When your game character moves automatically after you stop using the controller, you’ve experienced joystick drift, one of the most annoying problems in contemporary gaming. Casual and competitive gamers frequently face this issue as controller usage increases during extended sessions and intense gameplay. In the ongoing TMR vs Hall Effect debate, drift resistance is a critical factor that highlights how each sensor technology handles wear and long-term precision.
For many years the analog sticks manufacturers used potentiometer-based technology to detect physical movement. The small metal contact points inside these sensors deteriorate with time until they produce incorrect signals which result in joystick drift. The industry started adopting Hall Effect sensors which detect movement through magnetic fields rather than physical contact points. The gaming industry has introduced Tunnel Magnetoresistance sensors as a potential replacement for current technologies.
Gamers together with technology enthusiasts show increased interest in dependable hardware which fuels the ongoing debate between TMR and Hall Effect sensor technologies for long-term durability.
In this blog, we’ll break down how both technologies work, compare their long-term durability, and help you decide which is the better investment for your controller or joystick setup. Whether you’re a competitive player or a DIY modder looking for the most robust tech, this guide is designed to give you all the details you need.
What Are Hall Effect Sensors?
Hall Effect sensors operate as non-contact thumbstick technology through magnetic field detection which replaces the need for physical friction or electrical resistance found in older potentiometer-based sticks. Controllers using this technology operate by sensing joystick movement without physical contact between the sensor components. This technology significantly decreases wear on the controller thus increasing its operational lifespan.
Physicist Edwin Hall discovered the “Hall Effect” in 1879 which gave this technology its name. The physical phenomenon produces a voltage that runs perpendicular to current flow in a conductor when magnetic fields interact with the conductor. The fundamental principle allows modern controller input sensors to perform precise real-time motion detection.
How They Work (Magnetic Field Detection)
Inside a Hall Effect joystick, there are two key components: a magnet attached to the moving part of the stick, and a sensor chip mounted to the controller’s PCB (printed circuit board). As the player moves the stick, the magnet shifts position. The sensor constantly reads the changes in the magnetic field’s strength and direction, then translates those shifts into directional movement on screen.
This process eliminates the need for mechanical resistance or brushes that degrade with use. Because there’s no friction involved, Hall Effect sensors are classified as magnetic joystick sensors meaning they use electromagnetic principles for ultra-smooth analog tracking.
Key benefits of this method include:
- Zero physical contact between moving parts
- No friction-based degradation
- Longer functional lifespan
- Consistent performance over time
Common Use in Modern Controllers
In recent years, many manufacturers have embraced Hall Effect thumbsticks to combat one of gaming’s biggest issues: joystick drift. Traditional potentiometer sticks begin to wear out after extended use, often registering false inputs even when untouched. Hall Effect sensors solve this by removing the very source of that wear — physical contact.
You can now find Hall-based non-contact thumbstick setups in a variety of premium and enthusiast gaming controllers, such as:
- 🎮 8BitDo Ultimate Wireless Controller – Known for its high customizability and longevity.
- 🎮 GuliKit KingKong 2 Pro – One of the first mainstream controllers to use full Hall Effect sensors, marketed as 100% drift-free.
- 🎮 NYXI Wizard / NYXI Hyperion Joy-Con alternatives – Designed with both aesthetics and long-term durability in mind.
- 🎮 Pulsar X2V2 mod kits – Built for performance modders seeking zero-drift joysticks.
Gamers choosing these controllers typically prioritize precision, durability, and peace of mind — especially for competitive shooters, platformers, or racing games where stick accuracy is critical.
Pros and Cons of Hall Effect Sensors
👍 Pros | 👎 Cons |
---|---|
🧲 Non-contact design – No physical friction means significantly longer lifespan. | 💰 Higher cost – Typically found in premium controllers due to more complex components. |
🎮 Drift-resistant – No degrading parts that cause stick drift over time. | 🧲 Magnetic interference – Rare, but strong external magnets may impact performance. |
🎯 High precision – Delivers consistent, accurate analog input. | 🕹️ Limited availability – Most budget or stock controllers still use potentiometers. |
🤫 Silent operation – No scraping, grinding, or noisy mechanical parts. | ⏳ Magnet degradation – Very slow, but magnets can weaken slightly after years. |
What Is TMR (Tunnel Magnetoresistance)?
