– Compact layout with closely-packed buttons and five programmable buttons (P1-P5) with lock caps
– Built-in 1.47-inch display for real-time button press view, SOCD adjustment, button remapping, and RGB control
– Dynamic illuminated button labels that auto-switch between Switch and PC layouts
– Easy-lift glass faceplate for accessing internal components and switch compartment
– Compatible with Windows, Switch, and Switch 2; pre-orders begin September 2026
New Controller Hits the Scene
Its been a year since 8BitDo launched the Arcade Controller. Although, since its release, it has been followed by an Xbox edition, a Transparent Purple Signature edition, an upgrade kit, and more recently, an Evo 2026 limited edition. Now, 8BitDo has announced a follow-up called the Arcade Controller Pro, and it rightly earns the pro moniker.
Compact Layout and Programmability
First, the Arcade Controller Pro has smaller and closely-packed buttons for a more compact layout. 8BitDo says this puts the buttons, which feature improved button caps, “within natural reach”. The button layout for the Arcade Controller Pro is also different as seen in the image below. It features five programmable buttons (P1, P2, P3, P4, and P5) with included lock caps, whereas the standard model has four and the Xbox edition has two.
Built-in Display is the Key Feature
The biggest upgrade of the 8BitDo Arcade Controller Pro is the built-in display — a 1.47-inch screen that displays battery life and can be used to adjust the controller’s settings without the companion software. Using the display, owners can see every button press in real-time, adjust SOCD (Simultaneous Opposing Cardinal Directions) settings, remap buttons, and modify the RGB lighting.
Knobs and Connectivity Options
The Arcade Controller Pro, like the Arcade Controller (currently available on Amazon for $57.40 for Prime Day), has knobs for switching between Bluetooth and 2.4GHz connection modes, activating or deactivating Tournament Lock, adjusting the volume, and modifying display settings. There is also a dedicated capture button on the left side.
Dynamic Inputs and Faceplate Design
The new controller has dynamic inputs, as the illuminated button labels will automatically change when you alternate between Switch and PC button layouts. Also, 8BitDo has made it easy to lift the glass faceplate to access the internal components and the compartment for additional switches.
Internals and Battery Details
Other features of the 8BitDo Arcade Controller are hot-swappable 8BitDo Core green low-profile linear mechanical switches co-developed with Kailh; a cable lock system that keep the USB-C cable secure when using the controller in wired mode; a 3,000mAh battery that provides up to 15 hours of play time; dual USB-C ports; and a removable magnetic wrist rest.
Release and Compatibility Info
Compatible with Windows, Switch, and Switch 2, the 8BitDo Arcade Controller Pro is available in two colors — White and N Edition. It doesn’t have a price tag yet, but pre-orders will begin in September 2026. 8BitDo will also have it on display at EVO 2026, which begins on Friday, June 26. 8BitDo
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