makes some of our favorite third-party game controllers. These gaming grips work with a variety of devices (now included) and are well made. Right now, you can pick up a bundle of the 8BitDo Ultimate Controller and charging dock on Amazon for $56. The discount reaches 20%, which is close to the lowest level in history. This is the best price we’ve seen so far this year.
8Bitdo
8Bitdo makes some of the best third-party game controllers around. It’s compatible with PC, Switch, Steam Deck and even Apple Vision Pro.
Amazon $70
If you are a Prime member and logged in, you will see that the controller is sold directly by 8BitDo. Otherwise, you’ll see the peripheral priced the same but third-party sellers promoting it.
Like other devices, the Ultimate Controller is compatible with the Nintendo Switch and Steam Deck via Bluetooth or a 2.4g adapter. To connect wirelessly to a Windows PC, you need an adapter.
You can use the PC or mobile app to customize the sensitivity of the joysticks, triggers and vibrations, as well as remap buttons, add macros and create settings profiles that are saved to the controller. Other features include Hall-effect sensing joysticks that may be more resistant to wear and drift than many other joysticks, a pair of rear derailleur buttons, and motion controls.
While 8BitDo says it can last up to 22 hours on a single charge, it would be convenient to have a dedicated base to place the Ultimate Controller on. The controller automatically turns off or on when you dock or undock, making operation simple.
Overall, the Ultimate Controller is a great, flexible gaming controller (for one thing, it’s one of the few third-party controllers that can wake the Switch from sleep mode). After using the peripheral for six months, Engadget senior business writer Jeff Dunn commented: “This is a comfortable and versatile professional-style pad that should last a long time” and is “my ultimate gaming control for Switch and PC.” device”.
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