What joystick fits Xiaomi TV: selection and customization

Making a modern Smart TV a full-fledged gaming console is a trend that is capturing users around the world, and Xiaomi TVs with their Android TV shell are perfect for this.

However, the standard remote control, even with voice control, is not at all suitable for dynamic shooters, racing or fighting games, where accuracy and tactile return are required.

Owners of devices often wonder what kind of gamepad will be able to make friends with their TV without dancing with a diamond and complex driver configuration.

The answer lies in the operating system’s support for connectivity standards, and in this article we’ll take a closer look at the compatibility of different controller models.

Android TV Compatibility and Connection Standards

The fundamental basis for understanding which joystick to choose is to realize that your Xiaomi TV is running an Android TV or Google TV operating system.

This means that it supports the same wireless protocols as modern smartphones, in particular the Bluetooth HID (Human Interface Device) standard.

Because of this, most of the popular game controllers released in the last few years are automatically defined by the system, without the need to install third-party software.

However, there are nuances with Bluetooth versions and connection types.

Some budget game manipulators can use their own games. USB-2.4 GHz adapters (dongles) and it is important to check if there is a free port. USB on your Mi Box or on your TV set-top box.

If you plan to use a wired connection, make sure that the USB port on your TV is able to deliver enough current, although this is usually enough to charge the controller, and the data is transmitted over a standard protocol.

⚠️ Warning: Older joysticks designed exclusively for Xbox 360 or PlayStation 3 consoles without Bluetooth support may not be defined by a system without special emulators.

Modern Xiaomi TVs, such as the Mi TV P1 series or Mi TV Q1, are equipped with Bluetooth 4.0 modules and higher, which provides stable communication with minimal input lag.

For cloud gaming through services like Xbox Cloud Gaming or NVIDIA GeForce NOW, connection stability is critical, so preference should be given to Bluetooth devices of the latest generation.

Official and Recommended Controllers from Microsoft and Sony

The gold standard in the world of gaming on Android TV are controllers from the largest console manufacturers, as their ergonomics and build quality are undeniable.

First of all, you should pay attention to the Xbox Wireless Controller gamepads, starting with the model that comes with the Xbox One S, and ending with the latest controllers for the Xbox Series X|S.

These devices have built-in Android support and connect to a Xiaomi TV in just a few seconds via the Bluetooth menu.

Sony products also show excellent compatibility, especially the DualSense controller for PlayStation 5 and DualShock 4 for PlayStation 4.

When connected to Android TV, they may not support all specific features like adaptive triggers or next-generation tactile returns, but the basic functionality of buttons and analog sticks works flawlessly.

It is important to note that to activate the pairing mode on Sony and Xbox gamepads, you need to press a special synchronization button, after which the device will become visible for search.

For users who prefer Nintendo products, the good news is that the Pro Controller for the Switch also works well with Android TV.

They connect via Bluetooth and provide a comfortable game, although the layout of the buttons may differ from the usual for Android systems, which is solved by reassignment in the settings of games.

Specialized gamepads for Android and TV-boxing

If you don’t want to overpay for the brands of gaming consoles, the market offers a lot of specialized solutions, sharpened specifically for the Android ecosystem.

One of the most popular options is SteelSeries Nimbus+, which is certified to work with Apple TVs, but also functions well on Android platforms, including Xiaomi TVs.

This controller is notable for its built-in battery with a long life and convenient mounting for a smartphone, which turns the bundle into a portable console.

Another strong player in this field is the company. 8BitDo, Controllers, such as the Ultimate Bluetooth model, often have their own USB-docking station for charging and updating firmware.

A unique feature of some 8BitDo models is the availability of a software mode switch that allows you to choose the Android or XInput mode for maximum compatibility.

Also worth mentioning are the controllers from Logitech, for example, the model. F710, which, though it is used, USB-receiver, provides a very stable connection without delay.

