8BitDo Ultimate 3E Review: $150 Xbox Elite-Style Controller Sets New Customization Bar

The Verge · 2026-10-28
8BitDo Ultimate 3E Review: $150 Xbox Elite-Style Controller Sets New Customization Bar

8BitDo has entered the premium Xbox controller market with the Ultimate 3E, a $150 wireless gamepad that directly challenges Microsoft's Elite Series 2 and other high-end options. Designed for Xbox and PC, the Ultimate 3E targets gamers seeking deep customization without compromise. It features swappable thumbsticks, remappable rear buttons, adjustable trigger locks, and onboard profile storage, all configurable via 8BitDo's Ultimate Software. The controller also includes a charging dock and offers low-latency 2.4GHz wireless, Bluetooth, and wired connectivity. While the price is steep, the Ultimate 3E undercuts the Elite Series 2 by $30 and brings a fresh alternative to a market often dominated by first-party accessories. For competitive players and enthusiasts, its blend of hardware flexibility and software control could make it the new benchmark for third-party pro controllers.