8BitDo Ultimate 2 controller drops to $51.12, its lowest price yet

Record-low price on Amazon

The 8BitDo Ultimate 2 wireless controller is currently priced at $51.12 on Amazon, a 27 percent discount, according to Tom's Hardware. The site says this is the lowest price the gamepad has ever reached, based on data from the price tracker Camelcamelcamel.

Tom's Hardware notes that the Ultimate 2 comes in several variants that differ mainly in colour and button layout. The variant on sale is the cheapest of them and works with a Windows PC straight away.

Connections and console support

The controller connects over 2.4 GHz wireless using a supplied USB adapter, over Bluetooth, or through a wired USB connection. It is aimed at Windows PCs and laptops as well as Nintendo consoles.

This particular variant is built with the Nintendo Switch in mind. Tom's Hardware reports that it now supports both the Switch and the Switch 2, but using it with the Switch 2 requires a firmware update to the controller and the adapter.

The gamepad includes built-in vibration and motion controls, which can be used in games on Nintendo systems. Tom's Hardware also suggests it works with other devices such as handheld gaming PCs like the Steam Deck.

Triggers, joysticks and customisation

A distinctive feature of the Ultimate 2 is its dual trigger design. It has both linear Hall Effect triggers, which use magnets to detect movement, and non-linear tactile triggers, with sliders to switch between the two.

It is also the first 8BitDo controller on sale with TMR joysticks, a sensor type that offers higher sensitivity and greater precision than standard sticks, according to Tom's Hardware.

The bundled Ultimate V2 software allows players to adjust stick and trigger precision, remap buttons, change the RGB lighting and configure vibration. It also supports in-game macros, triggered by long presses on assigned keys.

Battery and charging dock

The controller runs on a 1,000 mAh battery and ships with a charging dock, so there is no need for replaceable batteries. The dock doubles as a stand and has a light that shows when charging is complete.

Wired play over USB remains an option when the battery runs flat.

What the deal means for buyers

At $51.12, the Ultimate 2 sits at a notably lower price than before, which may appeal to players who want one controller for both a gaming PC and a Nintendo console. The main caveat is the firmware update needed for Switch 2 support.

As with any deal report, prices and stock can change quickly, and the record-low claim comes from Tom's Hardware rather than from the retailer itself.