A new 8BitDo Ultimate controller is headed to Xbox, bringing a wealth of versatility and customization to Xbox at a very tempting price. Officially licensed by Xbox, the 8BitDo Ultimate launches on June 13 and is available to preorder for $70 from Amazon, but there’s a notable catch here for Xbox users. On PC and mobile, the 8BitDo Ultimate Xbox controller should prove to be a great alternative to the official wireless Xbox controller.
While this controller features the high build quality and platform flexibility of other 8BitDo Ultimate devices, the bad news here is that if you intend to use it specifically on Xbox Series X|S or Xbox One, you can only do so in wired mode with the included detachable USB-C cable. That’s certainly a disappointing revelation, especially since at first glance, you’d think it simply looks like an Xbox version of the fantastic 8BitDo Ultimate Bluetooth controller for Nintendo Switch and other platforms.
Currently, the 8BitDo Ultimate doesn’t offer a wireless mode for Xbox consoles. A firmware update could theoretically change that–Microsoft did open up its wireless protocol to allow third-party manufacturers to make wireless controllers for Xbox last year–but for now, this is strictly a wired affair on that platform, and we wouldn’t recommend banking on post-launch wireless compatibility.
What’s particularly peculiar in this case is that 8BitDo has used Microsoft’s wireless protocol already. The stellar 8BitDo Arcade Stick offers wireless connectivity via a 2.4GHz dongle.
As mentioned, the 8BitDo Ultimate is compatible with platforms outside of the Xbox ecosystem. PC players can sync the controller using 2.4GHz wireless or Bluetooth. 8BitDo says Android is supported for mobile, but if it mirrors the existing 8BitDo Ultimate, you also shouldn’t have a problem connecting via Bluetooth on iOS.
PC and mobile players should keep in mind that you can get essentially the exact same controller at Amazon for $57 right now. The existing version of the Ultimate works wirelessly on not just PC and mobile, but also Nintendo Switch. However, using the Switch model on PC means you will have to get used to face buttons with the “wrong” layout. Switch controllers reverse A and B as well as X and Y, which can be frustrating when gaming on PC, especially if you’ve been using an Xbox controller for a long time. That’s where the new Xbox model comes in.
Outside of the wired connection on Xbox, the new 8BitDo Ultimate retains the most impactful features that made the 8BitDo Ultimate our favorite third-party Switch controller and our top pick in our best PC controllers roundup roundup.
It has Hall Effect joysticks designed to mitigate the possibility of stick drift, a chunky D-pad, and a pair of remappable back buttons. There is an impressive amount of customization to take advantage of, and the controller comes with a compact charging dock in case you decide to use it on a non-Xbox platform. 8BitDo’s proprietary Ultimate software for PC, Mac, Xbox, and mobile lets you quickly remap inputs, adjust trigger sensitivity, create dead zones, and save up to three custom profiles.
There are a few differences in features between the two controllers as well. The Xbox edition comes with microswitch bumpers and a 3.5mm audio jack–this is another nice addition for PC players who are trying to decide between the two models. Meanwhile, the Switch version has gyro motion controls. Additionally, the listing for the Xbox controller makes no mention of rumble, while the Switch controller has adjustable rumble.
PC users should also check out 8BitDo’s retro-inspired keyboards for some great add-ons to your PC gaming setup, as the company offers Famicom- and NES-inspired designs, and a Commodore 64 edition with a detachable arcade stick releases next month.
