The quickest answer to which Samsung smart TV game controller works with Gaming Hub is the PDP REPLAY Wireless Controller, which is officially certified for the platform, alongside major Bluetooth options like the Xbox Wireless Controller and PlayStation DualSense. For Samsung Smart TV game controller compatibility on 2022 and newer models, these controllers connect wirelessly via Bluetooth or wired through USB, giving you immediate access to cloud gaming titles without extra hardware.
Which Samsung smart TV game controller works with Gaming Hub?
For Samsung Gaming Hub on 2022+ TVs, the officially certified controller is the PDP REPLAY Wireless Controller, designed specifically for this ecosystem. Beyond that, the Xbox Wireless Controller (Bluetooth model) and PlayStation DualSense are fully compatible and widely used, offering native button mapping and low-latency performance. These three options cover the vast majority of Gaming Hub titles, including Xbox Cloud Gaming, GeForce Now, and Amazon Luna.
Bluetooth controller compatibility: official 'Designed for Samsung Gaming Hub' and major brands
The 'Designed for Samsung Gaming Hub' certification guarantees low-latency input, one-button Gaming Hub access, and seamless TV integration, including TV power and volume control, so you won't need to juggle remotes. The PDP REPLAY is the flagship certified model, but Xbox Wireless and PlayStation DualSense controllers also work exceptionally well after a simple pairing process. Amazon Luna controllers are supported too, though they require a Wi-Fi connection rather than Bluetooth for cloud streaming. For Xbox controllers, check for firmware updates via the Xbox Accessories app on PC or console, as older firmware can cause connection drops on Samsung TVs, a quick fix that keeps your gear ready when you watch live TV on Samsung smart TV.
USB controller compatibility: a reliable wired alternative
Standard USB game controllers (like the Logitech F310 or Xbox 360 Wired) plug directly into your TV's USB port and are recognized instantly, providing lag-free input for competitive shooters or fighting games. If you're using two Bluetooth audio devices (e.g., soundbar + headphones), the TV limits Bluetooth controllers to two, so switching to USB ensures your controller never gets disconnected. Wired controllers also skip battery concerns entirely, drawing power from the TV itself.
How to connect a Bluetooth controller using Samsung Gaming Hub
First, ensure your TV software is updated to version 1302.5 or later (Settings > Support > Software Update). Then open Gaming Hub from the home screen, and put your controller in pairing mode:
Xbox Wireless Controller
Hold the Xbox button to power on, then press and hold the pairing button on top until the Xbox logo flashes rapidly.
PlayStation DualSense
Hold the PS button and the Create (share) button simultaneously until the light bar blinks.
PDP REPLAY
Press and hold the pairing button on the top edge until the LED blinks.
Once paired, the controller will work across all Gaming Hub apps and even for navigating the TV interface.
How to connect a USB game controller
Simply insert the USB cable or wireless dongle into a USB port on your TV while it's powered on, the TV will auto-detect the controller within seconds. No setup menu is required; just start a game and the controller will function immediately. For older USB controllers, check if your TV model supports them via the manufacturer's compatibility list, but most standard HID devices work out of the box.
Understanding Bluetooth device limits on your Samsung TV
Samsung Smart TVs allow up to four Bluetooth controllers simultaneously, but this drops to just two if a Bluetooth sound device (like headphones or a soundbar) is also connected. This limitation exists because the TV's Bluetooth radio shares bandwidth between audio and input devices. For optimal performance when using two Bluetooth audio devices, it is recommended to use USB controllers instead, this frees up Bluetooth bandwidth and prevents input lag or disconnections during intense gaming sessions.
Troubleshooting game controller connection issues
If your controller won't pair or keeps dropping, start by checking for TV firmware updates (Settings > Support > Software Update) and ensuring your model is 2022 or newer with Gaming Hub version 1302.5+. For Xbox controllers, update firmware via the Xbox Accessories app on Windows or an Xbox console, this resolves most compatibility issues. Make sure the controller is fully charged (or has fresh batteries) and in pairing mode; for DualSense, reset it with the small pinhole button on the back if it fails to appear. If you're still stuck, try removing the controller from the TV's Bluetooth list and re-pairing, or switch to a USB cable as a temporary fix. For persistent problems, check the controller manufacturer's support page, they often have specific steps for Samsung TV compatibility. And if you're also using the TV for watching live TV on a smart TV, note that some streaming apps require a controller for navigation, but the same pairing steps apply. When you're done gaming, you can quickly get back to regular TV on my Samsung smart TV without unpairing your controller.
