Superslab Review

Superslab Digital Combat Controller
PriceProng
ReleaseMarch 11, 2023
CompatibilityNS / GC / PC
Dimensions13.4″ x 6.4″ x 0.6″
Weight2.38 lbs
Cable~2 m

Introduction

The Superslab is a Super Smash Bros controller with layered acrylic. It is light enough to make it convenient to travel with without sacrificing stability while set on a desk. Included with the controller is a bottom grip pad, foam key dampeners, and two cables:

  • USB-C to USB-A
  • USB-C to GC

Also included is a clear layer for art, and if you would like custom art, we at The Arcade Stick can help you with that through our custom art service. For example, check out this Superslab art by our Felipe Fernandez:

You can express yourself with high frequency LED under every button. There are at least 30 different patterns, including a unique motion-sensing mode and parameter tweaking for unlimited combinations. To update or change the settings of your Superslab, you can do that through your computer’s browser.

Here are some more of the Superslab’s technical details:

  • Custom polycarbonate keycaps
  • Silicone rubber function buttons
  • Kailh Choc Red Pro linear switches (35 g)
  • 1,000 Hz polling for sub-millisecond latency
  • XInput and DInput for PC
  • Gyroscope motion controls

Performance

The Superslab’s primary buttons feel good with a slightly textured finish. As for the function buttons, while they are small and not exactly satisfying to press, they feel sturdy regardless, and their functionality is useful.

The switches of the Superslab have a low actuation force, but there is still enough force to prevent accidental presses. Also, the switches are fairly loud and clicky, which you might enjoy.

In any case, you can install the foam key dampeners. While they can be hard to install, they will likely be worth the effort. The Superslab’s buttons, as a result, feel lighter and quieter.

It is worth noting that the Superslab’s bottom grip pad is effective during play. Despite that, the controller should be able to slide in and out of the travel case smoothly, which is impressive.

That said, lap play is recommended when using the Superslab, and its size permits that. Plus, the controller is moderately weighty, so it should not fatigue your legs. In fact, this controller has everything you need to win a world class tournament!

Regarding the Superslab’s gryoscope motion controls, while they might not be optimal for, say, competitive play, they may help you further enjoy a game of Super Monkey Ball, for instance.

Hardware

With components that include metal, the Superslab’s heft is balanced out by its smaller size, resulting in its moderate weight. The controller’s acrylic is excellent and state of the art. Regarding the cables, they are braided and high quality.

You should not experience any connectivity issues with the Superslab. Thanks to web configuration, you can plug the controller into a PC to change layouts and modifier values, which is especially helpful when in a pinch at a tournament. You can go up to more than a dozen profiles, which are a lot, but you may be satisfied with just a dozen.

There is a built-in switch functionality that increases the Superslab’s versatility and even gives you a home button. While this is in no way revolutionary, its implementation is done especially well, so hats off to Prong for that.

Appearance

The Superslab has a pleasing rectangular shape with rounded corners. Although the buttons may accumulate dead skin, they are easier to clean than others.

The star of the show when it comes to the Superslab’s looks is the LED. You have access to:

  • Preset color layouts
  • Light patterns
  • Intensity levels

With that being said, it would have been nice to be able to pick the LED colors of the Superslab’s individual buttons. On the bright side, the clear art layer is very easy to install, and one more thing: the cables are Prong customs that are black (with a purple outline in the ports).

Conclusion

The Superslab packs all the features you need in order to compete in tournaments or simply enjoy friendly matches.

  • Polycarbonate keycaps
  • Responsive switches
  • Quality acrylic
  • Bottom grip
  • Braided cables
  • Weight & size
  • Travel case
  • Web config
  • Home button
  • Button LED
  • Dampener installation

Rating

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Link

Prong