Bluetooth Controller Recomendations? (Non-PS3/4)

5paceCat

Pi Model: 3B
RetroPie Version Used: 4.0
Built From: Pre made SD Image
USB Devices connected: USB Keyboard
Controller used: Undecided
Emulator(s): lr-stella, Atari800, lr-prosystem, lr-virtualjaguar, lr-handy, Reicast, lr-Genesis-Plus-GX, lr-Genesis-Plus-GX, lr-gambatte, lr-vba-next, jzIntv, lr-mame2003, lr-mupen64plus, lr-nestopia, lr-pcsx-rearmed, and lr-snes9x-next

I've always disliked Play Station controllers, so I'm looking for a wireless alternative - preferably something similar to the XBox 360/1 layout. I've read up on some Bluetooth controllers, including a few Wii/WiiU options, but I've found nothing regarding their compatibility with the Linux OS or, more specifically, the Raspberry Pi 3 (and built-in Bluetooth). Has anyone experienced success with any particular controller(s)? Also, I'd like something relatively inexpensive ($35 or under), since I plan on buying four.

Currently considering the following gamepads:

Xiaomi Mi Bluetooth Gamepad
ASUS Google TV500BG Bluetooth Controller
TuoFang Wii U Pro Controller

Thanks in adavance! ^_^

Floob

You'll find the ones from 8bitdo.com are very popular.

The Logitech F710 is also pretty good.

5paceCat

The Logitect F710 is a little too pricey. That'd run me upwards of $160, plus, it's a PS3/4 style controller.

As for the 8Bitdo NES30 PRO (which seems to be the only one with enough buttons for me), I've read that people have had issues with the Bluetooth connections and connecting multiple controllers. And again, it runs about $40.

Floob

@5paceCat
I use the 8bitdo ones usually, no problems in setting multiple ones up, just set each one up as normal:
https://github.com/retropie/retropie-setup/wiki/Setting-up-an-8bitdo-Bluetooth-controller

But yes, probably about $40 new for the NES Pro.

5paceCat

Thanks. I'll consider them if no one else can give a recommendation for something more convenient for my pocket.

backstander

@5paceCat
I have that ASUS Google TV500BG Bluetooth Controller and it works pretty well. It uses the Xbox drivers (xpad or xboxdrv) except it doesn't have real Select & Start buttons and instead it has back-left-arrow & Circle buttons that are used to search for Bluetooth receivers and I couldn't get RetroPie to see them. There is a power button that is in the same place as the Guide button on the Xbox 360/One controllers that can be used. You kind of need Start+Select but the controller does feel pretty good in your hands.

edmaul69

@5paceCat I recommend the 8-bitdo as well. They work great.