8BitDo has a new iteration of its excellent Pro 2 controller on the way. While the simply-named 8BitDo Pro 3 Bluetooth Gamepad might look almost identical to its predecessor, it’s got a few new tricks up its sleeve.
The 8BitDo Pro 3 has the same form factor as the previous model, complete with parallel analog sticks and the classic grip shape, but its main points of difference are found in the buttons. The ABXY face buttons are magnetic now, allowing them to be physically swapped (using the included button puller) for different layouts.
The R2 and L2 triggers can now toggle between full analog mode and a short-travel hair trigger mode (“non-linear tactile triggers”). Two additional shoulder buttons, positioned just to the side of L1 and R1, provide more options for button configuration; coupled with the back paddle buttons that were already present on the Pro 2, that’s four extra configurable buttons for the Pro 3.
Where the Pro 2 only had wired and Bluetooth connections, the Pro 3 also has the option of a 2.4G connection with the included USB-C dongle. The new model also comes with a charging stand and, just for a bit of fun, some balltop joystick caps for a pseudo-arcade stick experience.
The 8BitDo Pro 3 controller is compatible with Nintendo Switch 1/2, Windows, SteamOS, Android, and Apple. It’s launching in three colourways: GameCube-inspired Purple, PlayStation-inspired Gray, and OG Game Boy-inspired G Classic. It’s due to launch on August 12, and pre-orders are open now at a USD $69.99 price point.
