Xbox Gamers Can Now Swap Button Types and Thumbsticks With 8BitDo’s New Pro Controller
8BitDo is betting that the best controller is the one players build themselves. The company’s new Ultimate 3E Controller for Xbox lets gamers swap ABXY modules, D-pads and thumbsticks, and it began shipping across the UK and Europe last Oct. 23.
Carrying an MSRP of £124.99 / €139.99, the officially licensed controller works with Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One. Game Outlet Europe, an independent distributor of video games and gaming accessories, announced the launch.
Swappable Buttons, D-Pads and Sticks
Each controller comes with modular, swappable parts included, allowing players to fine-tune the feel. Gamers can choose between silicone or micro-switch ABXY modules for two distinct button feels in one controller.
Two premium D-pad options, standard and circular, let players pick classic precision or smooth directional rolls. The controller also features a wider grip angle for comfort and silicone side grips for better stability.
Two standard thumbsticks come equipped, with additional options including two Tall thumbsticks, one Thick-Neck thumbstick and one Dome thumbstick. The sticks are hot-swappable to suit different gameplay scenarios.
Pro-Level Specs for Competitive Play
On PC, the controller offers a polling rate of up to 1000Hz. Its dual thumbsticks use TMR technology paired with a 12-bit ADC sampling chip for enhanced precision and stability.
Interactive RGB Fire Rings around the thumbsticks provide real-time visual feedback during gameplay. Hall-effect Impulse Triggers let gamers choose between two trigger stops, a feature aimed at fast-paced shooters.
Extra-fast bumpers (L4 and R4) and two back buttons let players remap action functions to the rear of the controller. That allows gamers to keep their thumbs on the sticks during complex maneuvers.
Players can connect via 2.4GHz wireless or a wired connection for tournament use. The controller also works with Windows, and Bluetooth support allows use with Apple and Android devices for mobile gaming.
The Ultimate 3E offers customizable 6-axis motion control in 2.4GHz mode on PC. The free 8BitDo Ultimate Software X lets users adjust button mapping, thumbstick sensitivity, trigger range and vibration intensity.
A charging dock is included, powering the internal rechargeable battery for up to 18 hours of continuous gaming. An accessory pack and a travel case are also included.
