8BitDo’s new Xbox Elite-style controller sets a high bar for customization

<figure> <img alt="" data-caption="8BitDo’s Ultimate 3E has a refined design, but shows wear easily. | Image: The Verge" data-portal-copyright="Image: The Verge" data-has-syndication-rights="1" src="https://platform.theverge.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/8BitDo-Ultimate3E-review-7.png?quality=90&#038;strip=all&#038;crop=0,0,100,100" /> <figcaption> 8BitDo’s Ultimate 3E has a refined design, but shows wear easily. | Image: The Verge </figcaption> </figure> <p class="has-drop-cap wp-block-paragraph">It's hard to make an Xbox controller that stands out these days, especially one that's expensive, due to a wealth of great semi-affordable options. Still, 8BitDo's <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Controller-Officially-Swappable-Joysticks-Gaming-Console/dp/B00P5DSM6Q/">$150 Ultimate 3E</a> is a bold controller that holds its own against other feature-packed options. It's made for Xbox and PC gamers who want a deeper level of customization and a more refined design than <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Elite-2-Controller-Black-Xbox-One/dp/B07SFKTLZM">Microsoft's pricier Xbox Elite Series 2</a> and 8BitDo's own <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Ultimate-Wireless-Controller-Joysticks-Switchable-Smartphone/dp/B0DR8V899R">$60 Ultimate 2</a>.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Basically every feature I'm looking for in a controller is here, plus some, including drift-proof TMR joysticks, extra<strong> </strong>shoulder buttons, rear paddles, motion control support, modular buttons and joysticks, a 3.5 …</p> <p><a href="https://www.theverge.com/gadgets/1017815/8bitdo-ultimate-3e-xbox-pc-controller-hands-on">Read the full story at The Verge.</a></p>