I currently use keyboard and mouse or a Dualshock 4 controller for most games, but i'm tired of so many games being really terrible with my controller. For example, Cemu swaps the two triggers with the two axes of the right stick. So i'm considering just buying a new controller that will hopefully be easier to make work.
I was thinking about getting an Xbox controller, but i've never been an Xbox guy so i have no idea what controller is good for gaming on Linux. I assume most of them are good for Windows, but i don't use that. While looking up some differences between 360 and One, Reddit reminded me that other controllers than PlayStation/Xbox/Nintendo exist, like the ones from 8BitDo.
What i'm looking for in a controller is:
- I usually prefer using the Dpad to the sticks, but something that won't easily develop drift problems is still important to me.
- I like being able to use my controller over a wire instead of just wireless, so bluetooth or a dongle is nice but a wired connection is essential.
- Generic cords are more convenient than ones that are proprietary or just weird (it took me so long to figure out my Wii U pro controller uses mini-USB), though i understand that what's still common changes with the times and i can't expect an old controller to use USB-C. Something that's easy to replace if it breaks is really what i want for the cord.
- And i also have a Wii U, so something that can connect to that as a Wii U pro controller, Wii classic, or GameCube (natively or via Bloopair/Koopair) is nice but not essential.
- I have Steam, AntiMicroX, and Input Remapper and i can use them to fix inputs for some games, but not all games.
So what controllers do you all use? What's good and will actually work for most games that have controller support at all?
[hr] I got a Logitech F310. It works fine so far for Hollow Knight and Tunic. It doesn't work with my Wii U but i didn't really expect it to.
70 Comments
mouse@midwest.social · 25 pts · 323d
8BitDo Ultimate 2 Wireless Controller.
It uses the xbox layout. It has hall effect triggers and TMR joysticks (similar to hall effect), 2 back paddle buttons, 2 extra bumper buttons, and gyro.
The software does not work, or at least didn't work on Linux with wine when I tried a few months ago. However for just regular controls and if using Steam Input it doesn't matter.
https://www.8bitdo.com/ultimate-2-wireless-controller/
https://www.gamingonlinux.com/2025/04/8bitdo-ultimate-2-is-getting-full-steam-input-support-for-more-buttons/
Hazzard@lemmy.zip · 3 pts · 323d
I was actually able to get the software working by adding it to steam as a "non steam game". Proton (GE in my case) was able to run it just fine, which is great, as that was one of the last reasons I had to boot into Windows.
mouse@midwest.social · 2 pts · 322d
Thank you. I'll be sure to try it later.
Romkslrqusz@lemmy.zip · 23 pts · 323d
I’m waiting for the Steam Controller 2
HelloRoot@lemy.lol · 7 pts · 323d
I'm so glad I hoarded a couple of Steam Controllers back when they announced the discontinuation.
It's my favourite controller so far.
Supreme@reddthat.com · 4 pts · 322d
Don't hold your breath...
Rooster326@programming.dev · 2 pts · 322d
It's been over 10 years. If he can make that long. He either dead or anerobic.
missingno@fedia.io · 17 pts · 323d
8BitDo Pro 2 is the best pad I've ever used.
Keegen@lemmy.zip · 10 pts · 323d
I like the Xbox controller on PC because it's the safe, always supported option. I use a generic PDP Xbox One controller because they are one of the few brands available in my country that have a very "vanilla" shape and look while having a wired connection. I'm on my second one now after my old one had some phantom button presses on one of the triggers after 5 years of use, for what they cost that's a damn good lifespan.
Filetternavn@lemmy.blahaj.zone · 9 pts · 322d
I just bought an 8bitdo Ultimate 2C with hall effect sticks, and it's been amazing! Highly recommend, and the D-Pad is great
JTskulk@lemmy.world · 1 pts · 322d
Just bought one, thanks!
tomatoely@sh.itjust.works · 1 pts · 320d
can confirm, great controller for its price. Using it on arch linux with the 2.4 usb dongle and its plug and play
JTskulk@lemmy.world · 2 pts · 318d
Are you able to check the battery life? I'm also on Arch (Endeavour).
