Just ordered the wired version, went to order the official Nintendo snes controller and by the time all of their bogus shipping and fees were added, this was the exact same price and seemed to have way more uses. This review brings me confidence in my choice, can’t wait for it to arrive!
Important note not mentioned in the video, there is no NFC reader in the controller. Android and PC don't use those, so there's no issue, but if you use this on your Switch, it will take a moment for it to realize that before it starts working properly. Source: I own one and it takes the Switch a quick minute to pop up a message about an NFC issue. Totally recommend the controller, though. Played a bunch of Fortnite and Splatoon with it and it's my controller of choice for PC games.
I only get the NFC issue on Splatoon and it's very annoying as it lags quite a bit during some seconds, luckily it doesn't happen while playing, only on the "menu". Would be awesome if they could fix this
@@JuksMaluks I don't think there is a fix for it, really. Either Nintendo would have to release a patch to Splatoon 2 to not check for the NFC reader or 8BitDo would have to add one to future controllers. I mean, I guess Nintendo's patch is the easiest way, but I don't see them releasing an update to aid a competitor's controller. Unless they start officially supporting 8BitDo
On top of that, this controller is actually quite comfortable for 3D games, as well as smash... But I'm probably biased because I grew up on PlayStation, and not the Xbox. Lol
I got this last year and man it is an absolute wonder of a controller. Maybe it is because I am a huge fan of SNES but its really good to be able to play practically anything. I tend to use the Xbox One controller but always hated the D-pad cause it feels all squished in like you can accidentally press other directions, small travel input. Also I liked where the sticks are. Only down side is no analog triggers but not many games need em. Maybe the plus can add analog triggers and a grip. One year later and still working good. Best 50 bucks spent.
Got this after seeing it on WulffDen a while back. Great for 2D platformers! Mine didn't have all that tape on it though. Might've been a return. No worries, only get notified on your vids, lol. Edit: I got the Gameboy inspired one.
Got this controller awhile ago.... It really is a great controller, especially if you want a nostalgic one like this. My only gripe is that I am not used to the control sticks being that close together, but that is more of a personal issue rather than a manufacturer one :)
My main issue with it is that when when you use multiple wireless controllers at once on the switch, the sn30 has crazy input problems which makes it pretty much unusable.
I've had my SN30 Pro for about a year now. Let me tell you why you don't want one. At first, it's perfect. Feels good, solid build, buttons, d-pad, and analogs all feel and function perfectly. Fast forward a year later. The bottom two convex buttons, both A and B, are frustrating to use. They feel soft and squishy, and frequently stick in when depressed. The d-pad has become frustrating to use. It is extremely oversensitive on the horizontal axis. It is practically impossible to press up or down without also pressing left or right. I've hardly used the analogs, but the left one is worn down to a smooth nub without the ridge. It isn't unusable. But I sure as shit ain't playing Ninja Gaiden or really any action games with it anymore. Granted, I've been recovering for an injury for the last year, so it saw a lot of use. But I have plenty of older, 1st party controllers that have seen decades more use and still work perfectly. I bought this mostly for SNES and PS1 emulation. I was extremely satisfied at first. It seemed perfect. But this controller is not built to last, unfortunately. I've gone from a rabid 8-Bitdo fan back to someone who can only honestly recommend 1st party controllers. I spent $50 on that thing. Never making the 3rd party mistake again.
@spawnwave Love the tech wave videos, one of my favorite things you do. One small suggestion to make them better. Filming over your wood table makes it hard to see all the parts exc. This could be remedied with a mat maybe made of silicone or something. The spawnwave purple would be a good color as not many manufacturers use it on game hardware and would contrast well.
For the Pi-havers: I'd suggest using one of the Pokken Tournament controllers if you don't mind wires and don't have any PS1 stuff on the menu. Quite possibly the best D-pad for the money with that one coming in at about $15. Another fantastic option if you already have it, though it's just about the same price as this if you don't: the Wii-U pro controller. Shoryukenable D-pad, great sticks, absurd battery life, and my only gripe with it is the glossy plastic on the face, which has me gaming with a bottle of Windex nearby.
I got this controller to take on a trip because of it's small profile. I tried it out and my only complaints are that the travel from the right stick to the buttons seems really far and the controller does start to feel a little cramped in my hand pretty quickly. Other than that is is a really cool controller. Feels and looks really high quality.
I have had one of these for a little while, and I must say it is a nice piece of kit. But for my tastes and comfort, I would have appreciated a little more space between the buttons and the analog sticks (I have large hands) and the plastic used for the outer shell seems to be of cheap quality... I can't exactly say why, but it just seems like the material is a little brittle compared to an original Nintendo controller... Overall it's a fine value for the money, i love how it bridges the gap between retro and modern.
