State of gaming mind

Review: 8BitDo SN30 Pro for Switch

I miss my SNES...
Dualshock meets SNES controller

I bought this controller not out of nostalgia (although it does evoke it), but for is cheapness compared to a Nintendo Switch pro controller. This is around $35 unlike the Pro which cost at $60. So cost wise, it is a bargain with its retro look and functionality.

Look-wise, it is aesthetically pleasing. The curve and buttons are comfortable to hold. The analog sticks are nice to move and doesn’t have a dragging feel in it. Color is nice, since you will certainly get the “old yellowish” stain when it gets old.

It has all the buttons for the Nintendo Switch controller. At the top, a pairing button is included. Shoulder buttons feels a bit odd, specially the Z buttons. It’s not as comfortable as the Pro controller and in times, you can accidentally push the L/R buttons. It does feel crisp and lag free when used.

Speaking of using it, pairing it with the switch is a breeze. Once paired, you do not need to go through the long process of pairing it. Press the start+y button and it will connect to the Switch automatically. I timed it and it took around 10 seconds for it to pair. Not fast, but compared to the other third party controller I bought (which I will review as well), it is much better.

This controller works on other platforms as well. I have tried pairing it with my Android phone to use on some games. Pairing it on an Android is a pain (though it might be with my phone) since it constantly needs to be unpaired to be paired again. I haven’t tried it on a PC or IOS but I did not buy it for those platform. It is just for my Switch; I won’t be testing it on other platforms that it is compatible with.

My verdict? Its nice for Switch. A cheap alternative for a Pro but it does feel as an authentic copy of an old SNES controller. I would not recommend it for other platforms. If you like nostalgia and an inexpensive controller for your Switch, you can do worst with the SN30 pro.

Box includes: Instruction Manual, USB Type C and warranty card
Bought the product from TechSmart.
PS: A firmware upgrade from their website is available. Please visit http://support.8bitdo.com/ for more details.

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