For the others looking for a gamepad, I'm blown away by how good this is. I bought a cheap logitech gamepad because I didn't want to give Microsoft money even though the logitech one doesn't even have a vibrating motor. My hands would hurt after using this thing. The 8bitdo feels great, the joysticks are accurate and sensitive, the rumble and wireless is great, the triggers require less force to squeeze. There's a feature where you can set buttons to repeat when held or constantly repeat on the fly. I've already been making good use of this. There's also 2 extra programmable shoulder buttons. Honestly the only thing I don't like about it is the light that's on when charging, but that's easily fixed.
tomatoely@sh.itjust.works · 2 pts · 317d
I've only been able to check the battery when connected to my android phone via Bluetooth. I don't really mind not knowing the exact percentage as the red light that indicates low battery is good enough for me. But otherwise I agree on it being an excellent choice for its price. Not having to worry about drifting is great, puts all of my previous ds4 I've had to shame
minimalfootprint@discuss.tchncs.de · 8 pts · 323d
The 8bitdo controllers are nice. I would also check out the Flydigi Vader 4 Pro. I use the Vader 3 Pro and like it a lot. Very nice tech for a good price.
Overall I would stick to 3rd Party. The console manufacturers offer outdated tech for high prices. Most people still think of 3rd party controllers as the inferior cheap ones the little sibling had to use as kids.
vividspecter@aussie.zone · 4 pts · 323d
I can vouch for the Vader 4. One caveat is that you currently need Steam running to get full functionality but that should be fixed relatively soon.
lukaro@lemmy.zip · 3 pts · 322d
Madcatz ruined the idea of 3rd party controllers for me. MY mind refuses to believe that 3rd party controllers could ever be good enough to use in pinch much less good overall.
prole@lemmy.blahaj.zone · 3 pts · 322d
8bitdo are about as good as it gets when it comes to modern third party controllers, but my experience has been that it's always worth spending a little bit more to get the first party controllers.
Yeah, these days they can be expensive as fuck. But the way I see it, I'm going to be using this thing for hundreds, if not thousands, of hours, so it's worth it.
Kind of like what people say about mattresses..
lukaro@lemmy.zip · 2 pts · 322d
Yeah considering the total amount of time I'll spend with a controller in my han it's fractions a cent per hour, money well spent to not end up with the little sibling controller.
minimalfootprint@discuss.tchncs.de · 1 pts · 322d
Lucky for Nintendo & Co. Their Brand seems to be enough to outsell better competitors.
BroBot9000@lemmy.world · 7 pts · 323d
Ps5 pro controller. Mainly for the replacement sticks and the extra buttons. It’s also got a nice USB cable holder so that it never falls out or damages the port. Overall controller design is definitely the best I’ve ever held. Certainly overpriced but so far it’s been nice.
Nibodhika@lemmy.world · 7 pts · 323d
Controllers I've had (all of which should work on Linux easily, some with minor adjustments needed) in the order I think you should consider them:
Most controllers should work wired, but I haven't tested any of them like that because I like my controllers wireless.
Don_alForno@feddit.org · 6 pts · 323d
I have two of these, they work fine with my steam deck and my PC which is running Mint, in all 3 modes, wired, BT, 4G.
The face buttons have a bit of wiggle room horizontally, which does feel a bit cheap unfortunately. It's just that though, they do work flawlessly.
Kolanaki@pawb.social · 7 pts · 323d
The Nintendo Pro gamepad doesn't have the same drift issue that the JoyCons have. I dont know if it's backwards compatible with tge Wii U tho. The one from the WiiU era is exactly the same controller, tho so you may just wanna find an older one.
I just use a DualSense (PS5) controller, but the D-pad isn't very nice for actually controlling a character. Too stiff, too segmented. It's perfect, otherwise.
verdi@feddit.org · 7 pts · 322d
Don't waste money on an xbox controller. Get a Dual Sense or an 8bitDo
Rooster326@programming.dev · 5 pts · 322d
Hard disagree. Xbox uses Xinput.
It literally "just works"
Dual Sense is Dinput which is why it's a pain in the ass
bender223@lemmy.today · 2 pts · 322d
Although I like using dualsense, it doesn't work well on all games, so I got the 8bitdo Ultimate, no issues. It has both x-input and d input modes.
FilthyHands@sh.itjust.works · 7 pts · 323d
8bitdo ultimate. Had it a few years, never had compatibility issues. My previous gamepad was an xbox elite series 2. Total piece of garbage. Drifty sticks and the shoulder buttons failed within 90 days.
WolfLink@sh.itjust.works · 6 pts · 323d
If you have problems with the controller mapping to a specific game, try adding it as a “non-Steam game” to Steam so that you can use Steam Input. You can do a LOT with Steam Input.