I know i will go against the current here but the analog sticks on the N30 being smaller do help with some of the issues you described with hand positioning, you don't get as unconfortable using them
Find it interesting that the SN30 pro advertised in their 2018 catalog (together with the SN30 Pro G Classic edition) went for a style that looks less like a SNES controller. The start/select buttons are horizontal, font is more generic, and the buttons are all lavender. I'm wondering if the internals are slightly different as well. I just picked up the 2018 model. Feels and performs great... just wished it looked more like a SNES controller like the one in the video
Wouldn't be the first time. 8bitdo kind of fly close to the sun in how accurately they recreate the original Nintendo design and look, and probably too close in those earlier cases. The original SN and SF30 controllers were visually identical to the original SNES controllers, even down to the font style used to write 8bitdo gamepad instead of Super Nintendo. With Nintendo recently renewing those copyrights with the Mini Classic consoles, these were rapidly discontinued and if you look at the 8Bitdo site, they don't show any images of the original none-pro controllers which were very accurate replicas. That's probably not a coincidence.
I like it, but beware the dpad is a bit stiff compared to the real SNES controller (or the one in the SNES Classic Mini). Might be a problem if ultimate precision is your thing.
im reluctant about the quality of them rubber pad in those things. i have xbox 360 controller and aside from the minor d-pad adjustment, its has never been a problem to use with any game even up to now, and they have become cheap nowadays especially the wired ones.
I've had my controller for months with no issues. The D-pad has that amazing old school feel, great for fighters and side scrollers. if you buy this make sure you do the controller update.
I got the controller about a month ago and have barley touched my pro controller since... I was a little concerned the lack of grips would make it uncomfortable to use after a while but I've found it no issue at all, not to mention due to it's small size I can put it in my Skull & Co maxcarry case and take it with me. I highly recommend this controller
I'm still waiting for the one with the handles. The one 8BitDo showed at E3 🤔 I really hope Nintendo will allow them to build in the same features that the SN30 Pro has.
I’m glad I found your channel, it’s great! Very helpful for purchasing advice and this controller looks like it would work better for fighting games on PC than my Xbox One controller which cramps my hands because I use the D-Pad for them.
Good, im getting this for my Christmas retro pi, so good to hear i choose this over the pro2. I chose this one because of the shoulder button layout mainly, over/under instead of beside.
The buttons on the right are spaced further than the dpad. It looks like the start and select buttons are actually spaced equally between the edges of the buttons and the dpad rather than the centers.
the left and right rumble motors aren't really so much about stereo rumble, rather each is weighted differently. you get harder rumbles with the big weight and lighter rumbles with the small weight. mixing the two up will give you different sensations and whatnot.
I have two copies of the famicom version (with the colored buttons); and I play Bug Fables primarily using this. I use select everywhere, Everytime to "hear" the conversations; so I don't really get your problems with start and select. I think it is a huge step up from the joycon. Though you are right about the sticks; as even a cheap, alternative 20 bucks controller has a better grip. Still, this is my favorite controller ever (even without the prolongs).
I've had two of these controllers and had to return both due to quality issues. The first one I bought right around the controller's release- sometime late last year. Then I plugged it in to charge one night, it froze while charging, resetting didn't work and the controller could no longer be recognized by anything (including the PC, so updating or pushing firmware wouldn't even work). It froze, randomly, while charging and it was completely inoperable. I sent it back and got my money back. Months later, like around the middle of this year, I heard through the grape vine that the "freezing while charging" bug that rendered my last controller useless was fixed, so I bought another. This one would randomly disconnect while I was playing (Switch, Steam, didn't matter. It disconnected, even with a full battery, while playing on both), it would randomly lag but wouldn't disconnect (sometimes a button press wouldn't happen and the controller would stop responding entirely for 2-3 seconds. This only happened while connected to the Switch), and sometimes just wouldn't connect to my devices despite having worked with those devices mere minutes before (example: I'd sit down to play a game, my wife would call me to do something, so I'd put the Switch back in sleep mode and turn off the TV. Come back 10 minutes later, the controller just will not connect to the console for 20-30 minutes at a time before it randomly begins working again). Like, I loved this controller, hence my willingness to give a second of it a shot. But their quality control was a goddamn crapshoot: You either struck gold, or you got shit. Apparently their newer ones are better, but I shelled out for another Pro Controller for my Switch that I've been using with Steam and I just can't be bothered to keep trying these out until I find one that doesn't have significant problems.
0:52 It's the other way around. The N30 Pro didn't have these features, but when they redesigned all their controllers, the N30 Pro 2 got the same features as the SN30 Pro had. This review also shows the older version of the SN30 Pro. It's a redesign mostly. The newer models have a slightly better build quality and the d-pad feels much better. The internal hardware has been changed, but there's hardly a noticable difference.
10:35 It's also worth noting that the SN30 Pro is older than the N30 Pro 2 (the Pro 2 is quite new, and the N30 Pro was the version that came out before/around the same time as the SN30 Pro). For reference, I bought my original SN30 Pro (the one you're reviewing) in March 2018 and I bought the newer one (GameBoy color palette, but it's got a few improvements) last month. I also bought the newer N30 (not Pro) that's NES Mini exclusive when Nintendo rereleased it a few months ago.
just got 2 SN30 8bitdo wireless controllers as a gift for my NES and SNES Classics they work amazing. They connect better than the joycons for switch when docked
They could have used board-mounted vertical microswitches for the shoulder buttons too. Which they did in fact do for the NES30. A very fragile design, so I'm glad they went with the far more robust (and complicated) design they used in this controller.
