8bitdos work great. I got several, most happy with the Pro 2. The only downside is that they stopped supporting firmware updates in Linux, so you have to use a VM with Windows and USB passthrough to update the pad.
this post was submitted on 11 Nov 2025
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I have an 8bitdo Ultimate 2 Bluetooth (so the switch version) and it works well. I had to add the line manually to the SDL DB, as I was using the beta firmware. Default firmware works out of the box.
I'd suggest the Ultimate 2 Wireless instead as it should have full SteamInput support.
I couldn't get the customization and update app to work under wine. It's not a huge issue, but if you want that functionality you need to boot into windows.
Xbox Series X controller works out of the box on USB. Haven't tried Bluetooth, but I couldn't get the proprietary wireless dongle to work (it should work with the xone driver)
I’ve been using the same base Xbox One controller for a while. It was easy to set up for Linux. Just had to install some extra package but after that it was good to go.
Out of all the mainline console controllers, Xbox One’s is my favorite. They really nailed it with that one.
Logitech F710, works pretty seamlessly for me on Kubuntu and Mint with GoG/Lutris.
I've had good luck with generic Logitech and ps4 controllers, at least on steam + Linux.
If you are broke, then go for the generic Logitech. But otherwise, I would recommend staying away. My experience has been that they actually made playing games less fun because they are so shoddy.
Play a couple dozen hours with a XBone or DS controller, and you will understand why they are more expensive.
If I'm going to be holding this thing for potentially hundreds of hours, I'm gonna get something that's comfortable and works well.
I love my Gulikit KK2! one of the best controllers i've ever used in 40 years of gaming. just pick up the latest one, i think the KK3.
8bitdo is also a great company with lots of options.
edit looking into it now, it seems quality may have dropped for the KK3. lots of ppl recommending Gamesir G7 Pro,
I do have quite a few different controllers, all work fine on linux for me:
- Xbox One controllers (newer models, older ones don't support bluetooth)
- 8bitdo SN30 Pro 2
- Gulikit KK3 Pro
- Steam Controller
- Google Stadia
The Stadia Controller is not my favourite, but it still works well. I mainly use the Gulikit and 8bitdo ones, depending on the game and wether my main input is meant to be d-pad or left joystick.
The Steam Controller is unique, but I rarely use it.
Bonus points for the 8bitdo Pro 2, the Steam Controller and the Xbox Controllers using AA batteries instead of relying on built in, proprietary rechargable batteries. Pair them with some good IKEA Ladda rechargables and they are awesome.
The Xbox controllers don't have built-in chrager circuit, so a separate charger is needed, which is quite inconvenient. Do the others have that?
The Stadia Controller and the Gullikit KK3 Series have built in batteries and therefore come with their own charging circuit.
The Steam Controller does not charge the batteries, you have to use an external AA charger
The 8bitdo Pro 2 comes with a rechargable battery pack that sits in the AA compartment of the controller (similar to the old xbox 360 play-and-charge kits) and can be charged via USB. I don't know if that charge function is limited to their battery pack, or if it will work with AA rechargables as well. My guess is, though, that it doesn't, because it would have to somehow identify if the cells are actually rechargable, or if they are just alkaline batteries - trying to charge alkalines can be dangerous.
Allthough persoanlly, I consider using an external AA charger a convenience.
Thanks.
Allthough persoanlly, I consider using an external AA charger a convenience.
I guess it is if you already have a charger and a few more use cases for separate batteries.
If you like Offset sticks, the Xbox elite series controllers are phenomenal, it will require additional drivers.
I prefer my sticks aligned, so I usually use my custom DS4 from scuf.
Sometimes I like my stadia controller, it just feels nice in the hands.
I hate the switch pro Controller, it feels... Off somehow.
For retro gaming I use an OG Xbox controller (custom USB bodge job) or my 8bitdo sn30pro+ while I like the 8bitdo, its bluetooth is Unreliable so I recommend using a cable.
Well I have never used any controller or a console before. For almost 20 years I have been a keyboard+mouse guy. So for me, a plug and play controller would be nice. Bluetooth is not a priority for me rn. Given that as well as all the advice in the comments, I am leaning towards this one.