Video Games: Tips for Buying, Replacing & Repairing Atari Controllers

Because Atari computers and especially video game systems were so popular during the late 1970s and 1980s, many are still in use today. However, many of the controllers – especially for the Atari 5200 – are in poor condition or no longer function. When purchasing an Atari system or individual controllers, there are some potential problems you should be careful to avoid.

Two types of controllers which often function poorly are the original Atari 5200 joystick and the Atari “Paddle” controllers. Because of this, be careful not to purchase these controllers unless they have been tested and are known to function properly. Repair kits for original 5200 joysticks are often available on eBay.com, but these are fairly expensive.

The “Paddle” controllers often develop a problem in which movement becomes “jittery” when the knob is turned – this can also be fixed. If the knob is broken on one of the two paddle controllers in a set, you can pull both knobs off (they come off like an analog TV knob, nothing needs to be unscrewed) and swap them if necessary. It is still possible to purchase some types of controllers which have never been used on some websites and internet auction services.

The original 2600/400 joystick (model CX-40) is less likely to become unacceptable, but can be difficult to use as it ages. A good replacement for this is to use an original Sega Genesis controller instead. These are easier to use, and they don’t cost much on eBay.com. Some controllers from vintage Commodore computers will also work on the 2600. If you want to repair the original 2600 joystick, try searching on eBay for “Atari 2600 Joystick Repair Kit”. The website best-electronics-ca.com also sells Atari accessories and replacement parts.

Another option to replace the CX-40 joystick is to purchase a CX-24 Deluxe Joystick, which was designed for the 2600, 7800, and XE systems. One seller on eBay regular sells new joysticks of this type, you can find them by searching for “new unused atari joystick”. Some controllers used with the Atari 400 and 800 computers can also be used with the Atari 2600 and 7800.

Unlike the 7800, the 5200 is not compatible with the 2600’s joysticks or game cartridges. Because of this, it is harder to find controllers for the 5200, especially outside of the internet. Wico made a joystick for the 5200 which is more popular with users than the original joystick, and apparently longer lasting. However, it is somewhat rare and usually expensive. Wico also made a joystick and even a trackball for the 2600. Be careful not to confuse Wico joysticks and trackballs designed for different models and computers made by other brands (Texas Instruments, Apple), as some of them look similar.

If you find that no controller will work properly on your Atari system, it may need a replacement joystick port. These are available from some internet sources for the Atari video game systems and some of the earlier computers as well. Replacing the joystick port will involve opening up the system and soldering, but doesn’t appear as if it would be especially difficult.

In addition to eBay and Atari parts/accessories websites, Atari joysticks and controllers can also be purchased on some forums and message boards related to vintage video games or computers, as well as yard sales and thrift shops. CX-40 joysticks and “Paddle” controllers are the easiest to find. A few controllers can also be found on Yahoo! Auctions.

Following these tips should help you to continue enjoying games on your vintage Atari video game system or computer.