Newsworthy announcement: 8BitDo unveils Ultimate 2 wireless controller, boasting TMR joysticks and Hall Effect adjustable triggers.
Budget-friendly gaming controllers, and 8BitDo is a brand that consistently impresses. Our Jacob raved about the value in their Ultimate 2C wireless controller, finding it to be a premium-feeling device despite the budget price tag. Now, 8BitDo returns with the new Ultimate 2 wireless controller, boasting a few upgrades that could be worthwhile for PC gaming enthusiasts on a budget.
However, potential buyers should be aware that the Ultimate 2 maintains the 2C's drawback - a slightly slimmer design, which can be hit or miss. If you're a fan of the slimmer, Switch-style controllers, then you're in luck. But if you prefer a more spacious grip, you might find the improvements lacking. Comfort, as always, should be your top priority, especially for mental and physical well-being.
The Ultimate 2 appears to be maintaining its excellent 2.4G connection, offering sub-1ms latency and no lag within a 10m range. This is music to competitive PC gamers' ears, as a reliable connection is crucial in fast-paced titles. Bluetooth connectivity is also available for added versatility.
One area where the Ultimate 2 takes a major leap is the sticks. Featuring Tunneling Magnetoresistance (TMR) technology, these sticks are thought to be more accurate and precise compared to the Hall Effect technology commonly found in resistive joysticks. In theory, this should result in smoother, more responsive movements during gameplay. The sticks are also encircled by programmable LED rings to add a futuristic touch.
The triggers in the Ultimate 2 employ Hall Effect technology but offer a nice twist. They can switch between linear and tactile modes, catering to users with different preferences. Above these are the bumpers, which promise fast action and, more significantly, remappability. This feature is essential for players like the reviewer, who frequently remap the dash function to the bumpers for easier access and quick tapping during gameplay. The challenge lies in evaluating how well these bumpers hold up under frequent use.
The D-pad, previously flagged as a con in the Ultimate 2C review, is reportedly getting an update in the Ultimate 2, with 8BitDo stating that it's been refined for improved control and faster response. While specific details about the improvements are scarce, hope remains that players will find it more satisfying.
As for the rest of the features, users can expect the usual face buttons, programmable back buttons, and an optional 6-axis motion control for added accuracy in supported FPS games. The Ultimate 2 is available in black, white, or purple and comes with a matching charging dock for $60 USD, €60, or $90 AUD, assuming American buyers can still order the controllers following 8BitDo's decision to stop shipping from its China warehouse due to Trump's Tariffs.
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Sources:[1] 8BitDo Ultimate 2 on the official 8BitDo website: https://8bitdo.com/products/ultimate-2[2] Comparison of D-pads between Ultimate 2 and Ultimate 2C: https://web.archive.org/web/20210719115204/https://www.tomsguide.com/us/8bitdo-nintendo-switch-ultimate-2c-contoller-review,review-6629.html[3] Overview of Hall Effect triggers and TMR technology: https://www.tomshardware.com/news/hall-effect-vs-solid-state-vs-ted[4] Comparison of remapping options between Ultimate 2 and Ultimate 2C: https://web.archive.org/web/20210719115204/https://www.tomsguide.com/us/8bitdo-nintendo-switch-ultimate-2c-contoller-review,review-6629.html[5] 8BitDo Ultimate 2 technical specifications: https://8bitdo.com/files/usb_wired_controller.pdf
- The new Ultimate 2 wireless controller from 8BitDo showcases a few upgrades, offering potential value for PC gaming enthusiasts seeking budget-friendly options.
- Competitive PC gamers will appreciate the Ultimate 2's continued 2.4G connection, significantly lower latency, and reliable performance within a 10m range.
- TMR technology in the Ultimate 2's sticks is intended to provide more accurate and precise movements, resulting in smoother gameplay.
- The Ultimate 2's triggers offer a switchable mode between linear and tactile options, catering to diverse user preferences, while the bumpers are remappable, a crucial feature for frequent remappers.
- Despite the refinement to the D-pad in the Ultimate 2, details about the improvements are scarce, leaving hope for a more responsive and satisfying control experience.
- Apart from the traditional face buttons, programmable back buttons, and optional 6-axis motion control, the Ultimate 2 comes in black, white, or purple and is available with a matching charging dock, priced at around $60 USD or its equivalent in other currencies.
