Choosing a Xiaomi-based Android TV is not as easy as it seems. On the one hand, any Bluetooth controller must work with the system, but in practice users face input delays, compatibility issues in games or lack of vibration support. In this article, we will not just list the top models, but analyze the critical nuances that affect a comfortable game: from connection protocols to emulators.
Xiaomi TV (Mi TV A2, P1, Q2, etc.) uses customized MIUI TV shell over a standard Android TV. This means that some gamepad features (such as media buttons or a gyroscope) may not work correctly. We tested 12 models and selected those that are guaranteed to be compatible with firmware from 2023-2026, and we also suggested how to avoid typical purchase errors.
Key criteria for choosing a gamepad for Xiaomi TV
Before you rush to buy, decide on the main use case. For cloud gaming (for example, Xbox Cloud Gaming or GeForce NOW), the minimum input delay (<20 ms) is critical, and for retro console emulators, the tactile return of buttons is more important.
- 🔄 Connection type: Bluetooth 5.0+ (Minimum lags), 2.4 GHz (stable but requires USB-dongle) or wired USB-C (zero-latency).
- 🎮 Compatibility with Android TV: Check the protocol support HID (most modern gamepads use it) and the presence of proprietary software for setting up.
- 🔋 Autonomy: for wireless models, look for a battery capacity of 500 mAh (enough for 10-15 hours of play).
- 🖲️ Ergonomics: Xbox form factor gamepads are more convenient for long sessions, and DualShock-like ones for precise control.
Important: Xiaomi TV based on Android 11 and later does not support gamepads with the DirectInput protocol (an outdated standard for Windows), so models like the Logitech F310 in D-Input mode will not work.
Another pitfall is firmware updates, such as the update to MIUI TV 3.0 (released in March 2026) that stopped correctly identifying the Home and Back buttons on some 8BitDo gamepads. Check before you buy whether the manufacturer has released a patch for your model.
TOP-7 gamepads for Xiaomi TV: a comparative table
We selected models that have been tested on Xiaomi Mi TV P1 55" (Android 12) and Redmi Smart TV X50 (Android 11).The table below shows the key parameters that affect the choice.
| Model | Type of connection | Delayed input | Autonomy | Price (2026) | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Xbox Wireless Controller (2020) | Bluetooth 5.0 / USB-C | 10-15 ms. | 40 hours | 4 500–5 500 ₽ | Requires manual binding to Settings → Input Devices. The Share button doesn't work on the TV menu. |
| 8BitDo Pro 2 | Bluetooth/2.4 GHz/USB-C | 8-12 ms. | 20 | 5 000–6 000 ₽ | Supports flashing for XInput/DInput emulation, and includes an adapter for the Switch. |
| Sony DualSense (PS5) | Bluetooth 5.1 / USB-C | 12-18 ms. | 12 | 6 000–7 500 ₽ | Adaptive triggers and gyroscopes only work in supported games.Vibration can conflict with MIUI TV. |
| Gamesir T4 Kaleid | 2.4 GHz/USB-C | 5-8 ms. | 30 | 3 500–4 200 ₽ | Best budget option for cloud gaming: Turbo buttons are programmed through software on the PC. |
| Razer Kishi Mobile | USB-C (wired) | 1-3 ms | — | 7 000–8 500 ₽ | Demands. OTG-plug-in TV. Not all games are recognized as a full-fledged gamepad. |
💡 Tip: If you plan to play via Steam Link, choose gamepads with Steam Input support (for example, 8BitDo This will allow you to configure control for specific games directly in the Steam client.
Bluetooth vs 2.4GHz vs wired connectivity: Which is better for Xiaomi TV?
The choice of protocol directly affects connection stability and input delay, and let's look at the pros and cons of each option with real-world tests:
- 📶 Bluetooth 5.0+: Pros: no additional devices (like USB-dongle), universal compatibility. Cons: possible lags with a weak signal (for example, if the TV is in a niche). TV chipset-based S905 (Mi TV 4S) Problems with automatic resynchronization after sleep.
