| Price | Amazon |
| Release | April 4, 2019 |
| Platforms | PS4 / PS3 / XB1 / X360 / NS / PC / Android / Neogeo Mini |
| Size | 14.2” x 9.1” x 4.7” |
| Cable | 3 m |
| Weight | 6.61 lbs |
Quick Fact
This iteration comes readily equipped with premium Sanwa parts.
Performance
The performance of the Universal Arcade Fightstick F500 Elite much better this time around due to the Sanwa parts as opposed to the mediocre parts used in the standard version for those on a tighter budget. The arcade stick is big enough with ample wrist space. The metallic cover and base provide a weighty and secure feel.
Hardware
Apart from the fact that the Sanwa inclusion ups the hardware game of this iteration in general, an octagonal gate is included with as an accessory. Replacing the gates is simple. The buttons are easy to replace as well, but there will probably never be a need to do so. In any case, there are easy-to-see screws at the bottom should one want to go inside for any reason. Those with wired headphones can use them with this arcade stick. A major hardware setback is that native controllers are needed to connect the arcade stick to a console.
Aesthetics
The F500 Elite did not bring back the cracked design from the standard version, making the arcade stick look too simple again. However, there is an acrylic panel on top that is easy to remove should one want to put in his or her own artwork. Otherwise, he or she will have to arcade stick with this design that is primarily black and will probably show scratches more easily over time due to the endless grinding fighting gamers are known to partake in.
Price
The fact that there are too many cables and the artwork is uninspired does not take away much of the good aspects of this fightstick, and the result is that the Amazon price is good. There are not many similar bargains that you can find in this market. It is, however, more expensive than the vanilla version, but the vanilla version does not come with Sanwa parts.
Verdict
| Pros | Comfortable and responsive Easy to mod |
| Cons | Too many cables Art too simple |
| Performance | Good |
| Hardware | Good |
| Aesthetics | Fair |
| Price | Good |
| Score | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |