Lay your fingers all the way on top of the controller, click the buttons with different parts of your finger. It’s a little weird at first, but it’s sooooo comfy once you get used to it.
1:10 - unboxing 4:54 - weights 9:38 - teardown The zl & zr aren't actually that bad if you use them. I thought they were gunna be trash too but in practice it's not as bad as it looks. The sticks have more travel than the joy cons and are certainty better than the vita, they just have a bit less resistance. It would be pretty weird if the led was just on one side
It honestly feels a lot more natural to rest your index finger over both shoulder buttons and press them with two parts of the finger than it does to shift the finger around a lot
Same here. It has the buttons so it can handle all of the switch's features, without them getting in the way of the core functions for the platformers. I got this and an SN30+ to try both, and I've found myself using the N30 the most of all of them. That said, while I do have large hands, my thumbs are on the short side, so it works well for me.
I just finally got one of these, and I gotta say I actually prefer the trigger/bumper design on this over those on the SN30 Pro. Because the SN30 Pro is so thin, I find switching between the shoulder and trigger buttons on either side very cumbersome and uncomfortable, to the point that when possible I configure in-game button mappings so that I only have to use one or the other. By comparison, the N30 Pro 2 is far more natural for me. For 2D games (lately, Guacamelee and 20XX for me), I prefer it. I also disagree that the analog sticks are worse than those on the joycon- the joycon's are definitely worse. But the SN30 Pro's are certainly better
It has worked really well for me, and I loved playing on it. It's a bit small, but it is able to allow me to give me a really comfortable feel and quick to press buttons, without feeling like some buttons are way too close to accidentally press the wrong one.
I'm still buying it. It will be great on the train, when I want to play smash with my roomate! Way more portable than the pro controller. It is a shame to hear about the joysticks though...
Thank you for this very detailed review. Based on the information, I was able to make an informed decision and went for the N30 Pro 2 over the SF30 Pro, which I initially liked better. Portability was the deciding factor for me.
That’s exactly my reasoning too. I was told to get the SN30 pro, but I still preferred this controller simply due to its small form factor. Mainly because I’m wanting to use it for the delta emulator on my phone, and pocket space is important if it’s bundled in with my phone, kickstand, and earbuds.
@@ChiruKobra I don't know the price, or care really, just by looking at it, it looks cheaply made. Every single Switch accessory is over priced. The fact you'd even pay for that when your stock joycons are superior is mind boggling. Switch owners have way too much disposable income, or lack an eye for quality. The fact these eastern companies constantly come out with more accessories than Microsoft tells me that a bunch of morons keep buying them.
as an engineer: Torx screws simplify manufacturing, where you have a power screw driver in the assembly line. Offcourse, a consumer does not care about that - but the positive impact on manufacturing time (-> price) and quality (you can not strip torx screw heads, you are more consistent with torque applied [no lose screws]) is relevant to a consumer.
About the controller LEDs: I purchased the original version of this controller a couple years back and on the website, it mentioned that the designer of the controller was a fan of Castlevania Symphony of the Night, and the glow is actually supposed to represent the Crissaegrim, Alucard's ultimate weapon from the game. Here's a copy paste from the site (via wayback machine): "I am the designer Welin Li. This concept came from the famous game Castlevania: symphony of the night. This game released at 1997 on PS. I was a young boy at that time and crazy in the game, I collected ALL items, ALL weapons, ALL equipment in the game, spent tons of time in it. I can said I am one of the most Castlevania fans in the world. When I began to design NES30 Pro, I thought being a portable controller, handing a curved edge will be more comfortable, and I realized that the ultimate weapon ‘Crissaegrim’ in Castlevania is in blue curved. So, the most cool breathing light was born."
this thing is made for slipping into a backpack front pocket, pants pocket, a switch travel case, etc. That's why its so thin and has the shoulder/"trigger" buttons side by side. Also, it's primarily for retro games, which means you most likely won't be using the R and L buttons much. Or at least R2 and L2. People are hard on this controller but it pairs with android phones great and can be an amazing emulator controller and the fact it pairs with the switch is amazing.
I actually love this (well, the previous model NES30 Pro, without rumble, motion control, or Switch support) for it's smaller form factor, small sticks and all, because it means the slightly different hand position doesn't bother the numb-thumb from too much time using PSX/1/2/3/4/knockoff/etc. controllers; and the side-by-side shoulder buttons are easy to use with it sitting flat on a desk to use with just fingers and no thumbs when it bothers me anyway. So just be aware, mileage may vary depending on individual circumstances - for an old timer who still wants to play despite the mileage, the otherwise awkward layout may be a superior option.
I'm really looking forward to your review of the SN30 Pro controller, Jon. That controller really caught my eye when I was browsing Amazon for Switch peripherals. I had to look at the pictures of it many times over because I've never seen a retro-style controller with so many modern tweaks to it and it blew my mind.
Spawn Wave love your page man, a suggestion - go back to all your old 8bitdo controllers and see which still work with the Switch in 2023. It could be a great vid. I have had a litany of issues trying to make sure they still function with the Switch updates. Could be a collosal pain in the rear, but just a thought. Cheers to 2023!
So I can somewhat explain the N30 Pro 2. The older models that existed of it (N30 Pro and F30 Pro) for, more or less, for phone gaming (emulation had hit the big time), so the controller was meant to be as portable as possible. Eventually they firmwared in the other consoles. It was one of their earlier creations along sides with the Zero series (which is smaller still, but no thumb sticks, for keychains). It isn't my favorite controller, by any means, but what it is for it does well enough. I used the older version for playing FFIX on my phone (in place of the on-screen inputs) and a little Smash (but pairing was a pain back then, they hadn't optimized that like with the current gen controllers), and I got the N30 Pro 2 for putting in my switch hardshell case (it has one of those shallow net sections for extra joycons, and the SN30 Pro doesn't fit (it's a hair or two too tall). But it isn't as good an everyday controller as the SN30 Pro, absolutely. But this doesn't feel like the purpose for it. EDIT: There was another use, moreso for the N30 and F30, 8BitDo had a bluetooth dongle for Famicom and NES systems and this allowed for wireless play/controller replacement. The Pro versions could also pair in this way, but had more buttons than needed (and sticks which... weren't a thing on classic systems).
Thanks for the review! I've been thinking about getting one since the first came out. Because I like to roll my thumb sideways to run and jump like I used to on the NES, Genesis and GB/GBA. I really like the tight grouping of face buttons on the DS/3DS and these look similar so I think I'd like it. Admittedly a Playstation 4 or Xbox One controller is the most comfortable for me for just about any and everything except thumb rolling in classic games where I like the DS best. Also I have a 4 year old daughter and a 1 and a half year old son I want to share my love of gaming with and a smaller controller is what they'll need. I have an 8bitdo Zero but I think my daughter needs a slightly bigger dpad for hitting those left, right and downs constantly. So a full dpad and close face buttons sounds great for her too. Plus no wires means less accidents.
I feel like like the decision to put the LEDs where your palms is a bit smart since you really only use the light to sync the controller to a device or to see if has any battery, and when you're doing that your palms aren't covering it, so really the LED position isn't in a bad place, it's actually in a pretty good place.
I love all the information given to me about the controller. I love the look of it but I have big hands so I'll check out their other pro controllers. Also I loved the finger snapping when you put the controller back together.
I like the smaller sleeker design over anything bulkier. I have an 8bitdo mini for downtime at work but this looks pocket sizes enough that I could upgrade to this. Ive been needing something with joysticks.
You are by far my favourite channel. When UA-cam notifies me, I'll stop whatever I'm watching to see what's up on your latest upload. Keep up the good work!
I'm getting it in order to use it as a shortcut pad for Clip Studio and Blender (and as a normal gamepad). Im going to be holding it vertically in one hand most of the time, so the vertical shoulder buttons and the smaller, closer sticks are actually perfect for my needs. I'm really excited for this thing.
Anyone considering getting this today, go for it, its a brilliant controller for on the go as you could easily fit 3 of these bad boys in a case like the orzly carry case and for me that makes it all worth while. Also the trigger placements actually work a lot better than expected and I find it quicker and easier to pull off a shield N grab combo in smash bros, the D pad does seem a bit wiggly though and it's not just my model, forgettable after a while.
I straight up prefer the shoulder buttons side by side rather than stacked simply because I can push both at the same time. It is very comfortable for me and it is my controller of choice.
I have the older version that's styled off an original NES controller, it doesn't have vibration, kind of miss it but as a portable controller it's pretty good.
Like it when comments talk about the video, despite the vid being like 10 minutes long and their comment is 15 seconds old saying “cool though” without even knowing what it does
Would you say this controller is similar to the Classic Controller Nintendo made for the Wii? At least, in feel or size? The Classic Controller was my controller of choice when playing Smash 4, so I may be interested in getting this. Thanks!
the woosp sure! The Good: Nintendo’s own Pro Controller + JoyCons! The Bad: this controller... and almost all 3rd party cheap controllers! The Fugly: this controller and all 3rd party trashcan trollers, yet again!! Good day! You are welcomes! 🥴
i keep a pair of those controllers in the tesla. it's thin enough to hide in the phone rest with the lid closed. the R2/L2 trigger is a tad annoying for beachbuggy racing but it's not bad. you can press both R1+R2 at the same time and it wont effect the acceleration. mind you, you gotta purchase 2 8bitdo dongle as well. but worth it. i picked up all 4 pieces for 80cdn. when it's not on sale, you could be spending $150
Disagree for the most part. I am a big guy with big hands and have no issues. the shoulder buttons are not confusing at all and offer enough resistance that i dont accidentally double press at all. The only point i MIGHT give is that the analog sticks are a bit small, weak on travel, and too close together. However I generally stick to retro so the problem doesnt arise too often.
