Category:

10 Best Game Controllers for Apple TV in 2023

Article By: Ava Olivia Published On: August 11, 2022 , Last updated on : November 25, 2023 | Reviewed by : Editorial Board
10 Best Game Controllers for Apple TV

The latest Apple TV box is one of the best devices for streaming TV shows and movies. Integrating the A12 Bionic chipset has also reshaped it as a gaming platform. With the power of this chip, your Apple TV box can run the latest Apple Arcade games with full controller support. This article will help you find the best game controller for Apple TV available on the market.


SteelSeries Nimbus+

SteelSeries Nimbus+

It features official Apple-licensed Wireless Connectivity with a built-in rechargeable battery capable of 50+ play on a single charge. The tactile D-Pad buttons of the controller offer fast and responsive feedback. Considering the build quality, functionality, and price, it is arguably the best game controller for Apple TV.
DualShock 4 Wireless Controller

DualShock 4 Wireless Controller

The Dualshock 4’s trigger buttons and analog sticks have unrivaled feel, shape, and sensitivity. It offers players absolute control for all games with its superior design aspect—a must-have controller for gamers on any platform.
Xbox Core Wireless Controller

Xbox Core Wireless Controller

Experience enhanced comfort and effortless control during gameplay with 40 hours of battery life. A hybrid D-pad textured grips on the triggers, bumpers, and back-case will give you a flawless gameplay experience.
GameSir T4 Pro Wireless Game Controller

GameSir T4 Pro Wireless Game Controller

This unique controller comes with a semi-transparent cover with RGB backlighting. Additionally, it can utilize its asymmetric vibrating motor with 5-speed levels to enhance immersion in games, increase immersion in games, and offer a more realistic, in-the-moment gaming experience.
YCCTEAM Wireless Game Controller

YCCTEAM Wireless Game Controller

This controller’s buttons are incredibly responsive and offer an authentic gaming experience. There is no input latency or drift, and the analog sticks and trigger buttons are smooth and quick.
EasySMX Wireless Gaming Controller

EasySMX Wireless Gaming Controller

EasySMX Wireless game Controller is widely compatible. Additionally, leveraging the 2.4G wireless transmission technology allows you to enjoy games on your Apple TV while sitting far away.
8Bitdo Pro 2 Bluetooth Controller

8Bitdo Pro 2 Bluetooth Controller

This controller has a 4-Way mode switching button, better grip, and unique profile switching. In addition, the vintage style of it should draw in the old-school gamers.
Aghi Bluetooth Controller

Aghi Bluetooth Controller

This controller’s ergonomic design lessens strain and hand fatigue. For the best gaming experience, this controller also has dual haptic feedback, 4-level vibration intensity adjustment motors, and precise six-axis gyroscopic sensors.
PXN MFi Game Controller

PXN MFi Game Controller

PXN game controllers are officially certified by Apple, so you don’t need keymapping for games. Aside from that, it includes a built-in high-efficiency 550mAh lithium battery that, when completely charged, can last 20 hours.
ASTARRY Wireless Gamepad

ASTARRY Wireless Gamepad

It has high-performance wireless technology can deliver consistent communications without lag or connection within 10 meters. Additionally, it has textured rubber handgrips for prolonged gaming sessions.

Best game controller for Apple TV | Top 10 picks

While playing games on any platform, a controller may help increase the game’s immersion. Apple TV lets you connect a wireless controller to play games comfortably from your couch. However, you will need the best game controller for Apple TV, and this post has listed several.

Here is the list for you to choose the best game controller for Apple TV

  1. SteelSeries Nimbus+
  2. DualShock 4 Wireless Controller
  3. Xbox Core Wireless Controller
  4. GameSir T4 Pro Wireless Game Controller
  5. YCCTEAM Wireless Game Controller
  6. EasySMX Wireless Gaming Controller
  7. 8Bitdo Pro 2 Bluetooth Controller
  8. Aghi Bluetooth Controller
  9. PXN MFi Game Controller
  10. ASTARRY Wireless Gamepad

SteelSeries Nimbus+

SteelSeries Nimbus+The Nimbus+ perfectly checks all the basics of a good controller. It may have blended the design aesthetics of the controllers from Sony and Microsoft, but it has its features to set it apart. The main advantage of Nimbus+ comes with MFi support, enabling perfect compatibility with Apple Arcade games. Furthermore, the excellent synchronization support makes it the best game controller for Apple TV.

