| Price | ASIndo.pro |
| Release | May 23, 2024 |
| Compatibility | NS / PC |
| Dimensions | 10.8″ x 7.5″ x 1.1″ |
| Weight | 2.43 lbs |
WASD Edition
Introduction
The LVL is a leverless controller by ASI with hot swappable switches. The layout of the LVL ABC edition is a dual WASD hybrid, and the LVL WASD uses keys for directional inputs.
Performance
The buttons of the LVL have a decent sound to them, probably due to the normal profile switches. Expect a deeper press, which you may find satisfying if you are into tactile switches. The LVL experience is boosted by foam pads where your wrists can rest.
Thanks to the pads at the bottom, your LVL should not slide around, and the weight helps with that as well, but the controller is not too heavy to set on your lap or even carry around. You see, the LVL is a mid-sized controller that is suitable for lap or desk play. Also, the smooth edges of the controller mean that your skin should not get irritated.
A nice aspect about the LVL WASD edition is the big size of the jump key, so there is more surface area for pressing, requiring less precision from you.
ASI took their creative liberties with the LVL ABC’s button sizes. Namely, the jump button is 28 mm, and the two extra buttons on the right are 22 mm. The rest are 25 mm. You can replace them with other sizes you prefer, though.
More features that aid in your LVL’s performance:
- OLED display to show your inputs, input mode, and SOCD mode
- Function keys for start, select, and touchpad
- Lock for function keys
Hardware
The LVL is an acrylic controller that is not malleable. There is a slot for a compatibility enhancing adapter so that it does not stick out of the controller in an obstructive way during play.
The USB port of the LVL comes out of the back left, and the GP2040 PCB is hot swappable with just your fingers, so no tools are needed. One use case of this is having a couple of PCBs on hand, with each PCB containing saved settings for a game like Street Fighter or Tekken. Another use case is replacing a faulty PCB.
The LVL’s normal profile switches mean that you can choose from a wide variety of switch types for hot swapping, including linear and clicky. A range of actuation forces is available as well.
Appearance
Available in black and white, the art of the LVL is customizable, and we at The Arcade Stick offer a custom art service. In fact, here are artworks our Petar Mitic made for the LVL before:
The colors of the keycaps can vary, and the icing on the cake is the LED, which is done exceptionally well as it is customizable. It even shines through the case of the LVL, not just the buttons.
Conclusion
It is not a surprise that the LVL is an innovative controller, thanks to ASI’s bursts of creativity.
- Normal profile switches
- Quality acrylic
- Moderate weight
- Medium size
- Nice & slim
- Smooth edges
- Color options
- Customizable art
- Custom LED
- OLED display
- PCB hot swapping
- EXT port
Rating
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