Windows Central Insider
Many controllers focus on being purely wired or wireless, but there are a few that can do so while being compatible with multiple platforms, albeit at a high cost.
Fortunately, the 8BitDo somehow manages to maintain a mid-range MSRP of $69.99 (which has now been cut drastically to $43.99 at Amazon) despite packing wireless & wired connectivity, Xbox and PC compatibility, and many more premium features, which should've raised its price higher.
Why buy the 8BitDo Ultimate 3-Mode controller for Xbox?
This product has received over 782 reviews on Amazon, with 66% of the customers giving it perfect 5-star ratings, and it's easy to see why that is, given its specs.
The 8BitDo Ultimate 3-Mode Controller for Xbox features a robust build that can endure uncountable hours of use, its D-Pad and bumpers feel solid to the touch, and its textured grips vastly improve its ergonomic handling.
Performance-wise, the controls are highly responsive, especially the analog sticks and triggers, as they're outfitted with Hall Effect sensors. They're even better on PC as the controller can reach up to 1,000 polling rates, giving the controllers vastly improved reaction times and input detection than on consoles.
This controller's biggest highlight is its namesake, the 3-Mode feature. With just a slide of a button on the back of the controller, the 8BitDo Ultimate 3-Mode Controller for Xbox can switch between 3 connectivity modes.
These include 2.4G wireless mode for Windows PC, wired USB mode for Xbox, and Bluetooth mode for Android, iOS, and macOS. Each of these modes has reliable connections with little to no latency, so a player doesn't have to worry about input lag getting in the way of fighting giant bosses.
So, if you're looking for an affordable Xbox and PC controller with the versatility and performance of a premium controller, then this $43.99 discount at Amazon for the 8BitDo Ultimate 3-Mode Controller is for you.
FAQ
What platforms is this controller compatible with?
The 8BitDo Ultimate 3-Mode controller for Xbox is compatible with Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PC Windows, Android, iOS, and macOS.
Can it work wirelessly on Xbox consoles?
No, the 8BitDo Ultimate 3-Mode controller for Xbox can only connect to Xbox consoles via USB-C cables.
Why is a 2.4G dongle included if it doesn't connect to Xbox consoles?
While it can't connect wirelessly to Xbox consoles, the 8BitDo Ultimate 3-Mode controller does connect wirelessly to Windows PC via the bundled 2.4G dongle and Android devices via Bluetooth.
What are Hall Effect Sensors?
Hall Effect sensors use magnets to vastly improve a stick/trigger's sensitivity so it can detect a player's inputs more easily and enhance their accuracy in games that require precision like Call of Duty or Forza Horizon.
Hall Effect sensors also help protect a controller from developing "stick drift", so a player's in-game character doesn't go running without the player's input.
Join us on Reddit at r/WindowsCentral to share your insights and discuss our latest news, reviews, and more.
You must confirm your public display name before commenting
Please logout and then login again, you will then be prompted to enter your display name.
