Retro games are best experienced with the right controller. In order to transform your Raspberry Pi into a true-blue retro gaming machine, you need to pair it with the right controller. You can go the keyboard and mouse route, but a gamepad is just more comfortable for such type of games. The best Raspberry Pi controllers come in all shapes, sizes, features, and various price points.
There are quite a few different controllers to choose from, so the decision can be rather rough. So to find a good controller that will pair perfectly with Raspberry Pi emulators, check out our suggestions below.
These are the best Raspberry Pi controllers
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Best overall
This SNES-styled controller is built tough and is comfortable enough to play with all night. It also has an extra-long cable so you can lean back. Plus, it not only works with your Raspberry Pi, but it can also connect to your Windows PC or Nintendo Switch (with the right software version).
Best USB
The Logitech F310 can be used through a USB hub and still work as a standard XInput controller. If you're running out of ports, remember this one! And don't forget that there are ten different programmable buttons, along with the 8-way programmable D-Pad.
Best for Sega
For a short period, the Sega Genesis ruled the land and provided one of the better controllers to go along with it. Retro-Bit has released a USB Controller with eight different buttons and a beautiful D-Pad. This controller sports a 10-foot-long cable and will work with your Sega Genesis Mini as well as the Raspberry Pi.
Best wireless
Wireless via a USB dongle means no worries about getting tangled in a cord with this great controller from Logitech. And with the F710, you can get rid of the cables, enjoy dual-vibration models, and know that this controller will stick around for a while. Just be ready for some possible interference since this controller is limited to 2.4GHz connectivity.
Best colors
Provided that you get the version that includes the cable, you can use Microsoft's Xbox Series X controller with the Raspberry Pi. It's a bit disappointing that you cannot natively pair the controller with the Pi, but at least the cable is there to help. The controller easily pairs with Windows, wirelessly or wired, and comes in a variety of colors.
Best ergonomics
Compatibility with the Raspberry Pi, or Linux in general, wasn't available at launch. However, you can now use Sony's latest and greatest PlayStation 5 DualSense controller either wired or via Bluetooth with your Raspberry Pi. You'll need to enter a couple of lines of code, but once the drivers are installed, you'll be good to go.
Have some fun with the best Raspberry Pi controller
As the saying goes, all work and no play kind of sucks. Building a neat retro game machine out of a cheap Raspberry Pi can add a little fun back into your life, but you'll need a controller. If you're serious about keeping a retro game box around, we suggest the 8Bitdo Pro wired controller. It's not quite the same as an SNES controller, but the buttons are close enough to make you feel comfortable, and it's going to last a long time. There's a wireless version too with Hall effect joysticks that's certified to work with the Pi, but it costs twice as much.
Those who enjoyed the glory days of the Sega Genesis will want to check out the Retro-Bit Sega Genesis USB Controller. Not only is this officially certified and can be used with the Sega Genesis Mini, but it also includes a 10-foot cable, so you have some freedom to move around. Plus, you won't have to worry about downloading any special drivers, as you can just plug in a controller to get started.
If you don't want to add another controller to your collection, though, there are options. You can get a wireless controller adapter like the aptly named 8Bitdo Wireless Controller Adapter and use your PlayStation or Xbox controller with your Pi. You'll also want to make sure you have plenty of storage for all of those games with the best Raspberry Pi 4 SD cards.