It’s actually not that good because there is a lot of drop in Bluetooth connection between the pad and the Switch. I bought one to play DBFZ and I had to stop using it because it would drop connection for 1 second or more and it’s very noticeable in a fighting game. Same stuff happened to a friend. And yes, i do have the most recent version of the firmware in the pad. So just be aware of that guys.
I bought two of them back in August and only one still works. The rubber on the main stick has worn completely off. Also, yes, I've tried contacting 8bitdo three times to no avail. Luckily, the main stick has a dip in the middle of the stick, so your thumb will still have a tougher time slipping, but it's shiny plastic, so not perfect.
Super excited for mine that I ordered. It comes tomorrow! SNES has always been my favorite generation and the controller was always my fav too. I plan on using this as my primary controller so we will see how it goes! Thanks for tearing it down too! I'm really impressed with the engineering of this controller. I'm sure there was a reason for the battery being soldered, but I don't think for most that is going to be a deal breaker. If my OCD had to guess on the offset of the start/select, it would be that its perfectly centered between the gray circle of the action buttons and the indented circle of the dpad *shrug*
I have two 8bitdo controllers. - probably older ones... I have to say the older packaging looked a bit more stylish on the inside than this newer version... I have: The FC30 Pro - It'ss a bit small, but I just really like the way i looks (Red and gold with a dark grey band and blue lighting... Yeah, it's just... Glorious), and it still feels mostly OK... the other is the SFC30 - And well, what can I say? It's a pretty much flawless reproduction of a Super Famicom or PAL snes controller (feels absolutely perfect compared to the real thing or the Nintendo produced replicas that the classic came with), but it's wireless. Nothing to complain about, though obviously it lacks any analogue controls... The one you're reviewing looks pretty good too though. Hmmh. I wonder if the SNES adapter for 8bitdo controllers has any way of reading analogue stick data? I assume not, and even if it did you'd have to write your own game for that to make sense, but still... eh. -shrug-
Fun fact 8bitdo also added a blue led under the "home" button for when the switch will fanaly add it to the joycon/pro controller (yea they got a led under the home button)
This might be my portable option with my limited steam deck bag space. The handles on my DS4 only let me fit one control plus essential accesories, and I can pack the heck out of a bag lol
Try the Switch Pro Controller from Subsonic already. Wireless, good battery life, comfortable to hold and the only pro controller ability it doesn't have is HD rumble. It's built to survive reentry into earths atmosphere so you won't feel it bending or hear it cracking or squeaking and there weren't any software issues since the NSW Firmware 5.0 gamepad crisis. The only thing that's bothering me is the size. Its a bit smaller than Big Ns pro controller and I really love how big the first party controller is. And the best thing about it: it's only 30 bucks on amazon. Try it Try it now
I have an SF30 Pro (same controller but with Japanese rainbow palette instead of the purple). I love it, EXCEPT that the covering of the thumbsticks is not part of the same piece as the actual thumbstick. Which means that if you are very rough with your L-stick movements, as you might be in a fighting game (cough *DB FighterZ* cough), the covering starts to get worn and actually disintegrates. The uneveness of the stick started to bug me, so I began picking at it compulsively. At this point, the top cushion on the left stick is all but gone, with just a sharp plastic disc remaining. Still I love it to death.
I have the SF30 Pro and I love it, zero issues for the PC, works better on steam than the PS4 controller and even with the official Xbox One controller I have issues if I use it over BT.
I have one with a clamp that attached to my android phone and it works acceptable in most games. Wall jumping in Super Metroid was much harder without being plugged in directly with a double ended USB C cord though.
I have the NES30 Pro, which is different than the black one you have there, aesthetically anyway. Performance wise, I'm happy with it. I use it only for emulation on PC because I haven't bought a new home console since the PS2 15 years ago, but it can handle pretty much anything I threw at it without issues. However, no matter how many videos and photos I watched about this thing before committing to a purchase, it was a lot smaller than I thought it would be when it finally was in my hands (that's what she said). Also, the manual says that the battery lasts around 20 hours with a single 3-4 hours charge. I honestly was very skeptical about it, but then I tried it and Christ Almighty, it indeed works for roughly that long, which means that cables are a thing of the past and makes Nintendo, Sony and whoever else made a mini console look like a bunch of amateurs, given that their usb controllers are nice, but have very short cables and don't have wireless support. Other than that, though, it's a very great product for its relatively cheap price. I think I paid €43 for mine and whoever is on the fence about buying one of these like I initially was, should just go for it because it will be money well spent.
How does the stiffness of the joysticks compare to the DS4? I find that the DS4's joysticks are a little too stiff. I end up having joint pain after a long play session.
Just a PSA. You should update the firmware of the controller the first thing you do. At least if you plan using it for a Raspberry Pi. I couldn't get the analog sticks to work properly and spent a couple of hours messing with settings on the Pi before I tried doing a firmware update. Then everything started working flawlessly.
maybe they put the select button close to the d pad because in games like super mario world select was a usable button. you never need quick access to start
My only disappointment is it doesn’t work with my iPhone or Apple TV, but it works on everything else I own and love playing Mario Kart 8 Deluxe for a modern retro feel. It’s a great controller. I love the digital pad.
