8BitDo Unveils Modular Ultimate 3E Controller for Xbox & PC

The upcoming 8BitDo Ultimate 3E controller represents a significant leap for the brand, bringing a fully modular, officially licensed design to Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PC, and mobile platforms. Slated for release in the second quarter of 2026, this premium gamepad enters a competitive market with a price point of $150, positioning it as a direct rival to offerings like the Microsoft Elite Series 2 and various high-end licensed alternatives.

This model marks 8BitDo’s first foray into modular controllers, explaining the absence of an Xbox version of the earlier Ultimate 2. The investment is considerable compared to the company’s previous models, but the Ultimate 3E undercuts several competitors while packing an impressive array of new technology and customization features. Its construction is slightly wider than the Ultimate 2 and incorporates textured silicone handles for a more secure and comfortable grip.

True to its modular promise, the controller allows users to swap major components with ease. The right and left joysticks, the D-pad, the ABXY face buttons, and even the front faceplate are all interchangeable. A particularly innovative inclusion is two magnetic ABXY button modules: one standard and one utilizing microswitches. This provides a choice between traditional membrane feedback and a rapid, clicky mechanical feel, a first for swappable face buttons. The magnetic faceplate must be removed to switch these modules.

The joysticks utilize TMR anti-drift technology with customizable RGB light rings, employing electromagnetic sensors for smooth, precise registration. The accessory kit expands options with four alternative stick tops: two tall, one dome-shaped, and one with a thicker metal ring to increase resistance. For directional input, users can choose between a newly designed eight-way circular D-pad or a classic four-way style, both connecting magnetically.

Customization extends beyond physical modules. The controller features two built-in back buttons and two extra shoulder buttons (R4 and L4). The shoulder buttons can be remapped directly on the controller, while the back buttons and other inputs are configured through 8BitDo’s free Ultimate Software app. This software also manages RGB lighting, stick sensitivity, and trigger settings. Users can store up to three custom control profiles, accessible via a dedicated Profile button.

A major addition for Xbox users is the inclusion of Hall Effect Impulse Triggers with haptic feedback, matching the feel of official Xbox Wireless Controllers. The Ultimate 3E also introduces trigger stops to its licensed lineup, with switches on the back that shorten the pull for faster actuation, effectively turning the triggers into instant-action buttons.

Power comes from a 1400mAh battery rated for up to 18 hours of play, recharging via a bundled wireless dock that features “zero contact points” aside from the charging pins. The dock also conveniently stores the 2.4GHz USB-C wireless dongle in a bottom compartment. For competitive PC gamers, the controller supports polling rates up to 1000Hz in both wireless and wired modes, and offers customizable 6-axis motion controls when paired with the dongle.

As the second conventional wireless Xbox controller from 8BitDo, following the Ultimate 3-Mode 40th Anniversary Edition, the Ultimate 3E joins a growing family of licensed peripherals. This collection includes specialty items like the Wireless Arcade Stick and the All-Button Arcade Controller, showcasing the brand’s expanding commitment to the Xbox ecosystem with a focus on high-performance, customizable gear.

(Source: Gamespot)