Alpakka is Input Labs’ open, gyro-focused game controller reference design: a DIY route for players who want motion-based aiming and hardware they can customize. It is not one fixed parts list or a guaranteed ready-to-buy product. The right build depends on its version, and Input Labs’ performance figures and cost estimates should be treated as its own claims rather than independent test results.
What is the Alpakka controller?
Input Labs describes Alpakka as its main reference design and a reinterpretation of the classic gamepad. Its firmware can present the controller to a device as a keyboard, mouse, and XInput gamepad, according to the project’s overview. That combination is intended to make it useful for PC games and different input preferences, rather than limiting it to conventional thumbstick control.
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The design centers on gyro aiming. The overview describes two gyro sensors operating in parallel and a touch-sensitive area around the ABXY buttons. Input Labs also describes genre-based configuration profiles and an optional configuration app. Its claims of low latency, no acceleration or smoothing, and mouse-like performance are manufacturer statements; the cited project pages do not establish independent comparative testing.
Who might find it useful?
Input Labs identifies mouse-focused games played from a sofa, difficulty using a keyboard or thumbstick, preference for motion aiming, and the need to modify a controller as possible reasons to consider Alpakka. These are the project owner’s suggested use cases, not independent user findings or clinical accessibility claims.
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Because the firmware can emulate several common PC input types, Alpakka may suit someone willing to configure controls around a particular game or play style. It is a less straightforward choice for a player who wants a conventional, finished controller with no assembly or setup.
Which Alpakka version are you building?
Check the version before buying core electronics. The firmware repository lists distinct targets: Alpakka v0.x.x uses a Raspberry Pi Pico, while v1.x.x uses a Marmota module. A Pico recommendation therefore applies to the older v0 build, not to every Alpakka.
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| Build or direction | Core or format | What to know |
|---|---|---|
| Alpakka v0.x.x | Raspberry Pi Pico | The repository lists this module for the v0 firmware target. |
| Alpakka v1.x.x | Marmota module | The repository lists this module for the v1 firmware target; do not substitute a Pico based on v0 instructions. |
| Alpakka 1.0 reference design | Wireless dongle, battery power, USB-C and a second thumbstick | Input Labs’ December 4, 2024 announcement specifies a 1200 mAh LiPo battery for this reference design. Check current documentation and parts availability rather than relying on the announcement’s original projected shipping date. |
| Alpakka 2 direction | DIY and PRO variants | Input Labs’ later materials describe a DIY version for people with a 3D printer and a PRO version intended to be pre-assembled with an injection-molded case. Availability and status can change. |
The firmware repository also includes a wireless dongle target. That does not make every version or build wireless by default: follow the manual and parts list for the specific version you intend to assemble.
What does a DIY build involve?
The components guide describes a build assembled from a PCB, electronics such as thumbsticks and buttons, case and button parts, and bolts and nuts. Battery and wireless components are optional in the guide’s general description. It offers a guided complete-kit configurator and links to parts from Input Labs and outside suppliers.
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- Choose the version. Match the firmware target and core module to the build documentation before sourcing anything.
- Use the current manual and components guide. Confirm the required PCB, controls, case parts, fasteners, and any battery or wireless pieces for that version.
- Decide how to source parts. The guide’s configurator supports a complete kit, while separate sourcing gives you more control but requires checking each component’s compatibility and availability.
- Check tools and assembly instructions. The components guide lists a USB-to-TTL serial cable as a developer tool; do not assume every listed tool is required for an ordinary build. The current manual should settle what is needed for your chosen version.
Assembly is part of the trade-off: Alpakka gives builders room to customize, but the reader takes responsibility for version matching, sourcing, and following the build instructions.
Can you buy a finished controller, and what might building cost?
The official FAQ directs readers asking whether they can buy a controller to components and DIY kits; that page does not offer a direct purchase of a complete controller. The same FAQ estimates a full DIY kit sourced from Input Labs at €150–€200. It estimates that sourcing elsewhere could bring the per-controller cost to about €100 if the builder already owns the necessary tools, excluding component shipping. These are Input Labs’ estimates, not verified live prices.
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A later development update describes a DIY version aimed at people with a 3D printer and a PRO version intended as a pre-assembled controller with an injection-molded case. The Alpakka 2 page describes both directions and lists Windows 10/11, Steam Deck (Arch), and other Linux distributions. These are version-specific product plans and compatibility statements, not a guarantee that a particular model is currently available to order.
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What does Input Labs say about latency and polling?
Input Labs’ Alpakka overview states a 250 Hz polling rate for the reference design and says modified builds can reach higher rates, up to 1000 Hz. Its FAQ says wireless latency with the reference dongle is around 2 milliseconds. These figures are the project owner’s specifications, not results from an independent benchmark; the stated wireless figure is specifically tied to the reference dongle.
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Where should you verify current details?
Use Input Labs’ controller overview for the design description, the firmware repository for version targets, the components guide and FAQ for build and cost guidance, and the project’s development update and Alpakka 2 page for its newer product direction. Parts, prices, compatibility, and availability can change, so confirm them against the current version-specific documentation before committing to a build.
Quick Recap
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