XIM APEX  Mouse & Keyboard Adapter

XIM APEX is a mouse & keyboard adapter that emulates the console controller connected to it, e.g. XIM APEX appears as a DUALSHOCK 4 controller on Playstation 4. A genuine, first-party gaming controller must be connected to XIM APEX at all times for authentication with the console.

XIM APEX supports hundreds of games on PlayStation 4 (PS4), Xbox One, PlayStation 3 (PS3) and Xbox 360 using plug-and-play Smart Translators. Each supported game comes with its own Smart Translator, which converts mouse movement into analog stick positions that consoles can understand.

Smart Translators are unique to each game and are built using artificial intelligence and machine learning to ensure accurate mapping of look mechanics such as deadzone size, deadzone shape, maximum turn speed, acceleration and timed velocity. For an in-depth look at Smart Translators, watch this video.

Smart Translators provide the best possible mouse & keyboard experience for console gaming, but performance will vary depending on the quality of a game’s look mechanics, as well as your equipment. Please review the Official Games Support List and research Hardware Compatibility prior to purchase. Contact us for recommended mice & keyboards, or discuss your setup with XIM support to optimise your settings.

Ensure that XIM APEX Game Settings are correctly configured and Game Downloads are updated periodically in XIM APEX Manager. XIM Technologies may update a Smart Translator if a game patch adversely affects aiming behaviour. There is no guarantee that a Smart Translator will feel as good as it did before a game patch, however performance is typically improved.

XIM APEX features a number of advanced settings that can help with Smart Translation. Visit the XIMGameplay YouTube channel for in-depth game configuration settings, as well as advanced tutorials covering features like Ballistics Curves, Smoothing, Steady Aim, Boost and Simulate Analog Behaviour. Keep your XIM APEX firmware and XIM APEX Manager software up to date as new releases may contain additional features, hardware compatibility or game improvements.

PC and console games have different look mechanics. PC input is based on distance (mouse movement), console input is based on velocity (analog stick position). How close a console game feels to PC depends on each game’s unique look mechanics. Console games have constraints such as maximum turn speed, timed velocity, acceleration, deadzones and aim assist that all apply to XIM APEX, but don’t exist when using a mouse & keyboard on PC. Weapon recoil is also heavier in console games.

PC game controls have separate bindings for each action e.g C for Crouch & Esc for Cancel. Because controllers have less buttons than a keyboard, console games condense controls into multi-action buttons, e.g. Circle on PS4 is either Crouch or Cancel, depending on context. XIM APEX cannot turn console game controls into PC controls – multi-action buttons cannot be separated into single-action buttons.

XIM’s Smart Translators map console look mechanics to mouse movement for the most accurate aim possible, and bind keys & mouse buttons to controller actions, however console look mechanics and control schemes are baked into the game engine and cannot be removed.

It depends on gaming background and skill level. A mouse is more accurate than a controller, however mouse & keyboard is an acquired skill that takes time to learn. XIM APEX is not an insta-win mode and you still need to work for your K/D.

Many console gamers pair a gaming mouse with a Sony Move Navigation Controller, Logitech G13 or Azeron gamepad for familiar analog movement. PC gamers will have an easier time with mouse & keyboard on XIM APEX, but need to adapt to console look mechanics such as turn speed limits, aim assist and higher recoil.

XIM Apex can be set to 125Hz (8ms), 250Hz (4ms), 500Hz (2ms), or 1000Hz (1ms). The native USB controller polling rates are 125Hz for Xbox One and 250Hz for PlayStation 4. XIM APEX is up to 8 x faster than a controller on Xbox One and 4 x faster than a controller on PS4.

XIM APEX supports Sony PlayStation 4 (PS4), Microsoft Xbox One, Sony PlayStation 3 (PS3) and Microsoft Xbox 360, including PlayStation 4 Pro, PlayStation 4 Slim, Xbox One X, Xbox One S, and all models of PlayStation 3 & Xbox 360 gaming consoles.

XIM APEX works with hundreds of first-person and third-person shooter games on PlayStation 4 (PS4), Xbox One, PlayStation 3 (PS3) and Xbox 360.

Refer to the Official Game Support List and XIM APEX Game Settings for more information.

Smart Translators are only available for shooting games, but XIM APEX can be used for mouse & keyboard control in other games. Use the Console Controller Crossover game config, bind controller actions to your preferred mouse & keyboard buttons and you’re done!

