| Price | Arkodd |
| Release | June 15, 2024 |
| Compatibility | PS5 / PS4 / PS3 / XSX / XB1 / NS / WU / PC |
| Dimensions | 9.4″ x 7.9″ x 2.4″ |
| Weight | 2.20 lbs |
Introduction
The PadBox is a D-pad controller with nine Sanwa OBSF-24 buttons, meaning they are 24 mm. There is also a 3D printed shoulder button. The buttons come with custom LED, and the D-pad is by Omron.
The 12 mm function buttons are for:
- Start
- Select
- Home
- Touchpad
You can get the PadBox in preassembled or DIY format.
Performance
With an ergonomic grip, the PadBox is suitable for (but not limited to) regular and big sized hands. Also, the shoulder button is placed well.
While the PadBox is robust, it is also quite light. The lightness makes long gaming sessions more comfortable, and you can travel with the controller more easily as well. That said, you may want to add some grip and an anti-slip mechanism to your controller to make it as stable as possible.
Arkodd made the right choice by including Sanwa buttons. You see, Sanwa buttons are responsive and durable. They have a short travel distance, but it is not short enough for you to press the buttons by accident. A neat feature of the PadBox worth mentioning is that its texture is resistant to sweat.
Hardware
The PadBox is made of PLA+, which is popular for 3D printing, and the bottom of the controller has eight screws. If you crack open the controller, you will see support beams that you might find obstructive when modding the hardware.
Regardless, the PadBox is built quite well, and it should take beginners a couple of hours to put together the DIY build. If you are an intermediate, you may be done as soon as half an hour later.
For compatibility purposes, you can go for the RP2040 option. If you choose that PCB, have a small Philips and flathead screwdriver on hand just in case.
PCBs like the Brook UFB Fusion are also an option for diverse compatibility. Just make sure to cop your own USB-C cable to make the PadBox work on your platform of choice.
Appearance
The PadBox has a simplistic look. The case’s colors include sapphire blue, lime green, and crimson red. Moreover, the bottom of the controller has PadBox branding. The icing on the cake is the LED that the buttons have.
If you can secure the template file of the PadBox, you may be able to design art (or have art designed) to stick on the controller in some form of vinyl. Another option is pasting stickers right on the controller.
Conclusion
The PadBox combines the worlds of arcade sticks and D-pad controllers with grace.
- Preassembled or DIY
- Omron D-pad
- Sanwa buttons
- Button LED
- Color options
- PCB options
Rating
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