| Price | Atachon |
| Release | December 7, 2023 |
| Compatibility | NS / PS4 / PS3 / PC / Android |
| Dimensions | 7.8″ x 4.0″ |
Performance
The Atachon BEATdown is an all-key controller that looks like a cassette tape. There is an extra key for the right thumb if you would like to jump with it, giving you two options. There is an extra key for the left pinky as well.
The keycaps of the BEATdown are made of PBT, and the hot swappable switches are Gateron Milky Yellows, meaning you can replace them with the compatible switches of your choice.
The keycaps are smooth to press, quieter than average, and printed to perfection. As for the stock Gateron switches, they are linear without a tactical bump, making them good for swift presses. Furthermore, their fluid keystroke can be enhanced by way of lubrication.
Hardware
The BEATdown achieves its compatibility by way of the open source GP2040-CE firmware, and even the Steam Deck is compatible. The port is USB-C, and a cable is not included.
You may be glad to know that, in case you need to replace the Gaterons with new ones, you should not expect to spend a fortune.
Appearance
The silhouette of the BEATdown looks fairly simple, well, aside from the nuances on the bottom sides of the top panel (when looking at the controller face down).
Go for compatible keycaps in the color of your choice, and you will have yourself a BEATdown that represents you. On a side note, it seems RGB LED was omitted to make the BEATdown more budget friendly.
By the way, the cassette art of the BEATdown is only optional and not mandatory. So, you can replace it with whatever you want, making your BEATdown as good looking as you want it to be.
For custom art, give us a holler here at The Arcade Stick as we have a custom artwork service. In fact, check out this art by our Felipe Fernandez for a client’s Atachon controller:
Conclusion
Those looking for a mini keyboard for fighting games with extra keys should consider the BEATdown.
- Extra keys
- Smooth keycaps
- Hot swap switches
- Customizable art
- Cable excluded
Rating
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
See Also
