8BitDo’s Best Controllers Get Switch 2 Support – How To Set Them Up And Why It’s A Big Deal
For those who tried syncing an 8BitDo controller to the Nintendo Swap 2 on launch day, you had been in all probability dissatisfied when the console refused to acknowledge it. I do know I used to be. However my disappointment did not final lengthy, as 8BitDo reached out the next day to let me know that firmware updates focusing on Swap 2 assist had been accessible for choose controllers in its lineup. After updating all the supported controllers, I can affirm that all the fashions which have acquired updates up to now work properly each wirelessly and with a wired connection. The checklist consists of a number of of 8BitDo’s greatest controllers, together with its not too long ago launched flagship Final 2 Bluetooth, which is a formidable different to Nintendo’s new Swap 2 Professional Controller. We have rounded up all the 8BitDo controllers with Swap 2 assist, outlined the replace course of, and in contrast the Final 2 to the Professional Controller under.
Fast look: 8BitDo Controllers with Nintendo Swap 2 assist
Find out how to replace 8BitDo Controllers
8BitDo Final and Professional 2 Controllers might be up to date within the Final Software program app on PC, Mac, iOS, or Android. The 8BitDo Final 2 Bluetooth Controller makes use of the newer Final Software program V2 for PC and Mac.
The Final Bluetooth and Final 2 Bluetooth additionally assist 2.4GHz Wi-fi on Swap 2, however you could replace the dongle situated within the storage compartment on the underside of the charging dock. For those who solely replace the controller, the Swap 2 will solely acknowledge it when paired in Bluetooth mode. The Final Bluetooth comes with a USB-A dongle that may be linked to the Swap 2’s dock. The Final Bluetooth 2 has a USB-C dongle that may connect with the port on the highest USB-C port on the console itself; this allows you to sync wirelessly through 2.4GHz in tabletop or docked modes. If you wish to hold the highest USB-C port free, you’ll be able to join the dongle to the dock with the assistance of a USB-C to USB-A adapter.
8BitDo additionally has a Firmware Updater device for Home windows and macOS that can be utilized to replace the Final Bluetooth and Professional 2 Controllers in addition to the opposite fashions on the checklist above that do not have Final Software program assist. As soon as put in, plug the controller into your laptop with the USB-C to USB-A cable that comes together with your controller, boot the app, and comply with the on-screen prompts.
Tip: For two.4GHz and wired connections with all 8BitDo merchandise on this roundup, you could toggle one setting in your console. Navigate to System Settings, scroll all the way down to Controllers & Equipment, and allow Nintendo Swap Professional Controller Wired Communication.
8BitDo Controllers on Nintendo Swap 2
Let’s take a better have a look at all the 8BitDo equipment that at the moment work on Nintendo Swap 2. 8BitDo informed GameSpot that it’s engaged on including Swap 2 assist for added merchandise its lineup, so we are going to replace this roundup as extra controllers obtain firmware updates.
$63 (was $70)
Key Options
- Nintendo Swap 2 / Swap: Bluetooth, 2.4GHz Wi-fi (USB-C receiver), Wired (USB-C)
- PC: 2.4GHz Wi-fi + USB-C wired
- TMR electromagnetic analog sticks
- Corridor Impact triggers with adjustable cease level
- 2 remappable again triggers
- 2 additional remappable shoulder buttons
- Tactile bumpers
- RGB lighting rings
- 1,000Hz polling price for two.4GHz and wired
- 6-axis movement controls (Swap 2 + Swap solely)
- Rumble (Swap 2 + Swap solely)
- Turbo button
- As much as 25 hours of battery life
- Accessible in white and black
- Consists of matching USB-C charging dock
The 8BitDo Final 2 Bluetooth Controller is best than many controllers from main manufacturers that value two or thrice as a lot. Even in case you already personal its very good predecessor, the Final Bluetooth, the Final 2 is a worthwhile improve. It might sync wirelessly to Nintendo Swap 2 through the included 2.4GHz USB-C dongle or Bluetooth.
You need to use the USB-C to USB-A charging cable for a wired connection, however you may in all probability solely want to do that in case you run out of battery life. The Final 2 incorporates a 1,000Hz polling price for each 2.4GHz and wired connections, so efficiency is indistinguishable between the 2. I additionally have not observed a distinction in Bluetooth reliability and latency between the Final 2 and Swap 2 Professional Controller.
Together with two remappable again buttons, you may discover two extra shoulder bumpers, providing you with a complete of 4 additional customizable inputs to work with. It can save you as much as three customized profiles and cycle between them on the fly. There’s additionally a turbo button that registers a button press and maintain as steady tapping.
8BitDo has used Corridor Impact sticks in its flagship controllers for some time, however the upgraded TMR electromagnetic sensors on the Final 2 are even higher. The sticks are remarkably clean and exact, and the brand new RGB rings round every stick are a pleasant bonus. The upgraded D-pad retains the retro Nintendo aesthetic discovered on most 8BitDo controllers, but it surely has a softer really feel and smoother motion than its predecessor.
