HandheldPicks
⭐ Editor's PickSource: brand press / retailer
8BitDo · Accessories
8BitDo Pro 2 Wireless Controller
The best third-party controller for Steam Deck and ROG Ally docked play at $50. Bluetooth 5.0, USB-C charging, and 4 fully customizable profile slots. Genuine Switch Pro Controller-quality build at half the price. Compatible with Steam Deck, Switch, Windows, macOS, and Android. The default controller recommendation when you need something better than the Deck's built-in controls for couch gaming.
Quick Answer
- Is the 8BitDo Pro 2 Wireless Controller worth buying in 2026?
With its excellent D-pad, highly customizable software, and physical device-switching toggle, the Pro 2 offers incredible value for multi-platform gamers. While it lacks premium Switch features like wireless wake and HD rumble, the addition of back paddles and a versatile removab
With its excellent D-pad, highly customizable software, and physical device-switching toggle, the Pro 2 offers incredible value for multi-platform gamers.
Aggregated from 1,536 reviews across YouTube, Reddit, and Amazon
+Pros
- ✓Physical mode switch on the back makes swapping between devices incredibly easy
- ✓Removable rechargeable battery pack that also allows for standard AA batteries
- ✓Deep software customization for button mapping, deadzones, and macros
- ✓Excellent SNES-style D-pad that is great for retro gaming
- ✓Addition of well-placed, programmable rear paddle buttons
- ✓Solid overall build quality with comfortable, textured grips
−Cons
- ✗Cannot wake the Nintendo Switch wirelessly
- ✗The rechargeable battery is extremely difficult to physically remove from the controller
- ✗Software app has unintuitive UI quirks, typos, and confusing mode labels
- ✗Lacks premium Switch features like HD rumble and NFC/Amiibo support
- ✗Bluetooth signal can be touchy and requires a clear line of sight
In-depth Review
8BitDo Pro 2 Wireless Controller Review — A retro-focused underdog evolves into a modern multi-platform powerhouse that rivals first-party controllers
Specifications
| connectivity | Bluetooth 5.0, USB-C wired, 2.4GHz dongle |
| battery | 1000 mAh (20+ hours) |
| weight | 228 g |
| features | 4 profile slots, customizable buttons, motion controls, vibration |
Works With
After 6+ Months
Why this controller
For Steam Deck docked play (TV / monitor) you need an external controller. The choices basically reduce to:
| Controller | Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 8BitDo Pro 2 | $50 | Best value, multi-platform |
| Nintendo Switch Pro | $70 | Switch-first, works on PC via Steam |
| Xbox Wireless Controller | $60 | Solid pick if you have an Xbox ecosystem |
| Sony DualSense | $70 | Best haptics, occasional Steam Deck pairing issues |
The Pro 2 wins on price/performance for most users. It pairs reliably, works across every platform you'd care about, and has profile slots for game-specific customization.
Recommended pairing setup
For Steam Deck:
- Power on controller in
Smode (Switch mode) - On Deck: Settings → Bluetooth → Pair
- Hold pair button on Pro 2 until LEDs flash
- Configure in Steam Input (most games auto-detect)
Steam Input recognizes the Pro 2 natively and provides full glyph support.
Last updated: April 29, 2026 · By Marcus Chen
