- Mappable rear paddle buttons and an extra set of triggers
- Responsive controls
- Some users have complained about trigger failure
With no previous experience with 8BitDo’s vast product line, I was unsure of what to expect when it came to the Ultimate 2 wireless controller. I’ll admit I was even a bit sceptical. However, I was immediately enticed by the device’s extra mappable buttons and triggers.
Unboxing the 8BitDo Ultimate 2 Wireless Controller
The 8BitDo Ultimate 2 Controller comes in a white cardboard box with a striking slipcover that showcases the device. Upon opening the box, you’ll find the controller and its matching charging dock, along with a USB cable and a quick start guide, featuring a QR code that directs you to the full manual. Turning over the charging dock and opening the compartment on the bottom reveals a 2.4G adapter.
The device features the classic Xbox controller layout with the left joystick above the D-pad and the right below the X, Y, A, and B buttons. Between the view and menu buttons are the home buttons. Below them are the square and star buttons, which sit just above the profile button.
Upon wrapping your fingers around the handles, you’ll find your middle fingers naturally come to rest on the rear paddle buttons. Between the paddle buttons is a toggle allowing you to switch between Bluetooth and 2.4G connectivity. Above the paddles are identical toggles that let you change the trigger mode.
Extra Triggers. Extra Fun
The top of the Ultimate 2 controller features standard B and T triggers. However, it also has mini L4 and R4 triggers nestled against the other trigger buttons. You’ll also notice a USB-C port for wired connections. On either side of the port are the pairing button and power LED indicator. The controller fits seamlessly into the charging dock. On the back is the USB-C port. Both the controller and the dock are the same shade of purple, black, or white, which makes the controller look right at home in its dock.
The paddles and extra triggers are what make this controller stand out. You’ll need to map them to your preferred configuration, but once you have, you’ll find them to be extremely convenient. I found I could press my fingers against the paddles faster than I could tap the face buttons, which was very helpful when being swarmed by enemies. 
This device is designed for comfort, featuring ergonomic grips and a lightweight body, allowing you to play for hours with ease. Pairing the controller to my Android devices was pain-free. You just have to ensure the rear toggle is set to Bluetooth, then press and hold the pairing button.
Gaming with the 8BitDo Ultimate 2 Wireless Controller
8BitDo’s TMR joysticks offer a high level of precision, and their rubber surfaces prevented my fingers from slipping while battling evil creatures in Baldur’s Gate Dark Alliance or putting the pedal to the metal in Asphalt Legends.
During my play sessions, I found the Hall Effect triggers to be quite responsive. Whether blasting rival gang members in GTA San Andreas or performing stunning feats of combat in Shadow Legends 4 Arena, the triggers never let me down.
However, it’s worth noting that some users have complained of issues with trigger functionality, as evident by Amazon reviews. While those experiencing this issue seem to be in the minority, you may want to consider the possibility before shelling out $59.99. While not a deal breaker, you may also notice that the four small buttons surrounding the home button require a bit more pressure to press than the face buttons do.
The 8BitDo Ultimate 2 Wireless Controller features Customizable Lights
8BitDo’s Ultimate 2 Wireless Controller is also compatible with PC, where it performs very well. I had no trouble taking out alien scum in Dead Space 2 or taking down trigger-happy enemies in Starfield and the prodigious Fallout 4 mod, Fallout London. Despite its splendid performance, I did have trouble using the 2.4G adapter to connect to my laptop. However, the wired connection works perfectly.
There are also LED lights surrounding both joysticks, which are honestly just fun. You can switch between lighting modes by pressing Star. Ring of Fire mode shows two colours, which alternate, giving the impression that they’re moving, while Light-Tracing mode shows a solid colour. You can change the colour scheme for either mode by holding down Star and tapping the left and right buttons on the D-pad. Admittedly, I had a lot of fun experimenting with the lighting effects. 
The 8BitDo Ultimate 2 is, overall, a decent, compact controller. The sleek, lightweight design combined with the extra triggers and paddle buttons makes the Ultimate 2 feel rather impressive. Still, the reports of trigger failure, while seemingly rare, are concerning, and the issue with 2.4G connectivity on certain PCs is definitely problematic. Ultimately, however, I found the Ultimate 2 Wireless Controller provided a good gaming experience.