Modern analog sticks and controllers employ Tunnel Magnetoresistance (TMR) as their advanced magnetic sensing solution. TMR functions as a non-contact thumbstick detection system which surpasses Hall Effect sensors in precision and sensitivity and provides long-term reliability through quantum tunneling effects for atomic-level magnetic detection. TMR sensors like those used in high-end electronics from manufacturers such as TDK.
The detection capabilities of TMR sensors exceed Hall Effect sensors through enhanced precision and reduced noise levels thus creating an advanced version of Hall Effect sensors. TMR represents the future of magnetic joystick sensors which delivers both extended service life and absolute stability.
How TMR Works (Quantum Tunneling at Play)
The operation of TMR sensors depends on quantum tunneling through a magnetic barrier which allows electrons to move between two magnetic layers. The tunnel junction’s resistance changes according to the magnetic field orientations. The resistance change gets converted to electrical signals which enables highly accurate movement sensing.
Here’s a breakdown of what happens in a TMR thumbstick:
- A magnet is attached to the moving part of the joystick.
- A TMR sensor array sits on the circuit board.
- As the magnet moves, the magnetic field alters electron spin alignment across the junction.
- The sensor detects even the smallest changes, translating them into analog inputs.
This process requires no mechanical contact, just like Hall Effect sensors, but TMR delivers higher sensitivity, greater linearity, and lower energy consumption, making it a game-changer for modern controller input sensors.
Where TMR Is Used in Controllers
While still relatively new, TMR technology is starting to appear in a growing number of next-gen controllers aimed at long-term performance and elite gaming experiences. Some popular models include:
- 🎮 GuliKit KingKong 3 MAX – One of the first widely available consumer controllers to feature full TMR-based analog sticks.
- 🎮 Modded Hall-to-TMR joystick conversions – Custom mods for Switch, Xbox, and PC controllers.
- 🎮 Third-party drift-free stick replacements – Premium aftermarket joystick assemblies now offer TMR tech for high-end builds.
As controller drift becomes a dealbreaker for more players, TMR is gaining popularity among modders and enthusiasts who demand zero drift, low latency, and unmatched precision.
Pros and Cons of TMR Sensors
✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
---|---|
🧠 Extreme precision – Detects even micro-movements thanks to high sensitivity. | 🔧 Newer tech – Still in early stages of mass adoption. |
🕹️ Zero-contact design – No friction, no wear, no drift. | 💸 Premium pricing – Typically reserved for high-end or modified controllers. |
⚡ Low power consumption – Great for wireless controllers and battery life. | ⚙️ Harder to repair or replace – Fewer replacement parts available. |
🧲 Highly stable over time – Magnetic field sensing remains consistent even after years of use. | 🧪 Complex production – Increases cost and limits mass manufacturing compared to Hall sensors. |
Head-to-Head: TMR vs Hall Effect for Durability
Long-term gaming performance relies on durable magnetic sensors for superior performance. TMR and Hall Effect sensors differ in their fundamental characteristics regarding material composition and long-term resistance to wear and sensitivity degradation.
Materials Used in TMR vs Hall Effect Sensors
Both sensors rely on magnets and layered sensing materials, but the composition differs:
- Hall Effect Sensors: Typically built using silicon chips with integrated magnetic field detectors and ferrite magnets. These components are reliable, but their magnetic layers are not as refined at the micro level.
- TMR Sensors: The device architecture contains thin magnetic layers separated by a nano-scale insulating barrier to enable quantum tunneling which reduces material strain and extends sensing life.
Because TMR sensors use a multilayer magnetic junction with greater sensitivity, they’re less prone to degradation at the microscopic level.
Resistance to Wear and Tear
- Hall Effect Sensors: Since they operate without physical contact, they already last far longer than traditional potentiometers. However, their magnetic accuracy can slowly decline after years of use.
- TMR Sensors: Go even further by reducing electron scattering and heat generation, two silent killers of analog accuracy over time. As a result, TMR-based joysticks show less wear even under frequent daily use.
Temperature Tolerance
- Hall Effect sensors maintain reliable performance during standard gaming temperature ranges yet they could experience minimal drift when exposed to elevated temperatures or temperature variations.