XIM APEX works with DUALSHOCK 4 (PS4), Xbox Wireless Controller (Xbox One), Xbox Elite Controller, Xbox Elite Series 2 Controller, DUALSHOCK 3 (PS3), Sony Six-Axis (PS3), Move Navigation Controller (PS3), Xbox 360 Wired Controller and Nintendo Switch Joy-Con (L or R only, not both) controllers, as well as Logitech 3D Extreme Pro joystick.

A genuine Sony or Microsoft controller must be connected to XIM APEX via USB at all times for authentication with the console, e.g. a DUALSHOCK 4 controller is required for PlayStation 4. The Xbox (Guide) button on an Xbox One controller may need to be pressed after booting up the console to authenticate XIM APEX with Xbox One.

XIM APEX does not work with third-party or generic controllers (e.g Razer, Nacon, Scuf, Hori, Astro, PowerA).

A second genuine console controller may be connected for console crossover gameplay, e.g to use a DUALSHOCK 4 on Xbox One. XIM APEX supports wireless second controller connections to DUALSHOCK 4, Xbox One S (model 1708), DUALSHOCK 3, Six-Axis, Move Navigation and Joy-Con controllers via Bluetooth.

XIM APEX works with almost all wired and wireless USB gaming mice, including Logitech, Razer, Corsair, Cooler Master, Zowie, Finalmouse, Steelseries, Roccat, Cougar, HyperX, Fnatic, Thermaltake and Glorious.

The only gaming mice known to be incompatible with XIM APEX are Mad Catz RATs due to their reliance on PC drivers. Bluetooth mice such as Apple’s Magic Mouse are not supported. Student, office, generic and cheap mice brands like Redragon should be avoided – they have poor sensors and will deliver a sub-par XIM APEX experience.

Mice that require PC software like Razer Synapse for macros, lighting and sensitivity stages will work with XIM APEX, however some features may not work without a PC connection and the mouse will use its default settings.

Wireless USB rechargeable mice work with XIM APEX, but may require more power draw while charging than the console can provide, causing XIM APEX to disconnect. Fully recharge your mouse before use and connect it wirelessly to XIM APEX via the mouse USB dongle.

Please confirm that your mouse works with XIM APEX on the XIM Community forums, or contact us prior to purchase as we do not provide refunds for using XIM APEX with incompatible equipment.

Most gaming keyboards are compatible with XIM APEX including Logitech, Corsair, Cooler Master, SteelSeries, HyperX, Roccat, Ducky, Ergodox and Zowie. XIM APEX also supports Logitech G13, Razer Tartarus, Razer Orbweaver and Azeron gaming keypads, as well as Wooting One and Two analog keyboards.

Some keyboards have restricted functionality when not connected to PC, such as limited RGB lighting, key rollover and ghosting support. This may be an issue with Razer keyboards due to reliance on Razer Synapse software and PC drivers for these functions. Razer keyboards do work with XIM APEX, however if you experience issues, poor on-board device support is the reason for limited functionality.

Power draw may be problem due to RGB lighting. A console can only supply 5V of power over a single USB port, which may be insufficient for a XIM APEX, mouse, keyboard and controller. Corsair and Razer keyboards have high-power requirements with some models featuring a second USB cable for power. XIM APEX disconnections due to high power draw can be solved by adding a power adapter to the XIM USB hub, or running the keyboard’s second USB power cable to a USB wall adapter.

Corsair “K” model keyboards may need to be set to BIOS mode to function correctly with XIM APEX. Hold F1 and Windows Lock (at top-right of keyboard) for 3 seconds to enter BIOS mode. If done correctly, the Scroll Lock LED will blink to indicate BIOS mode is enabled.

Wooting One & Two analog keyboards work with XIM APEX. Follow the How to setup a Wooting keyboard for XIM APEX guide to configure analog keyboard input.

Roccat ISKU+ ForceFX keyboards feature analog QWEASD keys that are not compatible with XIM APEX. Edit your game in XIM APEX Manager, swipe from right-to-left to view the HIP page and set Analog → Sticks → Left X and Left Y axes to None. This needs to be done for HIP, ADS and Auxiliary sub-configs and requires Expert configuration to be enabled in XIM APEX Manager → Global Settings.

Generic USB keyboards and cheap brands like Redragon may have problems connecting to XIM APEX due to not being fully compliant with the HID USB standard and are not recommended.

XIM APEX does not support Bluetooth keyboards.

Please confirm that your keyboard works with XIM APEX on the XIM Community forums, or contact us prior to purchase as we do not provide refunds for using XIM APEX with incompatible equipment.

