FRAGnStein mouse and thumbstick controller gives FPS precision on PlayStation 3
Written by Alexis M. (Rivithed)
Wednesday, 16 September 2009
Want to gain the upper hand and precision controls on PlayStation 3 FPS games? FPS gamers, the FRAGnStein is what you'll need. The FRAGnStein controller from Bannco is a combination of the DUALSHOCK 3 controller with the precision of a 2000 counts per inch (CPI) sensitive mouse.
It's a completely wireless solution, which works with an included USB receiver. That makes the FRAGnStein much easier to move around and handle than other dual PS3 mouse and thumbstick controllers on the market. If you're a serious FPS gamer that wants the most control and precision in games like Call of Duty: World at War, Modern Warfare, MAG, Killzone 2 and more, you'll want to break out the FRAGnStein.
In its form factor, the FRAGnStein packs all the functionality of the DUALSHOCK 3 controller, including SIXAXIS motion control, should you want it. This isn't just a standard mouse. Just about every FPS game on the PS3 system doesn't support a standard mouse. That's why Bannco has designed this PS3 controller in a mouse form. The Left Grip features the thumbstick, D-pad, L1, L2, PS/power button and Select button. The mouse features R1, R2, Start/Power button, F function key, a fully functional scroll wheel, and 4 PS buttons at the side. It'll take a little time realigning yourself with the standard DUALSHOCK 3 buttons on the left of the mouse. To me, that was one of the learning curves of this controller. But soon enough, I was definitely feeling the precision and steady aiming controls of the FRAGnStein. The mouse is weighted down and button controls feel solid. Using the scroll wheel of the mouse was great, and makes fast turns easy when you shift it to the left or right. The Left Grip controller felt sturdy and thumbstick had just the right amount of tension to it. As you can see in the
pictures of the FRAGnStein controller below, the colors are also a nice compliment to the PlayStation 3 system.
Customization is another shining point of the FRAGnStein. Load up the USB receiver on your PC and you get fully customizable controls and button assignments using the free Mapping/Configuration software from bannco.com. There's even a Firing Speed (autofire) you can set. Sensitivity adjustments can be done on the fly by holding the F button and using the scroll wheel. The many customization options will help you find that perfect fit which you can't get on just the DUALSHCOK 3 alone. Yes, your enemies are in trouble when going up against you with the FRAGnStein.
The FRAGnStein is compatible with a PC as well. If you own a PC, that greatly increases the value of the FRAGnStein. You'll be able to use the FRAGnStein on your PC games and further adapt to the control scheme. Bannco is also continuously supporting the FRAGnStein with Firmware updates and enhancements, which can be downloaded from bannco.com.
If you're coming to the PlayStation 3 platform from playing FPS games on a PC, or if you are looking for a way to hone your FPS skills on the PlayStation 3, the FRAGnStein is for you. Modern Warfare 2 and MAG are two big PlayStation 3 FPS games coming in the next months. Get yourself ready with this killer secret weapon, the FRAGnStein.
The FRAGnStein includes:
1 x Mouse
1 x Grip
1 x USB Stick
1 x Manual
2 x AA Batteries
The FRAGnStein has a suggested retail price of $79.99. Watch for it at gaming retailers, or online stores like Amazon.com. See more details at bannco.com.
Comments
This thing is HORRIBLE!!!!!! Written by DrGbits on 2009-09-17 10:17:13I used one of these and all I can say it's a FAIL!!!!!
First, the "Dpad" is in a stupid position. Especially when playing COD or any game the requires you to press the Dpad to access a radar, weapon or whatever. Very uncomfortable position.
The mouse part is very LAGGY! Too slow for the FPS games I played with it. This is NOT worth the price. Get a regular Sixaxis or one of those new MW2 controllers coming out. Or if you want a mouse type controller, get a FragFX... it is the best to use for FPS games and it has been proven to be the dominate controller on PS3.
Just my 2cents!
you're wrong Written by Guest on 2009-09-17 12:34:00three independant reviewers say your dead wrong.
in the PSL review it says it 'outright spanks the fragfx'
clearly you do now own the FRAGnStein and have other motivations.
