I use an emulator and I have an 8bitdo SN30 classic controller that I'm using (usb-wired). There is a lot of play in the d-pad, so it's pretty much junk for a game that requires precision. Are there any good controllers out there? I'd love to have an actual console and actual NES controllers but that's a bit outside the budget at the moment.

I used to use this: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01N2YT0QT/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

The buttons weren't amazing but the d-pad was good enough for me

Believe it or not, I use a RockCandy Xbox360 controller, and it's not terrible. I get a few wacky inputs every now and again, but it actually plays better than my wired Switch controller playing Tetris 99.