1. Haute42 R16
The Haute42 R16 has 16 buttons, with one button being for your left pinky. The Kailh Crystal low profile switches allow you to press the buttons quite quickly. The input latency is less than a millisecond, and you can even make use of turbo for fast inputs with little effort.
The USB port conveniently comes out of the R16’s back center, and on the right, there is a port for an adapter to enhance your controller’s compatibility.
The R16’s onboard screen reveals information that includes your inputs, the current SOCD mode, and so on. What you can also get with the controller includes an extra switch, switch puller, and option buttons.
The R16 is a beauty, especially due to the LED when you press its buttons while gaming. The controller exists in a black edition too. The controller can also accept custom artwork to make your controller represent what you like. For that, we have an art service.
Why to Buy
The R16 has two main appeals: it’s made of acrylic, and it has a left pinky button if you like to use it.
Where to Buy
Buy now on AliExpress or Amazon
2. Haute42 T16
The Haute42 T16 is a controller with larger buttons and low profile Kailh Choc switches for fast presses. There is another edition with less buttons too. Luckily, the latency of the buttons is less than a millisecond.
The T16 is an acrylic controller with chamfered edges for your skin’s comfort. There are anti-slip feet to make your controller stay in place during matches.
The SOCD cleaning includes the essential modes of up priority, neutral, and last input priority, so tournament legality should not be a problem. In addition, the T16’s screen lets you know your inputs, input mode, and SOCD mode.
The T16’s USB port conveniently comes out of the center back, and you can find an EXT port on the right, which is where you could insert a dongle for added compatibility.
LED makes the T16 even more attractive when you press its big buttons. You may also be glad to know that the artwork of the controller is customizable, so you can have characters from your favorite game displayed on it. Need someone to print the art for you?
Why to Buy
The T16 is most recommend if you have big hands—because all its buttons are large.
Where to Buy
Buy now on AliExpress or Amazon
3. Haute42 U16
The Haute42 U16 has a top plexiglass layer and an injection molded bottom. The controller has 16 buttons that are enough for modern fighting games, and the U12 edition only has 12 buttons if you do not need many buttons.
The buttons of the U16 have a smooth finish to them, and the button rings make you feel like you are pressing standard arcade buttons. The jump button is bigger than the rest, allowing you to press it without max precision.
The U16’s switches are fast and quieter than average. Another awesome tidbit is the size of the wrist resting area you can enjoy with this spacious controller. An additionally awesome feature is the screen that tells you useful information like whether you are using the directional buttons as a left analog stick or D-pad.
Whether you like to play with a controller on a desk or your thighs, the U16 has got you covered. You see, the controller has built-in pads so that it does not slip when you game.
If you would like to place the U16 on your thighs, the controller is large enough not to have to squeeze your thighs together, and the controller’s lightness makes long gaming sessions more comfortable. In addition, the controller has a slim body, and it might even fit into a laptop or tablet sleeve you already own.
When you order the U16, you do not have to worry about buying your own cable because Haute42 ships a USB-C to A cable with it that is detachable. If you would like to extend the controller’s compatibility, you can insert an adapter into the designated USB-A port.
With the U16, you also get an extra switch in addition to a switch puller because of the hot swappable switches that allow you to customize how the controller feels. You can change the buttons too if you want.
Now, you may be glad to know that the U16 is one of the easier Haute42 controllers to customize the artwork of to represent your personality.
Just unscrew the top plexiglass, insert your new art, and screw the plexiglass on again. We can also print art you may already have.
Why to Buy
The U16’s button rings make you feel like you’re pressing authentic arcade buttons—without sacrificing the switches.
Where to Buy
Buy now on AliExpress or Amazon
4. Haute42 E16
Left handed fighting gamers are rare, but there are still enough for Haute42 to create the E16 Mirrored. Its southpaw layout has attack buttons on the left and directional buttons on the right.
The E16 brings back the 16 buttons—a recent standard. You should also be receiving an instructional manual, USB-C cable, keycap/switch puller, one/two extra switches, and three extra function buttons.
All the E16’s buttons—except for the jump button—are 23.5 mm (a solid size). The jump button is 25.8 mm to make it easy to hit. There are also many function buttons—plus a tournament lock.
Turbo is back as well, so if you want to just press a button one time and have that result in multiple inputs, the E16 lets you do that.