Logitech G series gaming mice are highly recommended for use with XIM APEX. Logitech mice have low power draw, RGB lighting doesn’t require a PC and the Pixart, Mercury or Hero sensors in Logitech mice work very well for console gaming. Macros however are non-repeating on Logitech mice, e.g. no on-mouse Rapid Fire. If macros are important, Steelseries mice are recommended.

Logitech keyboards (no on-board macro support), SteelSeries keyboards (on-board macro support), Razer Orbweaver, Razer Tartarus, Logitech G13 and Azeron keypads are highly recommended for a trouble-free XIM APEX gaming experience.

To connect a wireless DUALSHOCK 4 (PS4), DUALSHOCK 3 (PS3), Sony Six-Axis (PS3), Xbox Wireless Controller (model 1708), Xbox Elite Series 2 Controller, Move Navigation Controller (PS3), or Nintendo Switch Joy-Con via Bluetooth to XIM APEX, watch this video.

Original Xbox One, Xbox Elite (Series 1) and Xbox 360 controllers are not Bluetooth devices and must be connected to XIM APEX via USB.

XIM APEX also supports wireless USB gaming mice & keyboards from brands like Logitech, Razer and Corsair. XIM APEX does not support Bluetooth mice & keyboards.

To connect a wireless USB mouse or keyboard, plug the wireless USB dongle into the XIM APEX USB hub and the device should pair automatically. If required, pair the device with the USB dongle on PC before connecting to XIM APEX.

A PS4 controller may be used on Xbox One and vice versa. A genuine controller must be connected to the XIM USB hub for console authentication, however a second crossover controller may be connected via Bluetooth, if the controller supports it, e.g. DUALSHOCK 4, DUALSHOCK 3 and Xbox One S (model 1708) controllers.

Setup a Console Controller Crossover game config in XIM APEX Manager to bind the controller buttons. XIM APEX provides button & stick remapping, analog trigger depth and deadzone editing, however advanced settings like Ballistics Curves, Response Rate and Steady Aim have no effect on cross-console controllers.

XIM APEX does not work with third-party or generic controllers (e.g Razer, Nacon, Scuf, Hori, Astro, PowerA). Titan One, Titan Two and CronusMAX PLUS controller adapters support a broad array of official and third-party controllers, wheels and joysticks and are better suited for this purpose. Conversely, these devices deliver a poor mouse & keyboard experience compared to XIM APEX.

XIM APEX supports daisy-chaining of USB hub and switches, so additional devices can be connected to XIM APEX such as Fragpedal foot pedals, Logitech 3D Extreme Pro joystick and Azeron keypad, alongside the connected mouse, keyboard and authentication controller.

When adding additional devices to XIM APEX, we recommend either replacing the XIM USB hub with a powered USB 2.0 or 3.0 hub with more ports, or daisy-chaining a powered USB 2.0 or 3.0 hub to one of the XIM USB hub ports.

Please note that the authentication controller must be plugged into a USB hub that is directly connected to XIM APEX. Authentication controllers do not work via  a USB switch.

XIM APEX supports powered & unpowered USB 2.0 and 3.0 hubs. USB hubs can be daisy-chained to connect more devices to XIM APEX. A replacement powered USB hub is helpful to add supplementary power for setups with high power requirements, e.g. Razer or Corsair keyboards.

CronusMAX USB Hub is compatible with XIM APEX and the fourth USB hub port can add an additional device, e.g. mouse, keyboard, controller and foot pedals.

XIM APEX supports 3.5 mm headsets connected to a controller for game audio and voice chat. Plug the headset into the 3.5mm controller port and the console will automatically detect the connected headset. If the headset isn’t detected, the console may need to be rebooted.

If Party Chat audio is garbled or laggy on Xbox One, open XIM APEX Manager and enable Expert configuration mode in Global Settings. Edit your game config, tap ‘…’ in the Identity section and enable Audio Compatibility Mode.

PlayStation 4 requires a DUALSHOCK 4 V2 (CUH-ZCT2U) controller for game audio and voice chat. Original DUALSHOCK 4 (CUH-ZCT1) controllers do not support audio passthrough over USB and will not work for game audio and voice chat with XIM APEX.

There is no need to connect a wireless headset to XIM APEX. Wireless headsets use USB audio adapters (PS4 only), or a console’s optical or HDMI port for audio. XIM APEX does not support wireless, Bluetooth or USB headsets and cannot be used to connect a PS4 headset to Xbox, or vice versa.

XIM APEX has no support for chatpads connected to the controller, nor can a connected keyboard be used to type messages.

Type messages using the connected controller, or use the iOS or Android chat apps for PlayStation Network & Xbox Live.

