8bitdo Controller Buying Guide: Ultimate Bluetooth vs. Ultimate 2.4 vs. Pro 2

Summary

This video reviews several premium 8bitDo controllers, including the Ultimate Bluetooth, Ultimate 2.4, Pro 2, and SN30 Pro. The presenter discusses each controller's strengths, focusing on features like compatibility with different devices, hall effect sensors, and analog sticks. The Ultimate Bluetooth and 2.4 controllers are compared for their hardware and connectivity options. Additionally, the Pro 2 is highlighted for its versatility and ergonomic design. The video also explores the customization options available through 8bitDo's software, emphasizing the controllers' durability, performance, and overall value for gamers.

Takeaways

• 🎮 8bitdo offers a range of premium controllers that have evolved from replicas to delivering a premium gaming experience.
• 🛒 The company provides two versions of the Ultimate controller: one with Bluetooth and one with 2.4GHz connectivity, each with different compatibility profiles.
• 🔄 The Ultimate Bluetooth controller features hall effect sensors for smoother and more durable control sticks compared to the 2.4GHz version with traditional Alps sticks.
• 🔌 Both Ultimate controllers include a charging dock with a 2.4GHz dongle for proprietary wireless connections, offering faster response times than Bluetooth.
• 🎲 The Pro 2 controller stands out for its comfort and unique layout, blending Nintendo and PlayStation elements, and includes a clamp for mobile phone attachment.
• 📱 The sn30 Pro is a smaller, more compact controller with a similar feature set to the Pro 2 but with digital triggers, offering a different feel suitable for classic games.
• 💻 8bitdo's Ultimate Software allows for detailed customization of controller settings, including button mapping and stick sensitivity, enhancing the gaming experience on different platforms.
• 🔄 The Pro 2 controller offers simple compatibility switching with a single switch, unlike the Ultimate controllers which require different hardware for various devices.
• 🚫 A limitation of the Ultimate Bluetooth controller is its lack of compatibility with Android or Apple devices, unlike the 2.4GHz version.
• 📱 The controllers are not compatible with Xbox or PlayStation consoles, focusing on Nintendo Switch, PC, and mobile device support.

Q & A

What is the main focus of the video by Lucybin?

The main focus of the video is an overview and comparison of some of 8bitdo's premium controllers, including the Ultimate 2.4, Ultimate Bluetooth, Pro 2, and an honorable mention of the SN30 Pro.

How has 8bitdo evolved their product line according to Lucybin?

8bitdo started by making replica controllers of old classics and has matured their product line to deliver a premium gaming experience with relatively reasonable prices.

What are the two flavors of the 8bitdo Ultimate controller mentioned in the video?

The two flavors of the 8bitdo Ultimate controller are the Ultimate Bluetooth controller and the Ultimate 2.4 controller.

What is the compatibility difference between the Ultimate Bluetooth and the Ultimate 2.4 controllers?

The Ultimate Bluetooth controller is not compatible with the Nintendo Switch or Android/Apple devices, while the Ultimate 2.4 controller works with PCs, Nintendo Switch, and Apple TV.

What is the main hardware difference between the Ultimate Bluetooth and the 2.4 controllers regarding the control sticks?

The Ultimate Bluetooth controller has hall effect sensors in the sticks, while the 2.4 controller has traditional Alps type of stick.

What is the advantage of hall effect sticks over traditional Alps sticks as mentioned in the video?

Hall effect sticks use magnets instead of potentiometers, resulting in a smoother and longer-lasting control experience without drift.

What is the common feature of the Ultimate controllers that Lucybin finds convenient?

The charging dock is a common feature that Lucybin finds convenient, ensuring the controllers always have a full charge.

How does the 8bitdo Ultimate Software allow for customization of the controllers?

The software allows for remapping buttons, adjusting stick sensitivity and dead zones, and saving up to three profiles for different games or platforms.

What is the Pro 2 controller's compatibility setup like, as described in the video?

The Pro 2 controller has a switch on the bottom that allows for easy mode switching between Switch, Android, Direct Input, and X Input modes.

What is Lucybin's favorite controller among those reviewed and why?

Lucybin's favorite controller is the Pro 2 due to its comfortable PlayStation-style layout, superior d-pad, and simple compatibility setup.

What is the main limitation of the Ultimate Bluetooth controller as highlighted in the video?

The main limitation is its lack of broader compatibility, as it cannot be used with Android or Apple devices, unlike the Pro 2 controller.