Also I just got the GCUltimate from https://handheldlegend.com/ and I think it matches what you are looking for. You might also look at their “ProGCC”.
Basically they are Nintendo-style controllers, work great with the Switch, but also are designed to work great with PC. Charge or connect wired via USBC or connect via Bluetooth. Hall effect joysticks that won’t drift. Can also be used as a GameCube controller if you buy their USBC to GameCube cable (note that this cable only works with their controllers; it won’t convert any USBC controller to GameCube).
prole@lemmy.blahaj.zone · 3 pts · 322d
Steam Input is incredible, and it's integration with the Steam Deck, and the availability of community created presets, is such an underrated, overlooked feature.
You can create friggin on screen menus and shit. The amount of stuff you can do with it is truly impressive.
Grass@sh.itjust.works · 6 pts · 323d
I got an 8bitdo pro 3 for now after the birds destroyed my old one but I'm really just waiting for steam controller 2. I got used to having the trackpad grids and extra buttons to map every single input, but the deck just isnt powerful enough for some of the games I want more expensive visuals on.
Rustan@lemmy.dbzer0.com · 6 pts · 323d
I use an Xbox one controller with the xone Linux driver and it works like a charm over wired and dongle. If you do use it make sure to use the linked repo which is an active fork of the original driver, which was abandoned.
nul9o9@lemmy.dbzer0.com · 1 pts · 323d
This is the driver you use for scuff controllers as well.
prole@lemmy.blahaj.zone · 1 pts · 322d
I can only speak for Bazzite (and previously, EndeavourOS), but I never needed to manually install drivers for my XBone controller for it to work, it always just worked.
theskyisfalling@lemmy.dbzer0.com · 6 pts · 323d
XBox One controller is my current favourite:
Well built
Long lasting
Decent prices secondhand
Always worked first time on every OS I've tried it on
USB C as long as you get the newer generation version for wired play
Most comfortable size and layout IMO
cyberpunk007@lemmy.ca · 4 pts · 323d
I have a series x/s controller. The joystick drifted after 6 months. My second one, for no reason what so ever, the right trigger started to stick when it was pressed in. Months later it seems to have sorted itself out.
Other than that I do like the controllers and they do work well with Linux.
theskyisfalling@lemmy.dbzer0.com · 3 pts · 323d
I haven't ever tried a series X/S controller but I had a couple of 360 controllers that lasted through many many years of abuse then moved on to the 'one' controllers and the only issue I have had with those is an older micro USB version that I dropped with the cable plugged in and it smash the port off the board inside.
That issue was my fault so in general I have had very good experiences with them all.
Rooster326@programming.dev · 2 pts · 322d
I recommend getting the "wireless" packs. You just drop the controller on the charger and pick it up when you're done. There are so many.
They even sell them with extra batteries so you can hot swap if you truly use up the 8 hours up.
Had the same issue with the ports with Micro UsB. Shite durability but that goes for basically ALL micro UsB all devices
theskyisfalling@lemmy.dbzer0.com · 2 pts · 322d
I did consider it when I broke that port as I used batteries on that controller for a short while but as weird as it sounds I like using it wired.
Micro USB is utter trash for sure but now with USB C I'm happy. I only had that one time when my own clumsiness ruined that one controller.
Appreciate the recommendation though :)
Auster@thebrainbin.org · 6 pts · 323d
The ones I tested on Linux that I remember:
Muffi@programming.dev · 4 pts · 323d
I will +1 all the 8bitdo recommendations. They make great, reliable and sturdy hardware.
lukaro@lemmy.zip · 4 pts · 322d
The one you use while playing a game you love.
Artopal@lemmy.ml · 2 pts · 322d
Yes, pretty much this. I have the 8bitdo's Pro controllers (the first one and the 2) and I'm pretty happy with them. But that's me.
hissingmeerkat@sh.itjust.works · 3 pts · 323d
I've got a couple Beitong Asura 2 Pros with hall effect sensors, and they work great, and haven't worn out like xbox controllers and dualshock 4s do.
I use them with USB-C cables instead of the wireless dongle or bluetooth because they just work forever that way.
The buttons are reprogrammable; I make back buttons on everything I can into the thumbstick buttons so I never have to depress the thumbsticks. It also has a d-pad/thumbstick switch mode if you want to use d-pad on games that use thumbstick.
They have a nintendo mode, but I've never tried it.
SoftestSapphic@lemmy.world · 3 pts · 322d
DS4 was the last good controller to come out IMO.
