The 8BitDot Ultimate is the perfect controller for your retrogaming, Android, PC and Switch games, especially when it is at a very low price

To play on your consoles, PC and even smartphones, there are of course official controllers, notably those from Microsoft/Xbox which are renowned for their versatility. But you can also go through third-party brands, especially those with a good reputation like 8BitDo. The brand has made a name for itself with its peripherals adapted to retro games, but is starting to diversify its offering with more recent controllers like this Ultimate model, available for less than 40 euros today.

The strong points of 8BitDo Ultimate

• 22 hours of autonomy for 3 hours of charging
• You’ll feel right at home on Switch
• The 2.4 GHz wireless connection is most appreciable

If you go to the official 8BitDo website (in English, not French), you will find the Ultimate controller at 59.99 euros. Better to go to AliExpress where it is displayed at 39.11 euros and even 36.11 euros with the promo code CDFR03 to be added before payment. Be careful to choose the white model, it is the only one on which the offer works.

Otherwise, there is also the SN30 Pro model which looks like a Super Nintendo controller, with added joysticks, which is on sale at 28.49 euros with the same code.

One controller to rule them all

With its wireless 8BitDo Ultimate, the brand offers an all-terrain controller for playing mainly on PC and Switch, but also on smartphones and Raspberry Pi, if you have a Recalbox type installation for example. Because the controller can connect via USB-C, Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz wireless, to go everywhere.

You will notice that the look of the controller is similar to that of an Xbox, but the buttons are arranged like on a Switch. This is a bit of a tricky part of this product because depending on the games played, you will have a configuration and screen display of the Xbox keys, but you will have to invert A/B and X/Y. A little mental gymnastics that is not always easy. But on Switch, it works by itself.

We really like the charging station provided

The controller doesn’t come alone: ​​it comes with a charging station that you place it on when you’re not playing with it. It is very well thought out: same color as the controller and it fits the shapes very well, for an excellent result. You have to connect it via USB-C to a socket so that it charges the controller when it is placed on it.

Moreover, you are entitled to a little more than 20 hours of in-game autonomy with a single charge, which is average for official PS5, Xbox or even Switch controllers. And of course, mention more to the USB stick for a 2.4G connection if you don’t have Bluetooth. On the other hand, don’t expect adaptive triggers or fifou haptic feedback (it vibrates, but not at the level of the Switch’s HD Rumble) or Amiibo recognition. But for the price, we’re more than happy with it.

If you are ever looking for a good controller for playing on PC, besides this one, you can take a look at our buying guide specialized in computer controllers.