Fix & Troubleshoot: Amazon Luna controller drift in easy steps [2022]

With Amazon’s all new and exciting cloud gaming service Luna, you can play your favourite games now on devices you already own. There is absolutely no need to wait for any downloads or installations anymore! It’s combined with Amazon Web Services to give an ultimate cloud gaming experience.

Similar to other cloud gaming services, you can instantly stream games across all compatible devices. Say hello to the new Netflix for games! With a high-speed internet connection and a subscription to any of the available Amazon Luna plans, you’re more than good to go!

One of the best advantages of using Amazon Luna is that you connect an Amazon Luna controller or any compatible controller to amplify your gaming experience. The Amazon Luna controller is an excellent-looking gamepad that takes your gaming to a whole new level. It contains a dedicated WiFi chip that helps to provide an optimal game streaming experience. It retails for $49.99 and is designated specifically to be used with Amazon Luna. It is, of course, an optional choice for Amazon Luna. It is not necessary that you have to use it. You can use your keyboard or mouse instead to play games but the Amazon Luna controller definitely takes your gaming up a notch. The controller comes with a well-built Bluetooth gamepad. It has a separate WiFi connection that greatly helps in reducing input lag when you are playing games on Luna. That is, the Luna controller directly interfaces with the cloud gaming servers hosted by Amazon. This is exactly why your games run a lot smoother without any lag. And that’s what makes the Luna Controller the best gaming controller for shooting games and many other action games! 

It’s only normal for controllers with joysticks to experience drift issues from time to time. Similar issues have been reported that the joysticks on the Luna controller have automatic registered movements when the joystick is not being controlled by the user. If you own an Amazon Luna controller and are experiencing drift issues, keep reading!

But before we jump into figuring out how to fix drift issue with our controllers, let’s take a look at how we can follow a few steps to prevent it from happening.

  • Make sure you keep your controller away from dusty places.
  • Make sure to keep your controller as clean as possible.
  • After you are finished playing the game, keep the controller in a  closed, safe, dust-free place.
  • Try to get a carrying bag for the controller and use it to safely store the controller when you are not using it.
  • If you can’t find a bag, use a soft cloth to wrap the contents when you put it away after a game.

If you leave your controller unprotected, dust and debris can easily get accumulated. It’s also better to be safe than sorry.

Blow away the dust

This is one of those methods that will fix your controller problems for sure! Many users who faced similar problems claim this worked 100% Move the joystick around on the controller and blow away the dust and debris hiding in the crevices and corners. This should fix your problem by removing any hindrance for the joystick movement.

Use compressed air

Compressed air is great for cleaning the dirt and debris stuck around the joystick pads. Get yourself a spray can of compressed air and follow the below steps to get your controller sparkly clean again!

  • Turn off the controller and move one of the joysticks around as much as you can.
  • Position the spray can’s nozzle in the space around the joystick and start spraying.
  • Move the joystick around slowly while you continue to spray.
  • While you move around the joystick, try pressing it down or pulling it up to create more space for the air to get in and clean the dust.

Consider cleaning your controller once in a while with compressed air even if it’s working fine. 

Reset your controller 

Let’s try resetting your controller to see if it works

  • Unplug your controller and turn it off.
  • Press and hold the Home button and the Menu button
  • Wait until the ring around the home button turns purple and then orange.
  • The orange light around the Home button indicates that your controller is restarting.

Claim the warranty

If cleaning the controller still isn’t giving you the solution you need, you claim the warranty and get a new replacement for your controller. This method is effective if your controller is new or used for less than a year. Amazon offers a one-year warranty on your controller. Go to their official website and you can initiate the exchange process.

Try using Isopropyl alcohol

Dip a cotton swab in isopropyl alcohol and wipe it along the joystick area while you move it around. Make sure you are gentle when you do this.

Take good care of your controller 

It’s up to you to keep your controller safe and in working condition. Don’t push the joystick around too much. Remember, as the days go by your controller is prone to wear. Make sure you maintain your Luna Controller in a good condition so that you can prevent drift issues while playing games.

You can of course use any compatible controller with Amazon but to experience Amazon’s cloud gaming to its fullest, the Amazon Luna Controller is recommended. It looks and feels just like the Xbox series S/X controller. Initially, the analog sticks are pretty tight and responsive but over time it can become susceptible to drift issues.