Hardware maker 8BitDo has launched the Ultimate 3E Controller for Xbox across the UK and Europe. Swedish distributor Game Outlet Europe is shipping the officially licensed gamepad from today (October 23rd), priced at £124.99 / €139.99.
According to a release, the Ultimate 3E is 8BitDo's most advanced Xbox controller yet. It works with Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One over a 2.4GHz wireless link or a wired connection, the latter pitched at tournament play. Windows PCs are supported too; Bluetooth lets players pair it with Apple and Android devices for mobile gaming.
8BitDo is best known for its retro-themed controllers. This one is aimed squarely at competitive players.
Swappable parts and pro features
Customisation is the main pitch. The box includes swappable parts: two ABXY modules (silicone or micro-switch, for two different button feels), two D-pads (a classic cross and a circular pad) and six thumbsticks. Those are two standard sticks, two tall ones, one thick-neck stick and one dome.
The thumbsticks use TMR (tunnel magnetoresistance) sensors paired with a 12-bit analog-to-digital converter (ADC) chip, which the release says gives better precision and stability. On PC, the polling rate goes up to 1000Hz. RGB ‘Fire Rings’ around the sticks light up as visual feedback during play.
The Hall effect triggers, which read their position with magnets, can be set to one of two stops. That suits fast shooters. Extra L4 and R4 bumpers sit alongside two back buttons that can take over action-button functions, so players never need to lift their thumbs off the sticks. Six-axis motion aiming is available in 2.4GHz mode on PC.
The shape is new for 8BitDo, with a wider grip angle plus silicone side grips. Button mapping, stick sensitivity, trigger range, vibration strength and more can be tuned in the free 8BitDo Ultimate Software X.
Price and availability
A charging dock comes in the box, along with an accessory pack and a travel case. On a full charge, the internal battery lasts up to 18 hours, according to 8BitDo.
The Ultimate 3E Controller for Xbox is sold through major European retailers at £124.99 / €139.99. Listed stores include 8BitDo's own shop and Amazon in the UK, Germany, France, Spain and Italy. Full specs are on the 8BitDo product page.
Game Outlet Europe is an independent distributor of video games and gaming accessories based in Karlstad, Sweden. The company says it does business in more than 40 countries; it has worked in the Swedish games industry since the early 1990s.
The following was sent as a press release to Inven Global.