- TMR sensors maintain their operational stability across both cold and hot temperature ranges thus being perfect for long gaming sessions and mobile gaming devices that tend to accumulate heat.
Magnetic Sensitivity Decay Over Time
Over long periods, magnets can weaken slightly. Here’s how the two compare:
- Hall Effect Sensors: Moderate sensitivity to magnetic decay, especially if exposed to electromagnetic interference or physical shocks.
- TMR Sensors: Due to their higher base sensitivity and layered design, they maintain accuracy longer and resist signal drift caused by weakening magnetic fields.
Durability Comparison Table: TMR vs Hall Effect
🔧 Factor | 🧲 Hall Effect | ⚡ TMR |
---|---|---|
Sensor type | Magnetic, non-contact | Quantum tunneling, non-contact |
Materials | Silicon + ferrite | Nano-layered magnetic tunnel junction |
Wear resistance | High | Very high |
Heat resistance | Moderate | Excellent |
Magnet sensitivity decay | Moderate | Low |
Estimated lifespan | 5–7 years | 8–10+ years |
TMR sensors outperform Hall Effect sensors in durability due to superior materials, lower sensitivity decay, and better heat resistance. For gamers looking for maximum longevity, TMR is the stronger choice.
Drift Resistance: Which Technology Holds Up Better?
The joystick drift problem stands as a major annoyance for modern video game players. When precision drops from joystick drift it damages gameplay quality while making even premium controllers feel untrustworthy. Which sensor type between Hall Effect and TMR proves better at minimizing joystick drift in long-term use?
What Is Joystick Drift and What Causes It?
Joystick drift occurs when your analog stick starts sending input to the console or PC even when you’re not touching it. For example, your character might move slightly on its own or your aim might shift unexpectedly.
This issue is often caused by:
- Physical wear on contact-based sensors like potentiometers
- Dirt or debris inside the stick module
- Weakening magnetic signals or interference
- Degradation of sensor materials over time
This is why modern controllers are moving away from traditional potentiometers and turning toward magnetic sensors like Hall Effect and TMR.
How Hall Effect Sensors Reduce Drift
Hall Effect sensors use magnetic fields instead of physical contact to detect movement. This removes the main source of wear found in older joysticks.
Compared to potentiometers, Hall sensors offer:
- No friction between moving parts
- Longer-lasting performance
- Better protection from dust and debris
In most Hall Effect controllers, drift appears significantly less often and typically only after many years of use.
How TMR Improves on Hall for Drift Resistance
TMR sensors take everything Hall does right and improve on it. With quantum-level magnetic detection, TMR sticks are even more precise and stable.
TMR technology offers:
- Zero-contact design with ultra-high sensitivity
- Strong resistance to magnetic signal interference
- More consistent performance over extreme temperatures or long sessions
Because TMR sensors detect movement using tunnel magnetoresistance rather than raw magnetic field shifts, they remain accurate even when small hardware shifts or field weakening would affect Hall sensors.
Long-Term Use Cases from Gamers and Modders
Many gamers on Reddit and tech forums report that their Hall Effect controllers last multiple years without a hint of drift. Modders upgrading older controllers to Hall-based modules often find new life in their hardware.
But TMR takes it one step further. Enthusiasts using GuliKit KingKong Pro or similar controllers with TMR sensors often note:
- Near-zero deadzone drift after thousands of hours
- Smoother analog stick tracking in shooters and racing games
- No calibration needed even after extended use
Which joystick sensor is better for drift resistance?
TMR sensors offer the best drift resistance available today. While Hall Effect sensors already reduce drift by removing physical wear, TMR enhances this with higher sensitivity and better stability over time.
Power Efficiency & Environmental Resistance
When choosing between TMR and Hall Effect sensors for controllers, most gamers focus on performance and durability. But there’s another critical factor worth considering, especially for wireless or portable gaming devices — how energy-efficient and environmentally resilient these sensors are.
Power Consumption: Why It Matters
Power efficiency is essential for devices that rely on batteries. A sensor that draws too much power can drain a controller’s battery faster, shortening gameplay sessions and forcing more frequent charging.
Hall Effect sensors already consume much less power than older potentiometer-based systems. This is because they use solid-state technology and do not require continuous mechanical feedback.