I own one, and this controller has one MAJOR flaw. The more controllers you have connected, the more input lag it has. I tested this on Smash ultimate by connecting 4+ joy-cons to the Switch, and input lag went up to almost 500 ms to the point that it was almost unusable. Thus it is only viable for single player use or for those who don't mind input lag. I am also on the latest firmware for the controller.
Eagerly awaiting the plus variant with the grips. I held off the Switch Pro Controller because I heard the dpad is garbage and that's an important part of the controllers for me :\
I bought the Gameboy classic one and I Absolutely love it. I have 2 complains tho. First, the joysticks are not as accurate as on the real pro controller, its hard to have the joysticks move a bit to one side if that makes sense. It just goes all the way to one side. Which is fine for most games but makes it harder to aim in games with shooting mechanics. Second problem is in Android mode; A is switched with the B button and Y with X. Which makes it confusing to play most games. I asked 8bit do about it and they responded and im quoting: "Currently the layout and mapping of buttons is not customizable. The layout of the buttons in each mode is different" Overall i give this controller an 8,5/10
This is the only controller I will ever own, since it can play anything on the Switch. It doesn’t have to have grips or be 100% comfortable and precise with grips and 💩. The mf works.
I’m so glad I bought this a long time ago, before I had a switch. I originally bought it for a Mac... but Mac is stupid and the sticks don’t work on it... And then a couple years later, I got the switch and use the controller for indie games and stuff
I got Smash Bros Ultimate and an official Pro Controller as belated birthday presents (belated due to my birthday being November 30th) and despite it being overpriced, the Pro Controller is great! The 8bitdo pads are good to, I got an N30 with a 6 month subscription to Retro Gamer Magazine in the summer, and I’m getting the updated version with my renewed subscription!
I have the one with the colored buttons and love it. Right stick feels great if you suck at smash and have to spam it like me lol. The vibrating feature is almost too strong though, it's loud as hell.
I've been using these for a while now. The d-pad works better for me than the Switch Pro Controller. I would be interested in using my WiiU Pro Controller with my Switch so I'll look into that as I really like the feel of that controller.
![GUILTY GEAR -STRIVE- Season Pass 4 Playable Character #1 [Queen Dizzy] Trailer](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/nXDsAgYXXv4/mqdefault.jpg)
Just ordered the wired version, went to order the official Nintendo snes controller and by the time all of their bogus shipping and fees were added, this was the exact same price and seemed to have way more uses. This review brings me confidence in my choice, can’t wait for it to arrive!
Better than those overpriced nintendo switch NES controllers
Way better
Let's forget about those stupid controllers. They are only for collectors.
This is better but with the NES controllers you are getting 2 controllers vs 1 for about the same price.
@@Grainsauce The NES Online controllers are for Switch only. 8bitdo are for a lot of different devices.
@@Grainsauce BUT the nes controllers can only be used with the nes games
I love this controller, it's so universal honestly. The D-pad is so worth the buy to be honest.
The d pad on it is so stiff. Not a big fan
Hitting those start/select buttons still isn't as bad as hitting that minus button on the joy con.
I hate the minus button with a passion
The "options" on the Dualshock 4 is way worse...
The minus button when you have grips is the worst.
@@matheusps92 lol nope
Stop giving me joy-con ptsd...
Important note not mentioned in the video, there is no NFC reader in the controller. Android and PC don't use those, so there's no issue, but if you use this on your Switch, it will take a moment for it to realize that before it starts working properly.
Source: I own one and it takes the Switch a quick minute to pop up a message about an NFC issue.
Totally recommend the controller, though. Played a bunch of Fortnite and Splatoon with it and it's my controller of choice for PC games.
Android does use NFC however very rarely and left unused often.
I mean you still can use the joy con for nfc amiibo stuff.
I only get the NFC issue on Splatoon and it's very annoying as it lags quite a bit during some seconds, luckily it doesn't happen while playing, only on the "menu". Would be awesome if they could fix this
No, controllers are gay
@@JuksMaluks I don't think there is a fix for it, really. Either Nintendo would have to release a patch to Splatoon 2 to not check for the NFC reader or 8BitDo would have to add one to future controllers.
I mean, I guess Nintendo's patch is the easiest way, but I don't see them releasing an update to aid a competitor's controller. Unless they start officially supporting 8BitDo
You had to say this 6:28
I can’t stop seeing it now
I KNOW!!! 😫
Who cares?
Weird
Never in my life have I wanted anything like I want this controller, I mostly play side scrollers and classic games so this would be a godsend for me.
On top of that, this controller is actually quite comfortable for 3D games, as well as smash... But I'm probably biased because I grew up on PlayStation, and not the Xbox. Lol
@@esmooth919 I’m growing up with Xbox and Nintendo, I’ll probably buy a PS4 someday
This is my absolute favorite controller of all time.
Lol the board looks like a batman weapon
batarang?
Board?
People need to Stop with everything looking like batman.
@@ArrowLooper cry
I got this last year and man it is an absolute wonder of a controller. Maybe it is because I am a huge fan of SNES but its really good to be able to play practically anything. I tend to use the Xbox One controller but always hated the D-pad cause it feels all squished in like you can accidentally press other directions, small travel input. Also I liked where the sticks are. Only down side is no analog triggers but not many games need em. Maybe the plus can add analog triggers and a grip. One year later and still working good. Best 50 bucks spent.