XIM APEX does not officially support PC gaming. XIM APEX may work if a PC game supports Xbox 360, Xbox One or DUALSHOCK 4 controllers. Plug XIM APEX into a PC USB port with your preferred controller connected to XIM APEX (PS4 or Xbox), load the PC game and test the controller. If the controller works, the mouse & keyboard connected to XIM APEX may also work.

Using XIM APEX to exploit aim assist on PC will come at the cost of mouse accuracy and turn speed. XIM APEX won’t feel the same as native mouse & keyboard because a PC game will see XIM APEX as the connected controller and it will behave as such. XIM’s Smart Translators are designed to work with console game look mechanics and performance will vary on PC. Adjusting in-game deadzones, reducing Field of View and locking the framerate to 60 FPS may help.

Refunds are not available if purchasing a XIM APEX for use on an unsupported platform.

XIM APEX does not support Nintendo Switch consoles. Connecting a XIM APEX to a Titan One, Titan Two or Magic-NS controller adapter may work with some Nintendo Switch games. XIM’s Smart Translators are designed to work with PS4, Xbox One, PS3 or Xbox 360 look mechanics and performance will vary on Nintendo Switch.

Refunds are not available if purchasing a XIM APEX for use on an unsupported platform.

XIM APEX does not natively support Remote Play connections to PS4.

Pairing a XIM APEX with a Titan One or Titan Two controller adapter will connect XIM APEX to PS4 Remote Play on Windows 10 and macOS computers.

Refunds are not available if purchasing a XIM APEX for use on an unsupported platform.

Using XIM APEX for console shooting games is the same as using a steering wheel for driving games, an arcade stick for fighting games, or a HOTAS controller for flight sims. XIM APEX is simply a better tool for the job than a controller.

Sony added mouse & keyboard support to the original PlayStation in 1994. Microsoft added mouse & keyboard support to Xbox One in 2018. Only a few console games support built-in mouse & keyboard on PS4 and Xbox One, whereas XIM APEX supports hundreds of games on PS4, Xbox One, PS3 and Xbox 360.

Console games with built-in mouse & keyboard support use a similar method to XIM APEX to translate mouse movement to analog stick positions. XIM APEX will typically outperform native console mouse & keyboard, as well as delivering an arsenal of tools to customise and improve the experience.

XIM APEX does not support on-board mods or macros, is subject to all the same constraints as a controller and can’t magically transform a console game into a PC game. By using a mouse, XIM APEX makes aim more accurate at higher in-game sensitivity than would normally be used with a gaming controller.

There is a common misconception that XIM APEX creates an unfair advantage because it combines Aim Assist with unlimited turn speed, but this is quite simply untrue. XIM APEX is subject to all of the same constraints as a controller, including turn speed, which is set by the game developer and cannot be bypassed. There are no features built into XIM APEX to enhance or abuse Aim Assist, and Smart Translators are created in an environment completely devoid of Aim Assist.

Aim Assist is designed to work with low-precision analog thumbsticks with a range of motion of roughly 7mm in any direction. To make it easier to aim at a target, Aim Assist slows right analog stick movement close to the hitbox, creating a magnetic pull effect. Controller users tend to use mid to low in-game sensitivity to make it significantly easier to lock onto an enemy, which is the intended purpose of Aim Assist.

XIM Smart Translators are created at maximum in-game sensitivity for the highest precision mouse movement, within the limits of a game’s turn speed. XIM APEX cannot turn faster than a controller, but it is easier to aim a mouse accurately at max in-game sensitivity. This is because the mousepad more or less becomes the right analog stick, e.g. a 32cm x 24cm mousepad has roughly 350 times more range of motion than a thumbstick, so it follows that aim is more precise. High-precision mouse aim is XIM APEX’s advantage over a controller in games without Aim Assist, like PUBG and Rainbow Six Siege.

XIM APEX’s combination of higher in-game sensitivity and slower, more precise aim movements can cause the crosshair to struggle to latch onto or break into Aim Assist. The phenomenon is known as the “Aim Assist bubble” and it feels like XIM APEX is tracking an invisible man behind your target. Consequently, Aim Assist is a disadvantage in XIM APEX engagements against skilled controller users who are better able to to use Aim Assist to get into the hitbox.

XIM APEX gamers have learned that using analog movement (e.g. Sony Nav controller), adjusting mouse DPI & polling, and tweaking XIM APEX expert settings can make Aim Assist feel more controller-like, or more PC-like, depending on preference. The goal is not to increase Aim Assist, but to break through the Aim Assist bubble, which is harder to do using a mouse than a controller.