Pros:

  • Apple MFi certified controller
  • Comes with a phone mount peripheral
  • Ergonomic design for comfortable use
  • Convenient sync functionality

Cons:

  • The phone mount peripherals do not have full support for large iPhone models

You get a mobile mount peripheral with the Nimbus+ that can hold your iPhone. Although in our testing, the iPhone 13 Pro Max we were using was not perfectly stable. It seems that the extra weight of a bigger phone is not fully supported by the controller yet. Apart from this issue, playing games on Apple TV with this controller was a breeze.

Quantitative Measurement

Durability: 9/10
Design: 9.5/10
Material: 10/10
Uniqueness: 10/10

DualShock 4 Wireless Controller

DualShock 4 Wireless ControllerFor a long time, console users had the opportunity to use some of the best game controllers on the market. Apple did a fantastic job by enabling the support for console controllers from Playstation and Xbox. For that reason, the second entry on our list is the legendary DualShock 4 wireless controller. It was initially out in 2013 alongside Sony’s Playstation 4.

Pros:

  • Beautiful design aesthetic
  • Premium quality build
  • Excellent response time
  • Built-in speakers

Cons:

  • Option and Share buttons are too far away

The controller features a wireless connection, an innovative trackpad, and a beautiful design. The trackpad itself works as an extra button and a display that gives helpful signals for different actions through glowing lights. The DualShock 4 wireless controller is an excellent choice if you plan to play games on your Apple TV.

Also read: 4K Soundbars for Apple TV

Quantitative Measurement

Durability: 10/10
Design: 10/10
Material: 9/10
Uniqueness: 9/10

Xbox Core Wireless Controller

Xbox Core Wireless ControllerXbox Core Wireless Controller, as its name suggests, is the default gamepad for the Xbox console. It was already the best for numerous devices, and after official certification, it became one of the best controllers for Apple Arcade games. Ergonomic and firm at hand are this controller’s most notable selling points.

Pros:

  • Premium quality in all sectors
  • Beautiful textures and geometry
  • Supports a range of devices
  • Easy to use

Cons:

  • Not capable of recharging without an extra add-on

Further inspection of the controller reveals the subtle details Microsoft put into it. The controller has a premium matte color finish, tactile textures, and refined geometry. Furthermore, the controller’s superior connectivity power enables a fast connection with your Apple TV. Almost every Apple Arcade game is supported, and you will definitely love playing games with this beauty in your hand.

Quantitative Measurement

Durability: 9.5/10
Design: 10/10
Material: 9/10
Uniqueness: 9/10

GameSir T4 Pro Wireless Game Controller

GameSir T4 Pro Wireless Game ControllerIn terms of price tag, the GameSir T4 Pro is way below the controllers mentioned above. However, it provides solid performance in terms of gaming on Apple TV. Design-wise, T4 Pro is similar to an Xbox controller, although it has its own perks. Most notably, its body of it is made of translucent plastic. The buttons are also made of the same material and blend perfectly with the overall design.

Pros:

  • Versatile and affordable premium quality device
  • Superior connectivity power with no delay or latency issue
  • Customizable button functionality

Cons:

  • Battery performance is not up to the mark

Although the controller looks bulky, it is surprisingly light. The analog sticks feature rubber coating with a textured finish for comfort. In short, if you are seeking a versatile yet the best affordable Apple TV game controller, the GameSir T4 Pro Wireless Game Controller is a perfect choice.

Quantitative Measurement

Durability: 8.5/10
Design: 9/10
Material: 8/10
Uniqueness: 9.5/10

YCCTEAM Wireless Game Controller

YCCTEAM Wireless Game ControllerInitially built for the PlayStation 4, the YCCTEAM Wireless Game Controller is highly compatible with other devices, including Apple TV. It is a clone of the original PS4 controller from a design perspective. However, it retains several positive perks of the DualShock 4 Wireless Controller besides its affordable price tag.

Pros:

  • Supports a large number of different devices
  • Efficient battery capacity
  • Equipped with a 3.5mm earphone jack

Cons:

  • Unstable Bluetooth syncing

The manufacturers designed it to fit your hand perfectly. Besides, non-slip sweatproof materials in the handle enhance control. During our test phase, the buttons and triggers of this controller worked without any issue. On the downside, the Bluetooth connectivity on YCCTEAM Wireless Game Controller is not stable. Apart from that, it is arguably the best budget game controller for Apple TV if you consider the price tag.

