8bitdo Pro 3 tested: Solid controller with annoying weaknesses

Kevin Hofer

26/12/2025

Translation: machine translated

Pictures: Kevin Hofer

The new multi-platform controller from 8bitdo scores with magnetic buttons, Hall effect triggers and comfortable ergonomics. However, clever ideas fail due to annoying design flaws.

The Pro 3 is compatible with many platforms. It offers some features that are not common in this price range. For example, interchangeable action buttons or sticks with TMR technology (Tunnel Magneto Resistance). This technology transmits stick movements magnetically rather than mechanically - as with Hall effect technology. Despite its clever features and low price, the controller has weaknesses.

Comfortable and well made

The Pro 3 offers everything you need:

• A charging station in a matching colour
• a USB-C dongle for the 2.4 GHz connection
• a USB-C to A cable in a matching colour
• four interchangeable, magnetic action buttons
• two interchangeable thumbsticks (standard and curved)

The controller weighs 242 grammes - an average value. The grips feel comfortable. Their ergonomic shape is reminiscent of classic Xbox models and ensures comfort even during long gaming sessions.

The controller is well made, nothing wobbles. The matt plastic with a light texture looks high-quality.

Innovative buttons, disappointing implementation

The magnetic ABXY buttons can be replaced with a small suction cup. An exciting idea that disappoints. The keys are extremely loud, louder than mechanical alternatives with a clicking sound. They are also flat and have sharp edges, which is unpleasant during longer sessions.

The D-pad is solidly built, but without a central pivot point. This means that all four directions can be pressed simultaneously, which limits precision. This is fine for platformers and retro games, but not for fighting games.

The interchangeable thumbsticks have TMR technology and work without dead zones. Nevertheless, they lack the crisp feedback that high-end controllers with a 1000 Hertz polling rate offer. The Pro 3 only sends data to the end device 250 times per second.

The shoulder buttons (L1/R1) are made of silicone membrane. They are easy to press on the outside, but it becomes more difficult towards the centre. They are too narrow.

The Hall effect triggers (L2/R2) with trigger stops and microswitches are excellently implemented. The shorter movement distance enables fast reactions.

Two of the four programmable buttons are problematic: the L4/R4 buttons are located at the top and are difficult to reach. The back buttons on the handles are well positioned and cleanly finished.

In practice, the Pro 3 delivers a solid performance. The sampling rate of 250 Hz is sufficient for games in which the response is not so important. This is not enough for FPS games or games like «Hollow Knight: Silksong».

Good connectivity, average battery

The Pro 3 supports Switch 1 and 2, Windows, SteamOS, Android and iOS. I connect via Bluetooth or using the wireless dongle supplied. According to the manufacturer, the 1000 mAh battery lasts 20 hours. Tested: 15 to 20 hours - a solid value.

The Ultimate Software V2 from 8bitdo offers numerous configuration options:

• Buttons and paddles can be freely assigned
• Stick sensitivity settings and calibration
• Turbo and macro functions

Many settings can be made directly on the controller using a button combination. The Pro 3 also supports Sixaxis Gyro, which works on Switch and PC.

In a nutshell

Cool, but with annoying flaws

The 8bitdo Pro 3 is a versatile controller with innovative approaches that are not fully developed. The magnetic buttons are too loud, the D-pad without a central pivot point is not suitable for fighting games and the precision is not sufficient for FPS titles.

In terms of price, the controller is aimed at price-conscious people. Switch gamers who want more comfort than the standard controller should be satisfied. The ergonomics and the excellent Hall Effect triggers are clear plus points. It is not the first choice for specialised applications.

Pro

• Ergonomic
• Hall effect trigger with trigger stops
• Versatile platform support
• Good value for money
• Including charging station and accessories

Contra

• Loud ABXY buttons
• D-pad without central pivot point
• 250 Hz polling rate
• Positioning of the L4/R4 buttons
• Not precise enough for FPS games

Game controllers

EUR69,99

8bitdo Pro 3 Bluetooth Game Boy Edition

Switch, Android, Switch 2, iOS, PC, Mac

10

Kevin Hofer

Senior Editor

kevin.hofer@digitecgalaxus.ch

From big data to big brother, Cyborgs to Sci-Fi. All aspects of technology and society fascinate me.

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