I love gaming controllers with Hall Effect feature, I own quite a few of them. Now I decided to compare one of the best choices out there: the Gulikit KingKong 2 Pro and the 8Bitdo Ultimate Bluetooth.
Also, it’s important to mention that Gulikit Zen Pro controller is exactly the same model as Gulikit Kingkong 2 Pro. Zen Pro is just a different branding and it’s being sold solely in physical Target stores in the United States.
Which one is the best no stick drift controller?
Gulikit Kingkong 2 Pro looks and feels very similar to the Xbox controller.
And here’s 8BitDo Ultimate Bluetooth controller – it’s sort of a mix between Xbox and Switch controllers.
Design and Ergonomics
When it comes to design, the Gulikit KingKong2 Pro takes a more traditional approach, closely resembling a standard Xbox controller. The 8Bitdo Ultimate, on the other hand, has a unique aesthetic that stands out from the competition.
Ergonomics are a critical aspect of any gaming controller, and in this regard, the Gulikit KingKong2 Pro comes out ahead. Its grip lobes and button placement are similar to the standard Xbox controller and Nintendo’s own Pro Controller, making for a comfortable and familiar feel. In contrast, the 8Bitdo Ultimate’s steep grip slope and awkward button placement can lead to discomfort and fatigue during long gaming sessions.
Triggers and Buttons
Both controllers feature analog triggers, with the Gulikit KingKong2 Pro offering a shorter and smoother throw, thanks to the inclusion of Hall Effect sensors in the triggers as well. This makes them feel more responsive in Switch games, despite being analog. The 8Bitdo Ultimate’s triggers, on the other hand, are criticized for their mushy feel.
The face buttons on the Gulikit KingKong2 Pro are sharp and responsive, with a shallower throw distance than the Xbox controller. The 8Bitdo Ultimate’s face buttons are also well-received, but some users may find them less satisfying than the KingKong2 Pro.
Compatibility and Features
Both the Gulikit KingKong2 Pro and the 8Bitdo Ultimate are multi-platform controllers, with support for the Nintendo Switch and PC gaming. The KingKong2 Pro connects via standard Bluetooth, while the 8Bitdo Ultimate requires a USB dongle for non-Switch connections.
The Gulikit KingKong2 Pro has an edge when it comes to features, offering six-axis motion sensing and full amiibo scanning support – a rare thing third-party controllers. The 8Bitdo Ultimate does not offer these amiibo support, but does have gyro and it does come with dock for easy charging.
Battery Life
The Gulikit KingKong2 Pro boasts a battery life of around 25 hours, which is considered more than adequate for most gaming sessions. The 8Bitdo Ultimate’s battery life is about 20 hours, which should be enough, but it’s a little bit less than Gulikit’s.
My opinion
While both the Gulikit KingKong2 Pro and the 8Bitdo Ultimate are excellent third-party controller options, the KingKong2 Pro takes the crown in this showdown. Its superior ergonomics, responsive triggers and buttons, and additional features such as amiibo support make it a more attractive choice for gamers. The 8Bitdo Ultimate remains a solid option, particularly for those who value its unique design and charging dock, but the Gulikit KingKong2 Pro is the clear winner for those seeking the best controller with Hall Effect sensors.
FAQ
What is the difference between the Gulikit KingKong2 Pro and the Gulikit Zen Pro controllers?
The Gulikit Zen Pro is essentially the same model as the Gulikit KingKong2 Pro. The Zen Pro is just a different branding of the same model and is exclusively sold in physical Target stores in the United States.
What devices are these controllers compatible with?
Both the Gulikit KingKong2 Pro and the 8Bitdo Ultimate are compatible with the Nintendo Switch and PCs. The KingKong2 Pro connects via standard Bluetooth, while the 8Bitdo Ultimate requires a USB dongle for non-Switch connections.
How well do the buttons perform on these controllers?
The face buttons on the Gulikit KingKong2 Pro are sharp and responsive, while the 8Bitdo Ultimate’s face buttons are also well-received. However, some users may find the KingKong2 Pro’s buttons more satisfying due to their shallower throw distance.
What unique features do these controllers have?
The Gulikit KingKong2 Pro offers six-axis motion sensing and full amiibo scanning support. These features are uncommon among third-party controllers. The 8Bitdo Ultimate does not offer these features, but it comes with a dock for easy charging.
Why hall effect sensors is such a big deal in gaming controllers?
The Hall Effect sensor is a significant innovation in the controller world for two main reasons: stick drift prevention and increased durability.
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I’ve been considering those two controllers as well, and I’m finding it difficult to decide between them.
Primarily, I play on PC, so the BAYX button layout feels a bit foreign to me. The GuliKit KingKong 2 Pro does offer aftermarket ABXY button caps, but I’d need to adjust the software settings to match that configuration. On the other hand, the 8Bitdo Ultimate Bluetooth Controller doesn’t seem to have any aftermarket buttons, but it defaults to ABXY on Xinput, which works well if you’re used to Xbox controllers.
Occasionally, I also use controllers for Android gaming. However, it appears that the 8Bitdo Ultimate Controller’s Bluetooth mode only supports Dinput in this case (I’m not sure if they plan to add Bluetooth Xinput in a future update). I haven’t found many reviews discussing USB-C connectivity for these specific controllers, but if they’re similar to other 8Bitdo Ultimate versions, I assume we can play controller-compatible Android games via USB-C (although it somewhat defeats the purpose of Bluetooth, the hall effect analog sticks are my main priority).
Since I don’t have a Switch, the KingKong 2 Pro’s NFC support isn’t necessary for me. Moreover, I prefer customizing my controller using an app rather than attempting to press a series of buttons and risk messing up the process. So, I think I’ll save up a bit more and opt for the 8Bitdo controller instead.
I’ve used the WiiU Pro controller as an Xbox controller on PC for years. If you’ve played with an Xbox controller for a while, you don’t need to look at the controller to know which button to press.
Eventuality game developers will use a universal UI which is a diamond of four buttons with the button in question highlighted instead of asking for it by name.