However, TMR sensors raise the bar. Due to their advanced tunneling magnetoresistance mechanism, TMR sensors deliver the same or better magnetic precision with even lower current draw. Their layered architecture allows for minimal energy loss during operation, making them a top choice for low-power magnetic sensor design.
In real-world terms, a controller using TMR sensors can offer:
- Longer battery life
- More consistent voltage use
- Cooler operation, even during intense gaming sessions
This makes TMR ideal for mobile gamers, competitive players, and those who value extended play without recharging.
Environmental Resistance: Handling Heat, Cold, and EM Interference
Gamepads and joysticks are exposed to a variety of environments — whether it’s intense heat during travel, cold winters, or even nearby electronics causing interference. Sensor stability under such conditions matters.
Under typical environmental conditions Hall Effect sensors maintain their reliability. High electromagnetic interference (EMI) together with extended periods of elevated temperatures reduce the accuracy of Hall Effect sensors. Less expensive Hall-based controllers that lack shielding may develop small input variations and drift over time.
TMR sensors have an edge here too. Thanks to their microstructured magnetic layers and shielding potential, they provide:
- Better electromagnetic shielding
- Higher resilience against signal loss
- Stable output even in fluctuating temperatures
This makes them highly suitable for outdoor use, long gaming sessions, or modded setups with lots of surrounding electronics.
Sustainable Controller Technology
People increasingly show interest toward eco-friendly gaming hardware solutions. TMR sensors enable sustainable controller design through their support. These sensors extend their operational life span while using less energy and need minimal replacement which decreases electronic waste production. TMR sensors serve as a better long-term option for brands which focus on creating sustainable controllers and future-proof technology.
Which sensor is more power efficient, TMR or Hall Effect?
The power efficiency of TMR sensors exceeds Hall Effect sensors so they serve as optimal choices for wireless controllers. The sensors show superior resistance to heat and electromagnetic interference which extends their reliable performance across all environments.
Real-World Longevity: What Gamers and Tech Reviewers Say
Lab tests and technical specs are useful, but they don’t always reflect how a sensor holds up in the real world. To truly understand the difference between TMR and Hall Effect sensors, we looked at what gamers, modders, and tech reviewers are saying after months or even years of use.
What the Gaming Community Is Reporting
On Reddit forums like r/Steam Deck, and in long-term YouTube reviews, gamers frequently discuss how their controllers age over time. The consensus is clear:
Hall Effect sensors have dramatically improved longevity over traditional potentiometer-based analog sticks. Users report going years without joystick drift or the need to recalibrate. For example:
- One user mentioned their 8BitDo Hall-based controller still had zero drift after 18 months of daily use.
- Modders who upgraded Xbox or Switch controllers to Hall Effect thumbsticks claimed “night and day” improvement in feel and durability.
But TMR sensors take that to another level.
Controllers like the GuliKit KingKong 2 Pro and GuliKit KK3 Max, both powered by TMR technology, are getting praise for their near-zero maintenance, ultra-precise analog response, and complete lack of drift — even after thousands of hours.
YouTube and Expert Reviews
Popular YouTubers such as Spawn Wave, Tech Yesterday, and RetroFuture have done hands-on reviews of TMR-based controllers. Key points they highlighted include:
- No visible wear on the analog sticks even after 6+ months of use
- Zero drift detected through rigorous movement tests
- More responsive and smooth feel than older Hall Effect models
- Ideal for FPS, fighting games, and racing due to ultra-precise input
One reviewer noted that the GuliKit KingKong 2 Pro “feels like the endgame for drift issues,” suggesting that TMR might finally be the solution modders have been chasing for years.
What Modders Are Saying
Modding enthusiasts who swap out joystick modules to extend controller life are particularly impressed with TMR:
- They report no calibration needed post-installation
- Strong signal detection across the entire stick range
- Compatibility with a wide range of stick caps and controller shells
Many now recommend TMR-based sticks as the top-tier upgrade for any high-end build.
How long does a Hall Effect joystick last?
Hall Effect joysticks often last several years without drift because they use non-contact magnetic sensors. Most users report zero issues even after 12–24 months of regular gameplay.
Are TMR thumbsticks worth the upgrade?
The upgrade to TMR thumbsticks proves valuable to users who want superior durability along with drift resistance and precise long-term performance. The value of these thumbsticks becomes most apparent to competitive players together with regular daily users.
