Best wireless controller for retropie

axis_d

I recently got my retropie set up, but now I want to use wireless controllers to play. Is there a general consensus on what the best controller is? I care mostly about accurate and responsive controls. I dont want lag. Let me know your guys thoughts, thanks!

mediamogul

@axis_d said in Best wireless controller for retropie:

I dont want lag.

Between an HDTV and a basic RetroPie setup, you're already getting a bit of lag already. Any wireless controller will add a frame or two on top of that. However, most people never notice it outside of a few NES games like 'Battletoads'.

suprjami

Logitech F710 - https://github.com/RetroPie/RetroPie-Setup/wiki/Logitech-controllers

Plug the USB wireless dongle in, it just works.

No driver, no pairing, no nothing else required. It just works.

As far as the Pi is concerned, it's a wired controller.

The wireless is done in hardware, it's RF wireless like a keyboard/mouse, so there is minimal latency.

Has DualShock layout so you can play pretty much anything.

Has a button which swaps the d-pad and left analog in hardware, so you can switch between the two easily for fighters or beaters or shmups.

Runs off two AA batteries which last forever.

You can use multiple controllers with no problems. Each has their own USB receiver.

mediamogul

@axis_d

As I'm just now realizing that I didn't make a recommendation myself, I definitely have to agree with @suprjami. Not only is the F710 a great wireless option for the reasons he listed, but the entire Logitech line of controllers are extremely well made, right down to the weight and general feel. I've used the older, wired 'RumblePad 2' model for years and it has never let me down.

axis_d

awesome.. thanks for the suggestions. So you both think these work better than the Xbox 360 and ps3 wireless controls?

suprjami

@axis_d Yes.

Apparently the X360 wireless controller disconnects from the receiver if it powers off due to idle, then you need to restart your Pi to reconnect the controller. That's really annoying. I would consider them not an option just from that.

PS3 controllers have always worked fine for me via USB Bluetooth and built-in Bluetooth, but a lot of people seem to have trouble with them for some reason. You also need to plug them into a USB host such as a computer or charging station to recharge, they will not recharge directly off a USB charger. If you want to plug them into your Pi to charge, then you need to reboot to recognise the different USB controller. You need to attach a keyboard to pair PS3 initially which is fiddly if you have multiple RetroPie setups or re-flash regularly (which I do).

Neither of X360 or PS3 has the option to swap the D-pad and left analog in hardware. A similar thing can be achieved with RetroArch config, but that's not as easy as just pressing one button and having the controller take care of it for you.

Build quality is the same across all. Logitech don't make rubbish which falls apart after a few hours. I've only owned F710s since last year, but have had other Logitech controllers last for years and years before that.

axis_d

I'm sold. thanks a bunch man.

meleu

@mediamogul said in Best wireless controller for retropie:

However, most people never notice it outside of a few NES games like 'Battletoads'.

Indeed. Responsiveness is really really important at stage 11. :-)

Floob

@axis_d Most people will recommend a Logitech F710 or an 8bitdo model. I think those are a great choice.
I really dont like using an Xbox or PS3 type controller, not least due to the quirks of connection issues they can have.