Third-party controller innovation has reached a point where some manufacturers are surpassing the offerings of console giants, according to recent analysis. For gamers seeking a new controller at a budget-friendly price, the 8BitDo Ultimate 3-mode controller is now available for $40 at Amazon, positioning it as a competitive option against pricier alternatives.
This $40 price point is notably lower than the Xbox wireless controller, which is currently on sale for just under $50. The 8BitDo controller includes a charging stand, a superior polling rate, Hall effect joysticks and triggers to prevent drift, and a build quality that rivals more expensive options. In comparison, the GameSir Nova Lite 2, priced at $30, also features Hall effect sticks and a 1,000 Hz polling rate, but the 8BitDo's inclusion of a charging dock and its overall premium feel and design at a slightly higher cost are considered by some to be worth the extra $10.
The 8BitDo Ultimate 3-mode controller is available in black and white for $40, with an Xbox Jade model costing $5 more. It offers three modes of connectivity: Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz via a USB dongle that can be housed in the charging dock, and wired mode. While the controller is compatible with Xbox, this functionality is limited to wired connections. This makes the Ultimate controller particularly suitable for PC gaming, with the added flexibility of connecting to other devices when needed.
Visually and functionally, the 8BitDo Ultimate 3-mode controller presents an experience comparable to an Xbox controller, featuring an Xbox-style button layout and asymmetrical thumbsticks. However, it differentiates itself with the absence of stick drift due to Hall effect technology, a higher polling rate, the included charging dock, and additional back paddles, all while maintaining a distinct aesthetic. The controller also includes two paddle buttons on the back and three-way connectivity options, including Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz.
All controller deals available on Amazon can be found here.