I know - I do have the FRAGnStein.
there is 0 lag Written by Guest on 2009-09-17 12:04:26I also own a fragnstein and there is no lag
the dpad is in an excellent position as my thumb sits there natural
i agree completly with this reviewer - its bang on
DrGbits Written by Guest on 2009-09-17 12:34:14Hey DrGbits
This is Duane from Bannco -
if you have any problems with your FRAGnStein - return it for a complete refund.
Send me an email with your proof of purchase to
Duane Bannco
Very responsive Written by Guest on 2009-09-17 12:38:09The dpad on the FragNStein works great. Mouse isn't laggy at all. First commenter above must not have known about sensitivity settings. Just another hater.
tthat shit looks pimptastic!!! Written by Roly_Shaul on 2009-09-18 11:45:10when i get me a ps3 again im most defnitely coppin one of these!!
Give me Written by Guest on 2009-09-29 03:22:43oooo i soon as i can find a store or website that even sells one it will be mine
Where can we buy one? Written by Guest on 2009-09-30 12:15:19I dont see any on amazon.com or amazon.ca I dont see these for sale anywhere. Have they been recalled?
Written by Guest on 2009-10-01 05:38:49NO ONE has them in stock. What is going on??
If you're interested in ordering Written by Alexis M. on 2009-10-01 05:41:33The FRAGnStein may be difficult to find, as Bannco informed us it is selling out. If you're interested in ordering one, email
to request information on how you can get it directly from Bannco for the time being.
Lag misinterpreters Written by Guest on 2009-10-03 05:58:26I thought I'd mention that some people could unknowingly misinterpret hard coded turning and look speeds as lag when using a mouse.
Console game's look and aim speed are coded to be slower. In addition, the hitboxes are usually larger. There is often code to assist aiming, changetargeting recticle effect's size, and even curve bullets to assist in aiming.
Fragfx 1 and 2 owner Written by Guest on 2009-10-18 18:09:17So far I'll be honest fragfx 1 it's 2-3 out of 5 will have flaws like buttons that do not respond to normal pressure etc. I look forward to trying Fragnstein. I did a review on the fragfx's I wish you all did a review like this to show the gamers the performance of your product. I read on your forums people are having rapid fire issues in left 4 dead. They fire normal while standing still then moving they rapid fire. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bhOGHhtKr84 showing micro movements in killzone.
I want one! Written by Guest on 2009-11-24 23:03:10Where can I buy one of these thing? Everywhere I look they are sold out.
Can be bought in UK... Written by Guest on 2009-11-29 23:14:17Hi,
just on purchasing the Fragnstein. If you're in Eurpoe...I've ordered mine from limexb360.co.uk. Put your name down for the next batch, they seem to be selling fast. Haven't got mine yet, should be in the door any day now, but can't wait. Looks like a decent job. Bannco seem to be honestly trying too, with all the firmware updates.
EdwinsangrE Written by Guest on 2010-01-05 05:34:38Hi,
I just bought a new one from hong kong for 2 weeks now. It's better than ordinary PS3 controller. Plus I bought also a gaming mouse pad. Now I can fight face to face with the opponent online. 4/5 Check it here: www.goldenshop.com.hk
Written by Guest on 2010-01-06 04:34:01 rocs my little world, CoD:MW2 firmware is excellent. If you're having problems with this controller then the problem excists between your tv and your sofa.
( Or you work for splitfish :P )
Frag Pro is better in my opinion Written by Guest on 2010-01-26 16:48:40Before you guys go out and hate me, I'm a retailer in Europe and we sell both items.
We have had better feedback from customers with the Frag Pro than those who buy the Stein
I don't own any but have tried both and personally prefer the ergonomics of the Frag. I'm sure some may prefer the Stein so I think it's a good thing that we're all presented with a choice here!
I WANT ONE!!!!!!!!!! Written by Guest on 2010-02-13 06:41:56I've been looking the concept of using a mouse for a console especially for the PS3 and I believe that the fragnstein mouse is it. Unfortunately, I can't seem to find it anywhere. I need help!!!