I've been happy with all my 8bitdo controllers. Can't wait for the Pro+ version with the grips.
Got this after seeing it on WulffDen a while back. Great for 2D platformers! Mine didn't have all that tape on it though. Might've been a return.
No worries, only get notified on your vids, lol.
Edit: I got the Gameboy inspired one.
How about the quality of the materials? It's working without problems since you got it ? Thanks
The start and select buttons are off centre on an actual SNES pad too, you just notice it more on this due to the central positioned analogues.
I have three different 8bitdo controllers and they are all amazing. Well built, feel great in the hand and look awesome. Recommend 100%.
Bought this model of the SN30 pro about a year ago, one of my favorite controllers full stop.
This is a great controller, but often don't come out of the box with the most recent firmware, so if you buy one update it for best compatibility!
Got this controller awhile ago.... It really is a great controller, especially if you want a nostalgic one like this. My only gripe is that I am not used to the control sticks being that close together, but that is more of a personal issue rather than a manufacturer one :)
I have one of these it feels great even the triggers
How is the D-Pad? I have the previous model with no sticks and the D-Pad is way overly sensitive.
One Two he said it was much stiffer
Can confirm this is great for retro side scroll switch games and (S)NES mini/online.
e
I love these teardowns! Something I've always been interested in but too afraid to do myself lol great job, as always
My main issue with it is that when when you use multiple wireless controllers at once on the switch, the sn30 has crazy input problems which makes it pretty much unusable.
I've had my SN30 Pro for about a year now. Let me tell you why you don't want one.
At first, it's perfect. Feels good, solid build, buttons, d-pad, and analogs all feel and function perfectly.
Fast forward a year later. The bottom two convex buttons, both A and B, are frustrating to use. They feel soft and squishy, and frequently stick in when depressed. The d-pad has become frustrating to use. It is extremely oversensitive on the horizontal axis. It is practically impossible to press up or down without also pressing left or right. I've hardly used the analogs, but the left one is worn down to a smooth nub without the ridge.
It isn't unusable. But I sure as shit ain't playing Ninja Gaiden or really any action games with it anymore.
Granted, I've been recovering for an injury for the last year, so it saw a lot of use. But I have plenty of older, 1st party controllers that have seen decades more use and still work perfectly. I bought this mostly for SNES and PS1 emulation. I was extremely satisfied at first. It seemed perfect. But this controller is not built to last, unfortunately. I've gone from a rabid 8-Bitdo fan back to someone who can only honestly recommend 1st party controllers. I spent $50 on that thing. Never making the 3rd party mistake again.
@spawnwave Love the tech wave videos, one of my favorite things you do. One small suggestion to make them better. Filming over your wood table makes it hard to see all the parts exc. This could be remedied with a mat maybe made of silicone or something. The spawnwave purple would be a good color as not many manufacturers use it on game hardware and would contrast well.
got one of these about 1 month back. It's my favorite controller as well. Even beating out the xbox one controller.
I bought one of these this year and I love it. I use it on break at work with my tablet to play retro games.
For the Pi-havers: I'd suggest using one of the Pokken Tournament controllers if you don't mind wires and don't have any PS1 stuff on the menu. Quite possibly the best D-pad for the money with that one coming in at about $15. Another fantastic option if you already have it, though it's just about the same price as this if you don't: the Wii-U pro controller. Shoryukenable D-pad, great sticks, absurd battery life, and my only gripe with it is the glossy plastic on the face, which has me gaming with a bottle of Windex nearby.
I got this controller to take on a trip because of it's small profile. I tried it out and my only complaints are that the travel from the right stick to the buttons seems really far and the controller does start to feel a little cramped in my hand pretty quickly. Other than that is is a really cool controller. Feels and looks really high quality.
Just a note, he is reviewing the 2017 model. The 2018 model has some design, visual and hardware changes.
6:30 gave me anxiety
Why?
Reason behind start/select placement: being true to the original SNES controller 😏👍
I love mine, use it to play all my 2D side scrollers. But I got the famicon colorway. Looked better to me as opposed to all that purple
Same. I like the colours on the sfc
Same.
I think the concave Y and X buttons feel better especially with NES/SNES Mario games.
Love this controller. The D-pad is top notch. Already using it for 2 months.
Love your no BS style of making videos. Thanks for helping me decide on a new controller.
I have had one of these for a little while, and I must say it is a nice piece of kit. But for my tastes and comfort, I would have appreciated a little more space between the buttons and the analog sticks (I have large hands) and the plastic used for the outer shell seems to be of cheap quality... I can't exactly say why, but it just seems like the material is a little brittle compared to an original Nintendo controller... Overall it's a fine value for the money, i love how it bridges the gap between retro and modern.
I know i will go against the current here but the analog sticks on the N30 being smaller do help with some of the issues you described with hand positioning, you don't get as unconfortable using them
Find it interesting that the SN30 pro advertised in their 2018 catalog (together with the SN30 Pro G Classic edition) went for a style that looks less like a SNES controller. The start/select buttons are horizontal, font is more generic, and the buttons are all lavender.
I'm wondering if the internals are slightly different as well.
