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You can reuse an older Samsung Galaxy as a TV-connected emulation device—but only if that exact phone supports wired video output or Samsung DeX. Check compatibility before buying an adapter or dock. Once the display connection works, connect a controller, install an Android emulator such as RetroArch, and configure the emulator core and controls.
Check whether your Galaxy supports TV video output
Samsung DeX is available on selected Galaxy devices, not every Samsung phone. Compatibility varies by model and regional support information, so find your phone’s exact model in Settings and check it against Samsung’s current regional compatibility guidance before shopping. A USB-C port alone does not establish that a phone can send video to a TV.
Samsung documents USB-C-to-HDMI adapters and DeX docks as connection options for compatible phones. If your model does not support wired video output or DeX, those accessories will not turn it into a wired TV console.
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Choose a connection for the TV
For a straightforward wired setup, connect the supported phone to the TV’s HDMI input and select that input on the TV. Samsung documents both USB-C-to-HDMI adapters and DeX docks; its DeX Station documentation describes HDMI, USB ports, and a USB-C power input.
#1 Best Overall
- Bluetooth Controller for iPhone & Android: Mocagen mobile gaming controller Compatible with all iPhone models (including 18/17 series) and Android devices. Pairing steps: 1. Turn on Bluetooth on your phone and go to the pairing screen. 2. Press and hold the Home button for 3 sec until LED4 flashes. 3. Find "XBOX Wireless Controller" on your phone and tap to pair. Quick reconnect: After first pairing, simply press the Home button once (with Bluetooth on) to reconnect
- Play Most Controller-Compatible Games: This iPhone game controller supports cloud gaming (e.g., Xb*x Game Pass, GeForce NOW), Xbox Remote Play, emulator games, and native mobile games (e.g., Apple Arcade). Enjoy effortless control and play Fortnite, Call of Duty, Roblox, Genshin Impact, and many more anytime, anywhere. Note: Controller only works with games that support controller input, and does not support PS Remote Play
- 5M-Cycle Lifespan & Zero Drift: MC1 mobile gaming controller features a Hall-effect joystick with a 5M cycle lifespan, 2.5x longer than standard carbon-film sticks. Its innovative electromagnetic induction technology ensures drift-free operation, enabling precise character control in intense games and significantly extending this phone game controller durability
- Ergonomic Grip Design: The handle is ergonomically shaped with a l*ser-engraved texture for anti-slip and enhanced grip, effectively reducing fatigue during long gaming sessions. The scientifically designed joystick and button layout ensures smooth operation. Whether for personal use or as a gift, it delivers a more comfortable and healthier gaming experience
- 7-Color RGB Light Ring & 600mAh Battery: The mobile game controller features a 7-color adjustable light ring on the joystick(ABXY button lights can be turned off, but their colors are not adjustable). The lighting is vibrant yet eye-friendly. The built-in 600mAh battery provides up to 6 hours of battery life in brightness mode — enough for a full day of gaming
| Connection | What it does | Check before buying |
|---|---|---|
| USB-C-to-HDMI adapter or cable | Sends a compatible phone’s display to the TV. | Phone video-output support, adapter compatibility, and whether the phone needs separate charging. |
| USB-C multiport hub | May combine HDMI, USB peripherals, and charging, depending on the hub. | Phone video-output support, hub specifications, power delivery, and how you will connect the controller. Samsung’s DeX Station shows these port functions but does not certify every third-party hub. |
| DeX Station or DeX Pad | Samsung dock options for compatible Galaxy models, with display and peripheral connections. | Exact phone-and-dock compatibility and charging requirements. |
| Wireless DeX | Connects a supported phone to a compatible display wirelessly. | Phone and TV compatibility, network quality, and whether possible wireless latency suits your games. |
Samsung’s DeX support information explains the supported display routes and the distinction between DeX and screen mirroring. DeX presents a desktop-style interface; screen mirroring shows the phone’s display on the TV. Menu names and locations can vary by software version. For a wired setup, choose the HDMI mode offered by the phone when prompted.
Connect a controller
Android supports compatible controllers connected over Bluetooth or by a wired connection. For Bluetooth, put the controller into pairing mode, open the phone’s Bluetooth settings, and select it from the available devices. For a wired controller, connect it using a cable and connection method compatible with both the controller and phone. Android’s controller connection guidance covers pairing methods.
Rank #2
- Bluetooth Mobile Game Controller for Nintendo Switch 2 & iOS & Android & Tablets, Wireless Gamepad Grip with Hall Effect Trigger Joystick, Ergonomic Phone Controller for iPhone, iPad Pro, Samsung
- TURBO FUNCTION This MFi wireless controller has a turbo function, you can adjust the turbo button according to your needs and achieve one-click bursts, programming buttons are designed on the behind of the stretched gamepad, support macro programming, customise personalised game. making it easier for you to win in FPS games, and it is a good helper for you to play games.
- Hall effect joystick and linear trigger: mobile controller is with hall effect joystick, high precision, stable performance, faster response speed and long service life. Linear trigger has such high fluidity and response speed that gives you a competitive advantage in any game.
- ERGONOMIC DESIGN: Game accessory controllers are ergonomically designed to ensure flawless control and execution. The shape of the gamepad fits naturally in the hand, so you can better immerse yourself in the fun even during prolonged use. 360° rotating joystick analog sticks and trigger buttons ensure precise accuracy and comfort as well as increased sensitivity so you can better control your gaming remote control.