Maintenance, Modding, and Repairability
Long-term maintenance stands as a primary concern among gamers and DIY enthusiasts when they consider sensor performance alongside other factors. The repairability of Hall Effect and TMR sensors plays a significant role when you want to upgrade parts or fix issues or future-proof your gear. As seen in this iFixit teardown video, joystick drift is often caused by contact-based sensor wear
Upgrading Thumbsticks: Is It Easy?
Hall Effect sensor modules are widely available and have become popular upgrades for older controllers. Gamers often replace worn potentiometer-based sticks with Hall Effect alternatives to eliminate drift. Kits for Xbox, PlayStation, and Switch controllers are easy to find, and most require minimal soldering or are completely plug-and-play.
TMR sensor modules are newer, so availability is a bit more limited. However, demand is rising fast — especially as modding communities push for premium controller builds. Brands like GuliKit have made TMR-based stick modules available separately, and they’re often designed with user installation in mind. Some come with calibration-free functionality, so you can just drop them in and start playing.
Availability of Spare Parts
Hall Effect parts are relatively accessible on marketplaces like AliExpress, Amazon, and specialty electronics stores. You can find:
- Replacement analog sticks
- Hall Effect modules
- Spare PCBs with pre-mounted Hall sensors
TMR parts are slightly harder to source but are becoming more common. If you’re a modder, it may require digging through dedicated sites or ordering directly from brands like GuliKit or from controller part resellers.
Brands That Support Modding Officially
Some controller brands are embracing the modding culture and offer support for sensor upgrades:
- 8BitDo: Known for modular designs and easy disassembly. Their controllers often include Hall Effect sensors and allow relatively simple upgrades.
- GuliKit: Leading the TMR movement, GuliKit offers modular sticks, updated firmware, and community support for DIY repairs.
- NYXI: Also entering the Hall Effect market, NYXI has released Joy-Con alternatives with Hall sensors and makes repair guides available.
Ease of Repair in Real Use
From modding forums and YouTube tutorials, most users report that Hall Effect joystick replacement takes 30–45 minutes with the right tools. TMR sensor installs are similar — and in some cases, easier — due to fewer calibration steps
TMR vs Hall Effect: Cost vs Longevity Tradeoff
When deciding between TMR and Hall Effect sensors, one key question always comes up: is the higher cost of TMR worth it in the long run? Let’s break down the current pricing landscape, evaluate real-world durability, and see how both technologies perform in terms of value over time.
Current Price Difference Between TMR and Hall Effect
Controllers with Hall Effect sensors have become increasingly common and affordable. Models like the 8BitDo Ultimate or NYXI Joy-Pad typically range from $49 to $69, offering solid durability with non-contact sensing.
In contrast, TMR-based controllers such as the GuliKit KingKong 2 Pro or the GuliKit KK3 Max tend to cost more. Prices generally range from $69 to $89, depending on features like wireless capability, build materials, and platform compatibility.
What Justifies the Price Gap?
TMR sensors are a newer technology. They offer several performance advantages over Hall sensors, including:
- Higher magnetic field resolution
- Improved temperature stability
- Even lower wear over time
- Near-zero magnetic sensitivity degradation
This makes TMR controllers especially appealing to hardcore gamers, modders, and competitive players who value absolute precision and long-term reliability.
Value Over Time: Cost of Ownership
Let’s look at value from a long-term perspective.
Sensor Type | Initial Cost | Drift Risk (2–3 Years) | Maintenance | Expected Lifespan | Long-Term Value |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Hall Effect | Moderate ($50–70) | Low | Occasional calibration or replacement | 3–5 years | High |
TMR | High ($70–90) | Very Low | Virtually none | 5–10 years | Very High |
While TMR has a higher upfront cost, it generally requires less maintenance, fewer replacements, and performs more consistently over time. That can save you both time and money if you game heavily or want a controller that just lasts.
Who Should Consider the Investment?
- Competitive gamers benefit most from TMR due to the unmatched precision and zero drift.
- DIY modders who build premium controllers will find long-term satisfaction with TMR sticks.
- Casual players might still prefer Hall Effect for its balance between cost and durability.
Who Should Choose What? (Use Case Breakdown)
Not all gamers have the same needs. Whether you’re a casual player, a competitive esports pro, or someone who loves modding controllers, the right sensor choice depends on your specific use case. Here’s a clear breakdown to help you decide between TMR and Hall Effect sensors.