The tactile shoulder bumpers and Corridor Impact triggers are spectacular, and the latter now has a locking change that turns them into immediate triggers with fast stopping factors. Though you lose out on NFC assist for Amiibo and HD Rumble, this mannequin does function adjustable rumble motors and 6-axis movement controls.
With 8BitDo’s Final Software program V2 on PC and Mac, you’ll be able to remap inputs, save profiles, and modify varied stick, set off, rumble, and movement controller settings. This is the checklist of core options:
Customise with 8BitDo Final Software program V2 (on PC/Mac)
- Remap inputs
- Arrange three customized profiles
- Arrange useless zones
- Modify movement management sensitivity
- Modify stick sensitivity
- Modify set off sensitivity
- Modify rumble depth
- Modify lighting results
The Final 2 additionally comes with an identical charging stand, making it simple to refuel between periods. You may get roughly 25 hours of battery life over Bluetooth and 20 hours with 2.4GHz Wi-fi. These instances can fluctuate based mostly RGB ring gentle brightness, rumble depth, movement management utilization, and extra.
After studying about the remainder of the 8BitDo controllers with Swap 2 assist, I’ve included my ideas on the Final 2 Bluetooth versus the Swap 2 Professional Controller based mostly on my early impressions.
Notice: Amazon has a number of retailer pages for the Final 2 Bluetooth. We have included choices offered by Amazon and 8BitDo. No matter who’s promoting it, your order will probably be fulfilled by Amazon and is eligible for Prime supply. For the black version, you may wish to purchase it from 8BitDo’s itemizing whereas the coupon low cost is out there.
$47.39 (was $60) | Bundle with Carrying Case for $50-$55 (was $70)
Despite the fact that the newer mannequin is a noticeable enchancment, the unique flagship 8BitDo controller continues to be an amazing selection for Nintendo Swap 2, Swap, PC, and cellular gamers. For those who’re in search of a customizable Swap 2 controller for $50 or much less, you’d have a tough time discovering a greater possibility than this. And in contrast to the Final 2, the unique mannequin works on iOS.
The Final Bluetooth has a pair of remappable again buttons, Corridor Impact sticks, three customized profiles, a turbo button, movement controls, rumble, and assist for 8BitDo’s unique Final Software program, which is suitable iOS and Android cellular units in addition to PC and Mac. You will additionally get an identical charging dock.
This is a fast rundown of the options and customization choices:
- Works with Swap 2, Swap, PC, Mac, Cell, Steam Deck
- Connection: Bluetooth / 2.4GHz Wi-fi / Wired (USB-C)
- Accessible in white and black
- Corridor Impact analog sticks
- Two remappable again triggers
- Connects wirelessly with Bluetooth or 2.4GHz
- USB-C wired.
- As much as 22 hours battery life
- Consists of matching charging dock
8BitDo Final Software program for PC, Mac, iOS, Android:
- Remap inputs
- Arrange three customized profiles
- Arrange useless zones
- Modify stick sensitivity
- Modify set off sensitivity
- Modify rumble depth
$45-$50 | Bundle with Carrying Case for $60
The 8BitDo Professional 2 Bluetooth Controller is right for individuals who want aligned, PlayStation-style sticks and for video games the place D-pad controls are superior. So in case you’re in search of a Swap 2 controller for Tremendous Mario side-scrollers, retro video games on Swap On-line, or arcade titles, the Professional 2 is well-worth its $45-$50 worth. It resembles a Tremendous Nintendo controller with conventional grips added. However the Professional 2’s design offers it the flexibility to work properly with trendy AAA video games, too.
The Professional 2 is, in some ways, the Final Bluetooth Controller with a distinct kind issue. It has Corridor Impact sticks, a pair of remappable again buttons, a turbo button, and may save as much as three customized profiles. It is the one conventional 8BitDo controller exterior of the Final line that’s suitable with the Final Software program. You possibly can remap inputs and tinker with rumble, movement controllers, and stick/set off sensitivity utilizing 8BitDo’s app on PC, Mac, iOS, and Android.
The Professional 2 can be utilized wirelessly through Bluetooth on Swap 2, Swap, PC, Mac, iOS, Android, Steam Deck, and different units.
$40.49 (was $45)
The SN30 Professional Bluetooth Controller very carefully resembles the form of the SNES controller. However in contrast to the Professional 2, the SN30 Professional does not have Final Software program assist, again buttons, or customized profiles.
What it does have, nevertheless, is twin analog sticks, two triggers, and two shoulder bumpers. Due to the extra triggers, i’s thicker than an precise SNES controller, which improves the general ergonomics. For those who’re keen on this compact kind issue, the SN30 Professional can be utilized with all trendy video games. It has built-in rumble and movement controls, and you’ll stand up to 18 hours of battery life on a full cost.
