The Evercade platform is all about reviving retro gaming with modern comfort—and sometimes, that means plugging in a good old-fashioned controller. Whether you’re playing on the Evercade VS, the VS-R, or even connecting to the Evercade Alpha arcade cabinet, this guide will walk you through which controllers are compatible and how to use them.
🕹️ 1. What Controllers Work with the Evercade VS & VS-R?
The Evercade VS and its updated version VS-R are home consoles that support up to 4 players via USB ports.
✅ Compatible Controllers:
-
Evercade VS Official Controller
Comes bundled with the console. Features a classic D-pad layout, responsive buttons, and USB-A connection. -
Wired USB Controllers
Many standard wired USB gamepads work, including:-
Xbox 360 wired controller
-
Xbox One wired controller
-
PlayStation 4 (DS4) wired via USB
-
Some Logitech USB gamepads (e.g., F310)
-
8BitDo USB wired controllers
(Note: Wireless/Bluetooth may require adapters or not be supported)
-
-
Third-party USB Controllers
Most generic USB gamepads are plug-and-play. If a controller works on PC via USB, there’s a good chance it works on the Evercade VS too.
🔌 Ports and Setup
-
The Evercade VS/VS-R features two front-facing USB-A ports
-
You can add a USB splitter or hub to support 3–4 players
-
No driver installation needed—just plug in and play!
🎮 Does the Handheld Evercade EXP or EXP-R Support External Controllers?
No, the Evercade EXP and EXP-R handhelds do not support external controllers via USB or Bluetooth. These are single-player devices meant for on-the-go use, with no expansion for external gamepads.
🕹️ What About Evercade Alpha?
The Evercade Alpha is a mini arcade cabinet that includes built-in controls but also supports USB external controllers for player 2. Compatible controllers include:
-
Evercade VS controller
-
USB arcade sticks (check input lag reviews first)
-
Wired Xbox and PlayStation USB gamepads
🛑 What Won’t Work?
-
Wireless/Bluetooth-only controllers
Evercade doesn’t have built-in Bluetooth support, so wireless-only devices like DualSense (PS5) or Xbox Series X controllers without a USB cable are not supported natively. -
Controllers needing software or drivers
Any controller that requires software installation won’t work, since Evercade has a locked-down Linux-based system.
🎁 Best Controllers to Use with Evercade (Buy Links)
Want a great experience out of the box? These are top picks:
| Controller | Works With | Notes | Shop |
|---|---|---|---|
| Evercade VS Controller | VS, VS-R, Alpha | Official controller, best compatibility | Shop at Evercade.co.uk |
| Xbox 360 Wired | VS, Alpha | Inexpensive, solid performance | GameLoopX |
| Logitech F310 | VS, Alpha | Comfortable retro feel | GameLoopX |
| 8BitDo USB Gamepad | VS | Great for retro style | 8bitdo.com |
🧠 Final Thoughts
The Evercade ecosystem keeps things simple when it comes to controllers. As long as you stick to wired USB controllers, especially those with legacy support like Xbox or Logitech models, you're good to go—especially on the Evercade VS or Alpha.
So whether you're reliving Pong or battling through Metal Slug, the right controller can make all the difference.