FRAG ftw Written by Guest on 2010-02-17 22:37:06I bought mine from a UK store local to me www.TiocStore.Com they just recieved a load in stock but like previous post they sell like hotcakes. I have had both FragFx & FRAGnStein and the FRAGnStein rolls all over the FX.
theogster Written by Guest on 2010-02-20 09:06:57firstly, lemme just say i own a Splitfish FragFx V2, & it's great, apart from a couple of flaws, ie, the cabling between the nunchuck & the mouse is very intrusive, & the swap button is stupidly placed, making the start button impossible to press easily in game (ie, mellee attack in COD) but on the whole it's a great product, but i'm increasingly annoyed with the slander campaign that either splitfish as a company, or splitfish fanboys either way it brings the company into disrepute, (i'm talking to you DD..www.youtube.com/watch?v=e5IhuH19Oj0&feature=PlayList&p=762407BF16E55191&index=0&playnext=1 this guys Picture is on the Frag Pro's BOX !!! don't make you bias TO obvious dude !!!! a terible smear campaign, which is why when i go for a wireless controller to replace my trusty FragFx V2, i'll get the fragnstein instead of the Frag Pro. i'm sure they are all great products, but i can't abide by splitfish's dirty tricks campaign......
Fragnstein rocks Written by Guest on 2010-02-23 14:07:44Had the Frag FX and the thing broke after 3-4 sessions. The FragFXs mouse is way too light and the wired are cumbersome. Just tried the Fragnstein and this thing is awesome. Nicely weightet mouse and the wireless is just heavenly. Best controller for FPS on PS3!
TheOgster Written by Guest on 2010-02-25 06:49:32yeah, tbh the build quality on the FragFx mouse is pants.. tho, the nunchuc is very well made, & tbh, apart from the stupid placement of a couple of buttons, & the lack of a wheel, i don't have a problem with it, & never had any reliability issues. but won't buy another simply because of Splitfish & zDD's bollox slander campagn.. looking foreward to trying the fragnstein in a few weeks when i can afford it
the only thing that's worrying me is that i really REALLY like the sensitivity wheel on the FragFx, i use it a lot, cantering it between pos 6 to pos 9 when in zoom, dunno if the button adjustment will feel as "natural" but i'm sure i'll get used to it, especialy since i'll actualy be able to USE.. mellee atack on the fragnstein, which i can't do easily on the FragFx... due to the awfull placement of the button....
hope this helps anyone thinking about getting a mouse/nunchuck combo oh, & also, if you just wanna try a combo like this just to see if you can "get along" with it, cos of the newer wireless models, the older FragFx (like mine) are only going for around £20 on fleabay despite it's issues, it is a great thing to use compared to duallshock (in FPS games) still wouldn't buy a New product from splitfish tho, simply cos of the way they are acting.
theogster Written by Guest on 2010-03-11 05:20:31Righto well, i'm happy to say, the Fragnstein seems at least as good as the FragFx, the mouse is better on the Fragnstein, but the nunchuck on the splitfish is easier to hold,, so swings & roundabouts there i'm finding it hard getting used to the PSX buttons on the side, they feel oddly placed, BUT.. i allways feel like that when i use a different mouse, so it's no fault of the frag's
it's very smooth in use, & i havn't had any lag issues from either side of the controllers, although i did have to increase the sensitivity ingame, as the on the fly mouse setting doesn't seem to do anything... tho, tbh, i need to play with it a bit more to suss it out.
Plus points..
Fragnstein..
wireless... imo, this is a biggie, & makes a big difference. much better quality "feel" to the mouse. Much better button placement.. some of the buttons feel odd at the mo, but thats just me not being used to them, but the scroll wheel & centre button are very usefull esp in COD
Splitfish.