They kept the light pipes on the sides!! I actually like the original version and still use it quite a bit with my Switch Lite. I might have to pick one of these up just for USB-C, rumble and motion. NICE!!! 👍
With regards to the travel distance on the thumbsticks, I object to less automatically being equal to worse. It really depends on the use. I can see these are more ideal for C64/Amiga platformers, where my SN30 pro sticks cannot mimic the precision of old joysticks.
So Currently I have an 8bitd0 SF30 pro. I think its a great Controller. Question do any of the new ones that are coming out this year have any new features that should make me want to get a new on?
Just ordered two of these to use with the RetroUSB AVS that i just (finally) picked up. 8BitDo makes great controllers (have both the SN30 Pro and SN30 Pro+) and wanted something wireless with a great D-pad exclusively for playing NES games on the AVS, and i love the form factor of these (the color scheme is fantastic).
39.99 really isn't that bad, considering Joycons are freakin 79.99 and Pro Controllers going for 69.99. If you really want a better version of the N30 Pro 2, buy the SF30 Pro (or Pro Plus when it comes out).
I have the N30 the M30 the SN30 Pro and the SN30 Pro Plus. The plus is the best one for ergonomics and it fits both 3D games and retro games. Some people say it’s not best for 3D games but it’s the same layout as the PlayStation sooo??? Anyways the SN30 Pro is used for my snes mini, the analogs work well for top down games like secret of mana and terranigma and the Dpad is amazing for 2D games. I use the M30 for my sega mini. Then I use the N30 as my travel controller, I used it for my snes mini before I got the SN30 pro and it works great, most snes/sega/gba don’t use L2 or R2 so using this controller for games with just L and R work fine, the analog sticks for great for top down 2D games even tho they are smaller. I would recommend this controller to someone who wants an retro controller or a travel controller. If you want a multiple use controller go with the SN30 Pro or the SN30 Pro plus.
The one thing I hate about the 8bitdo controller is the placement of the home button. It is the worst for Street Fighter because I would constantly bump it while in an online fight it was almost a guaranteed loss smh but the shoulder buttons are terrible too
Man one thing about all 8bitdo d-pads, (and excuse my terminology, im no expert about electronics) the quality of the physical dpad is REALLY good but the issue is that their boards pick up wrong inputs, for example if you hold down hard enough on the top-right of the up direction of the dpad, it will pick up as you pressing up and right, if youre not careful you get a lot of wrong inputs with it. They need to either make the button contacts slightly smaller, or do what the original snes controller does. You can fix the issue very easy by taping off the corners of each button contact. But I really hope one day they realise that there is a slight issue with it.
Also for context google the 8bitdo snes board vs a original snes board, and you'll see that the original actually splits the 4 inputs into two seperated contacts.
Have the original release and it feels great. Only think I don't like it the 2 thumbstick buttons feel a bit stiff and awkward to press. Hopefully they have been improved in this new revision.
What I don’t get about the stuff from 8Bitdo is their inconsistency. They are targeting especially Switch users, so why not making the pairing with Switch default without further combinations?
i have the non-pro version and the size is it's one best quality to me, i'd want a SN30 pro for the home but the N30 is so easy to slip along my thin laptop or tablet : that's totally what it's made for ! nintendo switch compatibility is more of a bonus for this type of controller ... makes for an easy extra controller when you have guests :)
I wish I could snap my fingers a few times and to reassemble a conttoller! My brother is getting a Switch for Christmas, and I told him I'd do a joycon shell swap for him because I did it for my Switch. Your magic reassembling powers would really come in handy.
I have the original N30, and while the controller is awesome for Retro games (specifically the DPad), those analog sticks suck for modern Switch games. I use them for travel so it serves its purpose. Lightbars look slick. Also you have to manually turn on the Switch and not turn it on with the controller, which is a slight inconvenience.
It's a shame that they placed what is essentially Z L/R where they did. I really like everything else about the controller. I love the GC themed one, but those button placements would most definitely annoy me far too much. Guess I'll stick with the SF30 Pro.
The 3DS style shoulder buttons kill it for me. Can’t play wipeout or shooters like this. Too bad, it seemed close to the perfect versatile bluetooth controler. I’ll wait for the N30 pro+ see if it gets it right.
Such a good controller I had it for 3 months now I use it on my switch and my pc emulators (snes,nes,sega even n64) 95% 2d games and for those it’s perfect games like castlevania Mario sonic zelda, even games with precision inputs like ninja gaiden id buy this while u can in October 2021 on amazon cause they don’t make them anymore, I got bigger hands aswell and it feels great!
Vita thubsticks AND nes d-pad, in that design, SOLD! I don't think those shoulder buttons will bother me much. Edit: What screw driver set is he using? I have been looking for a good compact set to carry in my laptop bag and that one looks perfect.
Lots of reviews say thyley dont stay connected or synced up and if youre playing a split screen like mario kart with someone the pro controller dominates and this one doesnt connect
I prefer the Pro Controller for the Switch, which is docked all the time. If I want to travel, I use the Switch Lite. I was looking for a small controller for Android. I decided on the Xbox 8bitdo version. I'll use it for my daily on the go, when I'm only carrying my phone. I see the lighting on the controller as a feature you need, if the room is dark. You might drop it and you'll know the orientation to hold it. Just a guess.
I agree I use my pro controller for litterally every game except NES , SNES and like castlevania sonic mania sonic 2 games like that I use this controller! , you can still play those games with the pro controller I have, but as a preference I prefer the n30 for those games
This isn't a downgrade nor a disappointment... and shouldn't even be compared to the SN30/SF30 as they're not even the same line of products. This is literally a v2 for the original N30 & FC30, which I have two of each, and to say the least... from your review the only things I heard that are different are USB Type C instead of Micro USB, Rumble & Motion/Gyro controls. Other than that... since I don't have a straight up comparison with the previous models, I'm guessing they have a bit of a better feel, build quality & better compatibility. But yeah... at first glance, it's literally the same look as the v1 in every way, even the flashing LED lights. This controller is meant to be extra portable, and it fits perfect well into a Switch case. I'll keep looking out for more comparisons between v1 and v2, then see if v2 is worth the upgrade. Awesome review tho, keep it up! :D
I have the SN30 Pro controller and it also has the instructions on the back, though I bought it pretty recently, so it may be a new addition for the last couple of batches or something.
Hey Spawn Wave! You should review the new SN30 pro as well. I have had one for a few weeks now and its fantastic. Too bad this one doesnt seem as nice Edit: My bad you’re on top of it as always
Lay your fingers all the way on top of the controller, click the buttons with different parts of your finger.
It’s a little weird at first, but it’s sooooo comfy once you get used to it.
Is it comfortable to use for a long period of time?
1:10 - unboxing
4:54 - weights
9:38 - teardown
The zl & zr aren't actually that bad if you use them. I thought they were gunna be trash too but in practice it's not as bad as it looks.
The sticks have more travel than the joy cons and are certainty better than the vita, they just have a bit less resistance.
It would be pretty weird if the led was just on one side
It honestly feels a lot more natural to rest your index finger over both shoulder buttons and press them with two parts of the finger than it does to shift the finger around a lot
Is it comfortable to hold for a long time?
I agree with everything
@@Gyroeg yes
I love mine and I got used to the layout. Definitely my favorite for platformers. Great controller especially for travel.
Same here. It has the buttons so it can handle all of the switch's features, without them getting in the way of the core functions for the platformers.
I got this and an SN30+ to try both, and I've found myself using the N30 the most of all of them.
That said, while I do have large hands, my thumbs are on the short side, so it works well for me.
Same
15:35 That was smart of you to make snap activated save states while you were taking the controller apart.
I absolutely love this controller, it’s really not disappointing and you can easily get used to the R2 L2 buttons I give this 5/5 stars
I just finally got one of these, and I gotta say I actually prefer the trigger/bumper design on this over those on the SN30 Pro.
Because the SN30 Pro is so thin, I find switching between the shoulder and trigger buttons on either side very cumbersome and uncomfortable, to the point that when possible I configure in-game button mappings so that I only have to use one or the other.
By comparison, the N30 Pro 2 is far more natural for me. For 2D games (lately, Guacamelee and 20XX for me), I prefer it.
I also disagree that the analog sticks are worse than those on the joycon- the joycon's are definitely worse. But the SN30 Pro's are certainly better
I agree I enjoy this controller I used it for smash for a while n I got bigger hands n worked well for me
It has worked really well for me, and I loved playing on it. It's a bit small, but it is able to allow me to give me a really comfortable feel and quick to press buttons, without feeling like some buttons are way too close to accidentally press the wrong one.
We gotta wait for the SN30 Pro+. It has HANDLES.
I lust after that controller. I search it almost daily at this point.
I wonder if the sn30 pro still has input lag when there’s more than 2 devices connected
@@GreenShark4 Yes. So do I.
@@taitchartrand9185 That's a great question. Maybe Jon will find out.
When is it out?
I'm still buying it. It will be great on the train, when I want to play smash with my roomate! Way more portable than the pro controller. It is a shame to hear about the joysticks though...
Thank you for this very detailed review. Based on the information, I was able to make an informed decision and went for the N30 Pro 2 over the SF30 Pro, which I initially liked better. Portability was the deciding factor for me.
That’s exactly my reasoning too. I was told to get the SN30 pro, but I still preferred this controller simply due to its small form factor. Mainly because I’m wanting to use it for the delta emulator on my phone, and pocket space is important if it’s bundled in with my phone, kickstand, and earbuds.
SN30 Pro is really good. Great for games like Shovel Knight or The Messenger.
Yerffej07 for real
I even use it to play Max Payne 3 on PS3. I love it.
Its crazy how you review more technology than rich from review tech USA
dude come on, it's a shitty switch controller for like 20 bucks. Who reviews switch accessories anyways? there are millions of the damn things.
@@kastaway-mtx 20 bucks?
@@kastaway-mtx Please tell me where you found these controllers for $20. I'd buy them.
@@ChiruKobra I don't know the price, or care really, just by looking at it, it looks cheaply made. Every single Switch accessory is over priced. The fact you'd even pay for that when your stock joycons are superior is mind boggling. Switch owners have way too much disposable income, or lack an eye for quality. The fact these eastern companies constantly come out with more accessories than Microsoft tells me that a bunch of morons keep buying them.
@@kastaway-mtx Nope. Nope. Don't derail the subject. You said you found 8bitdo controllers for $20! Now show your card or leave the poker table!
as an engineer: Torx screws simplify manufacturing, where you have a power screw driver in the assembly line.
Offcourse, a consumer does not care about that - but the positive impact on manufacturing time (-> price) and quality (you can not strip torx screw heads, you are more consistent with torque applied [no lose screws]) is relevant to a consumer.
About the controller LEDs: I purchased the original version of this controller a couple years back and on the website, it mentioned that the designer of the controller was a fan of Castlevania Symphony of the Night, and the glow is actually supposed to represent the Crissaegrim, Alucard's ultimate weapon from the game. Here's a copy paste from the site (via wayback machine):
"I am the designer Welin Li. This concept came from the famous game Castlevania: symphony of the night. This game released at 1997 on PS. I was a young boy at that time and crazy in the game, I collected ALL items, ALL weapons, ALL equipment in the game, spent tons of time in it. I can said I am one of the most Castlevania fans in the world. When I began to design NES30 Pro, I thought being a portable controller, handing a curved edge will be more comfortable, and I realized that the ultimate weapon ‘Crissaegrim’ in Castlevania is in blue curved. So, the most cool breathing light was born."
this thing is made for slipping into a backpack front pocket, pants pocket, a switch travel case, etc. That's why its so thin and has the shoulder/"trigger" buttons side by side. Also, it's primarily for retro games, which means you most likely won't be using the R and L buttons much. Or at least R2 and L2. People are hard on this controller but it pairs with android phones great and can be an amazing emulator controller and the fact it pairs with the switch is amazing.
I actually love this (well, the previous model NES30 Pro, without rumble, motion control, or Switch support) for it's smaller form factor, small sticks and all, because it means the slightly different hand position doesn't bother the numb-thumb from too much time using PSX/1/2/3/4/knockoff/etc. controllers; and the side-by-side shoulder buttons are easy to use with it sitting flat on a desk to use with just fingers and no thumbs when it bothers me anyway. So just be aware, mileage may vary depending on individual circumstances - for an old timer who still wants to play despite the mileage, the otherwise awkward layout may be a superior option.
I'm really looking forward to your review of the SN30 Pro controller, Jon. That controller really caught my eye when I was browsing Amazon for Switch peripherals. I had to look at the pictures of it many times over because I've never seen a retro-style controller with so many modern tweaks to it and it blew my mind.
That "SNAP-BACK" putting back the controller is EPiC !!!
Spawn Wave love your page man, a suggestion - go back to all your old 8bitdo controllers and see which still work with the Switch in 2023. It could be a great vid. I have had a litany of issues trying to make sure they still function with the Switch updates. Could be a collosal pain in the rear, but just a thought. Cheers to 2023!
Get these if you find them cheap. They are going up in price
So I can somewhat explain the N30 Pro 2. The older models that existed of it (N30 Pro and F30 Pro) for, more or less, for phone gaming (emulation had hit the big time), so the controller was meant to be as portable as possible. Eventually they firmwared in the other consoles. It was one of their earlier creations along sides with the Zero series (which is smaller still, but no thumb sticks, for keychains). It isn't my favorite controller, by any means, but what it is for it does well enough.
I used the older version for playing FFIX on my phone (in place of the on-screen inputs) and a little Smash (but pairing was a pain back then, they hadn't optimized that like with the current gen controllers), and I got the N30 Pro 2 for putting in my switch hardshell case (it has one of those shallow net sections for extra joycons, and the SN30 Pro doesn't fit (it's a hair or two too tall). But it isn't as good an everyday controller as the SN30 Pro, absolutely.
But this doesn't feel like the purpose for it.
EDIT: There was another use, moreso for the N30 and F30, 8BitDo had a bluetooth dongle for Famicom and NES systems and this allowed for wireless play/controller replacement. The Pro versions could also pair in this way, but had more buttons than needed (and sticks which... weren't a thing on classic systems).
