this post was submitted on 15 Oct 2025
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8BitDo controllers? (lemmy.world)
submitted 2 weeks ago by ArchmageAzor@lemmy.world to c/linux_gaming@lemmy.world
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I have an 8BitDo Pro 2 controller I've used a bunch without issue on Windows, now I'm moving to Linux (Mint specifically) and I'm having trouble getting the controller to work. It's supposed to work with Linux, but I can't get it to work. Steam doesn't detect the controller in its settings.

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[–] actionjbone@sh.itjust.works 4 points 2 weeks ago (1 children)

Does the controller show up in your Bluetooth panel? Is it pairing successfully?

[–] ArchmageAzor@lemmy.world 4 points 2 weeks ago (1 children)

Yeah, I can pair it with no issue.

[–] Thassodar@sh.itjust.works 2 points 2 weeks ago (2 children)

Are you using the dongle that came with the controller? Bluetooth via direct connection doesn't work for these controllers, you have to use the dongle. The Bluetooth direct (no dongle) only works for mobile devices.

[–] ArchmageAzor@lemmy.world 2 points 2 weeks ago (1 children)

I don't recall getting a dongle with it, I used Bluetooth before I think

[–] Thassodar@sh.itjust.works 3 points 2 weeks ago* (last edited 2 weeks ago) (1 children)

If it's the Pro2 the dongle should be in the charging base under a little flap. When I get home I can take a pic if needed. To be clear: I am not running Linux but I had this issue attempting to use the controller Bluetooth without using the dongle.

EDIT: I am using the Ultimate 2, not the Pro2, this may not apply. I apologize.

[–] actionjbone@sh.itjust.works 2 points 2 weeks ago

Yeah, I was gonna say. I use the Pro2 with Bazzite via Bluetooth. There is no dongle, it's just a Bluetooth controller.

[–] snooggums@piefed.world 1 points 2 weeks ago (1 children)

I use an 8bit duo2 with Bluetooth in Windows, but am planning on switching to Linux by the end of the year after doing a proper data backup.

Just to be clear, the Bluetooth in Linux doesn't work with these controllers and requires the dongle?

[–] Thassodar@sh.itjust.works 1 points 2 weeks ago* (last edited 2 weeks ago) (1 children)

~~TBH I am not using Linux and am using a Pro 2 like OP, however I was attempting to connect to my laptop (Win 10) via Bluetooth only, and it wouldn't work.

That's when I discovered Bluetooth to Bluetooth only works with mobile, and to connect to a PC you have to have the USB dongle that came with it. If OP is saying it works fine direct connection I'm recommending they try the dongle.~~

EDIT: I am using the Ultimate 2, not the Pro2, this may not apply. I apologize.

[–] snooggums@piefed.world 2 points 2 weeks ago* (last edited 2 weeks ago)

I have been using my 8bitdo pro2 with the Bluetooth built into my Win11 desktop PC motherboard for at least a year. Mine didn't come with a dangle, but I could have purchased it separately. It was the old chunky style dangle iirc.

Dongle is a good suggestion though as that should work out of the box.