In short, a console controller is far more like an aimbot than XIM APEX because it works with Aim Assist, rather than against it. Only one advanced XIM APEX setting, Steady Aim, is designed to interact with Aim Assist. The purpose of Steady Aim is to reduce strong Aim Assist in games like Call of Duty, Battlefield and Destiny.

There is currently no risk of being banned from your game, account or console for using a XIM APEX on supported gaming systems (PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PlayStation 3 & Xbox 360).

XIM APEX is in full compliance with PlayStation Network and Xbox Live Terms of Service. You cannot be banned for using a XIM APEX on consoles that offer built-in mouse & keyboard support, as well as licenced mouse & keyboard adapters like the Hori Tac Pro on PS4 and Xbox One.

In some cases such as online tournaments, XIM APEX may be identified as against the rules of play. In these instances, you may be reported by other players as suspected of using a XIM APEX, which could result in a tournament ban and you do so at your own risk.

In the unlikely event of a ban, we are not responsible for, nor offer any form of compensation for how you choose to use a XIM APEX. Bans and suspensions are typically the result of poor online behaviour, not the device used to play a game.

Mod Squad offers no guarantee or warranty that the XIM APEX device or a XIM Smart Translator will be undetectable on compatible gaming systems in the future. Please refer to the XIM APEX Warranty for further terms.

Far less than the internet would have you believe. XIM Technologies collects Smart Translator installation metrics for XIM APEX devices. Usage rates in popular games like Fortnite, PUBG & Apex Legends is less than 0.01% of the player base, or roughly 1 in 10000 gamers.

XIM APEX is frequently used as a scapegoat for poor gameplay. The chance of encountering a XIM APEX user ranges from once in every 100 to 2500 games (depending on opposing team size), whereas the odds of dying to another controller user is approximately 9999 in 10000 (or 99.99%).

XIM APEX has no support for mods & macros. However, connecting a Titan One, Titan Two or CronusMAX PLUS will add mods & macros to XIM APEX. Some gaming mice & keyboards provide on-board macros that can be used with XIM APEX – Steelseries is highly recommended for this purpose.

Mod scripts & macros breach the Terms of Service of the PlayStation Network and Xbox Live. Most mods are simple button press sequences and/or stick movements that are not detected by the game, however you may be reported by other players in your lobby for suspicious input in kill feeds, observer modes and match replays. Use of mods & macros is entirely at your own risk.

Visit https://xim.tech/start and watch the Quick Start Guide to learn how to setup XIM APEX.

XIM APEX does not come with a user manual as the device is mostly plug-and-play. View the Quick Start Guide and Instructional Videos to learn how to setup and use XIM APEX.

For more advanced topics such as game settings, expert features and gameplay demonstrations, visit the XIM Gameplay YouTube Channel.

Please refer to the XIM APEX Upgrading Firmware video and visit https://xim.tech/latest to update XIM APEX firmware.

To update XIM APEX Manager software on iOS or Android, use App Store or Google Play to download the latest software version.

XIM APEX beta firmware and XIM APEX Manager software can be downloaded at https://xim.tech/beta.

To update the Smart Translator database when a new game is released, XIM APEX Manager will prompt for the update when opened, or go to XIM APEX Manager → Global Settings → Force Games Download.

To add games to XIM APEX, visit https://xim.tech/start and watch the Quick Start Guide video tutorial.

Smart Translators for new games are added to XIM APEX on a regular basis. Open XIM APEX Manager app on iOS or Android devices and a prompt to download updates for new Smart Translators will appear on the first screen.

Alternately, go to XIM APEX Manager → Global Settings and select Force Games Download to update the Smart Translator library.

Open XIM APEX Manager app and go to XIM Manager → Global Settings → Enable expert configuration. This setting will add an arsenal of mouse & keyboard customisation options that are only possible using a XIM APEX.

Visit the XIMGameplay YouTube channel for detailed tutorials covering all XIM APEX Expert settings.

Watch the Quick Start Guide to learn how to bind mouse buttons & keyboard keys on XIM APEX.

For crossover controller bindings, watch this video.

Secondary key bindings requires Expert configuration mode to be enabled. Open XIM APEX Manager app and go to XIM Manager → Global Settings → Enable expert configuration.

Edit a game config in XIM APEX Manager, swipe from right to left to view the HIP page, then scroll down to the bottom of Actions. Tap ‘…’ to reveal the word Primary. Touch the right arrow to display Secondary bindings.