*alongside the
Thanks for the review! I've been thinking about getting one since the first came out. Because I like to roll my thumb sideways to run and jump like I used to on the NES, Genesis and GB/GBA. I really like the tight grouping of face buttons on the DS/3DS and these look similar so I think I'd like it. Admittedly a Playstation 4 or Xbox One controller is the most comfortable for me for just about any and everything except thumb rolling in classic games where I like the DS best.
Also I have a 4 year old daughter and a 1 and a half year old son I want to share my love of gaming with and a smaller controller is what they'll need. I have an 8bitdo Zero but I think my daughter needs a slightly bigger dpad for hitting those left, right and downs constantly. So a full dpad and close face buttons sounds great for her too. Plus no wires means less accidents.
I feel like like the decision to put the LEDs where your palms is a bit smart since you really only use the light to sync the controller to a device or to see if has any battery, and when you're doing that your palms aren't covering it, so really the LED position isn't in a bad place, it's actually in a pretty good place.
I love all the information given to me about the controller. I love the look of it but I have big hands so I'll check out their other pro controllers. Also I loved the finger snapping when you put the controller back together.
I like the smaller sleeker design over anything bulkier. I have an 8bitdo mini for downtime at work but this looks pocket sizes enough that I could upgrade to this. Ive been needing something with joysticks.
Shortened travel stick can be preferred. The less you have to move, the faster you can react. Not saying this is optional, however.
You are by far my favourite channel. When UA-cam notifies me, I'll stop whatever I'm watching to see what's up on your latest upload. Keep up the good work!
You should just make a "Here's Why" series
I'm getting it in order to use it as a shortcut pad for Clip Studio and Blender (and as a normal gamepad). Im going to be holding it vertically in one hand most of the time, so the vertical shoulder buttons and the smaller, closer sticks are actually perfect for my needs. I'm really excited for this thing.
I'll make it my mission to get used to the smallness and those L2/R2 being right next to the L/R. Since I just got it in yesterday!
How'd it go
I bought the snes themed 8bitdo pro controller after watching the My Life in Gaming video showing off 3rd party controllers. I hope I like it!
Who just comes to these techwave videos to just watch Jon take it apart like a pro!
Anyone considering getting this today, go for it, its a brilliant controller for on the go as you could easily fit 3 of these bad boys in a case like the orzly carry case and for me that makes it all worth while. Also the trigger placements actually work a lot better than expected and I find it quicker and easier to pull off a shield N grab combo in smash bros, the D pad does seem a bit wiggly though and it's not just my model, forgettable after a while.
I straight up prefer the shoulder buttons side by side rather than stacked simply because I can push both at the same time. It is very comfortable for me and it is my controller of choice.
Please address the accidental diagonals problem with the SN30 and how to fix it!
I have the older version that's styled off an original NES controller, it doesn't have vibration, kind of miss it but as a portable controller it's pretty good.
Like it when comments talk about the video, despite the vid being like 10 minutes long and their comment is 15 seconds old saying “cool though” without even knowing what it does
Had to watch your snap-magic rebuild a few times. It was satisfying to watch. haha
Would you say this controller is similar to the Classic Controller Nintendo made for the Wii? At least, in feel or size?
The Classic Controller was my controller of choice when playing Smash 4, so I may be interested in getting this. Thanks!
Spawn doesn’t play around with his video title, he gets right into it.
Wow this is the first time I'm ever seen a video with no views, no likes, and no comment
wow
yup, i've still got the view and like/dislike things, but it's saying 0 comments. youtube is really broken.
@@kirikatsu3 thanks
I hate firsties, but i like this-- very humble.
Any chance you could do a round up of all these controllers, the good the bad the fugly?
the woosp sure!
The Good: Nintendo’s own Pro Controller + JoyCons!
The Bad: this controller... and almost all 3rd party cheap controllers!
The Fugly: this controller and all 3rd party trashcan trollers, yet again!!
Good day! You are welcomes!
🥴
i keep a pair of those controllers in the tesla. it's thin enough to hide in the phone rest with the lid closed. the R2/L2 trigger is a tad annoying for beachbuggy racing but it's not bad. you can press both R1+R2 at the same time and it wont effect the acceleration. mind you, you gotta purchase 2 8bitdo dongle as well. but worth it. i picked up all 4 pieces for 80cdn. when it's not on sale, you could be spending $150
Disagree for the most part. I am a big guy with big hands and have no issues. the shoulder buttons are not confusing at all and offer enough resistance that i dont accidentally double press at all. The only point i MIGHT give is that the analog sticks are a bit small, weak on travel, and too close together. However I generally stick to retro so the problem doesnt arise too often.
