8BitDo has steadily become one of the most trusted names in controllers, building out a lineup that genuinely feels like it’s made by gamers, for gamers. Their catalog spans retro throwbacks, modern pro-style pads, arcade sticks, and everything in between, covering just about every platform and playstyle you can think of. At CES 2026, that identity was on full display.
The standout from their booth was the 8BitDo Ultimate 3E Controller for Xbox, a premium, officially licensed controller that immediately feels like a statement piece. The design is clean and modern, but once you look closer, the details start to pop. Modular components, Hall-effect sticks, impulse triggers, and a sleek charging dock all point to 8BitDo aiming directly at players who care about performance and longevity. We didn’t have enough time to really put it through its paces, but even in a short hands on session, the controller felt responsive and thoughtfully built.
What really makes the Ultimate 3E hit is the timing. We’re clearly in another golden era of fighting games and competitive gaming, and the FGC is louder than ever! With several new titles releasing this year, gamers are more about wanting hardware that’s reliable, customizable, and doesn’t overcomplicate things. Not only so, there is a rise of PC players that want only the best. While we’ll need more time to fully judge how it holds up in real competitive environments, our CES 2026 impression is clear: 8BitDo understands the culture, understands the players, and continues to move in lockstep with the scene.
