| Price | Alpenmeister |
| Release | March 24, 2024 |
| Compatibility | NS / PC / Android |
| Dimensions | 9.8″ x 5.1″ x 0.6″ |
| Weight | 0.62 lbs |
| Cable | 2 m |
Introduction
Formerly known as the AUXBOX, the Meisterbox M is supposed to be the most ergonomic fighting game controller and at an affordable price. There is a WASD layout as well.
Several years ago, the Bavarian innovator behind the concept made his first stickless controller, which served as the inspiration for the Meisterbox M.
Performance
The Meister layout strives to utilize all fingers with minimal movement from point to point that would otherwise expend time. When it comes to the Meisterbox M’s premium edition, the button sizes are 20.2 and 25.3 mm with a surface area that is comparable to arcade buttons.
The Meisterbox M’s semi-transparent spiral buttons are injection molded and have a pleasant texture to them. There are enough buttons to conquer your foes in modern games.
As for the Meisterbox M’s switches, they are low profile Cherry MX Silver Speeds, which are quieter than average. However, because they are soldered, you cannot hot swap them with another kind of switch you prefer.
While you can try to play with the Meisterbox M on your lap, a desk would be more suitable for its smaller size. Fortunately, there is an anti-slip neoprene layer at the bottom for stability purposes.
Hardware
The Meisterbox M is 3D printed and based on the RP2040 chip that is easy to program with little input latency. The controller runs on the open source GP2040-CE firmware, and the USB-C cable is braided.
There is an optional passthrough for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X compatibility, which would require your own dongle. Otherwise, the OLED screen provides you information like which buttons you are pressing and which mode the Meisterbox M is in.
As for the Meisterbox M’s case, it is made of PETG, and the buttons are PA12 nylon. You are seven screws away from unscrewing the controller. By the way, the custom edition has a modular design that allows you to change covers and button layouts.
Appearance
The Meisterbox M has a simplistic look. While the layout is supposed to be ergonomic, an added benefit is that it makes the controller look cooler.
Beautify your Meisterbox M even further with the bottom RGB LED, and if you go for the custom edition, you can even pick the case’s color.
On a closing note, the acrylic cover means that custom art is possible. We at The Arcade Stick can hook you up with a custom design for your Meisterbox M through our art service.
Conclusion
The Meisterbox M is a much needed breath of fresh air due to its innovation instead of being just another controller.
- Innovative layout
- Modular design
- Extendable compatibility
- Useful screen
- Braided cable
- Grippy bottom
- Customizable art
- Beautiful LED
- Soldered switches
Rating
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