoles, computers, and other gaming platforms. A handheld controller is a device that usually consists of buttons, triggers, analog sticks, and other controls used for interacting with video games. The term "wireless" denotes that the gamepad establishes communication with the gaming device without necessitating a physical connection, such as a cable.

Wireless gamepads offer enhanced mobility to gamers, as a physical wire does not constrain them. These devices are frequently utilized in conjunction with gaming consoles like the PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch, as well as personal computers. Wireless controllers have gained popularity among gamers due to their convenience. Moreover, rechargeable or integrated batteries are frequently employed to power these wireless controllers.

Market Dynamics

Global Wireless Gamepad Market Drivers:

Rise in the Gaming Industry

The wireless gamepad market has experienced substantial growth due to the development of the gaming industry. The video game industry is one of the most rapidly expanding sectors globally. Statista reports that the global video game industry has been lucrative for many years, generating billions of dollars in revenue. In 2022, the worldwide gaming market generated around 347 billion U.S. dollars in revenue, with the mobile gaming market contributing 248 billion U.S. dollars.

Moreover, the growing prevalence of smartphones and internet connectivity is the primary catalyst for the expansion of the gaming sector. The proliferation of the COVID-19 epidemic also accelerated the expansion of the gaming business. The development of the gaming sector facilitates the marketing of gaming peripherals, such as gamepads, joysticks, and headphones. This is expected to stimulate growth in the worldwide wireless gamepad market.

Advancements in Wireless Technologies

The continual evolution and advancements in wireless technology are key factors driving the wireless gamepad market growth. The gaming industry has experienced a significant change from wired to wireless devices, primarily due to the improved user experience and the ability to move more freely. The latency issues commonly associated with wireless devices have significantly decreased with the development of wireless communication protocols such as Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.

Additionally, low-latency technology facilitates the transfer of input signals from the gamepad to the gaming console or device with minimal delay, making the response almost instantaneous. This is vital in gaming scenarios because immediate responses can determine the outcome between victory and defeat. Market research suggests that gamers place greater importance on low-latency connectivity, leading to an increased demand for superior wireless gamepads.

Global Wireless Gamepad Market Restraint:

High Cost of Wireless Gamepad

A significant limitation in the wireless gamepad industry is the comparatively high price of wireless gamepads compared to wired gamepads. Wireless gamepads incur higher costs than cable gamepads due to the need for supplementary components, including batteries, wireless receivers, and chargers. Wireless gamepads possess a finite battery capacity that might impact the gaming experience's quality and effectiveness.

Furthermore, wireless game controllers may encounter problems such as delay, interference, and signal dropout, which can negatively impact the gameplay experience and dependability. Therefore, the potential for price sensitivity and casual gamers to refrain from purchasing wireless gamepads due to their high price and technical complexities could impede the market's expansion.

Global Wireless Gamepad Market Opportunities:

New Product Launches

Prominent industry participants are introducing novel products to enhance their market position. For instance, in 2023, GameSir introduced wireless controllers called T4 Cyclone and Cyclone Pro gamepads, which are equipped with magnetic, stick-drift-resistant "Hall effect" joysticks. The initial member of the T4 Cyclone duo features a face button arrangement reminiscent of Nintendo consoles, with the A button positioned to the east of the cluster. The T4 Cyclone Pro controller is nearly indistinguishable from the non-Pro version, with integrated gyro controls and a 3.5mm headphone connector.

Similarly, in April 2023, Xiaomi unveiled a new game controller with wired and wireless connectivity. This controller is a simpler version of the previously released GamePad Elite Edition, featuring somatosensory capability. The new game controller is universally compatible with Android and Windows operating systems and does not require supplementary software or applications. The device offers compatibility with three connection options: a wireless receiver (equipped with a Wi-Fi adapter), Bluetooth, and a data cord. These factors give rise to opportunities for market expansion.

Regional Analysis

North America Dominates the Global Market

Based on region, the global wireless gamepad market is bifurcated into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East and Africa.

North America is the most significant global wireless gamepad market shareholder and is expected to expand during the forecast period. North America dominated the wireless gamepad market due to its status as a highly developed and mature gaming sector, with a substantial and dedicated community of gamers, particularly in e-sports and professional gaming. Moreover, with 76% of the American population having internet connectivity, the United States' passion for gaming is poised to experience a significant surge. The video game industry in the United States generated total revenue of USD 43.4 billion in 2018, an increase over the previous year's revenue of USD 36.9 billion. This income includes earnings from hardware, software, peripherals, and subscriptions. Consequently, the area exhibits a notable prevalence of cutting-edge gaming equipment and accessories, such as wireless gamepads, that provide an exceptional and captivating gaming encounter.

