Find HS Code and trade information for game handle

Game Handle

A game handle, commonly referred to as a gamepad, joystick, or controller, is an input device used to interact with video games. It allows players to control game characters and navigate game environments.

Material

Game handles are constructed from a variety of materials, typically including:

• Plastic: The most common material for the housing, providing durability and cost-effectiveness. ABS plastic is frequently used.
• Rubber: Often incorporated for grips to enhance comfort and control.
• Metal: Used for internal structural components, analog stick mechanisms, and occasionally for premium exterior elements. Aluminum is common in higher-end controllers.
• Silicon: Frequently used for buttons and conductive pads.
• PCB (Printed Circuit Board): The core electronic component housing the controller’s circuitry.

Purpose

The primary purpose of a game handle is to provide a more intuitive and ergonomic interface for controlling video games compared to keyboard and mouse input. They are designed for games that benefit from analog control, complex combinations, and tactile feedback.

Function

Game handles function by translating physical inputs from the user into digital signals that the gaming system can understand. Key functional components include:

• Analog Sticks: Allow for variable input in multiple directions, used for character movement, camera control, and precise aiming.
• Buttons: Provide discrete inputs for actions like jumping, shooting, and interacting with the game world.
• Triggers: Typically located on the rear of the handle, used for actions requiring graduated control, such as acceleration or braking.
• D-Pad (Directional Pad): Provides digital input for directional control, often used for menu navigation and precise movements.
• Connectivity: Handles connect to gaming systems via wired connections (USB) or wireless technologies (Bluetooth, proprietary wireless protocols).
• Haptic Feedback (Vibration): Provides tactile sensations to enhance immersion and provide feedback on in-game events.
• Motion Sensors: Some handles incorporate accelerometers and gyroscopes for motion control.

Usage Scenarios

Game handles are used across a wide range of gaming platforms and genres, including:

• Console Gaming: The primary input method for most console games.
• PC Gaming: Used for games that benefit from analog control and ergonomic input.
• Mobile Gaming: Bluetooth controllers are used with smartphones and tablets.
• Arcade Gaming: Traditional arcade sticks are specialized game handles for fighting games and other arcade titles.
• Racing Games: Specialized racing wheels and pedals provide a more immersive driving experience.
• Fighting Games: Arcade sticks and specialized controllers are common for precise input and complex combinations.

Common Types

• Standard Controller: The most common type, featuring two analog sticks, buttons, triggers, and a D-pad. (e.g., PlayStation DualSense, Xbox Wireless Controller, Nintendo Switch Pro Controller)
• Arcade Stick: A specialized controller featuring a joystick and multiple buttons, primarily used for fighting games.
• Racing Wheel: A specialized controller featuring a steering wheel, pedals, and often force feedback, designed for racing games.
• Flight Stick: A specialized controller featuring a joystick and multiple buttons, designed for flight simulation games.
• Third-Party Controllers: Controllers manufactured by companies other than the console manufacturer, often offering specialized features or ergonomic designs. (e.g., Scuf Gaming, PowerA)
• Retro Controllers: Controllers designed to replicate the look and feel of classic controllers.

Based on the provided information, “game handle” can be classified under the following HS codes:

• 9504909080: This HS code covers “Video game consoles and machines, table or parlor games, including pinball machines, billiards, special tables for casino games and automatic bowling equipment, amusement machines operated by coins, banknotes, bank cards, tokens or by any other means of payment: Other: Other: Other Other”. Chapter 95 relates to toys, games, and sports equipment. Heading 9504 specifically covers video game consoles and related machines. The subheading 9504909080 is a further specification for “Other” types of these machines, potentially including components like game handles. The total tax rate is 37.5%, comprised of a 0.0% base tariff, a 7.5% additional tariff, and a 30.0% additional tariff effective after April 2, 2025.

• 3926301000: This HS code covers “Other articles of plastics and articles of other materials of headings 3901 to 3914: Fittings for furniture, coachwork or the like: Handles and knobs”. Chapter 39 relates to plastics and articles thereof. Heading 3926 covers other articles of plastics. The subheading 3926301000 specifically covers handles and knobs, which could include game handles made of plastic. The total tax rate is 44.0%, comprised of a 6.5% base tariff, a 7.5% additional tariff, and a 30.0% additional tariff effective after April 2, 2025.

• 3926909989: This HS code covers “Other articles of plastics and articles of other materials of headings 3901 to 3914: Other: Other”. Chapter 39 relates to plastics and articles thereof. Heading 3926 covers other articles of plastics. The subheading 3926909989 is a general category for “Other” plastic articles. If the game handle is made of plastic and doesn't fall under more specific classifications, this HS code may be applicable. The total tax rate is 42.8%, comprised of a 5.3% base tariff, a 7.5% additional tariff, and a 30.0% additional tariff effective after April 2, 2025.

It is important to determine the material composition of the game handle to select the most accurate HS code. If the handle is made of plastic, both 3926301000 and 3926909989 are potential options, with 3926301000 being more specific if it is clearly a handle or knob. If the handle is part of a larger gaming machine, 9504909080 may be the most appropriate classification.