I love how quickly you put it back together
They kept the light pipes on the sides!! I actually like the original version and still use it quite a bit with my Switch Lite. I might have to pick one of these up just for USB-C, rumble and motion. NICE!!! 👍
With regards to the travel distance on the thumbsticks, I object to less automatically being equal to worse. It really depends on the use. I can see these are more ideal for C64/Amiga platformers, where my SN30 pro sticks cannot mimic the precision of old joysticks.
I wonder if you could get thumbstick extenders for the thumbsticks on these guys. Maybe that would help with the short travel distance.
So Currently I have an 8bitd0 SF30 pro. I think its a great Controller. Question do any of the new ones that are coming out this year have any new features that should make me want to get a new on?
i think the reasoning for the triggers not sticking out is because its meant to feel retro and great for old nes players.
Just ordered two of these to use with the RetroUSB AVS that i just (finally) picked up. 8BitDo makes great controllers (have both the SN30 Pro and SN30 Pro+) and wanted something wireless with a great D-pad exclusively for playing NES games on the AVS, and i love the form factor of these (the color scheme is fantastic).
I am waiting for the SN30 Pro+ with the built in dual-shock 4 style handles.. if they ever release..
Does this work on PS3 too when plugged in using MacOS mode? SF30 Pro and SN30 Pro used to work
*The controller is very interesting but the only thing I wish is that the price was cheaper*
It's worth it.
39.99 really isn't that bad, considering Joycons are freakin 79.99 and Pro Controllers going for 69.99. If you really want a better version of the N30 Pro 2, buy the SF30 Pro (or Pro Plus when it comes out).
I have the N30 the M30 the SN30 Pro and the SN30 Pro Plus. The plus is the best one for ergonomics and it fits both 3D games and retro games. Some people say it’s not best for 3D games but it’s the same layout as the PlayStation sooo??? Anyways the SN30 Pro is used for my snes mini, the analogs work well for top down games like secret of mana and terranigma and the Dpad is amazing for 2D games. I use the M30 for my sega mini. Then I use the N30 as my travel controller, I used it for my snes mini before I got the SN30 pro and it works great, most snes/sega/gba don’t use L2 or R2 so using this controller for games with just L and R work fine, the analog sticks for great for top down 2D games even tho they are smaller. I would recommend this controller to someone who wants an retro controller or a travel controller. If you want a multiple use controller go with the SN30 Pro or the SN30 Pro plus.
The one thing I hate about the 8bitdo controller is the placement of the home button. It is the worst for Street Fighter because I would constantly bump it while in an online fight it was almost a guaranteed loss smh but the shoulder buttons are terrible too
Man one thing about all 8bitdo d-pads, (and excuse my terminology, im no expert about electronics) the quality of the physical dpad is REALLY good but the issue is that their boards pick up wrong inputs, for example if you hold down hard enough on the top-right of the up direction of the dpad, it will pick up as you pressing up and right, if youre not careful you get a lot of wrong inputs with it. They need to either make the button contacts slightly smaller, or do what the original snes controller does. You can fix the issue very easy by taping off the corners of each button contact. But I really hope one day they realise that there is a slight issue with it.
Also for context google the 8bitdo snes board vs a original snes board, and you'll see that the original actually splits the 4 inputs into two seperated contacts.
I brought this for one reason, it's small enough to squeeze in a custom slide-out case to make any modern phone an xperia play, sorta.
How is the lag? I pre ordered their gbros adaptor. Is there any latency?
Have the original release and it feels great. Only think I don't like it the 2 thumbstick buttons feel a bit stiff and awkward to press. Hopefully they have been improved in this new revision.
@spawn wave Can you map the gyroscope to mouse in Steam? Plus, I cant seem to map a Steam home button either :/ to bring up the overlay
Thank you, I now know I should wait for the pro plus with the thighs. Appreciate it!
Hugh Mungus is that you? XD
@@herrzeiens3503 fuck off
@@lincolnspencer120 *triggered*
@@volsavious2319 nobody says XD to me and gets away with it
@@lincolnspencer120 you get em tiger
These are on sale for $30 some places. They're incredible at that price. I've no regrets. The shoulder buttons have oddly grown on me
I got mine for $33 and came in two weeks shipping (ebay) best controller I’ve used. it is small but the buttons are the best I’ve used in a while.
The sticker for the button combinations is on the SN30 Pro as well
What I don’t get about the stuff from 8Bitdo is their inconsistency. They are targeting especially Switch users, so why not making the pairing with Switch default without further combinations?
I have the SN30 Pro. I'll stick with that. Looking forward to using it for smash bros
Jacob Allan same
Not gonna lie, the snap to put it back together was a nice touch
Love that you take everything apart 👍
After all it does not look too bad. I might get this...
i have the non-pro version and the size is it's one best quality to me, i'd want a SN30 pro for the home but the N30 is so easy to slip along my thin laptop or tablet : that's totally what it's made for !
nintendo switch compatibility is more of a bonus for this type of controller ... makes for an easy extra controller when you have guests :)
Have you tried the sn30 pro controller? Do you know if that will work on an snes?
the first n30 pro is my main driver, it's the best controller for me, xbox one controllers are HUGE to me
I was expecting worse with “disappointment”, like double A batteries or things like that, looks nice!