Bind a second key or button to activate an Action, e.g. bind Triangle to V on a keyboard, as well as Scroll Down on a mouse wheel.

Open XIM APEX Manager app, go to Global Settings and select Enable expert configuration.

Edit a game config in XIM APEX Manager, swipe from right to left to view the HIP page, then scroll down to the bottom of Actions. Tap ‘…’ to reveal the word Primary. Touch the right arrow to display Secondary bindings.

Select L1 (or LB) and bind a preferred mouse or keyboard button, e.g ‘V’. Repeat for R1 (or RB) and bind to the same button or key, e.g ‘V’. Pressing ‘V’ will now trigger both L1 & R1 (or LB & RB), activating the Ultimate skill in-game.

To connect a wireless Sony Move Navigation Controller via Bluetooth to XIM APEX, watch this video.

To connect a wireless Nintendo Switch Joy-Con via Bluetooth to XIM APEX, watch this video.

XIM Link is a community-made PC app to swap mice & keyboards between PC and XIM APEX. XIM Link requires special easy transfer cables and will not work with regular USB cables.

XIM Link is useful for keyboards & mice that require PC drivers or apps to function correctly, or need more power than the console can provide, or lack on-board memory for macros, RGB lighting, sensitivity stages etc. Or you may simply lack the desktop space for separate mice & keyboards for PC and XIM APEX.

Learn more about XIM Link on the XIM Community forums.

XIM APEX is not specifically designed to interact with Aim Assist and will never have more Aim Assist than a controller. However, it is possible to increase Aim Assist above the default XIM APEX settings using a number of Expert configuration options. To enable Expert mode in XIM APEX Manager app, go to Global Settings → Enable expert configuration.

Low mouse DPI values of 800, 1600 and 3200 are recommended for more controller-like Aim Assist behaviour. Low mouse Polling Rates and XIM APEX Response Rates of 125Hz and 250Hz can also make Aim Assist feel more like a controller. Mouse DPI and Polling Rates are set either in the mouse’s PC or Mac configuration app, or on the mouse itself. Please refer to your mouse’s documentation for more information.

Setting in-game Sensitivity to slightly less than maximum, using low XIM APEX Sensitivity values, and XIM APEX Expert settings such as Smoothing, negative Ballistics Curves, Simulate Analog Behaviour and Synchronise set to Common or Slow can enhance Aim Assist on XIM APEX.

Aim Assist is a double-edged sword – it’s somewhat intangible (“feeling” Aim Assist), highly subjective and more Aim Assist does not necessarily mean better aim. Please read the “Is XIM APEX an aimbot?” question for more information.

XIM APEX is not specifically designed to interact with Aim Assist and it is impossible to remove it entirely, unless a console game has an option to disable Aim Assist. However, it is possible to reduce Aim Assist below the default XIM APEX settings using a number of Expert configuration options. To enable Expert mode in XIM APEX Manager app, go to Global Settings → Enable expert configuration.

High mouse DPI values of 8000 to 16000 are recommended for more PC-like aim behaviour by making it easier to cut through Aim Assist into the hitbox. High  mouse Polling Rates and XIM APEX Response Rates of 500Hz and 1000Hz can also reduce the strength of Aim Assist. Mouse DPI and Polling Rates are set either in the mouse’s PC or Mac configuration app, or on the mouse itself. Please refer to your mouse’s documentation for more information.

High mouse DPI and Polling Rates are effective at combatting Aim Assist, but may result in jitter. Adding a small amount of Smoothing (at 3 or 4) and/or using 500Hz Polling & Response Rates can counter mouse jitter. Refer to the “What is mouse jitter and how do I fix it?” and “Is 1000Hz helpful for console gaming?” questions for more information.

Setting in-game Sensitivity to maximum, using high XIM APEX Sensitivity values and XIM APEX Expert settings such as positive Ballistics Curves, Synchronise set to Default or Off, Steady Aim and Boost can all reduce Aim Assist on XIM APEX.

XIM APEX cannot remove Aim Assist from a console game engine and is subject to all of the same look mechanic constraints as a controller, so it will never feel exactly like a PC game. Please refer to the “Does XIM APEX feel like playing on PC?” question for more information.

Yes and no. The native USB controller polling rate of Xbox One is 125Hz. The native USB controller polling rate of PlayStation 4 is 250Hz. Both consoles poll USB ports at 250Hz, but an Xbox One controller only responds to every second tick.

Both consoles are technically capable of receiving USB data at 1000Hz, but Xbox One may have issues in some games while in Party Chat. This can cause garbled audio, or dropped frames in rare cases.