I just picked up the 2018 model. Feels and performs great... just wished it looked more like a SNES controller like the one in the video
Wouldn't be the first time. 8bitdo kind of fly close to the sun in how accurately they recreate the original Nintendo design and look, and probably too close in those earlier cases. The original SN and SF30 controllers were visually identical to the original SNES controllers, even down to the font style used to write 8bitdo gamepad instead of Super Nintendo.
With Nintendo recently renewing those copyrights with the Mini Classic consoles, these were rapidly discontinued and if you look at the 8Bitdo site, they don't show any images of the original none-pro controllers which were very accurate replicas. That's probably not a coincidence.
The c stick is backwards again... smh
How can an analog stick be backwards?
stapuft whoosh
@@stapuft r/woosh
@@TheLeggedOne you
@@Kris451 fucks is
This is such an awesome controller. I have two of them and also bought receivers to use with my SNES/NES Classic as well as my Retron 5.
How does it work with SNES Classic?
Next 8bitDo products I want: replacement rubber domes for both snes and genesis.
I have been wanting to get this controller for a long time now. Maybe it can be a little Christmas present for myself haha.
I like it, but beware the dpad is a bit stiff compared to the real SNES controller (or the one in the SNES Classic Mini). Might be a problem if ultimate precision is your thing.
im reluctant about the quality of them rubber pad in those things. i have xbox 360 controller and aside from the minor d-pad adjustment, its has never been a problem to use with any game even up to now, and they have become cheap nowadays especially the wired ones.
I've had my controller for months with no issues. The D-pad has that amazing old school feel, great for fighters and side scrollers. if you buy this make sure you do the controller update.
Does it work for Android?, I wanna use it for call of duty mobile
Wasn’t a big fan of the D pad. When pushing left or right it leans down which sometimes registers as down-left or down-right
As a person who personally owns one of these, it's almost like the Swiss army knife of controllers. It really does work with just about anything.
I got the controller about a month ago and have barley touched my pro controller since... I was a little concerned the lack of grips would make it uncomfortable to use after a while but I've found it no issue at all, not to mention due to it's small size I can put it in my Skull & Co maxcarry case and take it with me. I highly recommend this controller
Thanks spawn wave for the stellar daily content I'll definitely be buying this for my retro gaming needs on PC.
I use this to emulate NES and SNES games on my PC and Shield. It's great.
I'm still waiting for the one with the handles. The one 8BitDo showed at E3 🤔 I really hope Nintendo will allow them to build in the same features that the SN30 Pro has.
I’m glad I found your channel, it’s great! Very helpful for purchasing advice and this controller looks like it would work better for fighting games on PC than my Xbox One controller which cramps my hands because I use the D-Pad for them.
Good, im getting this for my Christmas retro pi, so good to hear i choose this over the pro2. I chose this one because of the shoulder button layout mainly, over/under instead of beside.
I love mine. Zero problems. Syncs to everything I need. It managed to ship from Amazon without a charging cord and 8Bitdo CS sent me one the next day.
The buttons on the right are spaced further than the dpad. It looks like the start and select buttons are actually spaced equally between the edges of the buttons and the dpad rather than the centers.
the left and right rumble motors aren't really so much about stereo rumble, rather each is weighted differently. you get harder rumbles with the big weight and lighter rumbles with the small weight. mixing the two up will give you different sensations and whatnot.
I have two copies of the famicom version (with the colored buttons); and I play Bug Fables primarily using this. I use select everywhere, Everytime to "hear" the conversations; so I don't really get your problems with start and select. I think it is a huge step up from the joycon. Though you are right about the sticks; as even a cheap, alternative 20 bucks controller has a better grip. Still, this is my favorite controller ever (even without the prolongs).
I've had two of these controllers and had to return both due to quality issues.
The first one I bought right around the controller's release- sometime late last year. Then I plugged it in to charge one night, it froze while charging, resetting didn't work and the controller could no longer be recognized by anything (including the PC, so updating or pushing firmware wouldn't even work). It froze, randomly, while charging and it was completely inoperable. I sent it back and got my money back.
Months later, like around the middle of this year, I heard through the grape vine that the "freezing while charging" bug that rendered my last controller useless was fixed, so I bought another. This one would randomly disconnect while I was playing (Switch, Steam, didn't matter. It disconnected, even with a full battery, while playing on both), it would randomly lag but wouldn't disconnect (sometimes a button press wouldn't happen and the controller would stop responding entirely for 2-3 seconds. This only happened while connected to the Switch), and sometimes just wouldn't connect to my devices despite having worked with those devices mere minutes before (example: I'd sit down to play a game, my wife would call me to do something, so I'd put the Switch back in sleep mode and turn off the TV. Come back 10 minutes later, the controller just will not connect to the console for 20-30 minutes at a time before it randomly begins working again).
Like, I loved this controller, hence my willingness to give a second of it a shot. But their quality control was a goddamn crapshoot: You either struck gold, or you got shit. Apparently their newer ones are better, but I shelled out for another Pro Controller for my Switch that I've been using with Steam and I just can't be bothered to keep trying these out until I find one that doesn't have significant problems.
