8BitDo’s New Pro 3 Gamepad: A Deep Dive into the Ultimate Switch 2 Controller

The gaming landscape is constantly evolving, demanding controllers that not only keep pace with technological advancements but also cater to the nuanced preferences of gamers. 8BitDo has consistently delivered on this front, and their latest offering, the Pro 3 Bluetooth Gamepad, signals a new era of customizable control, particularly poised to excel with the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2. While many controllers vie for the title of “best,” the Pro 3 distinguishes itself through a potent combination of classic design, modern features, and unparalleled customization options.

Unboxing the 8BitDo Pro 3: What’s in the Box?

Before we delve into performance, let’s unpack the sheer value contained within the Pro 3’s packaging. This isn’t just a controller; it’s a comprehensive kit designed for the discerning gamer:

• 8BitDo Pro 3 Bluetooth Gamepad: The star of the show, available in G Classic, Gray, and a striking Nintendo GameCube-inspired purple.
• Matching Charging Dock: A stylish and practical way to keep your controller powered up and ready to go.
• Eight Interchangeable Face Buttons: Four pre-installed, plus an additional four SNES-inspired buttons (red, yellow, green, blue) for a touch of retro flair and personalized aesthetics.
• Button Removal Tool: A simple tool for effortless face button swapping.
• Two Ball-Top Arcade Stick Toppers: Catering to fighting game enthusiasts and those who prefer the feel of arcade-style control.
• 2.4GHz Adapter: Expanding compatibility beyond Bluetooth to older devices.
• USB-C Charging Cable: Modern connectivity for charging and wired play.

Design and Ergonomics: A Fusion of Classic and Modern

The 8BitDo Pro series has always excelled at blending retro aesthetics with modern ergonomics, and the Pro 3 continues this tradition masterfully. The PlayStation-style, aligned thumbsticks offer a familiar layout for players accustomed to that design, while the overall shape feels comfortable and secure in the hands, even during extended gaming sessions. The controller’s weight is balanced perfectly, giving it a premium feel without causing fatigue.

Color Options: A Nostalgic Palette

The color options available for the Pro 3 pay homage to gaming’s rich history:

• G Classic: A timeless gray reminiscent of the original Game Boy.
• Gray: A sleek and understated option for those who prefer a more minimalist aesthetic.
• Nintendo GameCube-Inspired Purple: A vibrant and eye-catching color that captures the essence of Nintendo’s iconic console. The purple edition even extends the tribute with GameCube-colored face buttons (gray X and Y, green A, and red B).

Key Features and Upgrades: Setting the Pro 3 Apart

The Pro 3 boasts a range of features that elevate it above its predecessors and competitors:

• TMR Joysticks: Utilizing cutting-edge TMR (Tunnel Magnetoresistance) technology, these joysticks offer unparalleled precision, responsiveness, and durability. Say goodbye to stick drift and hello to consistently accurate control.
• Two Trigger Modes: Switch between analog and digital trigger modes to optimize your experience for different game genres. Analog triggers provide nuanced control for racing and simulation games, while digital triggers offer instant response for action and fighting games.
• Four Remappable Back Buttons: Customize your control scheme to suit your individual playstyle. Assign frequently used actions to the back buttons for quick and easy access.
• Swappable Magnetic Face Buttons: A unique and innovative feature that allows you to personalize the look and feel of your controller. The magnetic design makes swapping buttons quick and effortless.
• Compatibility: Out of the box, the Pro 3 is compatible with Nintendo Switch 2 (expected), Nintendo Switch, PC, Android, Apple devices, and Steam Deck. The included 2.4GHz adapter further expands compatibility to older devices.

Performance: How Does the Pro 3 Handle?

The true test of any controller lies in its performance, and the 8BitDo Pro 3 doesn’t disappoint. The TMR joysticks provide pinpoint accuracy, making it a joy to play games that require precise aiming or movement. The remappable back buttons are a game-changer, allowing you to customize your control scheme to perfectly match your playstyle. The trigger modes offer versatility, adapting to the needs of different game genres.

