8BitDo’s New 16mm Leverless Arcade Controller: Is It Worth It for Fighting Games?
Gamers searching for the best leverless arcade controller for fighting games often ask: Is a Hitbox-style controller better than a joystick? or What’s the thinnest all-button fight pad in 2025? The answer might just be 8BitDo’s newly launched Arcade Controller. At just 16mm thick, this ultra-slim device redefines what a high-performance gamepad looks like by ditching the joystick entirely and embracing a fully button-based design. Whether you're a professional tournament player or a casual gamer aiming for competitive performance, 8BitDo’s latest innovation brings precision, speed, and ergonomic customization—all at a surprisingly affordable price point.
The 8BitDo Arcade Controller takes a bold leap by eliminating the joystick, aligning itself with the rising popularity of leverless controllers—also known as “Hitbox-style” pads. Built for speed and precision, this controller uses 16 action buttons equipped with Kailh Wizard low-profile mechanical switches, offering crisp responsiveness with every tap. The result? Reduced input delay and faster reaction time—crucial advantages in esports-level gameplay.
The controller is also built for versatility. Compatible with Nintendo Switch and Windows PCs out of the box, this $89.99 model supports Bluetooth, 2.4GHz wireless (via included dongle), and USB-C for zero-lag wired play. A pricier $99.99 Xbox-specific version is also available, which features vibrant RGB lighting, a larger 3,000mAh battery, and a headphone jack—perfect for streamers or those wanting immersive chat support.
Measuring only 16mm in thickness, 8BitDo’s new fight pad is one of the slimmest on the market, yet it doesn’t sacrifice function for form. The controller supports up to 20 hours of wireless play thanks to a 1,000mAh battery (or 40 hours with lighting off on the Xbox version), making it great for long tournament sessions or casual gaming marathons.
For added flexibility, a toggle switch lets users flip between S-Input mode (for Switch) and X-Input (for PC), while the button labels dynamically adjust based on the platform. The inclusion of four programmable P1–P4 buttons—complete with customizable bean-shaped or flat caps—gives players an extra level of control, perfect for mapping combos, macros, or critical in-game actions.
Many players switching to leverless controllers ask: Does button-only input really make a difference? For fighting games like Street Fighter 6, Tekken 8, or Mortal Kombat 1, the answer is yes. These types of controllers eliminate joystick travel time, letting you input commands with more precision and speed. While it may take some time to adapt if you're used to a D-pad or analog stick, the long-term competitive advantages are real.
However, it’s worth noting that this layout isn’t suited for every genre. FPS players, for example, may find aiming with directional buttons restrictive. But if you’re primarily into 2D fighters, brawlers, or even rhythm games, this controller delivers powerful input control without the bulk.
To enhance gameplay further, 8BitDo’s Ultimate Software allows for deep customization. From remapping buttons to creating macros or fine-tuning inputs, the software ensures the controller can be tailored to each player’s unique style. It also means this fight pad can adapt over time, whether you’re experimenting with new games or refining your setup for a major tournament.
The Xbox edition of the controller drops Bluetooth in favor of 2.4GHz wireless and USB-C wired options, but gains premium features like RGB lighting and a larger battery. It also introduces a headphone jack—a welcome addition for content creators and streamers. However, it lacks the button layout toggle and only allows P1 and P2 to be reprogrammed, making it a slightly less flexible option than its Switch/PC sibling.
Still, for $99.99, it's a cost-effective alternative to more expensive controllers like the Razer Kitsune ($300), especially for Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One users looking for a sleek, functional fight pad.
For gamers looking to upgrade their gear without breaking the bank, 8BitDo’s leverless arcade controller offers a compelling balance of performance, affordability, and modern design. With a price tag under $100, swappable buttons, low-latency inputs, and multiplatform support, it’s one of the best budget-friendly arcade fight sticks available today.
Whether you're gearing up for EVO, grinding online ranked matches, or just want to enjoy games with a different kind of controller, this all-button, ultra-thin device should be on your radar.
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