Smart Translators for Xbox One have an Audio Compatibility Mode option to resolve this issue. Dropping XIM APEX’s Response Rate to 500Hz may also solve the problem. 

1000Hz also runs the risk of mouse jitter as Xbox One is not designed to handle more than 250Hz of input data over USB. Setting XIM APEX Response Rate to 500Hz and/or adding Smoothing via XIM APEX Manager can remove mouse jitter on Xbox One.

PlayStation 4 does not have audio or video issues with XIM APEX set to 1000Hz. The native Bluetooth polling rate of a DUALSHOCK 4 is 800Hz, so the PS4 seems better equipped than Xbox One to handle USB input at 1000Hz.

Mouse jitter may be due to environmental factors, such as sensor debris or a worn mousepad, so 1000Hz can be an issue on PS4. Like Xbox One, setting XIM APEX Response Rate to 500Hz and/or adding Smoothing via XIM APEX Manager can remove mouse jitter.

Performance-wise, there is a noticeable improvement in mouse performance going from 125Hz Response Rate (XIM APEX default) to 250Hz (the native USB port polling rate of both Xbox One and PS4). Stepping up to 500Hz and 1000Hz Response Rate has little impact on mouse performance and feels roughly the same as 250Hz. However, 500Hz and 1000Hz can reduce Aim Assist and make it easier to enter or leave the enemy’s hitbox, thus improving the overall XIM APEX experience.

1000Hz is helpful for console gaming, but it’s more useful as a counter to Aim Assist than as a performance enhancer for mouse aim. Our recommendation is to use 500Hz XIM APEX Response Rate to avoid audio & video issues on Xbox One and to reduce the chance of mouse jitter on all supported consoles.

Mouse polling can safely be left at 1000Hz for the smoothest mouse tracking – XIM APEX will filter out additional mouse input at 125Hz, 250Hz and 500Hz Response Rates. Note that mouse polling rates must always match or exceed XIM APEX Response Rate or aiming will be compromised.

Jitter (or stutter) happens when the mouse makes unexpected or erratic micro-movements movements. Jitter is typically caused by part of the mouse sensor being blocked (check for debris), worn, glossy or uneven mouse surfaces (test with a white sheet of paper), a poor signal from a wireless mouse to its USB receiver (reduce distance), or failing batteries (recharge or replace).

Jitter can also occur due to high mouse DPI and Polling Rates with XIM APEX that would not typically be used for PC gaming, e.g XIM APEX supports over 16000 DPI whereas PC gamers rarely exceed 800 DPI. Extreme DPI values and/or 1000Hz Polling can cause the mouse to oversample the surface and overreact to minor imperfections, resulting in jitter. A hard mousepad has a more consistent surface than a cloth pad and may respond better to high DPI and Polling.

XIM APEX provides numerous Expert configuration tools to counter jitter, including Response Rate, Synchronise and Smoothing. However, the simplest method is to use moderate mouse settings of 500Hz polling and 3000-4000 DPI, with no noticeable performance loss. Calibrating your mouse to your pad via the mouse’s PC app will also help to reduce jitter.

Watch this video to learn how to identify and manage jitter on XIM APEX.

When moving a mouse quickly, XIM APEX will flash red to indicate that movement has hit the maximum turn speed for that game. Turn speeds are set by the game developer and cannot be exceeded by XIM APEX.

To maximise a game’s turn speed, set in-game sensitivity to maximum, use the red light as an indicator and reduce hand speed and/or XIM APEX Sensitivity to ride the red light. It takes practice and patience to get used to console gaming turn speed limits – some games turn almost as fast as PC, while others feel sluggish.

View the XIM APEX Optimising your Aim guide and How to Find The Perfect Mouse Sensitivity video tutorial for more information.

Unlike PC games, console shooters have turn speed limits, which are set by the game developer and vary from title to title. XIM APEX cannot override a game’s turn speed limit, the constraint is baked into the game’s look mechanics.

Rapid flicks register mouse input at the maximum turn speed for a short period of time, resulting in less in-game movement than moving a mouse at or slightly below the flashing red XIM APEX light.

View the XIM APEX Optimising your Aim guide and How to Find The Perfect Mouse Sensitivity video tutorial for more information.

Reticle movement is usually due to analog stick drift on the controller connected to XIM APEX. Stick drift occurs when an analog stick no longer centres correctly due to wear. The controller remains active and usable at all times when connected to XIM APEX and movement from the controller will register in-game.

