Tesla vehicles are full of surprises, and one of the more fun ones is the Tesla Arcade, which lets you play real video games right on your car’s screen. Whether you’re waiting at a charger or just hanging out, connecting a game controller turns your Tesla into a portable console.
But compatibility matters: not all controllers work, and some pair better than others. We reviewed Tesla manuals, software release notes, and user feedback to find out which controllers actually work—and Cybertruck compatibility.
Top Pick: Sony DualSense (PS5 Controller)
PlayStation DualSense® Wireless Controller – Midnight Black
- Bring gaming worlds to life – Feel your in-game actions and environment simulated through haptic feedback*. Experience varying force and tension at your fingertips with adaptive triggers*
- Find your voice, share your passion – Chat online through the built-in microphone. Connect a headset directly via the 3.5mm jack. Record and broadcast your epic gaming moments with the create button
- A gaming icon in your hands – Enjoy a comfortable, evolved design with an iconic layout and enhanced sticks. Hear higher-fidelity** sound effects through the built-in speaker in supported games
Price: 73.95
Buy at AmazonThe best controller for any Tesla model is the Sony DualSense. It’s fully compatible with Tesla’s Bluetooth Classic stack, pairs easily, and works great across a wide range of games.
Why it’s our top pick:
- Officially supported by Tesla since software v2021.24
- Fast pairing with Bluetooth Classic
- Works on Model S, 3, X, Y, and Cybertruck
- Comfortable for long play sessions
- No dongles or adapters needed, charges with USB-C
Best Alternative: 8BitDo Pro 2
8Bitdo Pro 2 Bluetooth Controller – Hall Effect Joystick Update, for Switch, Windows, Apple, Android, Steam Deck, and Raspberry Pi (Black)
- 【Joystick Updated】Hall Effect Joystick Update.
- 【Special Features】This bluetooth gamepad is an upgraded version of SN30 PRO Plus, Compatible with Switch, Windows, Apple, Android, Steam Deck and Raspberry Pi.Designed for maximum performance,comfor and versatility.Modifiable vibration,6axis motion sensor, enhancing the immersion and realism of the game scenarios,anti-slip design,ensure you optimal feeling when playing.
- 【2 Pro-level Back Buttons】The gamepad features two Pro-level back buttons.These buttons give you more control so you don’t have to take your thumbs off the thumbsticks. With 8BitDo Ultimate Software you can assign any button function and macros, too.
Price: 49.99
Buy at AmazonIf you prefer something more affordable but still responsive and customizable, the 8BitDo Pro 2 is a great choice. It works with Tesla via “Mac mode” and has excellent community support for Tesla Arcade games.
Why we love it:
- Works on all 2020+ Teslas including Cybertruck
- Fully wireless over Bluetooth Classic
- Great button layout for Tesla games
- USB-C charging
Confirmed Working Tesla Controllers by Model & Year
| Controller | Compatible With | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sony DualSense (PS5) | Model S/3/X/Y (2019+), Cybertruck | Best overall. Pairs using PS + Create. Fast and responsive. |
| Sony DualShock 4 (PS4) | Model S/3/X/Y (2019+), Cybertruck | Officially supported. Pairs via PS + Share. |
| 8BitDo Pro 2 | Model S/3/X/Y (2019+), Cybertruck | Use Mac mode (Start + A). |
| Nintendo Switch Pro Controller | Model S/3/X/Y (2019+), Cybertruck | Works, but button mapping varies. |
| Nintendo Joy-Con (L/R) | Model S/3/X/Y (2019+), Cybertruck | Pairs as two devices. Works but quirky. |
| 8BitDo SN30 Pro | Model S/3/X/Y (2019+), Cybertruck | Use Mac mode. |
Cybertruck Support
The Cybertruck runs the latest Tesla software platform and includes support for Bluetooth Classic game controllers. Cybertruck owners have confirmed working connections with both Sony DualShock 4 (PS4) and DualSense (PS5), as well as 8BitDo models.
⚠️ Not Recommended: Xbox Controllers
Most modern Xbox Wireless Controllers (including Xbox Series X or S) do not work with Tesla, including Cybertruck, because they use Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) instead of Bluetooth Classic.
Exception: Older Xbox One Model 1708 controllers may work, but pairing is inconsistent and unsupported.
Summary: What to Buy
- ✅ Best Overall: Sony DualSense (PS5)
- ❌ Avoid: New Xbox controllers (BLE)
Whether you’re driving a Model 3 or a Cybertruck, having the right controller can turn wait time into game time.