0:52 It's the other way around. The N30 Pro didn't have these features, but when they redesigned all their controllers, the N30 Pro 2 got the same features as the SN30 Pro had. This review also shows the older version of the SN30 Pro. It's a redesign mostly. The newer models have a slightly better build quality and the d-pad feels much better. The internal hardware has been changed, but there's hardly a noticable difference.
My fave game pad. Switches seamlessly between my Switch, PC and android with zero issues.
I use it as a remote for my drawing program, 25 button hotkeys. Way better than any "professional" remote and its 10 buttons.
10:35 It's also worth noting that the SN30 Pro is older than the N30 Pro 2 (the Pro 2 is quite new, and the N30 Pro was the version that came out before/around the same time as the SN30 Pro).
For reference, I bought my original SN30 Pro (the one you're reviewing) in March 2018 and I bought the newer one (GameBoy color palette, but it's got a few improvements) last month. I also bought the newer N30 (not Pro) that's NES Mini exclusive when Nintendo rereleased it a few months ago.
just got 2 SN30 8bitdo wireless controllers as a gift for my NES and SNES Classics they work amazing. They connect better than the joycons for switch when docked
They could have used board-mounted vertical microswitches for the shoulder buttons too. Which they did in fact do for the NES30. A very fragile design, so I'm glad they went with the far more robust (and complicated) design they used in this controller.
My NES30 broke 2 days in, two shoulder buttons went out.
I love using this to play OpenEmu on my Mac & so should you.
It’s actually not that good because there is a lot of drop in Bluetooth connection between the pad and the Switch. I bought one to play DBFZ and I had to stop using it because it would drop connection for 1 second or more and it’s very noticeable in a fighting game. Same stuff happened to a friend. And yes, i do have the most recent version of the firmware in the pad. So just be aware of that guys.
Other than the weird off center Select / Start positioning this controller is perfect.
Surprised by the quality, well worth it.
I bought two of them back in August and only one still works. The rubber on the main stick has worn completely off. Also, yes, I've tried contacting 8bitdo three times to no avail. Luckily, the main stick has a dip in the middle of the stick, so your thumb will still have a tougher time slipping, but it's shiny plastic, so not perfect.
This controller is perfect for playing Ultra Street Fighter II and Dragon Ball FighterZ.
I ordered the SF30 pro today and I am so excited 😄 nostalgia pure for me ❤️
I like that the board looks like a Batarang or Batman logo.
Can you do teardowns of classic consoles? Whatever you can get. This stuff is interesting. I like taking shit apart and reassembling.
The start and select button placement is not an odd choice. It is centered in the light grey area along with the logo. “Come on man”
Super excited for mine that I ordered. It comes tomorrow! SNES has always been my favorite generation and the controller was always my fav too. I plan on using this as my primary controller so we will see how it goes!
Thanks for tearing it down too! I'm really impressed with the engineering of this controller. I'm sure there was a reason for the battery being soldered, but I don't think for most that is going to be a deal breaker.
If my OCD had to guess on the offset of the start/select, it would be that its perfectly centered between the gray circle of the action buttons and the indented circle of the dpad *shrug*
Can you give me an update on the controller. Thinking about buying but want to see if it still works after sometime.
I have two 8bitdo controllers. - probably older ones...
I have to say the older packaging looked a bit more stylish on the inside than this newer version...
I have:
The FC30 Pro - It'ss a bit small, but I just really like the way i looks (Red and gold with a dark grey band and blue lighting... Yeah, it's just... Glorious), and it still feels mostly OK...
the other is the SFC30 - And well, what can I say? It's a pretty much flawless reproduction of a Super Famicom or PAL snes controller (feels absolutely perfect compared to the real thing or the Nintendo produced replicas that the classic came with), but it's wireless. Nothing to complain about, though obviously it lacks any analogue controls...
The one you're reviewing looks pretty good too though.
Hmmh. I wonder if the SNES adapter for 8bitdo controllers has any way of reading analogue stick data? I assume not, and even if it did you'd have to write your own game for that to make sense, but still... eh. -shrug-
Fun fact 8bitdo also added a blue led under the "home" button for when the switch will fanaly add it to the joycon/pro controller (yea they got a led under the home button)
This might be my portable option with my limited steam deck bag space. The handles on my DS4 only let me fit one control plus essential accesories, and I can pack the heck out of a bag lol
Try the Switch Pro Controller from Subsonic already. Wireless, good battery life, comfortable to hold and the only pro controller ability it doesn't have is HD rumble. It's built to survive reentry into earths atmosphere so you won't feel it bending or hear it cracking or squeaking and there weren't any software issues since the NSW Firmware 5.0 gamepad crisis.
The only thing that's bothering me is the size. Its a bit smaller than Big Ns pro controller and I really love how big the first party controller is.
And the best thing about it: it's only 30 bucks on amazon.
Try it
Try it now
I have an SF30 Pro (same controller but with Japanese rainbow palette instead of the purple). I love it, EXCEPT that the covering of the thumbsticks is not part of the same piece as the actual thumbstick. Which means that if you are very rough with your L-stick movements, as you might be in a fighting game (cough *DB FighterZ* cough), the covering starts to get worn and actually disintegrates. The uneveness of the stick started to bug me, so I began picking at it compulsively. At this point, the top cushion on the left stick is all but gone, with just a sharp plastic disc remaining.
