The latest 8BitDo controller features top-notch design, plenty of customization options, and even comes with a charging stand.
Third-party controller maker 8BitDo has released a number of great controllers for the press button switch and other platforms, but many of them fall into the category of “situational” options – controllers suited to certain games and genres. The 8BitDo Ultimate momentary press button switch Controller is a different beast. It not only features great ergonomics, professional features and highly customizable options, but also comes with a charging stand and can connect via momentary or 2.4GHz.
The robust feature set makes 8BitDo Ultimate the most expensive traditional gamepad from the manufacturer at $70. However, this is the same price as the official Pro controller. For the first time since the launch of the press button switch 5 years ago, a docking mode controller is available in addition to the Pro controller. If you are looking for a new press button switch controller, 8BitDo Ultimate is worth buying.
One obvious reason why 8BitDo Ultimate is such a great alternative to the press button switch Pro controller is its form factor and press button layout. The Ultimate has the same overall layout, with offset rockers and ergonomic handles. Prior to Ultimate, 8BitDo’s advanced press button switch controllers such as the Pro 2 had joysticks aligned like PlayStation controllers. The Pro 2 was and still is great for many types of games, but its form factor makes it a must-have for retro gaming. The Ultimate controller is slightly more compact than the Pro controllers, although it is still comfortable to use even for those who have used Pro controllers for five years. However, if you have large hands it may take a while to get used to or feel a bit cramped compared to a Pro controller or even an Xbox controller.
The face press buttons are domed, making them nearly identical to the Xbox controller input. Meanwhile, the shoulder press buttons and triggers are not as wide as on the Pro controller, but they are shorter. In addition to bringing the trigger farther back, they also have a longer actuation distance, making them more suitable for first-person shooters.
The Ultimate also has two rear press buttons located on the handle curve at the back. My middle finger fits perfectly on the press button and I don’t have to change my grip at all. If you haven’t used 8BitDo controllers with rear press buttons before, they are low profile so they are actually press buttons and not triggers.
The joystick uses Hall sensors, which means that the internal components do not rub against each other when the joystick is moved. Instead, it uses a magnetic signal to record input. The hall effect sticks on the Ultimate feel tighter than on the Pro controllers. It’s also important to note that Hall effect technology eliminates the possibility of horrendous stick drift.
Even if the controller’s main selling point is simply a better rocker and back press button, it’s still worth taking a look at the Pro Controller. But where Ultimate really excels is in customization. 8BitDo has its own Ultimate Software app that can be installed on iOS, Android, and PC. The app syncs with the controller via momentary and allows you to adjust settings on the fly. At a basic level, you can use the app to remap inputs and create profiles (up to three). You can also adjust stick tension, trigger sensitivity, rumble intensity and set macros. As mentioned, the Ultimate triggers have a longer travel and tighter rocker, so fine tuning the voltage/sensitivity is very effective and really allows you to personalize the experience to your liking.
The controller charging stand seems like an added bonus to an already great controller. It matches the controller – white or black – and has a USB-C port on the back. It connects to the USB port on the press button switchor PC using the supplied cable. There is a slot for a 2.4GHz adapter at the bottom of the stand. You can connect the controller via momentary or 2.4GHz wireless network. The momentary setup was pretty reliable for me, with no noticeable input lag, but it was optional.
You might be wondering if using a third party controller misses out on any features of the controller? Yes, but only a few things. Ultimate has a rumble, but not ‘s “HD Rumble”. However, you can adjust the intensity of the vibration, so that’s a good thing in that respect. The Ultimate also has motion controls if you prefer to wave with the Pro controllers. However, it does not have NFC support for Amiibo figures. It might not be a deal breaker, but no third-party press button switchcontroller has this feature.
While I’m only talking about the Ultimate as a press button switchcontroller because it goes beyond the (great) Pro controller, it’s also fully PC compatible. Of course, PC gamers already have more options, including Xbox and DualSense controllers, but the Ultimate is also a great controller for PC gamers.
It is worth noting that 8BitDo has created two versions of the new Ultimate controller. The $70 version is compatible with press button switchand PC. There is also an inexpensive $50 version that only offers 2.4GHz wireless and is compatible with PC, Raspberry Pi, and Android. A functionally identical controller, those who want one for PC should probably go for the cheaper version – unless you’re planning on buying a press button switchat some point. Also, this version is available in pink and the face press buttons are labeled as Xbox controllers, not press button switch controllers. Compatibility aside, the only significant difference is that the press button switch controller lasts 22 hours, while the 2.4GHz-only model can last 15 hours on a single charge.
No matter which model you choose, you’ll get a well-made controller with a unique set-up that puts it at the top of its class, especially at this price point. 8BitDo has been the top third-party controller maker for years, and the Ultimate controller is just the latest example.
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