8BitDo is upgrading several of its most popular controllers with drift-resistant Hall Effect sticks. The company had already launched its 8BitDo Ultimate Bluetooth controller with Hall Effect thumbsticks, and updated the 2.4GHz model earlier this year, but now the 8BitDo Ultimate wired Xbox controller, Pro 2 Switch/PC controller, and SN30 Switch/PC controllers all feature Hall Effect analog sticks.
Adding Hall Effect sticks would be an upgrade for any controller, but these 8BitDo controllers were already some of the best third-party controllers around. 8BitDo Pro 2 and SN30 are two of the best controllers for playing retro titles on Nintendo Switch, PC, and mobile devices. Meanwhile, the 8BitDo Ultimate Wired edition is an excellent third-party option for Xbox. All three controllers feature great customization features, and the Pro 2 and Ultimate Wired each come with a pair of remappable back buttons as well as support for up to three custom profiles.
The new Hall Effect models of each 8BitDo controller are available from Amazon. The upgraded versions are clearly labeled on the store listing, so you know you’re getting the controllers with the better hardware. While the new Hall Effect controllers cost the same as the original models, in some cases only select color options have the new joysticks.
It’s also worth noting select 8BitDo Ultimate Bluetooth gamepads are discounted at Amazon right now, too. You can grab one in black, white, red, or blue for 10% off. The Ultimate Bluetooth also supports 2.4GHz wireless and comes with a matching charging stand.
All 8BitDo Hall Effect Controllers
We expect these new 8BitDo Hall Effect controllers will eventually replace the previous models with the standard thumbsticks. Those who don’t mind the chance of their controllers developing stick drift can grab launch versions of the Pro 2 and SN30 Pro at slight discounts, too. It’s worth noting that multiple GameSpot staffers have used these particular controllers since launch and have yet to encounter stick drift.