I will forever swear by the 8BitDo Pro 2

8bitdo USB controller was plug and play for me

Most people here are recommending controllers with the Xbox layout. They are correct in most cases.

However, if you’re a weirdo like me that mostly plays 2D games, I highly recommend getting a Sony DS5 instead as the Dpad is in a far more ergonomic position for that.

Yeah, Xbox controllers are pretty much standard. Comfortable, not overpriced, great compatibility with everything, no fuss. Newer ones, from the past several years now, will have Nintendo-style d pads, now that the patent has expired, and connect via bluetooth for wireless play or with a USB C cable to save on batteries. Speaking of batteries, it uses AAs, which means that you can actually swap them when they get low, as opposed to PlayStation controllers where batteries don’t last long and they aren’t really exposed for you to access them. I’m not going to tell you Xbox controllers are the be-all, end-all, but there’s a high chance it’s all you need.

EDIT: Even though I use Xbox controllers all the time, I forgot that the newest Xbox pads actually have d pads that are even better than Nintendo’s design. They look funky, but for my money, it’s the best d pad out there.

Sony’s DualShock 4 and DualSense controllers are plug & play on Linux. (IIRC, Sony contributed native drivers.) They work nicely over USB or Bluetooth. Their motion controls are great if you ever play certain console emulators or want to map them to mouse-like movement in Steam Input. (I use this for free look in flight sims.) The built-in touchpad is nice for navigating menus on PC games without having to reach for the mouse. I think they also support headphones, which might be handy when playing while others in the house are sleeping, but I haven’t tried that feature.

Edit:

Also, the analog stick dead zones are nice and small, which can be helpful in some games. They are traditional potentiometer-based Alps sticks, but mine have not developed stick drift in half a decade of use. (Perhaps because I keep my controllers clean and never throw them across the room.) If they ever do start to drift, I can calibrate them in Linux.

Some people prefer sticks with Hall effect sensors for their resistance to stick drift. I like the idea, but those also consume more power, affecting battery life. Some day, perhaps tunnel magnetoresistance (TMR) sensors will be used in more game controllers and retrofit sticks. Those seem to offer the best of both worlds: low power consumption and drift resistance. Since stick drift hasn’t been a problem for me anyway, I’m happy to stay with Sony controllers and all their nice features for now.

Edit 2:

Well, look at that: Valve is using TMR sensors in their upcoming Steam Controller.

My favourite 3rd party controller, which according to this article is compatible with Linux: https://www.gamingonlinux.com/2025/05/the-8bitdo-ultimate-2-wireless-controller-is-a-top-premium-feeling-controller/

I’ve been using an Xbox pro controller for a while on my Mint setup, just plugged in. I can’t get the Bluetooth to connect and I assume it’s because I need to update the drivers for the controller via Windows. 🤷 Whatever.

But my controller bit the dust somewhat recently, so I grabbed a PS5 controller this time and it works right out of the box, no issue. I haven’t tried the Bluetooth to be honest because I’m so used to playing plugged in, but meh. The little trackpad thing on the PlayStation controller also works well as a mouse trackpad when I’m far away from my PC (like if I have it running in the living room instead of at a desk).

I would recommend grabbing a third party controller since for some reason ($$$), none of the big three consoles make first party controllers with hall effect sticks. Search on Amazon for “Xbox hall effect controller” and 99% of the results will work fine. Off the top of my head, I know 8BitDo and GameSir are reputable brands

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.