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Head-to-head · Best PC Gaming Controllers

8BitDo Ultimate 2 vs Steam Controller

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

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The short answer

8BitDo Ultimate 2 comes out ahead by a narrow margin (4.2 vs 4.1). 8BitDo Ultimate 2 is best for: PC gamers seeking deep customization options without sacrificing ergonomic comfort. Read the strengths below before deciding.

8BitDo Ultimate 2
Higher ratedRanked #2 in Best PC Gaming Controllers
8BitDo Ultimate 2
3 sources$56.99as of Oct 20

Thesixthaxis found that the 8BitDo Ultimate 2 Wireless delivers elite-tier performance at a fraction of the cost, utilizing advanced TMR magnetic sticks and Hall Effect triggers to ensure precision and longevity. PC Gamer highlighted the controller's excellent ergonomics for smaller hands and its highly customizable software suite, which allows users to fine-tune deadzones and response curves. While reviewers praised the tactile mechanical shoulder buttons and included charging dock, some noted that the secondary back paddles are awkwardly placed. This controller is an ideal choice for PC gamers seeking a premium feature set without the high price tag of first-party options.

Strengths
  • — Features TMR magnetic analog sticks that reviewers describe as smooth and free from stick drift.
  • — Includes Hall Effect triggers with adjustable trigger lockouts for faster reaction times in shooters.
  • — Comes equipped with four programmable back buttons (two on the grip, two near the shoulder triggers).
Watch-outs
  • — The small extra inputs located just beyond the shoulder buttons are considered unintuitive by reviewers.
  • — Firmware updates required to enable Nintendo Switch 2 compatibility can cause confusion with other models in the lineup.
$56.99 · Check Price on AmazonFull review →
Steam Controller
Ranked #3 in Best PC Gaming Controllers
Steam Controller
2 sources

Gamersnexus found that the Steam Controller replaces standard potentiometer analog sticks with tunnel magnetoresistance technology to improve durability and reduce drift. The device features extensive customization through Steam Input, allowing per-game layouts and gyro aiming triggered by capacitive grip sensors. While Nettosgameroom noted haptic feedback on the trackpads and high repairability, Gamersnexus emphasized that the price demands flawless execution of these core features. Its larger physical footprint and heavier weight may be uncomfortable for users with smaller hands, making it better suited for those prioritizing deep customization over compact ergonomics.

Strengths
  • — Tunnel magnetoresistance (TMR) analog sticks offer improved durability and performance over traditional potentiometers.
  • — Extensive customization options through Steam Input allow for per-game layouts, gyro aiming, and trackpad mapping.
  • — Capacitive grip sensors enable intuitive trigger-based controls like gyro aiming without accidental presses.
Watch-outs
  • — Larger physical footprint and heavier weight may be uncomfortable for users with smaller hands.
Check Price on AmazonFull review →

How they stack up

8BitDo Ultimate 2

The 8BitDo Ultimate 2 distinguishes itself from the 8BitDo Ultimate 2C by offering a more comprehensive software suite for fine-tuning deadzones and response curves, whereas the 2C lacks official PC software support. It also provides four programmable back buttons compared to the GameSir Nova 2 Lite's two, though it shares similar Hall Effect trigger technology with both competitors.

Specs side-by-side

Spec8BitDo Ultimate 2Steam Controller
Connectivity2.4GHz, Bluetooth—
Stick TechnologyTMR MagneticTMR (JS13 family)
Trigger TypeHall Effect—
Polling RateUp to 1000Hz—
Weight246g8.89 oz
CompatibilityWindows, Android, Apple, SteamOS—
Back Buttons—4
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