The 8BitDo Ultimate was already one of the best third-party PC controllers on the market, and now it’s grown more enticing with the addition of Hall Effect analog sticks to the 2.4GHz model. These drift-resistant sticks were previously only available on the Bluetooth model–but now they’re supported on all wireless controllers in the Ultimate lineup. Along with new sticks, 8BitDo announced a new purple color for the Ultimate, and it might be the best-looking controller in its catalog.
8BitDo Ultimate Wireless Controller (2.4GHz)
$50
The 2.4GHz version might have shiny new Hall Effect sticks, but it still only supports PC, Steam Deck, and mobile. The Bluetooth version adds support for Switch (and it also has 2.4GHz wireless). Beyond that, the two models are virtually identical. The controller has three custom profiles, two programmable back buttons, rumble support. With the Ultimate Software app, you can customize stick and trigger sensitivity rumble intensity, and remap the controls while setting up profiles. The controller also comes with a matching charging dock. Considering similar charging docks cost $30 or more, the inclusion of the dock really increases the value–especially since the controller on its own would still be an easy recommendation at this price.
The new purple model is the most exciting, though you’ll also find pink, black, and white up for grabs.
Also, note that the old ALPS sticks are still available for most models–though we’d recommend sticking with the superior Hall Effect ones since both models retail for the same price
If you’re interested in using the 8BitDo Ultimate on Nintendo Switch, you’ll want to pick up the Bluetooth model. There’s nothing new about any of these (they’ve always used Hall Effect sticks), but they remain among the best Switch controllers of 2024.
