Dance Pad Recommendations

USB Connector

This connection type is the best for StepMania because it can connect directly to your computer.

PlayStation Connector

This connection type can connect to your computer with a PlayStation to USB adapter.

Xbox Connector

This connection type can connect to your computer with a Xbox to USB adapter.

Slim, Soft Pads

Slim/soft/sheet pads are very difficult to use on anything but the simplest of songs. There is no rigidness to these types of pads, which results in constant sliding, tearing, and frustration from not knowing where your feet are relative to the arrows.

Foam-Insert Pads

Foam-insert pads have a zipper around the edge and a pocket inside of the pad that houses hard foam layer. The foam insert makes the pad more stiff, greatly improving all aspects of performance. Many foam-insert pads also have raised panels which allow your feet to feel the location of the panels while dancing.

Although these pads are a great improvement over slim and soft pads, foam-insert pads can be damaged if played on with shoes, can slide when playing very intense songs, and lack the tactile feel of arcade pads.

Metal Pads

Most metal pads are designed for performance and reliability even when playing very difficult songs. The cheaper metal pads tend to require maintenance or modification (for example, the screws loosen over time and need to be secured with caulking).