DIY USB Gamepad for Portrait-Mode (GP2040-CE)

Published at : 23 Dec 2025

A short overview of how I designed and built a USB-C controller for portrait-mode gaming.

Project source files:
https://github.com/CoretechR/DIY-Portrait-Mode-Gamepad

GP2040-CE:
https://gp2040-ce.info/

This RP2040-powered gamepad is designed for portrait-mode games. It plugs directly into a smartphone's USB-C port and is compatible with virtually any operating system. No Bluetooth connection or batteries are required as the gamepad communicates directly via USB and acts as a HID controller. The gamepad uses the fantasic GP2040-CE firmware, which also enables a local webserver Web-UI for configuration. All parts of the case and buttons are fully 3D-printable.

Software used in this video: Autodesk Fusion, KiCAD

0:00 Intro
0:27 Design
0:59 Assembly
2:17 Firmware Setup
2:55 Demo