• 🎮 SteelSeries Nimbus+
• 🕹️ 8BitDo Ultimate
• 📱 GameSir X2
• 🔋 Moga XP5-X Plus

When choosing a dedicated controller, always pay attention to the phrase “Works with Android TV” or the Android logo in the description.

Budgetary universal solutions and Chinese analogues

For those looking for an affordable option for casual gaming or interface navigation, there are plenty of budget joysticks from Chinese manufacturers on the market.

Models like the IPEGA PG-9023 or PG-9167 are classics of the genre: they have a telescopic design for installing a smartphone and connect via Bluetooth.

The cost of such devices is much lower than branded analogues, which makes them attractive for buying "for trial" or for children.

However, when buying a budget controller, you need to be prepared to compromise on the quality of materials, the accuracy of analog sticks and response time.

Often, the layout of buttons on such devices may not match the expectations of the Android system, requiring manual adjustment through third-party mapper apps.

However, for simple arcades, retro console emulators or Kodi media player management, their functionality is quite enough.

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When buying a cheap gamepad with AliExpress, be sure to check reviews for input delay (input lag), as in the budget segment this is a frequent problem.

Some universal joysticks come with their own USB-Adapter, which can be a plus if your TV's Bluetooth module is busy plugging in a sound bar or headphones.

In this case, the joystick is defined as standard. USB-input device, and the operating system does not waste resources on processing Bluetooth signal.

Comparative table of controller compatibility

To organize the information and help you quickly decide on your choice, we have prepared a table comparing the key characteristics of popular gamepads in the context of use with Xiaomi TV.

This includes parameters such as connection type, the need for additional adapters, and the overall compatibility assessment.

As you can see from the table, native support from Microsoft and Sony makes their controllers the most trouble-free choice for the user.

Third-party manufacturers try to catch up with the market leaders by offering interesting features, but sometimes at the expense of the ease of customization out of the box.

Instructions: how to connect the joystick to Xiaomi TV

The process of pairing the gamepad with a Xiaomi TV is quite simple and unified for most models of controllers.

First, you need to transfer the joystick itself to mode (adjacents): on Xbox devices this is a synchronization button on the end, on DualSense - pressing the Share and PS buttons before the indicator blinks.

Then we take the TV remote and go to the main menu.

Next, follow the path: Settings (cogs) → Remotes and accessories → Add an accessory.

The TV will start searching for available devices, and in a few seconds the name of your controller (e.g., “Xbox Wireless Controller”) will appear in the list.

Select it, and after successful pairing, the system will issue a notification.

In some cases, especially with non-original controllers, it may be necessary to confirm pairing through a pop-up on the screen.

If the joystick is not determined, try restarting the TV or updating the firmware of the controller itself via a PC or smartphone.

⚠️ Note: If the maximum number of Bluetooth devices (such as keyboard, mouse, and headphones) is already connected to the TV, the new joystick may not connect – disable unused devices.

Problem Solving and Emulation Setup

Even with high compatibility, there may be situations where buttons don’t work properly or games don’t see the controller.

Often the problem is that the game waits for input from a particular type of device (e.g. XInput) and receives data in a different format.

To solve such problems in the Google Play Store on the TV you can install mapper applications such as Button Mapper or Gamepad Key Tester.

These ulites allow you to reassign button functions, calibrate stick sensitivity, and create profiles for specific applications.

It is also worth checking the settings inside the game itself: many emulators and ports have a Controller Settings section where you can choose the type of gamepad manually.

For advanced users using retro console emulators, customization via ADB is available, allowing for deeper integration of the controller into the system.

Remember that some games, especially PC ports, may require a keyboard and mouse to initially set up, after which control switches to the gamepad.

If the joystick is running in jerks, make sure there are no powerful sources of interference between the receiver (or TV) and the controller, such as Wi-Fi routers or microwave ovens.

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The most reliable way to avoid compatibility issues is to choose controllers labeled “Works with Android” or use Xbox and PlayStation gamepads.