What is it? The 8BitDo Ultimate Bluetooth is the flagship Bluetooth controller from 8BitDo. It supports Bluetooth and 2.4G connections (dongle included) and is compatible with the Nintendo Switch, Steam Deck, and Windows PCs. This version also comes with a charging dock and has gyro-assisted motion controls when used with the Switch.
What is the price? The 8BitDo Ultimate Bluetooth controller is priced at $69.99 in the US and £59.99 in the UK.
Where can you buy it? You can buy the 8BitDo Ultimate Bluetooth controller on Amazon and from select third-party retailers.
How did we test it? I tested the 8BitDo Ultimate Bluetooth controller for one week on a PC, Steam Deck, and a Nintendo Switch (OLED model). I also tested it with a MacBook Air M2, Apple TV 4K, and a Google Pixel 7 Pro, even though these platforms are not officially supported. The review unit was purchased by Android Authority.
Is it worth it? If you want the most fully-featured gamepad for PC, Steam Deck, and Nintendo Switch, the 8BitDo Ultimate Bluetooth Controller is it. Those with larger hands might find the grips a little tight and the lack of Android/iOS support is a head-scratcher, but with electromagnetic joystick fittings designed to avoid drift, wide compatibility, an included dock and 2.4G dongle, and impressive ergonomics and design, the 8BitDo Ultimate Bluetooth is an incredibly impressive and well-supported Bluetooth controller for PC and handheld gaming.
8BitDo arguably has the highest reputation when it comes to third-party gaming controllers, so it’d be fair to expect that its “Ultimate” gamepad would be the best in the business. First off, let’s (attempt to) avoid some confusion. The 8BitDo Ultimate Bluetooth Controller is one of four gamepads from the company with the same “Ultimate” design and moniker. The other three are the 8BitDo Ultimate Controller 2.4G (no Bluetooth), 8BitDo Ultimate Wired (wired only), and the 8BitDo Ultimate C 2.4G (no Bluetooth or app support). There’s also an 8BitDo Ultimate Wired for Xbox which is essentially the regular wired version but with Xbox Series X/S and Xbox One support and licensing.
