Newsworthy Announcement: 8BitDo reveals Ultimate 2 wireless controller, featuring TMR joysticks and alterable Hall Effect triggers.
8BitDo Ultimate 2 Wireless Controller: Affordable, High-Performance Joypad for PC Gamers
In the realm of budget-friendly controllers, 8BitDo has constantly proved its mettle with devices that outshine their price tags. Their new Ultimate 2 wireless controller is no exception, boasting several upgrades that may well catch the eye of PC gaming enthusiasts with a wallet-friendly budget.
However, as always, before diving in, it's vital to consider certain factors. In this revised article, we'll walk you through the key aspects of the Ultimate 2, from its design and connectivity to its innovative joysticks and D-pad.
Size and Design: The Thin Line Between 'Slim' and 'Cramped'
The Ultimate 2 bears a striking resemblance to the Switch, a design choice that results in a sleek, slim controller. For fans of the Switch's Pro offerings, this could be just the thing. But for those who prefer a more spacious, Microsoft Xbox-inspired controller, this reduction in size might be less than appealing.
As a rule of thumb, comfort should always reign supreme, both for your mental and physical well-being.
Connectivity: Low Latency and Flexibility
Personal preferences aside, the Ultimate 2 maintains the exceptional 2.4G connection found in its predecessors, offering unparalleled responsiveness with under 1ms latency. This is a godsend for competitive PC gamers, especially those who crave an edge in their gaming sessions.
Additionally, the controller offers a Bluetooth connection for extra versatility, catering to a wide range of gaming setups.
Lifted by Innovation: TMR Joysticks and Other Upgrades
The Ultimate 2 equips Tunnel Magnetoresistive (TMR) joysticks, which are believed to be a step up from the recently popular Hall Effect technology. TMR joysticks employ magnetic signals, eliminating the need for physical contact and culminating in a longer lifespan for the switch.
Being more accurate and precise, TMR joysticks are often employed in high-end devices. The presence of this technology in the Ultimate 2 is nothing short of remarkable.
The Triggers: Linear and Tactile
In contrast to the TMR joysticks, the triggers on the Ultimate 2 rely on Hall Effect technology but are endowed with a few trump cards. These triggers can be set to linear or tactile modes at the user's discretion.
For gamers who prefer that extra 'clicks' feedback under their fingers, the tactile mode is a winner. On the other hand, the linear mode delivers a smooth, uninterrupted motion, making it ideal for those who need seamless, snappy responses.
The triggers, however, aren't the only champions; the bumpers have also undergone an upgrade. They are remappable, which is particularly exciting for gamers who prefer repositioning certain controls for optimal performance.
In titles like Hades, TMNT: Splintered Fate, or even Avowed, remapping the dash to a bumper allows for quick, effortless button presses. This feature also comes in handy for those who tend to break bumpers, as excessive use is no longer a concern.
The Heart of the Matter: A Refined D-Pad
The D-pad on the Ultimate 2C was deemed a con in our previous reviews. However, the Ultimate 2 promises a significant improvement, boasting a refined D-pad for enhanced control and faster response. The precise input feedback offered by this upgrade is undoubtedly a selling point for gamers seeking a responsive D-pad.
Other than the D-pad, the controller features the usual array of face buttons and back buttons, as well as a 6-axis motion control for FPS games that support it.
Accessories and Availability
Available in black, white, or purple, the Ultimate 2 comes with an included charging dock for $60 USD, €60, or $90 AUD. However, with 8BitDo no longer shipping from its China warehouse after Trump's Tariffs, Americans may face challenges in acquiring the Ultimate 2.
The Verdict
In conclusion, the 8BitDo Ultimate 2 is an attractive option for budget-conscious PC gamers, offering innovative technologies and performance-enhancing features like TMR joysticks, low latency, and a refined D-pad. However, the reduced platform support and design preferences should be carefully weighed before making a purchase decision.
Hope Corrigan|Hope's been writing about games for approximately a decade, beginning her adventures on the Australian Nintendo fan site Vooks.net. Since then, she's gabbed incessantly about games and tech for publications like Techlife, Byteside, IGN, and GameSpot, and now here at PC Gamer. She relishes in indulging her inner nerd with news and reviews on all things hardware. When she's not exalting in creations, you can find her fictional chill out ambient far future sci-fi radio show/album/listening experience podcast right here. No, she's not kidding.
In the realm of budget-friendly controllers, 8BitDo's new Ultimate 2 wireless controller offers upgrades that may well catch the eye of PC gaming enthusiasts with a wallet-friendly budget. However, before making a purchase decision, it's vital to consider the controller's slim design, which might be less appealing to those who prefer a more spacious controller.
For competitive PC gamers, the Ultimate 2's exceptional 2.4G connection offering under 1ms latency is a godsend. Additionally, its Bluetooth connection offers extra versatility.
The Ultimate 2 equips TMR joysticks, a step up from the recently popular Hall Effect technology, offering accuracy and precision, making it ideal for high-end devices. The triggers on the Ultimate 2 can also be set to linear or tactile modes, catering to gamers' preferences.
The refined D-pad on the Ultimate 2 promises enhanced control and faster response, a significant improvement from its predecessor. Other features include remappable bumpers, a 6-axis motion control, and an array of face buttons and back buttons.
The Ultimate 2 is available in black, white, or purple, and comes with an included charging dock for $60 USD, €60, or $90 AUD. However, American gamers may face challenges in acquiring the Ultimate 2 due to 8BitDo no longer shipping from its China warehouse after Trump's Tariffs.
In conclusion, the 8BitDo Ultimate 2 is an attractive option for budget-conscious PC gamers, offering innovative technologies and performance-enhancing features like TMR joysticks, low latency, and a refined D-pad. However, the reduced platform support and design preferences should be carefully weighed before making a purchase decision.