Just get another one, they will last longer and function better than anything made since.
You can map the controls to whatever buttons you want in the Cemu settings
IndigoGollum@lemmy.world · 3 pts · 322d
Cemu isn't the only game that breaks with this controller, and if i could just set right stick right to C stick right, i wouldn't have ever noticed this issue for Cemu. I'll bear this in mind though if every Linux build of every game i'm interested in playing announces support for DS4 though.
asret@lemmy.zip · 3 pts · 323d
I've been using a GameSir Cyclone 2 for about a year. Have the occasional issue where a game doesn't detect it properly, but is great when it works.
Kongar@lemmy.dbzer0.com · 3 pts · 323d
Fly digi apex 4
Seriously the best d pad I’ve ever used. Crappy software, but the hardware is top notch. I’ve abused it for probably a little less than a thousand hours, and still no drift or dead spots.
Redkey@programming.dev · 3 pts · 323d
There was a recent discussion about controllers that may help you, here: https://lemmy.world/post/35100527
To add to my recommendation in that thread of the Logitech F310, for your question specifically:
toddestan@lemmy.world · 2 pts · 322d
I have the Logitech F310 and I can also say it's a good controller. Works flawlessly on Linux, and has never given me any trouble. Buttons always worked, no drift issues. Can't really ask for more.
I realize it's a fairly basic controller, but every time I've taken a look at maybe upgrading I've ended up concluding that just sticking with using the F310 is the best option.
BlueSquid0741@lemmy.sdf.org · 2 pts · 323d
The controllers I use:
Steam controller
Wired xbox controller (Hyperkin branded)
Wired switch controllers (pdp and hori branded)
I have some ps4 controllers that worked well but they don’t hold a charge now so they’re just e-waste.
Sticking with wired or rechargable AAs. Any wired switch and xbox controller I’ve plugged in has gone fine.
I can’t speak for the wireless switch controllers (we have 2 that run on rechargeable AAs), because I’ve never paired them onto a PC. But eneloops last about 6 months in my steam controller, I’ve just been recirculating the same 4 batteries in it since 2017.
calisti@lemmy.blahaj.zone · 2 pts · 323d
I have the Xbox elite series 2 controller and nothing to compare it to, but I do like it very much.
Rooster326@programming.dev · 1 pts · 322d
The adjustable tension on the Analog stick is a literal game changer.
Idk if I am a mongoloid, or have dumb fingers but I could never hold the stick where it needed to be to walk slowly. It would take me so many lives to do any "walk slowly challenge". Now it is super easy to hold it anywhere between 0 and 100.
I wish other controllers had that. I need a player 2 controller but I ain't got Xbox Elite controller money.
Siegfried@lemmy.world · 2 pts · 322d
Is xbox360 emulator a thing on linux? Last time I used it only a windows machine it was pretty much a "just works", and i was using some random ass Chinese controller.
Rooster326@programming.dev · 3 pts · 322d
Xinput is native to the vast vast majority of games. That's why they all "just work"
It is Dinput that causes issues. Though Steam has done a lot to massage that paint point.
Dinput these days is basically just Dual Sense.
Back in the day you had to place an Xinput mapper inside every single game install directory, and use black magic to get it to work.
Mobile@leminal.space · 2 pts · 322d
I have been using a Nintendo ProController since 2017 for all my gaming needs. It's a solid controller and can be use any USB-C cable to connect to your PC. Solid battery life if you ever need to go wireless. I am monster though and just deal with the buttons being mapped to Xbox layouts so 'X' and 'Y' are always mapped backwards. I now know that Steam has a feature for mapping buttons now.
With all of that said, I also am looking for a new controller. My palms have been hurting as of late when I use the ProController.I will always recommend this controller but my hands are hurting more during longer play sessions. It never used to feel like this so I think I need to start stretching these old hands prior to playing.
If anyone has any input on comparing 8bitDuo's Pro 2 or Gulikit's KingKong 2 Pro Controller to Nintendo's ProController, I'd like to read your thoughts :)
Hello_there@fedia.io · 1 pts · 322d
Are you connecting the pro controller to Linux? Which distro version etc?
