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| The 8BitDo Ultimate 3E Controller for Xbox, PC and mobile features swappable buttons, customizable sticks, and a premium wireless design revealed at CES 2026. |
8BitDo have announced their most ambitious Xbox controller yet at CES 2026 with the Ultimate 3E Controller. It’s the company’s second officially licensed wireless Xbox gamepad, and it’s also its most customizable so far, with modular buttons, swappable sticks, and higher-end hardware aimed at the premium controller space.
The Ultimate 3E is expected to launch in Q2 2026 with a listed price of $149.99 USD. That places it above most third-party Xbox controllers and puts it in the same price bracket as other premium options.
Modular Buttons, Sticks, and D-Pad
One of the key additions is the Ultimate 3E’s modular ABXY button system. Instead of only swapping button caps, 8BitDo includes interchangeable button modules that change how the buttons feel when pressed. One module uses a softer silicone membrane, while the other relies on clicky micro-switches. Both are accessible by removing the controller’s faceplate.
Customization also extends to the controller’s sticks and D-pad. The Ultimate 3E comes with standard thumbsticks installed, but you can swap them out for taller sticks, a thick-neck option, or a dome-style cap depending on preference. The metal D-pad can also be replaced with an alternate circular design.
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| The Ultimate 3E Controller’s removable faceplate allows access to interchangeable button modules and components. |
Hardware Features and Trigger Controls
Inside, the Ultimate 3E uses modern controller hardware, including tunneling magnetoresistance (TMR) joysticks intended to offer more consistent input and long-term durability compared to traditional analog sticks. The triggers use Hall effect sensors and include adjustable stops, allowing for shorter pull distances when faster reactions matter.
The controller also includes two pairs of shoulder buttons, remappable rear bumpers, and RGB lighting rings around both joysticks that react to movement. Battery life is rated at up to 18 hours per charge, and 8BitDo includes a charging dock in the box.
Connectivity and Platform Support
The Ultimate 3E does not use Microsoft’s native Xbox wireless protocol and instead connects to Xbox consoles through a bundled 2.4GHz USB dongle. Bluetooth is included for pairing with Android and Apple devices, and a wired USB connection is available for console and PC play to reduce input lag.
Six-axis motion controls are also built in, but they’re limited to PC gaming. Customization and remapping are handled through 8BitDo Ultimate Software X, which allows you to create multiple profiles and switch between them using controls on the controller.
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| The Ultimate 3E Controller supports wired PC play alongside wireless connections for other devices. |
A Premium Controller Option Coming in 2026
Between the modular hardware, sensor upgrades, and price point, the Ultimate 3E is clearly aimed at players who want deeper customization and more control over how their controller feels. With a Q2 2026 launch window, it’s one of the more notable premium controller announcements to come out of CES 2026.
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