I had a quickshot joystick bought new for my A500 (back in the day), broke within a couple of days. The metal strip that controls direction broke.
For the PC I bought a racing wheel and pedals for $100 (maybe a bit more can't remember). It had lousy sensitivity and made racing games nearly unplayable.
Nowadays if I don't like something I'll take it back within the week and get a refund. One of the problems of buying online is that you don't get to inspect something close up. Close up pictures or a refund policy are a good substitute.