Find HS Code and trade information for thumbstick caps

Thumbstick Caps

Thumbstick caps, also known as joystick caps or analog stick grips, are accessories that attach to the protruding analog sticks found on game controllers. They are primarily used to enhance grip, comfort, and control during gameplay.

Material

Thumbstick caps are manufactured from a variety of materials, each offering distinct characteristics:

• Rubber/Silicone: The most common material. Provides excellent grip and a soft feel. Often textured for improved control. Generally inexpensive.
• Plastic: Offers durability and a firmer feel. May be less grippy than rubber/silicone unless textured. Common in higher-end caps.
• Metal: (Aluminum, Stainless Steel) Provides a premium feel and increased weight for precision control. Can be more expensive and may wear down controller sticks over time if not properly fitted.
• Hybrid Materials: Combinations of materials (e.g., a rubber outer layer with a plastic core) to balance grip, durability, and feel.

Purpose

• Enhanced Grip: The primary function. Reduces slippage, particularly during intense gameplay or when hands become sweaty.
• Improved Control: Textured surfaces and varying heights/shapes can provide a more precise and comfortable control experience.
• Stick Protection: Caps shield the analog sticks from wear and tear, extending the controller's lifespan.
• Aesthetic Customization: Available in a wide range of colors, patterns, and designs to personalize controllers.

Function

Thumbstick caps function by increasing the surface area and friction between the player’s thumb and the analog stick. This allows for more accurate and controlled movements within games. Different cap designs can cater to specific gameplay styles:

• Concave: Cups the thumb, providing a secure grip and better control for precise movements.
• Convex: Raises the thumb, offering a more natural feel and potentially faster movements.
• Extended/Tall: Increases the stick height for greater range of motion and finer control, often used in fighting games.
• Knurled/Textured: Provides increased grip and tactile feedback.

Usage Scenarios

• Competitive Gaming: Players often use high-quality caps for improved precision and control in fast-paced games.
• Prolonged Gaming Sessions: Caps can enhance comfort and reduce fatigue during long gaming sessions.
• Controller Customization: Used to personalize the look and feel of controllers.
• Replacing Worn Caps: Caps can be replaced when they become damaged or lose their grip.
• Accessibility: Caps can provide a more comfortable and secure grip for players with disabilities.

Common Types

• Standard Caps: Basic rubber/silicone caps that fit most common controller analog sticks.
• Controller-Specific Caps: Designed for specific controller models (e.g., PlayStation DualSense, Xbox controllers, Nintendo Switch Joy-Cons) for a precise fit.
• Anti-Slip Caps: Feature enhanced grip patterns or materials for maximum control.
• Hall Effect Caps: Designed to work with Hall Effect thumbsticks to provide increased precision and durability.
• Magnetic Caps: Attach to magnetic thumbsticks for quick and easy swapping.
• Spinning Caps: Allow the thumbstick to rotate, used in some fighting games for special techniques.

Based on the provided information, thumbstick caps fall under the category of parts and accessories for video game consoles and machines. Here's a breakdown of relevant HS codes:

• 9504.50.00.00: Video game consoles and machines, other than those of subheading 9504.30, and parts and accessories thereof. This HS code covers a broad range of video game console components, including accessories like thumbstick caps.

  • 95: Chapter 95 – Toys, games, and sports equipment.
  • 04: Heading 04 – Video game consoles and machines.
  • 50: Subheading 50 – Parts and accessories.

• 9504.90.90.80: 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. This HS code is a more specific classification within the broader category of video game-related equipment, potentially applicable if the thumbstick caps are for arcade-style machines or other amusement devices.

  • 95: Chapter 95 – Toys, games, and sports equipment.
  • 04: Heading 04 – Video game consoles and machines, table or parlor games, etc.
  • 90: Subheading 90 – Other.

According to the provided reference material, the HS code options related to 'thumbstick caps' are limited, with only the following 2 found.

Please note that both HS codes have a base tariff of 0.0% and a 30.0% tariff applied after April 2, 2025. HS code 9504.90.90.80 also has an additional 7.5% tariff.