Mobile@leminal.space · 1 pts · 321d
Yes I have been connecting my ProController to my Linux machine via USB-C. I'm using the Bazzite image from Universal Blue. Here's my output from the
fastfetch --format jsoncommand:{ "type": "OS", "result": { "buildID": "Stable (F42.20251002)", "codename": "Kinoite", "id": "bazzite", "idLike": "fedora", "name": "Bazzite", "prettyName": "Bazzite", "variant": "Kinoite", "variantID": "bazzite-nvidia-open", "version": "42.20251002.0 (Kinoite)", "versionID": "42" } },DesolateMood@lemmy.zip · 2 pts · 323d
I have a Gamesir Tarantula Pro. It's gimmick is that it has a physical switch that let's it switch between an Xbox, PS4, or switch controller. Using it in Xbox mode worked out of the box for me on arch. I have no idea if it would be able to connect to a Wii U. And, as with the 8bitdo being suggested, it's hall effect so it won't develop stick drift
HouseWolf@pawb.social · 1 pts · 322d
I use a DS4 and used a DS3 for years before that.
Using none Xbox controllers on PC used to be a pain, I remember the hoops I had to jump through to get my DS3 pad working with Windows 7. Now it's easier than ever.
I actually didn't like the DS4 controller for the longest time because of the thumb-sticks but found some replacements a while back that has the more comfy (to me) domed design of the earlier PS controllers.
Amazon Link, couldn't find them sold anywhere else in the UK sadly...
popcornpizza@lemmy.blahaj.zone · 1 pts · 323d
stringere@sh.itjust.works · 1 pts · 322d
I have an xbox elite pro series 2 that my wife bought me last christmas. I love it. It has a good weight and is a joy in your hands. The triggers have 3 resistance levels. D-pad and thumbsticks are magnetic and easily swappable. Four back paddles can be removed easily if they're not wanted or needed. It connected to Pop_OS via bluetooth with no issues. I have not tried using the xbox accessories app on Linux because I was able to calibrate it with Steam just fine. Thry're not cheap but it was worth it.
Edit to add: someone mentiomed drift and I did have a slight issue but was able to adjust for it through Steam. There is also a common complaint that the controllers snap back to center with enough force to actually hit the opposite direction; most commonly noticed in metroidvanias or other 2d platformers where it can make you turn around unintentionally. I was also able to adjust for this with Steam calibration.
JustARaccoon@lemmy.world · 1 pts · 322d
Dualsense with a back pedal mod is king tbh. Very easy to set up with no soldering needed.
I think the only thing that could beat it is something like 8bitdo which integrates the extra buttons into steam input, but they don't have a controller that's as good, and from what I've heard their upcoming pro 3 controller that's got the playstation layout isn't that good, especially dpad-wise.
prole@lemmy.blahaj.zone · 1 pts · 322d
Do you have a link for said mod? Thanks
JustARaccoon@lemmy.world · 2 pts · 322d
This is the one I got: https://amzn.eu/d/6ldVKNJ check if they have newer models as well and make sure you get the correct one for your hardware revision. One thing to note though is this mod at least makes it so you can't use the official dock anymore due to its position.
prole@lemmy.blahaj.zone · 1 pts · 322d
Thanks for the link, didn't even know mods like this existed
JustARaccoon@lemmy.world · 2 pts · 322d
They're cool, you can only copy an existing button on the controller sadly, but since this comes with 4 I usually map it to the face buttons so I can use the right stick and press those buttons at the same time. V nice for souls games.
prole@lemmy.blahaj.zone · 1 pts · 322d
Ahhh one of those... I had one of the official Sony ones for my DS4, and if I recall, the button had to even be on the same side of the controller as the one you're mapping it to. Unless I'm misremembering.
The Steam Deck has spoiled me with the fully customizable back buttons (can even make them toggle, or have them press a combination of keys/buttons. Steam Input is amazing). In addition to actually being able to control a mouse pointer with the thumbpads, and having the option for gyro (only way fps becomes manageable for me on console).
JustARaccoon@lemmy.world · 1 pts · 322d
You can map it to any button on this one, I remember messing around with which side to put dodge on. But yeah I was considering some of the 8bitdo controllers precisely to allow for more buttons and macros but from Amazon reviews their upcoming playstation layout controller is not better than the dualsense
daggermoon@lemmy.world · 1 pts · 322d
Hyperkin Xenon
SSUPII@sopuli.xyz · 1 pts · 322d
I use my PS2 and PS1 controllers with a converter to PS3 (USB). Debian by default converts the controller to a XBOX360 one (more precisely, the default Duelshock 3 driver does), making it generally supported.
friend_of_satan@lemmy.world · 1 pts · 322d
mugita_sokiovt@discuss.online · 0 pts · 323d