Better "feel" to the nunchuck (imo, but different strokes for different folks etc) Higher sensitivity, & easier to adjust on the fly this is something i Have to sort, as on the splitty I'll canter between pos 6 & 9 between running around & zooming etc, probably one of the most used "functions" as it means i never Ever need to shoot from the hip, as i can move very fast & smoothly whilst in zoom.
on the whole, i think i prefer the fragnstein, it feels nice to use & the wireless is great, tho i might get some of those stick on trigers for the nunchuck to try Happy
if i had the choice between the wired FragFx & the wireless FragNstein, i'd almost certainly go for the fragnstein, BUT... moneywise, unless your very bad with the dual shock, ie, like me.. then it's 100% worth the money, but if your happy enough & get good results from the DS pad, then i dunno, all i can say i that i couldn't do without the mouse/nunchuck combo, i mean, when i had my last PS3 & my 360, i never played more than maybe 1 hour a week on the consoles, sometimes they wouldnt get used for a month.. but now i'm on the ps3 more than the pc..
Cost of the FragNstein/Frag Pro (splitfish's wireless version) is about £60 on ebay. Cost of a second Hand FragFx V2 wired version, varies, but i've seen a couple go for around the £20/£25 mark.
SO, if your sick of playing keeping up with the jonses on your PC, but can't get used to the DS pad, i reckon this is the perfect solution, for the price of a couple of games you can have your Mouse back
theogster Written by Guest on 2010-03-14 12:53:40i noticed banco themselves posted earlier, are you guys still checking this thread ?
if so, could you help me out, i friend of mine got a fragnstein on my recomendation, he got it from a uk based ebay shop, that stated uk dispatch, but it ended up coming from Hong Kong :/ anyway, long story short, the sellers being an Ass... & when the Frag finaly arrived, it wouldn't connect, when connected to the pc it states "usb device not recognised" or gives a general cannot install error, so i'm guessing it's just the dongle at fault, If you see this, i'd really apreciate your input as he paid £70 on my recomendation i'm loving my frag btw. just wanna spread to love
theogster Written by Guest on 2010-03-15 03:37:29Just wanna thank Banco for a super speedy responce looks like my friend will be sorted pretty quick
Written by Guest on 2010-03-16 06:45:42Replacement or patch? I'm thinking of ordering one from hong kong but if it doesn't work on north american models then i'll order elsewhere. Thanks
theogster Written by Guest on 2010-03-16 11:04:26one one my clanmates got one on fleabay, but the dongle didnt work & the ebay seller wouldnt do anything, so i contacted banco direct, they replied within a day & are trying to get one of the UK distributors to send him a replacement.
as far as i know, there is no region coding at all on controllers, so regardless of where you buy it, it should work on your machine.
very happy with mine btw, easily as good as my wired frag fx v2. & the mouse is much much better.
Ezellisss Written by Guest on 2010-03-18 13:40:10Guys do you think zDD is just pretending that splitfish is better than stein . Cause I think he gets cash from sf for all the promoting
theogster Written by Guest on 2010-03-19 03:53:27there has been a fairly nasty slander campaign against banco, & zDD DEFFINATELY has deep connections with splitfish, i mean, theres a PHOTO of him on the frag pro's box for gods sake lol !! thats the only reason i got the fragnstein, because i didnt like splitfish's marketing tactics. whilst i think the frag pro will probably be a very good product (as is the fragFx v2) i wouldn't buy one simply becuase of the fake reviews etc.
& i can personaly assure you, the Fragnstein gets the job done very nicely, & it feels like a good quality piece of kit when you use it, the mouse is easily as good as my M$ sidewinder gaming mouse, & i've never had any lag etc.
theogster Written by Guest on 2010-03-19 14:25:29just want to "big up" banco.. don't wanna sound like a fanboy, but praise where praise is due,
one of my clanmates got the Stein, & had a problem with the dongle, unfortunately the scumbag ebay seller washed his hands of it & wouldnt sort it out, so i emailed Banco direct via the sales email addy, & they sent him a new dongle, all is working well now, & Banco worked hard to resolve the issue, & got it all sorted in less than a week
so, i would very much like to thank Banco, for excellent Customer service, & also Lime (http://www.limexb360.co.uk/) for being very excellent & sending the dongle, even though it wasn't purchased from you, i'll be sure to have a mooch at your shop being a gadget freak, i'm sure i'll find something i "need" lol
rocs my little world, CoD:MW2 firmware is excellent. If you're having problems with this controller then the problem excists between your tv and your sofa. 
i'm loving my frag btw. just wanna spread to love 
