EmuDeck does not publish a ranking of controller brands or models, so there is no documented “best” controller for every SteamOS setup. Choose a pad that suits your games and preferred button layout, then configure it in Steam Input and the relevant emulator. EmuDeck’s guides cover external controllers, gyro setups and multiplayer, but they do not certify or compare specific hardware.
What to look for in an EmuDeck controller
For ordinary ROM play, begin with a controller that SteamOS can connect to and that the emulator can select as an input device. EmuDeck’s instructions show how to configure external pads in several emulators, but they do not establish model-specific compatibility. Check the live EmuDeck troubleshooting guide and the relevant emulator guide for the setup you plan to use.
- Button layout: Consider whether you prefer button positions mapped to the original console or the layout printed on your controller. EmuDeck Quick Settings provides a choice between those approaches.
- Motion controls: If a game needs gyro, check the instructions for its emulator. The software setup can differ, and some guides require disabling Steam Input for that game.
- Multiplayer: For local play, check that the emulator supports the required player slots and that each pad is assigned to the intended player.
- Comfort and cost: These are personal buying considerations; the available EmuDeck documentation does not compare ergonomics, prices or controller performance.
Set up an external controller
- Start in Game Mode. EmuDeck generally recommends Game Mode for playing ROMs. If you are in Desktop Mode, hold the Steam Deck’s Start button for three seconds to switch to gamepad configuration.
- Connect the controller to the Steam Deck using the connection method you intend to play with.
- Select the pad as the input device. Open the game’s controller settings or the emulator’s input settings and choose the connected controller. The exact menus differ by emulator; EmuDeck’s guides cover Dolphin, Cemu, Yuzu, Ryujinx, RPCS3 and RMG.
- Check the Steam Input profile. EmuDeck supplies profiles for some emulators. When an emulator has no dedicated profile, its FAQ recommends “Gamepad with Joystick Trackpad”; using an unsuitable profile can leave controls unresponsive. See the EmuDeck FAQ for profile guidance.
Choose the button mapping you prefer
EmuDeck Quick Settings lets you choose between mapping buttons to match the original console’s positions and using the controller’s own layout. This is a preference setting rather than a controller compatibility ranking. See EmuDeck Quick Settings for the documented option.
Configure gyro and multiplayer when needed
Gyro and motion controls
Follow the instructions for the specific emulator and game. Some EmuDeck gyro guides direct you to disable Steam Input for the individual game and may require a restart. If you return to the Deck’s usual controls, restore Steam Input or the default emulator profile as directed by that guide.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
More than one controller
Enable or configure the additional player slots in the emulator, then check controller order in Game Mode. If input goes to the wrong player, rearrange the controller assignments. EmuDeck’s emulator guides describe these configuration differences.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.How to decide without a model ranking
Use your games and setup as the deciding factors: confirm the controller can connect as intended, check that the emulator can select it, and choose a layout you find familiar. Add gyro support or multiple pads only if the games you play need them. EmuDeck’s documentation offers setup guidance, not comparative testing or an official list of recommended controller models.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
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