Quantitative Measurement

Durability: 8/10
Design: 7.5/10
Material: 8/10
Uniqueness: 7.5/10

EasySMX Wireless Gaming Controller

EasySMX Wireless Gaming ControllerEasySMX Wireless Gaming Controller is reminiscent of the old Xbox 360 controller from a design perspective. This budget-friendly device packs several features that rival the more expensive alternatives from other manufacturers. It supports wired, and wireless connections, has an intelligent sleep function for efficient battery performance, and more. Its universal compatibility enables it to work with Apple TV without any issue.

Pros:

  • Well built structure
  • Support several platforms
  • Adjustable backlight and vibration

Cons:

  • Very loud vibration motors
  • Buttons underneath the controller may cause accidental clicks

You would expect the device to cut many corners as a budget game controller. Yet the manufacturer manages to implement subtle design features that you may expect in a premium device. For example, the thumb stick has a textured surface, has four programmable keys, and features dual vibration feedback. All in all, it’s an easy recommendation for anyone who wants a decent controller without breaking the bank.

Quantitative Measurement

Durability: 8.5/10
Design: 7/10
Material: 7/10
Uniqueness: 7.5/10

8Bitdo Pro 2 Bluetooth Controller

8Bitdo Pro 2 Bluetooth ControllerIf you want a classic-looking game controller for the Apple TV box, the 8Bitdo Pro 2 gets you covered. This simple and sleek device gives a retro vibe when used for gaming. Besides, it features custom profile switching, motion controls, rumble vibration, and a decent rechargeable battery.

Pros:

  • Unique retro-style game controller
  • Adjustable hair triggers and vibrations
  • Turbo function

Cons:

  • Lengthy pairing process

There are not many decent game controllers on the market, but 8Bitdo Pro 2 controller manages to bring something new. Considering everything, it’s a worthy entry in our list of the best game controllers for Apple TV.

Quantitative Measurement

Durability: 7.5/10
Design: 7/10
Material: 7/10
Uniqueness: 9.5/10

Aghi Bluetooth Controller

Aghi Bluetooth ControllerWith a range of color options and stunning looks, Aghi Bluetooth Controller tries to bring style to the controller scene. On top of that, it supports Apple Arcade MFi games and features several programable buttons. The mobile holder accessory that comes with it also works perfectly to hold a medium size phone.

Pros:

  • Apple MFi certified
  • Programmable joystick and button
  • 6-Axis gyroscope and dual vibration

 

Cons:

  • Some games like Call of Duty has compatibility issue

All in all, the Aghi Bluetooth Controller is a decent choice if you seek a multipurpose controller. Yes, its build quality may not be on par with the premium options, but you get a stylish and featureful controller to play games on your Apple TV.

 

Quantitative Measurement

Durability: 7/10
Design: 9.5/10
Material: 7/10
Uniqueness: 7/10

PXN MFi Game Controller

PXN MFi Game ControllerThis MFi-certified controller can play any game from the Apple Arcade banner. Moreover, PXN has a website where you can find all the supported games in one place. The controller also comes with an adjustable phone mount accessory.

Pros:

  • Apple MFi certified device
  • High efficient lithium battery

Cons:

  • Connectivity issues

Its battery performance is outstanding and provides excellent control ability while gaming. Overall, PXN gives users a sleek and convenient multipurpose game controller.

Quantitative Measurement

Durability: 7/10
Design: 7/10
Material: 7/10
Uniqueness: 7.5/10

ASTARRY Wireless Gamepad

ASTARRY Wireless GamepadThe final item of the best game controller for Apple TV list is from ASTARRY. It is equipped with high-performance wireless technology, so there is no chance of a dropped connection. In terms of build quality, the controller utilizes textured rubber in the handle to increase friction and prevent hand sweat. During our testing phase, this function works perfectly with Apple Arcade games.

Pros:

  • Non-existent lag and latency
  • Compatible with more than a thousand games, including Apple Arcade titles
  • Ergonomic design

Cons:

  • The build quality is not adequate for extended usage

During our review process, the 500mAh lithium battery of the ASTARRY Gamepad provides 6-8 hours of game time. That’s an outstanding performance from a device that is very affordable.

Quantitative Measurement

Durability: 6.5/10
Design: 7/10
Material: 7.5/10
Uniqueness: 7/10

Final thoughts

Game controllers enable you to play games comfortably in any location. Due to technological advancements, it is much easier to use your wireless gamepad on any device. This post has talked about some of the best game controllers for Apple TV. Moreover, the controllers listed here are multipurpose and can be used on various platforms.

If you like this guide about game controllers, you may also want to check out take on other topics. Most notably, the article about the best HDMI cables for Apple TV. Alternately, go through our post on connecting the iPhone to a TV without WiFi.