TMR vs Hall Effect
TMR and Hall effect sticks both measure stick position with magnets instead of a rubbing carbon track, so neither wears out into drift the way stock potentiometer sticks do. The difference is the sensor. TMR (tunneling magnetoresistance) is the newer technology, with a stronger, cleaner signal at lower power.
The quick comparison
| Potentiometer (stock) | Hall effect | TMR | |
|---|---|---|---|
| How it senses | Wiper rubbing a carbon track | Magnet + Hall sensor | Magnet + tunneling magnetoresistance sensor |
| Wears into drift? | Yes | No, contactless | No, contactless |
| Signal strength | Moderate | Lower, needs more amplification | Much higher sensitivity |
| Noise / jitter | Grows as it wears | Can be higher | Low |
| Power use | Low | Higher | Very low, kind to battery life |
How Hall effect works
A Hall effect sensor produces a small voltage proportional to the magnetic field passing through it. As the stick moves a magnet, the voltage changes and the controller reads the position. Because nothing touches, the sensor doesn't wear. But the raw signal is small, so it's amplified, and with that comes some noise and a higher constant power draw.
How TMR works
A TMR sensor uses a thin insulating layer between magnetic layers. Its electrical resistance changes sharply with the direction of the magnetic field. That large change gives a strong, precise signal without heavy amplification. You get fine resolution around center, low jitter, and very low power use, while staying contactless and drift-resistant.
Which should you choose?
Both end wear-based drift. If you want the most precise, lowest-noise option, choose TMR. That's why every ZeroStick product uses it: our DualSense Edge TMR module, the ZeroStick Pro PS5 controller, and our Switch 2 controller.
Want the inside view? Read how TMR modules work.
End stick drift for good
K-Silver TMR modules for the DualSense Edge. Pre-calibrated, drop-in, and backed by our 5-year stick warranty.
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