- Supports controllers up to 11 inch: Scalable design supports most tablets such as 11 inch iPad Pro (M5), 11 inch iPad Air (M3), iPad (A16), iPad mini (A17 Pro), 11 inch iPad Pro (M4), 11 inch iPad Pro 4/3/2/1, for Samsung, Lenovo, Amazon, Huawei tablets etc. (Not compatible with the 12.9-inch iPad Pro and 13-inch iPad Air）
After connecting, open the emulator and test navigation and game controls. A controller can pair successfully without every button being mapped as you expect in a particular emulator or core, so check its input settings before starting a game.
Install RetroArch and add an emulator core
RetroArch runs on Android and uses downloadable “cores”—modular emulator or game-engine components. Install a core for the system you want to emulate, then configure the controller in RetroArch. The available cores and features can differ between platform builds and app-store versions.
Rank #3
- Bluetooth Controller for iOS & Android: Mocagen mobile gaming controller expands to 8.1 inches to fit iPhones (including 17 & 18), Android phones, iPad Minis, and tablets under 8.1". For larger Android tablets, it won't clamp—but you can still use it via Bluetooth
- Play Most Controller-Compatible Games: This iPhone game controller supports cloud gaming (e.g., Xb*x Game Pass, GeForce NOW), Xbox Remote Play, emulator games, and native mobile games (e.g., Apple Arcade). Enjoy effortless control and play Fortnite, Call of Duty, Roblox, Genshin Impact, and many more anytime, anywhere. Note: Controller only works with games that support controller input, and does not support PS Remote Play
- Hall-Effect Analog Triggers: Precision-tuned by Mocagen, deliver silky-smooth, frictionless action for precise throttle and brake control in racing games. Contactless magnetic sensors ensure zero wear, lasting feel. Press M+LT/RT to swap analog (gradual) or digital (instant) modes—switches between sim racing and shooters without restart, giving you a reliable edge in every match
- Hall-Effect Joystick: This mobile gaming controller features a Hall-effect joystick with a 5M cycle lifespan, 2.5x longer than standard carbon-film sticks. Its innovative electromagnetic induction technology ensures drift-free operation, enabling precise character control in intense games and significantly extending this phone game controller durability
- 7-Color RGB Ring & 800mAh Battery: This mobile gaming controller features a customizable 7-color RGB light ring around the joystick, with 3-adjustable brightness levels (Off, Low, Medium, High). The built‑in 800mAh battery delivers up to 8 hours of continuous use with the lighting on – more than enough for a full day of gaming
- Choose a RetroArch installation source appropriate for your device. RetroArch’s official platform page lists Android and currently says its Google Play build “has not been updated in over a year,” recommending its site APK or another app store. That is time-sensitive vendor guidance; check the page before installing because storefront status can change.
- In RetroArch, install the core that supports the system you want to emulate. RetroArch explains its core-based design in its documentation.
- Open RetroArch’s input settings and map or verify the controller buttons. Test the controls in the emulator before settling in to play.
Use game files only when you have the right to use them. The applicable rules can depend on your jurisdiction; this setup guide does not determine whether copying or downloading a particular game file is lawful.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What this setup does—and does not—guarantee
A working video connection, paired controller, and installed core establish the basic setup, not how well a particular game will run. Performance depends on the phone, Android version, emulator and core, and game. No frame-rate, latency, heat, or battery-life measurements are established here, so test your own device and game combination rather than assuming it will match a dedicated console.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Plug-and-play via USB-C connection for seamless, hassle-free pairing. 【No Bluetooth Function】It works across a wide range of devices, fully compatible with iPhone 18 Pro Max/iPhone Duo, iPhone15/16/17, Android phones, and tablets up to 216mm (8.5 inch ) in length. No extra adapters required—enjoy smooth cross-device gaming without switching accessories. Fits tablets up to 8.8" and allows for versatile, uninterrupted gaming. No support for foldable smartphones.
- Game and charge simultaneously to eliminate low-battery stress. Mount your device for portable handheld gaming, or use it wirelessly just like a professional console controller.
- Pro-Grade Built-In Controls- Equipped with Hall Effect joysticks and triggers for pinpoint accuracy and long-lasting durability. Customizable rear buttons let you pull off complex combos instantly, plus a one-click screenshot shortcut so you never miss a highlight moment.
- Ergonomic Comfort for Marathon Sessions, extended grip handles cut hand fatigue even during hours of nonstop play. Reinforced grips with anti-slip textured surfaces deliver rock-solid control through lengthy gaming marathons.
- Ultra-Compact & Travel-Friendly, lightweight, space-saving build lets you game anywhere without compromising comfortable, precise handling.
Rank #4
- WIDE SCREEN COMPATIBILITY — PHONE TO TABLET: X5 Lite is a versatile phone controller that stretches up to 213mm to fit iPhone 15/16, most Android phones, iPad mini 6/7, and compatible Android tablets. Secure Type-C connection keeps gameplay stable and responsive.
- MOBILE, CLOUD & REMOTE GAMING: Play supported mobile games like Zenless Zone Zero, or stream console and PC games through Xbox Game Pass, Steam Link, Moonlight, and remote play. Enjoy physical controls wherever you play.
- HALL EFFECT STICKS — PRECISE CONTROL: GameSir Hall Effect sensing sticks deliver smooth 360° control for accurate aiming, movement, and camera adjustments. Built for fast-paced mobile games and streamed console or PC titles.
- LIGHTWEIGHT & ERGONOMIC — 135.4G: At just 135.4g, X5 Lite stays lightweight during extended gaming. Ergonomic, laser-engraved textured grips provide a secure, comfortable hold at home or on the go.
- CUSHIONED MEMBRANE CONTROLS — COMFORTABLE & QUIETER: Cushioned membrane buttons and triggers provide comfortable feedback for repeated inputs while keeping operation quieter. Ideal for extended sessions or gaming in shared spaces.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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