Evidently, the SN30 Professional is a well-liked selection for retro fanatics, and identical to the Professional 2, it has huge platform compatibility past Swap 2.
$27 (was $30)
The Final 2C Bluetooth Controller is 8BitDo’s funds model of the Final and Final 2. However regardless of solely costing $30 at MSRP, it is a high-performing controller with Corridor Impact sticks, 6-axis movement controls, rumble, and turbo performance.
It additionally has two additional remappable shoulder buttons, situated in the identical spots as the additional buttons on the Final 2. In contrast to the opposite controllers on this checklist with additional buttons, the shoulder buttons are remapped on the controller itself. The Final 2C does not have Final Software program assist, so the shoulder buttons are the extent of the customization options right here.
In order for you a few additional controllers for native multiplayer with family and friends, the Final 2C is superb for the worth. It has the identical nice ergonomics because the flagship Final controllers, and getting Corridor Impact sticks at this worth in a wi-fi controller is a steal.
The Final 2C can run for as much as 15 hours between expenses and is suitable with Nintendo Swap 2 and Swap.
Notice: The older Final C Bluetooth Controller additionally acquired a firmware replace for Swap 2. You will not discover the Final C at main retailers, as a result of it was discontinued after the 2C was launched.
$19 (was $20)
The 8BitDo USB Adapter 2 and the unique mannequin can substitute the necessity to purchase extra controllers. When you’ve got an Xbox Wi-fi Controller with Bluetooth or PS5 DualSense Controller, this $20 adapter helps you to use these controllers wirelessly on Nintendo Swap 2, Swap, and a bunch of different units. You possibly can even use the DualSense Edge and Xbox Elite Collection 2 Controllers–both of that are discounted proper now–and- make the most of the remappable again buttons on every.
As an example, I performed by means of a lot of The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom on Swap OLED with the Elite Collection 2. Having 4 remappable paddles is nice for Nintendo’s open-world Zelda video games because of the ample time spent sifting by means of the pause display screen and fast menus.
The USB Adapter 2 helps many different controllers past the present Xbox and PlayStation fashions. It is a Bluetooth adapter, so all controllers linked to it should assist Bluetooth. Assist is out there for quite a lot of notable legacy controllers, together with the Wii Distant, Wii U Professional Controller, DualShock 4, and DualShock 3. All of 8BitDo’s Bluetooth controllers can sync to the adapter, too.
Notice: Though the Swap 2 helps each iterations of 8BitDo’s USB Adapter, you’ll probably wish to purchase one of many fashions proven above with the quantity 2 on it. The unique mannequin does not work with first-party Xbox controllers, whereas USB Adapter 2 can sync to all Bluetooth-enabled Microsoft controllers.
8BitDo Final 2 Bluetooth vs. Swap 2 Professional Controller
The Nintendo Swap 2 Professional Controller prices $85–$15 greater than the Final 2 Bluetooth Controller at full worth. In the mean time, you will get the Final 2 Bluetooth for under $63 in white or black.
Whereas I’ve loved my time with the Swap 2 Professional Controller up to now, the Final 2 Bluetooth has extra customization choices. From an ergonomics perspective, each controllers are glorious, although 8BitDo’s again buttons are a bit bigger and provide extra tactile suggestions. It is also value preserving in thoughts that the brand new Professional Controller’s sticks–which really feel significantly better than the unique’s–use ALPS tech, so they’re nonetheless vulnerable to analog stick drift. The Final 2 Bluetooth’s TMR electromagnetic sensors are typically thought to be a step above Corridor Impact sticks, that are generally known as “anti-drift sticks.”
I’ve solely spent just a few hours with each controllers on Swap 2, however I’ve used the 8BitDo Final 2 for months on different platforms. 8BitDo’s controllers aren’t formally licensed by Nintendo, however the Swap 2’s launch day was the primary time I’ve ever skilled a connection situation with a Nintendo console. It is unclear why 8BitDo’s controllers weren’t suitable out of the gate–I used to be in a position to get different unofficial controllers working with out an update–but the difficulty was mounted simply at some point after launch. Given the actual fact it occurred in any respect means that maybe a future Swap 2 firmware replace may result in new problems–though, as talked about, this by no means occurred with unofficial controllers on unique Swap {hardware}, so I do not assume there’s a lot trigger for concern right here.
The Swap 2 Professional Controller has the advantage of built-in assist for button mapping, together with a fast menu to remap the again buttons. The Final 2 Bluetooth depends on its desktop app for PC or Mac. However whereas this can be considered as inconvenience, the power to retailer three customized profiles on the controller greater than makes up for this.
I’ll proceed to make use of each controllers in the meanwhile, however I believe I’ll wind up utilizing the Final 2 Bluetooth as my principal controller for Swap 2 earlier than lengthy.
