Looking For A Good Controller Solution

Jiryn

I love my RetroPie, but I am looking for a good USB or BLUETOOTH controller I can dedicate to my console.

I am currently using my PS4 controller, but I regularly play my PS4 as well, so resyncing it between the consoles become a minor hassle now and then.

So I was looking for a well built and comfortable controller for the Retropie.

The ones I am currently most interested in are (in order)
8BitDo NES/FC30 PRO
http://innexinc.com/ios-bluetooth-nes-controller-for-ios-android-and-pc.html

The 8Bit SNES/FC30
http://innexinc.com/mobile-sfc30-wireless-controller.html

and the iBuffalo USB SNES/FC controller
https://www.amazon.com/Buffalo-Classic-USB-Gamepad-PC/dp/B002B9XB0E/ref=sr_1_1?s=pc&ie=UTF8&qid=1487893129&sr=1-1&keywords=ibuffalo

I've heard great things about all three, save for the last one feeling a little light and hollow...

So, any suggestions are welcome, and if you can suggest a Genesis/Saturn like USB controller that would also be welcome.

I've personally decided to not use OEM Controller to USB interfaces since they are known to induce input lag.

fabio78

Buffalo, no question. Not only it's the cheapest, but also it has the best build/feel amongst all of them. The only niggle I could raise is that maybe it's a bit too light, but the clicky feel of the buttons and d-pad are spot-on with the original. Also, I don't bother with wireless controllers. (If anything, wired is more retro haha)
However, bear in mind that I also have a spare DualShock to play PSX and DS , and the few PSP and Dreamcast games that run decently. If you don't have access to any other pad with analogue sticks and plan on playing on those systems, that Bluetooth NES Controller is probably your best option.

Edit: ok, stupid me, you open your post saying that you do have a DS4. Go for the Buffalo then, you won't regret.

Capeman

Look for a logitech precision USB, its a clone of the PS1 controller (so it has 4 shoulder buttons and comfortable handles). Solid build, usb wired, long wire, no analogs, comes in a nice black or translucent blue finish, fantastic solid build. Good floating dpad, good clicky (but not microswitch) buttons. A fantastic controller!

Only shame is it's been discontinued for along time, so you have to find used ones on ebay, but they generally turn up in good condition. I cannot say enough good things about this gamepad, i have 4 of them.

They are a bit pricey, usually turn up for between $17 and $25, sometimes a packaged new one pops up in the $25 range. Worth every penny.

ExarKunIv

i have the 8BitDo NES/FC30 PRO and i have to say it is a well built little controller.
great battery life. and has a good not cheap feel to it.

i have to say using the bumpers and triggers and cramp the fingers, but you stick to the older games you will not have a problem with it. im planing to get a second one my self in a month

Arcuza

I use Speed-Link Torid with a nano USB receiver. It works out of the box without having to enable any driver, just like a wired controller. Perfect when things go wrong or after first boot. It also supports showing assigned Player # on the controller. Rechargeable battery with a mini USB port. Rumble support. Auto battery save and no problem waking up from sleep/dimmed.

http://www.speedlink.com/?pid=31140

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LS650

I have a Logitech 310 for emulators that require analog. I use an iBuffalo for most stuff. Both work great!

Jiryn

I went with the 8BitDo FC30 Pro and NES30 PRO
I really like the controller, but I didn't realize it would be so small (it is actually the same spacial size as a WII PRO controller, but the buttons are smaller)

The only problem I have.. is I think games are recognizing it as 2nd Player.
I was using a PS4 controller before, and just plugged in and set up a FC30 PRO, but when I start any game up.. it won't let me hit start... yet it works perfectly in the RetroPie screen.