🎮 Casual Gamers
If you play a few hours a week, mainly for fun or nostalgia, Hall Effect controllers are usually the better option. They offer:
- Great drift resistance
- Comfortable analog feel
- More affordable pricing
- Less risk of stick wear over time
Recommended:
- 8BitDo Ultimate Wireless
- NYXI Hyperion Joy-Cons
“Is Hall Effect good enough for casual gaming?”
Yes, Hall Effect sensors offer excellent performance for everyday gaming and are a major upgrade from potentiometers.
🎯 Competitive Players and Esports Pros
When milliseconds matter and you need total precision, TMR sensors take the lead. These players benefit from:
- Higher magnetic sensitivity for finer input
- No stick wobble or micro-drift over time
- Consistent accuracy under stress
- Longer-lasting gear for daily use
Recommended:
- GuliKit KingKong 2 Pro
- GuliKit KK3 Max (for Switch & PC)
“What is the best controller for competitive gaming?”
Controllers with TMR sensors like the KingKong 2 Pro provide elite-level performance with zero stick drift.
👨🔧 Modders and DIY Enthusiasts
If you enjoy customizing or repairing your own hardware, both Hall and TMR options can work — but TMR is more future-proof. Modders should consider:
- Ease of installing sensor modules
- Community support for replacement parts
- Long-term reliability with minimal upkeep
While Hall Effect kits are more common, TMR modules are catching up and worth the extra effort if you want to build a high-end rig.
“Can I install TMR sticks in my controller?”
Yes, but availability may vary. Some GuliKit sticks are mod-friendly and require no soldering.
📏 Tech Purists and Early Adopters
For those who care about having the latest, most advanced tech, TMR sensors are the obvious choice. Benefits include:
- Cutting-edge magnetic sensing
- Better environmental resistance
- Longer operational life
- Premium feel and engineering
“Which controller has the most advanced sensors?”
TMR-based controllers like the GuliKit series use next-gen magnetic tech for the highest accuracy and durability.
Conclusion
Deciding between Hall Effect and TMR sensors depends on your gaming patterns and performance requirements as well as your long-term value expectations. The technologies have both proven successful in preventing joystick drift through frictionless operation. Hall Effect sensors provide sturdy performance and exact input responses and wide availability in controllers that range between $50 and $70 for players who want dependable upgrades from potentiometer sticks.
TMR sensors function as the upcoming technological advancement in this field. The quantum tunneling mechanism in TMR sensors delivers outstanding precision alongside reduced power usage and enhanced temperature stability and an operational life that surpasses five years. Although TMR sensors require higher initial costs their decreased maintenance expenses along with their superior performance makes them an ideal choice for competitive players and regular users and high-end controller builders.
The 2025 market presents Hall Effect as an affordable option which delivers drift-free performance and enhanced gameplay experience. The premium solution TMR meets its expectations by delivering superior input accuracy and extended longevity to professional and hardcore players.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the difference between Hall Effect and TMR?
Hall Effect sensors detect magnetic field strength changes via voltage shifts when the joystick moves. TMR sensors measure resistance changes caused by quantum tunneling across nano-layers. That gives TMR higher sensitivity and more precise input detection.
2. Do TMR joysticks last longer than Hall Effect?
Yes. While Hall Effect controllers typically offer a lifespan of around 3–5 years, TMR sensors often maintain performance for 5–10 years thanks to lower wear, stronger environmental resistance, and minimal sensitivity decay.
3. Is TMR worth the upgrade from Hall Effect?
If you’re a competitive gamer, power user, or someone building a premium modded controller, TMR offers better drift resistance, power efficiency, and temperature stability. For casual gaming, Hall Effect provides strong value at a lower cost.
4. Which gaming controller uses TMR sensors?
Notable TMR-equipped controllers include the GuliKit KingKong 2 Pro, KingKong 3 MAX, PB Tails Metal Crush Defender, and select GameSir and 8BitDo Ultimate 2 models.
5. Can you upgrade Hall Effect joysticks to TMR?
Yes, it’s possible—but it depends on the controller’s design. Some brands, such as GuliKit, offer drop‑in TMR stick modules compatible with various controllers. Ensure compatibility before modifying.