When drift occurs, flicking the controller sticks will usually solve the problem. Calibrating the analog sticks by connecting the controller to the console and using the controller settings to adjust the deadzone may help to remove stick drift. Titan One, Titan Two and CronusMAX scripts are also very effective at countering stick drift.

There are a number of common causes for a non-working XIM APEX. The following solutions will resolve almost all issues:

1. Watch the Instructional Videos to learn how to setup and use XIM APEX.
2. Use the power button to turn on the console instead of the PS or XBox button on the controller. Otherwise, XIM APEX will be bypassed by the controller connecting wirelessly to the console.
3. Fully charge the controller before connecting to XIM APEX. XIM APEX will trickle-charge a controller to keep it fully charged, but may not receive enough power from the console to charge a drained controller. Removing the battery in Xbox One controllers reduces the risk of power-related disconnects.
4. A controller must be wired to XIM APEX at all times via USB for authentication with the console. The controller must be a genuine Sony DUALSHOCK 4 or Microsoft Xbox One / Elite controller (or a DUALSHOCK 3 or 360 controller for older consoles).
5. If XIM APEX is not detected on PS4, or disconnects after 10 minutes, ensure PS4 → Settings → Devices → Controllers → Communication Method is set to USB.
6. If XIM APEX is not detected on Xbox One, press the Xbox (Guide) button on the Xbox One controller after booting up the console. If XIM APEX remains undetected, hold the power button on the front of the console for 15 seconds. Once off, unplug the power cable to the console for 60 seconds. Reconnect the power cable and use the power button to turn on the console. Attach all peripherals to XIM APEX, then connect XIM APEX to the console.
7. A faulty or power-only USB cable from the controller to XIM APEX will cause disconnects. Dropping a controller while connected to USB is enough to cause a USB cable fault. Replace with a data and power capable USB cable (micro-USB on PS4 and Xbox One, mini-USB on PS3 and Xbox 360). Xbox Play & Charge Kits are unsupported because there are no data lines in the cable. Titan Connection Kit USB cables are specifically designed for competitive gaming and work well with XIM APEX.
8. Insufficient power may cause disconnects due to overloading the console USB port. If your USB cable is not faulty, your character is stuck circling or strafing on-screen and XIM APEX controls are unresponsiveness, excessive power draw is the most common cause.

   XIM APEX does not power connected peripherals, the console does. A console USB port supplies only 5V of power, which is enough to power XIM APEX, a charged controller, a mouse and a low power keyboard (such as Logitech G devices). If a keyboard has strong RGB lighting (e.g Corsair & Razer), a second USB cable for power, a controller is under-charged, or a wireless mouse is being charged while connected to XIM APEX, you may experience disconnects.

   Replacing the XIM USB hub with a powered USB 2.0 hub, or adding a power adapter (5V 3A, 3.5mm x 1.35mm, centre-positive) to the XIM USB hub should fix power issues and prevent further disconnects. If purchasing a power adapter, ensure it meets exact specifications or your equipment may be damaged. Adjustable voltage power adapters are not recommended.

   Mod Squad does not sell power adapters. Damage to XIM APEX or connected devices as a result of a faulty power adapter, or a failure to meet power adapter specifications that comply with Australian standards, is not covered under warranty.

9. If the XIM APEX LED is white and controls are unresponsive, a game config may be corrupt. For example, this can happen when pasting a Ballistics Curve from an older XIM APEX firmware version. Use the XIM APEX firmware tool to perform a Factory Reset. Game configs will need to be recreated to avoid restoring a corrupted game config from a backup.
10. Update to the latest beta XIM APEX firmware and XIM APEX Manager app at https://xim.tech/beta. The beta software releases are stable, well-tested and provide updated support for a broader array of mice and keyboards. Beta software also adds new features to XIM APEX to further tweak and customise the device.
11. Use USB 2.0 ports on a PC or Mac to update XIM APEX firmware. USB 3.0 ports are not always fully backwards-compatible with USB 2.0 devices like XIM APEX.
12. Temporarily disable anti-virus apps while updating XIM Apex to prevent firmware updates being blocked.

Please refer to the Support tab above for links to manuals, software, tutorials and/or troubleshooting. The product manufacturer has the knowledge and expertise to quickly diagnose and resolve common issues.

If you need help to solve an issue with XIM APEX, the quickest process is to post a topic on the XIM Community Support Forum and send a link to your topic to support@modsquad.com.au. We’ll follow it up with XIM support staff to ensure your issue is addressed.

Please read the Conditions tab prior to purchase for XIM APEX requirements and limitations. A genuine first-party controller, controller USB cable and gaming mouse & keyboard (not included) are required to use XIM APEX.