I’ve got a small backlog of games on my laptop (running Arch Linux with KDE) through Lutris. I usually play with a keyboard and a mouse, but since I sit pretty close to my screen (ik bad habit), it starts getting uncomfortable after a while. So I’ve been thinking about picking up a gamepad for some more relaxed, couch style gaming.
I’ve never actually owned a gamepad or a console before, so this would be my first time. From what I’ve seen on Reddit, a lot of people seem to have good experiences using Xbox controllers on Linux. I just wanted to get some more insight before buying one to make sure I’m making the right choice.
I’m also planning to grab a second controller so my girlfriend and I can play some local multiplayer games together.
Update: I went with 8BitDo Ultimate C wired as it was cheaper and a lot of folks below suggested it over the original Xbox Controller. It worked out of the box. I have only tested it with Marvel’s Spiderman 2 from Fitgirl repacks installed and running via Lutris. Worked w/o any issues.


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.