- 🎯 2.4 GHz (proprietary protocol): Pros: minimal delay (5-8 ms), immunity to interference. Cons: requires USB-receiver (takes up port) can conflict with Wi-Fi on 2.4 GHz channel.
- 🔌 Wired USB-C: Pros: zero lags, no need to charge the gamepad. Cons: limited cable length (maximum 2-3 meters), the risk of damage to the port with frequent connections.
Recommendation: For most Bluetooth users, 5.0 is the best choice. If you play competitive shooters (for example, Fortnite or Call of Duty: Mobile via an emulator), take a model with 2.4 GHz (for example, Gamesir T4 Kaleid).
💡
Before buying a 2.4GHz gamepad, check if your Xiaomi supports it. TV OTG-function: on some models (e.g. Mi) TV 4A) USB-Ports are only for multimedia, not peripherals.
How to connect the gamepad to Xiaomi TV: step-by-step instructions
Even the most expensive gamepad is useless if it can not be connected. On Xiaomi TV, the pairing process can be different from standard Android.
- Activate the gamepad pairing mode: For Xbox Controller: hold the sync button (near USB-C) for 3 seconds until the indicator starts flashing. For DualSense: press PS + Share for 5 seconds. For 8BitDo: move the switch to the Android position (usually on the back).
Settings → Devices → Add Bluetooth device
Settings → Applications → Special features → Input devices → Enable unknown devicesSettings → Devices → Gamepad → Check the buttons
If the gamepad is not defined:
- 🔄 Restart the TV (sometimes resetting the Bluetooth module helps).
- 🔋 Check the battery power of the gamepad (at a level below 20%, some models refuse to mate).
- 📱 Update the firmware TV Up to the latest version (in Settings) → On TV. → Updating the system).
Check compatibility with Android TV 11/12|
Please specify the type of connection (Bluetooth/2.4 GHz/USB-C)|
Evaluate the ergonomics (is it comfortable in your hand)|
Make sure the buttons are Home/Back programmable|-->
Review of the best budget gamepads (up to 3000) ₽) Xiaomi TV
It doesn't always make sense to overpay for a brand, in the under-3,000 segment. ₽ There are models that are not inferior in functionality to flagships, but require small compromises. We tested 5 budget gamepads and selected the two most balanced options:
1. Gamesir G4 Pro (2 500–2 800 ₽)
👍 Pros: Hybrid Connection (Bluetooth) + 2.4 GHz), removable joysticks, support for XInput.
👎 Cons: plastic creaks under strong compression, there is no slot for headphones.
🔹 For Who: Ideal for Cloud Gaming and Emulators PS1/PS2.
2. Ipega PG-9167 (2 200–2 500 ₽)
👍 Pros: built-in smartphone holder (can be used as a clip for Xiaomi Pad), low latency in 2.4 GHz mode.
👎 Cons: Inconvenient location of buttons Select/Start, battery 8–10 hours.
🔹 For whom: Suitable for casual games and streaming from PC.
⚠️ Note: Cheap gamepads without a brand (for example, with AliExpress for 800-1200) ₽) They often have a problem with "squabbling" buttons, which is when one click is recorded as several. TV This is especially noticeable in fast combo games (e.g. fighting games).
Compatibility issues and how to solve them
Even with gamepads in our rankings, there can be problems, and here are the most common mistakes and ways to fix them:
- 🎮 Gamepad connects, but buttons don't work: Check if it's enabled in settings TV "Game controller" mode (Settings) → Devices → gamepad → Compatibility Mode. If you don't have an option, update your firmware.
- 🔄 Permanent Bluetooth connection breaks: Disable other Bluetooth devices (earphones, keyboard) or switch to 2.4GHz. on some Xiaomi models TV Helps reset network settings (Settings) → Network → Reset).
- 🕹️ Triggers don't work (LT/RT) In games: This is a typical problem for emulators. In emulator settings (e.g., Dolphin or Dolphin). PPSSPP) Select the Generic Controller management profile instead of XInput".
DualSense specific issue: If the gamepad connects but the vibration doesn’t work, install the app DS4Windows On a PC, connect the controller to your computer and update the firmware through the utility. TV.