Best game controllers and remotes to use with Sony Android TVs?

Question

I just bought this huge Sony Bravia TV for the living room and honestly I'm already about to throw the remote at the wall. I thought I could just play some games from the app store thingy on it but the remote it came with is so clunky for that. I tried to look up what controllers to buy and everyone is talking about input lag and dualshock and I have no idea what any of that even means sorry if this is a dumb question but I'm just so lost.

My logic was that since it's a Sony TV maybe only Sony controllers work? But then I saw someone say Xbox ones work too which makes no sense to me since they're different companies. I just want something simple for my 7 year old to play that Beach Buggy game or whatever it is while we're stuck inside during this rainstorm in Seattle. I don't want to spend more than like 60 bucks because he's probably gonna drop it anyway.

Do I need a special plug or do they just connect through the air? I saw some universal remotes too but those look like they're just for changing channels and I'm just confused if I can use one thing for everything or if I need two separate devices. Every guide I find online uses all these technical words and it just makes my head spin...

LanguageExplorercom · Accepted Answer

To add to the point above: I actually have to disagree slightly on the Xbox suggestion. Unfortunately, I have had constant issues with the Xbox Bluetooth signal dropping on my Bravia, and it is a total pain to re-pair it every single time. For a 7 year old, you dont want something you have to fix every ten minutes. Honestly, the 8BitDo Pro 2 Bluetooth Gamepad Black is a much better call here. It is way more reliable for Android TV systems and feels a lot more solid than the Xbox ones. It connects through the air using Bluetooth, so no special plugs or dongles are required. Just put it in pairing mode and find it in the TV menu. TL;DR: Xbox controllers often have sync bugs with Sony TVs. Get the 8BitDo Pro 2 instead; its cheaper and the connection is way more stable for kids.

HermanSoams · Answer

^ This. Also, if you want total reliability, just go wired. I usually recommend the Logitech F310 Gamepad. It supports X-input out of the box so Android TV recognizes it instantly. No Bluetooth pairing junk or lag. Plus, no batteries for the kid to lose or swallow. Its cheap and basically indestructible, which is great for when it eventually hits the floor.

RedSeaKitekix · Answer

> I don't want to spend more than like 60 bucks because he's probably gonna drop it anyway. Honestly, I'm happy with the Microsoft Xbox Wireless Controller Bluetooth. It's really durable for kids and connects wirelessly to the Sony TV easily. Totally worth the price, no complaints.