Retro video games are finest skilled with the correct controller. In order to remodel your Raspberry Pi right into a true-blue retro gaming machine, you want to pair it with the correct controller. You can go the keyboard and mouse route, however a gamepad is simply extra comfy for such kind of video games. The finest Raspberry Pi controllers are available in all shapes, sizes, options, and varied value factors.
There are fairly just a few totally different controllers to select from, so the choice may be reasonably tough. So to discover a good controller that can pair completely with Raspberry Pi emulators, try our options beneath.
These are the most effective Raspberry Pi controllers
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8BitDo SN30 Pro USB Gamepad
Best total
This SNES-styled controller is constructed powerful and is comfy sufficient to play with all evening. It additionally has an extra-long cable so you may lean again. Plus, it not solely works along with your Raspberry Pi, however it may possibly additionally connect with your Windows PC or Nintendo Switch (with the correct software program model).
Best USB
The Logitech F310 can be utilized by a USB hub and nonetheless work as a normal XInput controller. If you are working out of ports, keep in mind this one! And remember that there are ten totally different programmable buttons, together with the 8-way programmable D-Pad.
Retro-Bit Official Sega Genesis USB Controller
Best for Sega
For a brief interval, the Sega Genesis dominated the land and supplied one of many higher controllers to go together with it. Retro-Bit has launched a USB Controller with eight totally different buttons and a ravishing D-Pad. This controller sports activities a 10-foot-long cable and can work along with your Sega Genesis Mini in addition to the Raspberry Pi.
Best wi-fi
Wireless through a USB dongle means no worries about getting tangled in a wire with this nice controller from Logitech. And with the F710, you may eliminate the cables, get pleasure from dual-vibration fashions, and know that this controller will stick round for some time. Just be prepared for some attainable interference since this controller is restricted to 2.4GHz connectivity.
Best colours
Provided that you simply get the model that features the cable, you should use Microsoft’s Xbox Series X controller with the Raspberry Pi. It’s a bit disappointing that you simply can’t natively pair the controller with the Pi, however a minimum of the cable is there to assist. The controller simply pairs with Windows, wirelessly or wired, and is available in a wide range of colours.
Sony PlayStation 5 DualSense
Best ergonomics
Compatibility with the Raspberry Pi, or Linux on the whole, wasn’t accessible at launch. However, now you can use Sony’s newest and biggest PlayStation 5 DualSense controller both wired or through Bluetooth along with your Raspberry Pi. You’ll have to enter a few traces of code, however as soon as the drivers are put in, you will be good to go.
Have some enjoyable with the most effective Raspberry Pi controller
As the saying goes, all work and no play form of sucks. Building a neat retro sport machine out of an affordable Raspberry Pi can add somewhat enjoyable again into your life, however you will want a controller. If you are severe about conserving a retro sport field round, we recommend the 8Bitdo Pro wired controller. It’s not fairly the identical as an SNES controller, however the buttons are shut sufficient to make you are feeling comfy, and it is going to final a very long time. There’s a wi-fi model too with Hall impact joysticks that is licensed to work with the Pi, nevertheless it prices twice as a lot.
Those who loved the glory days of the Sega Genesis will need to try the Retro-Bit Sega Genesis USB Controller. Not solely is that this formally licensed and can be utilized with the Sega Genesis Mini, nevertheless it additionally features a 10-foot cable, so you’ve some freedom to maneuver round. Plus, you will not have to fret about downloading any particular drivers, as you may simply plug in a controller to get began.
If you do not need to add one other controller to your assortment, although, there are alternatives. You can get a wi-fi controller adapter just like the aptly named 8Bitdo Wireless Controller Adapter and use your PlayStation or Xbox controller along with your Pi. You’ll additionally need to ensure you have loads of storage for all of these video games with the most effective Raspberry Pi 4 SD playing cards.
