How big of a difference does choice of gamepad actually make?

[Sandwiches]

Are the pros just used to Gamecube controllers, or is there actually an innate advantage to them? I'm enjoying the Gamepad, but that things battery life is near non existent, plus I want a controller to take around to friend's houses. Is there much of a difference between a GC controller or a Wii Controller pro?

 

[Pyr]

Considering a person won a SF4 tournament using an old Sega? controller (the one with the 6 buttons and a dpad), I'm willing to bet anything is possible.

 

[JediLink]

Controllers matter the most when you have to do difficult/twitchy inputs, of which there aren't really that many in Smash 4. That of course probably will change depending on where the metagame goes.

 

[Thinkaman]

Having a c-stick is a non-trivial advantage, and having notches on your control stick input is really nice.

Otherwise, the GCN controller just has a more comfortable layout, more comfortable grips, and more comfortable shoulder buttons.

 

[IsaiahC1999]

Well the game pad is kind of easy to use.but have u guys heard there will be no more GC Adepters

 

[RESET Vao]

Not much. If you are comfortable with something, that is what makes the world of difference.

 

[elmike]

Otherwise, the GCN controller just has a more comfortable layout, more comfortable grips, and more comfortable shoulder buttons.

For me, after playing since nov 21st with the gamepad, i feel the gamepad is way more comfortable than the GCC.
BUT the notches and the sensibility of the normal stick i think its more suitable for smash.

One question: Is the lag real in Smash4? (gamepad vs GCC)? I havent been able to play smash4 with a GCC yet...

 

[option.iv]

It's as you suspect OP. So many people are used to the GC controller and have overhyped it IMO. The GC controller has several weaknesses in comparison to the the Wii U, biggest being analog triggers, 1 less shoulder button, and a gimp z button. People claim the adapter does not lag and the Wii U controllers don't, or vice versa. Honestly, no one has done a concrete input lag test on either. Personally, I don't see the lag, but again, this is subjective.

The main concrete advantage the GC controller though is logistics. It's easier to setup.

As for the short battery life of the Gamepad, you are right. If you are willing to invest in a high capacity battery pack, the Nintendo store is selling them on their parts website. https://store.nintendo.com/ng3/browse/productDetailColorSizePicker.jsp?productId=prod150204

I can attest to the extended battery life with just the High Capacity Battery. Some people say this combined with a certain 3rd party battery extender, you could go for an extremely long time, longer than most game sessions. Maybe even longer than a Smash 'til Dawn.

In the end though, I just go with the Wii U Pro controller. (I have the adapter, and don't use it). I use L to jump so c-stick placement doesn't bother me. Notches I don't care for.

Expect many responses of go with whatever feels best. I'd say **** that and go with whatever is most efficient. As of right now, there's no clear cut winner. But for now, I'd say you're fine with the Gamepad.