How to Connect a Tello to a GameSir or PS4 Controller
The GameSir T1d is the controller made for the Tello. Connect your phone to the Tello’s Wi-Fi, switch on the T1d in the right mode (hold Y + power for iOS, A + power for Android), then open the Tello app, go to Settings and the Bluetooth controller section, and select the GameSir T1d. Don’t pair it in the phone’s own Bluetooth settings. PS4 DualShock controllers aren’t fully supported by the official app, but third-party apps such as TelloFPV and aTelloPilot recognise them.
By Kyle HilsonUpdated: October 20264 min read
GameSir T1d step by step
- Charge the T1d and the Tello battery.
- Switch on the Tello and connect your phone to the TELLO-xxxxxx Wi-Fi.
- Turn on the T1d: Y + power (iOS) or A + power (Android), held about two seconds.
- Open the Tello app, tap the settings icon, then the Bluetooth controller option.
- Select the GameSir T1d; the app shows it as connected.
- Test sticks with the drone on the ground before take-off.
The general controller picture is in how to connect a Tello to a controller.
Using a PS4 controller
The official Tello app focuses on the GameSir T1d; PS4 controller support there is limited. Third-party apps such as TelloFPV and aTelloPilot work with PS4 controllers:
- Put the PS4 controller in pairing mode by holding Share and PS until the light flashes.
- Pair it with your phone in Bluetooth settings (for third-party apps this is normal).
- Connect the phone to the Tello Wi-Fi.
- Open the third-party app and check it detects the controller.
- Map the sticks and buttons in the app’s settings and test on the ground.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Fix |
|---|---|
| T1d not listed in Tello app | Wrong mode (iOS vs Android); unpair from phone Bluetooth and retry |
| Controller connects but drone doesn’t | Rejoin TELLO Wi-Fi; see Wi-Fi fixes |
| PS4 controller not detected | Use a third-party app that supports it; re-pair |
| Laggy control | Fly closer; reduce Wi-Fi interference |
Wi-Fi connection problems are covered in why a Tello won’t connect.
Why use a controller
Physical sticks are far more precise than touch controls. You can make small corrections without looking at the screen, which helps with smooth video and indoor flying. A controller also frees the phone screen for the camera view.
Tips
- Mount the phone on the controller clip.
- Keep the controller charged; if it dies, switch to touch controls.
- Start in slow speed mode.
- Calibrate the controller sticks if the app offers it.
Controller layout
By default, the left stick controls height and rotation and the right stick moves the Tello forward, back and sideways. Buttons on the T1d can trigger take-off, landing, flips and speed changes, depending on the app. Check the app’s controller settings to see the mapping and change the stick mode if you prefer.
Practising with a controller
Start indoors in a large room with good lighting and a patterned floor so the Tello holds position well. Practise hovering, gentle squares and slow turns. Physical sticks let you make tiny adjustments that are hard on a touch screen, which makes smooth video much easier. Once comfortable, try flying in a figure eight around two objects.
Battery life
The T1d has its own rechargeable battery. Charge it before each session along with the Tello batteries, since a flat controller mid-flight forces you back onto touch controls.
FAQ
Which controller works with the Tello app?
The GameSir T1d.
Can I use a PS4 controller with a Tello?
Yes, through third-party apps like TelloFPV.
Why can’t the app see my T1d?
Check the iOS/Android mode and pair inside the app, not in Bluetooth settings.
Does the controller connect to the drone directly?
No, it connects to the phone, which talks to the drone over Wi-Fi.
More on this topic: the complete RC Drones guide covers the basics behind this article.
About 20 years in RC. Mostly boats in the NAVIGA Mini Eco Expert class, with many self-made parts; also a King Motor Baja 5B, a home-built electric plane, home-built nitro planes he has flown, and an RC helicopter. More about SwellRC
