8BitDo Pro 2: Review

8BitDo have been making some of the best 3rd party controllers on the market for years and when the Pro 2 launched last year, it was an easy choice to pick it up

Let's find out if it holds up to the expectations

PlayStation meet SNES

In the box you'll find the controller, a USB-C cable (no brick) and a manual

Editions

> Black Edition : It's black > Gray Edition : It's gray, but with colored letters on buttons > G Classic Edition : Gray controller with original GameBoy colors for buttons and GameBoy designed D-Pad > Transparent Black Edition : Transparent black shell > Transparent Purple Edition : Transparent purple shell

All "editions" have the same features, the main difference is mainly the colour

If you have used the 8BitDo SN30 Pro or 8BitDo SN30 Pro+, you'll find lot of similarities and improvements for each new iteration

Evolution

Then they added two joysticks, four trigger buttons, rumble and wireless with 8BitDo SN30 Pro

Then with 8BitDo SN30 Pro+, they adder better grips, similar to what you see on a PlayStation Controller and removable battery (still rechargeable)

Then with 8BitDo Pro 2 they've perfected it, by adding a switch on the back to easily select what mode you want to use (S / A / D / X), re-configure buttons to your preferences through Ultimate Software, easier to turn on (just press Start) and extra configurable back buttons

Firmware upgrades

Pro 2 is getting Firmware updates as needed and shortly after launch, it got an important one that fixed a rumble issue

We've an own guide on how to Update your 8BitDo Device

Verdict

The controller sits well in your hand, even if you're an adult or child. Offer responsive buttons and sticks, that's not prone to drifting

Controller can be easily updated to extend supported devices and to improve features (such as calibrating rumble)

Our verdict: Check it out!