Custom Macro Controller Built Using ESP32-S3 Chip
A DIY project demonstrates how $10 microcontrollers can emulate professional-grade USB input devices for PC workflows.
Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Semiconductors
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A developer has built a custom macro controller by repurposing an ESP32-S3 microcontroller and a KY-023 analog joystick. The device functions as a USB input tool that maps physical directional movements to specific PC shortcuts.
Why it matters
This project demonstrates how low-cost, off-the-shelf microcontrollers can emulate standard USB input devices to execute complex macro sequences. It highlights the utility of native USB support in modern chipsets for building custom hardware interfaces without specialized drivers.
The system utilizes the ESP32-S3 USB OTG (On-The-Go) controller to mimic a standard USB input device. It processes analog inputs with a 30ms delay interval for keyboard commands, allowing for precise control functions like 2-unit volume increments.
The players
ESP32-S3
A system-on-chip microcontroller from Espressif Systems featuring native USB support and dual-core processing capabilities.
The details
The controller uses the KY-023 analog sensor, which outputs directional voltage signals that the ESP32-S3 converts into HID (Human Interface Device) commands. The software maps these analog stick movements to specific keyboard presses and system-level consumer control commands. A profile-switching architecture is implemented using the microcontroller's onboard boot button to toggle between different macro command sets.
Timeline
October 2026: The macro stick project was developed and tested.
The Tech Race
This project represents a growing trend of using general-purpose microcontrollers to bypass the proprietary ecosystems of commercial input devices. By leveraging native USB capabilities, developers are building functional alternatives to expensive macro pads like the Elgato Stream Deck.
Users can implement this hardware to automate common PC workflows such as microphone toggling, screenshot capturing, and volume adjustments. The project requires basic soldering or breadboarding skills and an ESP32-S3 development board to execute.
The takeaway
This project shows that high-performance macro controls are accessible through simple, $10 microcontroller setups. Watch for future iterations including gaming-specific profiles and visual feedback integration via onboard LEDs.
Further reading
For more on how modern chipsets enable custom hardware, explore our coverage of the Semiconductors sector.
Source note: This article includes information reported by XDA-Developers.
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Do you prefer building your own customized tech gadgets over buying pre-made commercial alternatives?
