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8BitDo Ultimate 3E Brings Modular Controls to Xbox and PC
8BitDo is taking the customisation of its premium controllers further with the Ultimate 3E Controller for Xbox, letting players physically change several of the controls they use most.
Officially licensed by Xbox, the controller supports Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One through low-latency 2.4GHz wireless or a wired USB connection. Windows 10 and 11 receive the same connectivity options, while iOS, iPadOS and Android devices can connect over Bluetooth.
The more interesting changes are found underneath your fingers. Rather than committing players to one button feel, D-pad or set of analogue sticks, the Ultimate 3E includes a magnetic faceplate and collection of swappable components designed to change how the controller feels depending on the game being played.
ABXY Buttons and Thumbsticks Can Be Swapped
The ABXY controls use a removable module, with players able to choose between traditional silicone membrane buttons and a tactile microswitch alternative. Two D-pads are included as well, offering a conventional cross design or circular option.
Thumbsticks get even more variety. Alongside the standard pair, the accessory pack includes two taller sticks, a dome-topped option and a thicker-necked design that can be exchanged depending on the desired movement and grip.
The sticks themselves use TMR sensors, paired with a 12-bit ADC sampling chip. Like Hall Effect technology, TMR relies on magnetic sensing rather than the physical contact used by traditional potentiometer sticks, while targeting greater precision and resistance to wear-related drift. It follows a growing push towards TMR among higher-end controllers, including the recently revealed Genki Manta.
Hall Effect Triggers and Extra Inputs Target Competitive Play
Hall Effect impulse triggers return with two physical trigger-stop positions, letting players shorten travel for shooters or keep more movement for games where analogue control matters. Two remappable rear buttons are joined by dedicated L4 and R4 Fast Bumpers along the top of the controller.
PC users receive a few additional benefits. The Ultimate 3E supports up to a 1000Hz polling rate over both wired and 2.4GHz connections, alongside configurable six-axis motion controls. Neither feature is supported on Xbox consoles. There is also a 3.5mm headset port with audio controls, three custom profiles and support for 8BitDo Ultimate Software X.
The Charging Dock Is Wireless Too
The included dock moves away from physical charging contacts, instead using magnetic alignment and wireless charging. Its 2.4GHz receiver can be stored inside the dock, which can also extend the wireless connection when connected to an Xbox or PC.
8BitDo rates the controller’s 1400mAh battery for around 18 hours of play, with a four- to five-hour recharge. A travel case is included alongside the dock, adapter and modular accessory pack. For anyone who already spends too much time deciding between concave and domed thumbsticks, 8BitDo is certainly not making that decision any easier.
The 8BitDo Ultimate 3E Controller for Xbox launches in Europe and the UK on October 23, priced at €139.99 / £119.99, with pre-orders open now.
