8BitDo budget controllers offer the durability and features of much pricier competitors. The just-announced Ultimate 2C Bluetooth Switch Controller looks to be no exception. Our expectations are high since the excellent Ultimate 2C for PC and Android already debuted this summer. For only $30, Switch gamers will benefit from Hall Effect analog sticks and two extra topside bumpers. 8BitDo’s new wireless controller is now available at Amazon in fashionable blue and pink colorways.
Most controllers place remappable buttons on their backsides. The Ultimate 2C takes a different approach by adding commands between its top triggers and bumpers. This layout is a relief to gamers who find back buttons interfere with their grips. Claw grippers have an obvious advantage, with fingers always near the extra L4/R4 bumpers. Regardless of play style, the Ultimate 2C’s back handles have a rough texture that prevents slippage.
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Other than some different color options, the Switch and PC versions of the Ultimate 2C look nearly identical.However, the Switch controller’s wireless connectivityis limited to Bluetooth. PC gamers have the option to use a lower-latency 2.4 GHz USB RF dongle.Competitive gaming isn’t established on the Switch, so it’s unlikely buyers will have complaints.Although not listed as compatible, the Ultimate 2C Bluetooth can function as amobile controller for various Android devices.
8BitDo Ultimate 2C Bluetooth Switch Controller
The 8BitDo Ultimate 2C is an affordable Bluetooth Switch controller with surprising capabilities. Gamers benefit from two extra remappable buttons adjacent to the standard top triggers and bumpers. Despite its competitive pricing, the Ultimate 2C features durable and drift-resistant Hall Effect analog sticks. The D-pad also provides satisfying responses to inputs while allowing for smooth motion. Players will also enjoy rumble effects, 6-axis motion control, and turbo mode. To preserve its 15-hour battery life, the Ultimate 2C can turn off until it detects movement.
- Number of Colors
- 2
- Compatible Systems
- Switch, Mobile
- Brand
- 8BitDo
- Color Options
- Blue, Pink
- Battery
- 480mAh Li-on battery, 15 hours
- Connectivity
- Bluetooth, USB-C
- Extra Buttons
- R4/L4 bumpers
- Weight
- 225 grams
The Most Advanced $30 Switch Controller?
When the Switch was first released, gamers didn’t have many alternatives to the Joy-Cons. The Switch Pro was considered the best Switch controller by default until other options emerged.
Unfortunately, Nintendo’s peripheral
is rarely on sale, and sometimes sells out.
Even at less than half the price of the Switch Pro, the Ultimate 2C is surprisingly capable. Besides the added R4/L4 bumpers, the Ultimate 2C has the Hall Effect joysticks missing from more expensive controllers. These analog sticks rely on magnets and electrical conduction rather than physical parts colliding. The result is increased durability and less chance of stick drift.With the Ultimate 2C Bluetooth, gamers have all the perks of a full-featured controller. 8BitDo’s controller vibrates to enhance thrilling gameplay action. It also has an internal gyroscope to detect motion in six directions, which gamers may find works better than with the Joy-Cons. Its battery life is acceptable at 15 hours, but the Ultimate 2C has a clever way to maximize uptime. The controller will automatically power down when unused and wake up when it recognizes movement. Players can connect the device using the included USB-C cable if power runs out.
The Ultimate 2C keeps things simple and doesn’t depend on software for button remapping. Only the bonus bumpers are programmable by holding the Mapping button. Otherwise, buyers won’t encounter any limitations, which is remarkable for a controller well under $50. That said, some Switch gamers may prefer the higher-end 8BitDo Ultimate. The controller ships with a charging dock and has dual Bluetooth/2.4 GHz wireless connectivity. Also, it has two more conventionally positioned back paddles.As we approach a potential Switch 2 reveal, Nintendo fans have never had more controller options. Fortunately, most older controllers should be included in the Switch 2’s backward compatibility. The affordable Ultimate 2C Bluetooth isn’t a risky purchase, but its durability should see it survive long after the Switch 2 debut.