The 8BitDo Pro 2 Controller Is $30 Cheaper Than the Nintendo Switch Pro and Nearly As Good

Starting today, Amazon is offering the excellent 8BitDo Pro 2 Wireless Controller for only $39.99. This is the lowest price we’ve seen for the Pro 2 controller. It’s compatible with the Nintendo Switch Steam Deck, PC, iOS and Android smartphones, and pretty much any gaming console that supports Bluetooth. Moreover, the 8BitDo Pro 2 is often considered one of the best 3rd party wireless controllers for the Nintendo Switch.

8BitDo Pro 2 Controller (Switch Compatible) for $39.99

The 8BitDo Pro 2 controller is compatible with both the Nintendo Switch console as well as any Windows, Mac, Android, Steam, or even Raspberry Pi device. It uses wireless Bluetooth so it works with the Switch out of the box with no dongle required. At $30 cheaper than the price of a Switch Pro controller, it has a lot going for it. The SN30 Pro 2 supports button remapping, adjustable analog sticks, hair triggers, and macros. It also supports rumble and motion controls on the Switch. It is powered by a 1,000mAh rechargeable battery, but you have the option to use two AA batteries in a pinch instead.

In terms of fit and feel, the 8BitDo Pro 2 is excellent. It’s lighter than the Switch Pro controller but it still feels very solid and comfortable in your hands. The D-pad and analog joysticks react precisely, and the buttons have nice clicky tactile feedback. The retro style looks great.

The 8BitDo Pro 2 also brings a couple of new features that weren’t present in the previous generation Pro+ model. That includes the ability to save multiple profiles, a handy little switch that lets you instantly change from Switch to PC pairing, and two additional rear paddle buttons that are also programmable.

Compared to the official Switch Pro controller, it is missing a few features like HD rumble (although it does have standard rumble), amiibo sensing, and the ability to wake the Switch from sleep. In exchange, you get the ability to reprogram buttons and you get a much better D-pad, which is a godsend for precision type games like 2D platformers. The biggest advantage, though, is the price. For Nintendo Switch owners, if you don’t want to pony up $70 for the official Pro controller, this is the next best thing.

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