Moreover, North America is projected to have substantial growth in the forecast year due to the ongoing expansion and transformation of the gaming industry. This growth is driven by developing trends like cloud gaming, virtual reality, and augmented reality, which generate fresh opportunities and increase the demand for wireless gamepads. The region also hosts prominent wireless gamepad producers, including Microsoft, Sony, and Logitech, providing cutting-edge and top-notch products. These influential participants are implementing strategic measures to improve their market share. For instance, in August 2023, Microsoft furthered its ambitious sustainability goals by launching a new self-repair program for Xbox controllers.

The firm also offers individual replacement parts for controllers for the Xbox in the United States through the Microsoft Store. These include top casings, replacement buttons, circuit boards, and motor assemblies. The basic Xbox Wireless Controller and the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 have numerous options. Alongside selling components, inclusive video tutorials are demonstrating the process of disassembling and repairing your controller. All these factors foster the growth of the North American wireless gamepad market.

In Asia-Pacific, the gaming community is growing at the fastest rate in the world, with South Korea, China, and Japan leading the way. Approximately 64 percent of the Chinese population self-identifies as part of the gaming community. The accessibility of games and gaming equipment has expanded due to the large population and overall rise in income. Asian gamers spend USD 12 billion annually on mobile games, with Japan and South Korea ranking highest globally in average game expenditure per user. The regional market expansion will be driven by the pronounced sales of both endemic and non-endemic gaming devices, such as wireless gamepads, which are crucial peripherals in gaming because of the highly responsive nature of the group.

Furthermore, the prominent stakeholders in this area are introducing novel products. For instance, in May 2022, Reliance Jio discreetly introduced a Game Controller in India. The game controller is featured on Jio's official website, stating that customers may enjoy up to 8 hours of battery life on a single charge. The product has Bluetooth v4.1 technology, ensuring a low-latency connection. The device has a wireless coverage of up to 10 meters. This is the inaugural offering from the telecommunications operator. It is compatible with all Android tablets, Android TV, and other compatible devices. Therefore, these aspects are expected to enhance market expansion.

Segmental Analysis

The global wireless gamepad market is segmented by type, connectivity, and application.

Based on type, the global wireless gamepad market is divided into entry level, enthusiast level, and hardcore level gamepads. 

An entry-level gamepad is a gaming controller designed for users new to gaming or those who do not need advanced capabilities. It is a primary or beginner-level controller. These gamepads are generally more cost-effective and feature a simple design with fundamental features, making them easily usable by many users. Gamepads designed for beginners typically come with a conventional array of controls, including buttons, analog sticks, and triggers. Higher-end controllers may possess additional buttons or advanced functionality absent in these controllers. Moreover, entry-level gamepads are constructed with durability in mind, although they may possess a different level of sturdiness than more expensive controllers. They are often appropriate for casual gaming but may not endure intense and extended usage.

Based on connectivity, the global wireless gamepad market is divided into Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and others. 

The Bluetooth segment dominates the global market. It is a wireless technology standard that enables close-range communication between electronic devices. The Bluetooth segment dominated the wireless gamepad market, given that Bluetooth is the prevailing and universally compatible wireless technology for linking wireless gamepads to gaming devices, including PCs, smartphones, smart TVs, and consoles. Bluetooth provides various benefits, including minimal energy usage, minimal delay, and robust security, making it well-suited for wireless game controllers.

Moreover, the Bluetooth segment is projected to experience the most rapid growth over the forecast period due to Bluetooth technology's continuous evolution and enhancement. This includes introducing new versions and features, such as Bluetooth 5.0 and Bluetooth Low Energy, which provide superior performance and functionality for wireless gamepads.

Based on application, the global wireless gamepad market is bifurcated into PCs, smartphones, consoles, smart TVs, and others.

PC-compatible wireless gamepads provide a convenient and adaptable gaming experience. Wireless gamepads enable users to enjoy gaming from a convenient distance, particularly when a PC is connected to a television. The absence of cables provides individuals with increased mobility, eliminating concerns of potential entanglement and impediments. Wireless gamepads facilitate convenient participation in local multiplayer gaming with friends and family. A single PC may accommodate many wireless controllers for cooperative and competitive gameplay. Moreover, wireless gamepads are adaptable and suitable for diverse gaming genres, encompassing action, adventure, racing, and sports games. Modern PC games are designed to be compatible with game controllers, guaranteeing a smooth and uninterrupted gaming experience.

Recent Developments

• May 2023- 8Bitdo, the manufacturer of gamepads, introduced a more affordable edition of their highly regarded Ultimate Controller. The new Ultimate C 2.4G Wireless Controller is a wireless device priced at USD 30 and available in either purple or green variations. This software is compatible with Windows, Android, Steam Deck, and Raspberry Pi.
• December 2023- Turtle Beach Corporation made available the eagerly awaited and critically acclaimed Designed for Xbox Turtle Beach® Stealth™ Ultra Wireless Smart Game Controller, which has been declared ready for purchase. Since its introduction weeks ago, Turtle Beach's new king of wireless controllers has swiftly established the benchmark for what gamers ought to anticipate in a premium gamepad.