8BitDo Unveils Ultimate 3C+: A Budget Controller with Premium TMR Sticks

Key points

• The Ultimate 3C+ is priced at $39.99, positioning it as the most affordable model in the Ultimate 3 series.
• It features TMR joysticks with adjustable tension, a feature 8BitDo calls 'Dual Force Ring,' allowing users to customize stick resistance.
• The controller includes Hall-effect triggers with switchable linear and non-linear modes, along with lockable back paddles and additional L/R4 shoulder buttons.
• Connectivity options include 2.4 GHz (1 kHz polling), Bluetooth 5.4 LE, and wired USB-C, compatible with both Android and Windows.
• Battery life reaches 20 hours on 2.4 GHz and 32 hours on Bluetooth, powered by a 500 mAh battery that is replaceable via four screws.
• The device is available in Stealth Black, Avocado Green, and Frost White, with a magnetic storage slot for the 2.4 GHz receiver on the back.

Background

This launch follows 8BitDo’s recent expansion of its Ultimate series, including the premium Ultimate 3 and the budget-friendly Ultimate 2C. The latter was recently reviewed by Engadget, which praised its value but noted the absence of rear buttons and RGB lighting. The new 3C+ aims to bridge the gap between these two tiers by offering flagship features at a lower price point.

How outlets are covering it

TechPowerUp and Notebookcheck emphasize the 3C+ as a value proposition, highlighting that it retains premium features like adjustable TMR sticks and lockable paddles while dropping the price significantly compared to the full Ultimate 3. The Verge focuses on the technical specifications, noting the inclusion of a magnetic dongle storage and the specific battery life figures. Engadget’s recent review of the older Ultimate 2C serves as a contrast, praising its $30 price point but noting the lack of rear buttons, a feature the new 3C+ includes. Commenters on TechPowerUp noted that while the battery is not removable in a traditional sense, it is replaceable via screws, addressing concerns about longevity.

Why it matters

The Ultimate 3C+ disrupts the budget controller market by offering features previously reserved for $70+ devices, such as adjustable stick tension and Hall-effect triggers. This could pressure competitors to include more advanced customization options in their entry-level products, potentially raising the baseline for quality in the gaming accessory sector.

What to watch

The Ultimate 3C+ is available for pre-order now, with general sales beginning on October 30. 8BitDo has indicated that additional colorways may be released in the future. The company may also release firmware updates to address any initial issues, similar to the wake-up functionality update seen in previous models.