Commonly the left-side motor
Strong / low-frequency channel
Requests only strongMagnitude. On a traditional dual-rumble controller this is usually the heavier, lower-frequency motor, but the browser or device may transform the effect.
Dual-channel rumble check
Test controller vibration one channel at a time.
Send separate strong and weak dual-rumble commands, then record whether you actually felt each response. The result is an observation—not an automatic motor-health verdict.
Manual confirmationNo downloadLocal test
Commonly the right-side motor
Weak / high-frequency channel
Requests only weakMagnitude. On a traditional dual-rumble controller this is usually the lighter, higher-frequency motor. Modern haptics may not map to a distinct side.
Current observationConnect a controller, press any button, then test one channel at a time.
Test both channels and record whether you felt each one.
01
Compatibility first
A vibration command and a felt vibration are different facts.
The browser can report that a command completed without measuring the physical movement in your hands. Your confirmation is part of the test.
Use a visible desktop tab
Connect the controller, press a button and keep this page visible. Haptic commands can be rejected when the document is hidden or when the browser does not support the requested effect.
Compare USB before assuming failure
If a channel is not felt over Bluetooth, repeat with a direct data-capable USB cable. Then verify vibration in a native game or the controller manufacturer's software.
Do not over-read left and right
The web API exposes strong low-frequency and weak high-frequency magnitudes. That commonly corresponds to two handle motors, but modern devices and browser mappings may render the effect differently.
Advanced haptics are outside this check
DualSense waveforms, adaptive triggers, speaker output and platform-specific effects are not equivalent to the standard dual-rumble command tested here.
02
Interpret carefully
Controller vibration test FAQ
Does this test prove that both vibration motors are healthy?
No. It sends separate browser commands and asks you to confirm what you felt. A missing sensation can come from browser support, operating-system mapping, firmware, connection mode or hardware. Confirm the result in a native game or manufacturer tool before diagnosing a motor fault.
Why does the controller not vibrate even though buttons work?
Gamepad input and haptics are separate browser capabilities. Your browser may expose buttons and axes without exposing a compatible vibration actuator. Keep the tab visible, try a direct USB connection and compare a current Chromium-based desktop browser.
Are strong and weak channels always the left and right motors?
Not always. Traditional dual-rumble controllers commonly use a heavier low-frequency motor on one side and a lighter high-frequency motor on the other. Browsers and modern haptic devices may transform those channels, so the page labels both the API channel and the common physical arrangement.