In my latest video review, I try out 8BitDo’s latest budget controllers, the Ultimate 2C series, which includes options for both PC and Nintendo Switch. You can find these at a super reasonable price over at Amazon (compensated affiliate link).
As a follow-up to last year’s Ultimate C model, these new controllers introduce some upgrades, particularly the inclusion of hall effect sticks and on the PC version hall effect triggers, a feature previously reserved for higher-end models. The Switch doesn’t support analog triggers so the Switch variant of the 2C has a standard digital trigger. Both models have reliability improvements to prevent wear and tear from heavy gaming sessions.
One aspect that immediately stood out to me is how solid these controllers feel despite their budget-friendly price. They are well-balanced, with sturdy plastics that don’t feel cheaply made.
Latency performance was impressive. I ran my usual 240 frames per second slow motion video test, and the PC version connected via USB performed exceptionally well, matching the fastest controllers I’ve tested that cost far more. Wireless connectivity on the PC version is flexible, offering both dongle and Bluetooth options, although the dongle provided the lowest latency. Latency is higher on the Switch version both in wired and wireless configurations due to the Switch’s USB and bluetooth controller interfaces.
But retro game fans will be disappointed with the directional pad. 8BitDo has refined their d-pad designs considerably over the years, but the Ultimate 2C feels like a regression. While its smooth rolling might appeal to fighting game enthusiasts, I found it problematic titles like Zelda as it introduced errant diagonals. It was hard to keep Link walking in a straight line.
There are some limited customization options on the 2C. Two additional buttons on the controller’s back allow mapping individual or multiple simultaneous button presses, though without the ability to save profiles or deeper software adjustments seen in other 8BitDo models. Most of the buttons can also have turbo functionality.
In modern gaming scenarios, modern games performed well with smooth analog controls and decent rumble feedback both on the PC and Switch. The Switch version also supports motion controls!
Overall, the Ultimate 2C controllers deliver considerable value for gamers who might need to buy a bunch of controllers for couch co-op or kids that might be a little too rough on a more expensive controller. While retro gamers will find the d-pad limitations frustrating these controllers do offer a reliable and cost-effective choice for modern games.
Disclosure: 8bitdo distributor AKNES sent these to the channel free of charge. They did not review or approve the video or this review before publishing, no other compensation was received and all opinions are my own.