In this comprehensive review, we will compare the 8BitDo Arcade Stick for Switch and Xbox. Explore the features, ease of modding, price, and more to help you determine which arcade stick is the best fit for your gaming needs.
Features and Ports
Explore the features and ports of the 8BitDo Arcade Stick for Switch and Xbox.
The 8BitDo Arcade Stick for Switch supports Nintendo Switch, Windows, and Steam. It offers bluetooth, 2.4GHz wireless, and wired connections. The 8BitDo Arcade Stick has its own dongle and USB-C port for charging and wired connection.
On the other hand, the 8BitDo Arcade Stick for Xbox only supports 2.4GHz wireless and wired connection. It does not have bluetooth support. Additionally, it features an open USB-C port and a headphone jack.
Ease of Modding
Discover the ease of modding the 8BitDo Arcade Stick for Switch and Xbox.
Both the 8BitDo Arcade Stick for Switch and Xbox are easy to mod when it comes to the buttons. The buttons are plug and play, and no soldering is required.
However, replacing the stick is more complicated. For the Xbox stick, soldering or a special cable is needed. On the other hand, the older 8BitDo Arcade Stick allows you to use a cable off Amazon and the usual Sanwa sticks for easy modding.
Whether or not modding is necessary depends on your preference. Both sticks offer great value for their prices even without modifications.
Compatibility
Learn about the compatibility of the 8BitDo Arcade Stick for Switch and Xbox.
The 8BitDo Arcade Stick for Switch works on Switch, Steam, and Windows over bluetooth, wired, or 2.4GHz. However, the 8BitDo Arcade Stick for Xbox only works on Xbox consoles and Windows 10 and later.
It is important to note that the 8BitDo Arcade Stick for Xbox does not work on Steam Deck, despite its compatibility with Windows. This limitation has been acknowledged by 8BitDo support and may not receive future support. Hopefully, Steam Deck can add support for it in the future.
Price
Compare the prices of the 8BitDo Arcade Stick for Switch and Xbox.
The 8BitDo Arcade Stick is priced at $89.99, while the 8BitDo Arcade Stick for Xbox is priced at $119.99. The higher price of the Xbox stick is due to its wireless support and branding. However, it is disappointing considering the downgrade in other areas.
Considering the features, modding support, and compatibility, the older 8BitDo Arcade Stick offers better value for its price. Unless you specifically need the wireless option for Xbox, the Switch version is the recommended choice.
Conclusion
After comparing the 8BitDo Arcade Stick for Switch and Xbox, it is clear that the Switch version offers better value for its price. It has more features, easier modding support, and wider compatibility with Switch, Steam, and Windows.
While the Xbox version has the advantage of wireless support, it lacks bluetooth compatibility and has a higher price tag. Unless you specifically need a wireless option for Xbox, the 8BitDo Arcade Stick for Switch is the recommended choice.