This controller is good for portable purpose where the sn30 pro is basically a PlayStation and Super Nintendo controller molded to one.
Man, I hate torx screws. I think the PSP has 2 T1 screws. Had a hard time getting those out. Microscopic pain in the butt if you ask me lol.
Nice! Thanks for finally showing a re-assembly ;D
Jon had those Bewitched skills
I wish I could snap my fingers a few times and to reassemble a conttoller! My brother is getting a Switch for Christmas, and I told him I'd do a joycon shell swap for him because I did it for my Switch. Your magic reassembling powers would really come in handy.
Reassembly instructions unclear. Just killed half of humanity. Thanks Jon.
I have the original N30, and while the controller is awesome for Retro games (specifically the DPad), those analog sticks suck for modern Switch games. I use them for travel so it serves its purpose. Lightbars look slick. Also you have to manually turn on the Switch and not turn it on with the controller, which is a slight inconvenience.
kickin ass and takin names, takin snapshots and goin home.
It's a shame that they placed what is essentially Z L/R where they did. I really like everything else about the controller. I love the GC themed one, but those button placements would most definitely annoy me far too much. Guess I'll stick with the SF30 Pro.
The 3DS style shoulder buttons kill it for me. Can’t play wipeout or shooters like this. Too bad, it seemed close to the perfect versatile bluetooth controler. I’ll wait for the N30 pro+ see if it gets it right.
Such a good controller I had it for 3 months now I use it on my switch and my pc emulators (snes,nes,sega even n64) 95% 2d games and for those it’s perfect games like castlevania Mario sonic zelda, even games with precision inputs like ninja gaiden id buy this while u can in October 2021 on amazon cause they don’t make them anymore, I got bigger hands aswell and it feels great!
Vita thubsticks AND nes d-pad, in that design, SOLD! I don't think those shoulder buttons will bother me much.
Edit: What screw driver set is he using? I have been looking for a good compact set to carry in my laptop bag and that one looks perfect.
Lots of reviews say thyley dont stay connected or synced up and if youre playing a split screen like mario kart with someone the pro controller dominates and this one doesnt connect
I gave this to my wife. Damn thing is just too small for an adult male of viking descent. :) The N30 2 button on the other hand though is GREAT!
I prefer the Pro Controller for the Switch, which is docked all the time. If I want to travel, I use the Switch Lite. I was looking for a small controller for Android. I decided on the Xbox 8bitdo version. I'll use it for my daily on the go, when I'm only carrying my phone.
I see the lighting on the controller as a feature you need, if the room is dark. You might drop it and you'll know the orientation to hold it. Just a guess.
I agree I use my pro controller for litterally every game except NES , SNES and like castlevania sonic mania sonic 2 games like that I use this controller! , you can still play those games with the pro controller I have, but as a preference I prefer the n30 for those games
What games actually use both triggers for different functions, on Switch? Honest question.
dem assembly skills doh
This isn't a downgrade nor a disappointment... and shouldn't even be compared to the SN30/SF30 as they're not even the same line of products.
This is literally a v2 for the original N30 & FC30, which I have two of each, and to say the least... from your review the only things I heard that are different are USB Type C instead of Micro USB, Rumble & Motion/Gyro controls. Other than that... since I don't have a straight up comparison with the previous models, I'm guessing they have a bit of a better feel, build quality & better compatibility.
But yeah... at first glance, it's literally the same look as the v1 in every way, even the flashing LED lights. This controller is meant to be extra portable, and it fits perfect well into a Switch case.
I'll keep looking out for more comparisons between v1 and v2, then see if v2 is worth the upgrade. Awesome review tho, keep it up! :D
SN30 PRO FOR LIIIIFE (when I'm playing docked which is nearly never)
I've been having thumbstick drift issues on the right thumbstick, is there a fix for this?
I have the SN30 Pro controller and it also has the instructions on the back, though I bought it pretty recently, so it may be a new addition for the last couple of batches or something.
I love this controller because I can drop it in my shirt pocket and take it to any house and use it on any console my friend may have.
I had to tear down my wife's Nexus 6 the other day. 22 torx screws.
Why didn´t you get the SNES Variant it has normal shoulder buttons :D
Hey Spawn Wave! You should review the new SN30 pro as well. I have had one for a few weeks now and its fantastic. Too bad this one doesnt seem as nice
Edit: My bad you’re on top of it as always
Thanks for another great video man, aspiring to be almost as good as you in front of the camera some day👍🏼
And the cable is used for updating the firmware for the controller as well
I do agree. The colour scheme is disappointing to me but the functions are impressive.