Still I love it to death.
I have the SF30 Pro and I love it, zero issues for the PC, works better on steam than the PS4 controller and even with the official Xbox One controller I have issues if I use it over BT.
Loving the look and aesthetics of this controller. Great review. Yoh hsve me sold on either this or the Sn-30 pro plus 😁 excited to otder it
I have one with a clamp that attached to my android phone and it works acceptable in most games. Wall jumping in Super Metroid was much harder without being plugged in directly with a double ended USB C cord though.
I have the NES30 Pro, which is different than the black one you have there, aesthetically anyway.
Performance wise, I'm happy with it. I use it only for emulation on PC because I haven't bought a new home console since the PS2 15 years ago, but it can handle pretty much anything I threw at it without issues. However, no matter how many videos and photos I watched about this thing before committing to a purchase, it was a lot smaller than I thought it would be when it finally was in my hands (that's what she said).
Also, the manual says that the battery lasts around 20 hours with a single 3-4 hours charge. I honestly was very skeptical about it, but then I tried it and Christ Almighty, it indeed works for roughly that long, which means that cables are a thing of the past and makes Nintendo, Sony and whoever else made a mini console look like a bunch of amateurs, given that their usb controllers are nice, but have very short cables and don't have wireless support.
Other than that, though, it's a very great product for its relatively cheap price. I think I paid €43 for mine and whoever is on the fence about buying one of these like I initially was, should just go for it because it will be money well spent.
How does the stiffness of the joysticks compare to the DS4? I find that the DS4's joysticks are a little too stiff. I end up having joint pain after a long play session.
Just a PSA. You should update the firmware of the controller the first thing you do. At least if you plan using it for a Raspberry Pi. I couldn't get the analog sticks to work properly and spent a couple of hours messing with settings on the Pi before I tried doing a firmware update. Then everything started working flawlessly.
I never noticed the start/select buttons being miss aligned and now my OCD is triggered forever. Thanks spawnwave
I have the GameCube style N30 Pro2 and it's the best controller I've ever used. And it works with my Switch, phone and laptop!
I love using my SN30 PRO controller for The Messenger.
maybe they put the select button close to the d pad because in games like super mario world select was a usable button. you never need quick access to start
My only disappointment is it doesn’t work with my iPhone or Apple TV, but it works on everything else I own and love playing Mario Kart 8 Deluxe for a modern retro feel. It’s a great controller. I love the digital pad.
I own one, and this controller has one MAJOR flaw. The more controllers you have connected, the more input lag it has. I tested this on Smash ultimate by connecting 4+ joy-cons to the Switch, and input lag went up to almost 500 ms to the point that it was almost unusable. Thus it is only viable for single player use or for those who don't mind input lag. I am also on the latest firmware for the controller.
Eagerly awaiting the plus variant with the grips. I held off the Switch Pro Controller because I heard the dpad is garbage and that's an important part of the controllers for me :\
I love this controller it's great ice been using it for the new ghost and goblins and it works very well for me, it was worth the money
I might get one of these for travel. Should take up a bit less space in a backpack than the Pro+ version.
I bought the Gameboy classic one and I Absolutely love it. I have 2 complains tho. First, the joysticks are not as accurate as on the real pro controller, its hard to have the joysticks move a bit to one side if that makes sense. It just goes all the way to one side. Which is fine for most games but makes it harder to aim in games with shooting mechanics.
Second problem is in Android mode; A is switched with the B button and Y with X. Which makes it confusing to play most games. I asked 8bit do about it and they responded and im quoting:
"Currently the layout and mapping of buttons is not customizable.
The layout of the buttons in each mode is different"
Overall i give this controller an 8,5/10
This is the only controller I will ever own, since it can play anything on the Switch. It doesn’t have to have grips or be 100% comfortable and precise with grips and 💩. The mf works.
How’s the size compared to a iPhone 12 Pro Max?
I’m so glad I bought this a long time ago, before I had a switch.
I originally bought it for a Mac... but Mac is stupid and the sticks don’t work on it...
And then a couple years later, I got the switch and use the controller for indie games and stuff
I got Smash Bros Ultimate and an official Pro Controller as belated birthday presents (belated due to my birthday being November 30th) and despite it being overpriced, the Pro Controller is great! The 8bitdo pads are good to, I got an N30 with a 6 month subscription to Retro Gamer Magazine in the summer, and I’m getting the updated version with my renewed subscription!
That tape just tells me that was a return. Mine from Amazon didn't have that.
I just stumbled upon your channel and digging your videos! Sub earned!
I love mine. I’ve had it almost a year. The rubber did need glueing back on the left thumb stick though after coming loose from repeated use.
I have the one with the colored buttons and love it. Right stick feels great if you suck at smash and have to spam it like me lol. The vibrating feature is almost too strong though, it's loud as hell.
I'm waiting for the SN30 Pro Plus.
still waiting...
Still waiting...
@@JackMcSomeone You can pre-order it now! Comes out in August
@@a.wosaibi nice
I've been using these for a while now. The d-pad works better for me than the Switch Pro Controller. I would be interested in using my WiiU Pro Controller with my Switch so I'll look into that as I really like the feel of that controller.