Gaming with the Pro 3: A Genre-by-Genre Breakdown

• Platformers: The responsive D-pad and accurate joysticks make navigating intricate platforming levels a breeze.
• Fighting Games: The arcade-style ball-top stick toppers and digital trigger mode provide the precision and responsiveness needed for competitive play.
• Racing Games: The analog trigger mode allows for nuanced throttle and brake control, giving you a competitive edge on the track.
• Action Games: The remappable back buttons allow you to assign frequently used actions for quick and easy access, streamlining your gameplay.
• RPG Games: The comfortable ergonomics and customizable control scheme make the Pro 3 ideal for long gaming sessions.

The 8BitDo Pro 3 and the Nintendo Switch 2: A Perfect Match

While the Nintendo Switch 2 remains shrouded in mystery, one thing is certain: it will require a controller that can keep pace with its advanced capabilities. The 8BitDo Pro 3 is perfectly positioned to be one of the best controller choices for the new console. Its cutting-edge features, customizable design, and wide compatibility make it a versatile and future-proof investment.

Why the Pro 3 Excels on the Switch 2

• Enhanced Precision: The TMR joysticks will provide the accuracy needed to take full advantage of the Switch 2’s expected graphical and processing power.
• Customizable Control: The remappable back buttons and trigger modes will allow you to tailor your control scheme to the specific requirements of each game.
• Future-Proof Design: The Pro 3’s wide compatibility ensures that it will remain a valuable asset even as gaming technology continues to evolve.
• Seamless Integration: 8BitDo has a proven track record of providing excellent support for Nintendo consoles, so you can expect the Pro 3 to work flawlessly with the Switch 2.

Customization Options: Making the Pro 3 Your Own

The 8BitDo Pro 3 is all about customization, allowing you to tailor the controller to your individual preferences.

Face Button Swapping: A Visual and Tactile Transformation

The ability to swap face buttons is a unique and appealing feature. Whether you want to recreate the classic SNES button layout or simply experiment with different colors, the Pro 3 gives you the freedom to personalize your controller’s appearance.

Beyond Aesthetics: Tactile Considerations

While the visual aspect of face button swapping is undoubtedly appealing, it’s important to consider the tactile feel of different button types. Experiment with different button combinations to find the ones that feel most comfortable and responsive to your touch.

Software Customization: 8BitDo Ultimate Software

8BitDo’s Ultimate Software provides even more in-depth customization options, allowing you to fine-tune every aspect of the Pro 3’s performance.

Button Mapping and Macro Creation

Remap buttons, create macros, and assign complex commands to the back buttons. The Ultimate Software gives you complete control over your controller’s functionality.

Adjustable Stick and Trigger Sensitivity

Fine-tune the sensitivity of the joysticks and triggers to match your playstyle. Create custom profiles for different games and genres.

Vibration Control

Adjust the intensity of the controller’s vibration or disable it altogether.

Pros and Cons: A Balanced Perspective

While the 8BitDo Pro 3 is undoubtedly an excellent controller, it’s important to consider both its strengths and weaknesses.

Pros:

• Exceptional build quality and ergonomics
• Precise and responsive TMR joysticks
• Customizable face buttons and back buttons
• Versatile trigger modes
• Wide compatibility
• Comprehensive customization software

Cons:

• Price point may be higher than some competitors
• Availability can be limited, as seen with the initial sell-out

The Verdict: Is the 8BitDo Pro 3 Worth It?

The 8BitDo Pro 3 Bluetooth Gamepad is a top-tier controller that offers a winning combination of classic design, modern features, and unparalleled customization options. While the price point may be a bit higher than some competitors, the Pro 3’s exceptional build quality, performance, and versatility make it a worthwhile investment for serious gamers. Whether you’re a retro enthusiast, a competitive gamer, or simply someone who appreciates quality and customization, the 8BitDo Pro 3 is sure to impress. Its potential as one of the best controllers for the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 only solidifies its place as a must-have peripheral for any gaming setup. We highly recommend it.