The Wind Engine switches of the E16 have been increasing in fame. These low profile switches are fast, smooth, and quiet, but since they’re hot swappable, you can install other compatible switches you may enjoy more.
The screen is back too, so you can see intel on your E16 like:
- Input mode
- Directional mode
- SOCD cleaning mode
You can even see button strokes on the screen. That said, the thin E16 is a bit of a smaller controller, making it transportable—while still being wide enough to set on your legs.
With non-slip mats for every bottom corner, the E16 should be stable on your desk too. Moreover, the surface and buttons are the smooth kind.
Because of the RP2040 chip, the E16 runs on the GP2040-CE firmware acclaimed for:
- Being updateable online
- Decent compatibility
- Pretty much no lag
- Open source
Onward, the black cable is right-angle and comes out from the back USB-C port. Alternatively, there’s another USB-C port (on the left side).
In typical Haute42 fashion, the E16 has RGB LED that is custom and can glow up the button rims with beautiful lighting. You can tweak some of the controller’s settings by way of web configuration.
Why to Buy
The E16 is definitely recommended if you’re a left handed player who performs better with a mirrored layout.
Where to Buy
Buy now on AliExpress
5. DuelPad Zen
The DuelPad Zen has a 16 button layout and comes with extra parts & rubber feet. DuelPad calls the Zen’s layout an ergo-split layout, which is for decreasing wrist discomfort.
Basically, you would be tilting your wrists at a slight angle when using the Zen, and the movement buttons are farther apart from the attack buttons than what you might be accustomed to.
The Zen’s buttons are smooth, and they do not sound as loud as your average buttons. Also, they should not come off if you perform intermediate techniques like sliding or pianoing.
When playing, the Zen should not slip, even without the installation of the optional feet. The controller is light enough to carry without getting tired, but it has enough weight not to forget that you are still carrying it.
The Zen is slim, but it passed a malleability test when pressing on its top panel. With that said, the controller contains USB-C ports in the back and on the left. Of course, you can detach the cable if you need to.
There is a USB-A port as where you can insert an appropriate dongle to make the Zen compatible with additional consoles. There is also a built-in screen that lets you know important info like which buttons you pressed.
When it comes to looks, the Zen is an acrylic controller with matte black and crystal variations. The matte black variation uses Ghost switches, and as for the crystal variation, it comes with White Rain switches. The switches are low profile, linear, swift, and quiet, but if you have another style in mind, the switches can be hot swapped.
The Zen’s aesthetics can be beautified with LED, and there are as many as 35 themes. The buttons and controller light up with flair. As a last tip, the controller accepts custom art that we can print.
Why to Buy
The Zen’s ergo-split layout keeps your hands farther apart from each other in a way that gives you breathing space.
Where to Buy
Buy now on AliExpress
6. DuelPad A16
The DuelPad A16’s best feature is probably its left pinky button. This controller has 16 buttons, and one of the extra buttons is on the far left—for your pinky to press. The pinky and jump buttons are actually bigger than the others so you can easily press them with less precision.
The A16 comes in many editions. The EPIG edition has Kailh Choc V1 switches, and the Cross edition has Kailh Choc V2s. Both editions come with 16 or 14 buttons, depending on which game you play.
If you wish, you can have a combination of EPIG and Cross buttons throughout the A16. In any case, the controller has an overclocked polling rate to decrease input delay.
Back to the A16’s switches: they are the low profile Kailh Choc Reds that may be described as light, smooth, and quieter than average.
As for the A16’s focus toggle, it essentially serves as a tournament lock that deactivates function buttons when you do not need them. The onboard screen shows you useful information like your inputs in real time, which input mode you are in, the current directional mode, and which SOCD cleaning mode is on.
Running on the popular GP2040-CE firmware, the A16 supports web config, so you are able to conveniently adjust the controller’s settings. You can extend the controller’s compatibility further if you have a converter.
That said, the A16’s design prevents it from sliding during play. Also, the size of the controller is appropriate for both your desk and lap. In addition, there is plenty of space for your wrists to relax. It goes without saying that this controller is very thin, but despite being thin, the controller still feels robust—and not flimsy.
Now, you might be interested in enhancing your A16’s stability, which you can do by attaching the rubber feet that come with the controller. Also, there are a couple of aluminum stands you can add to make the controller more angled—a lot like a keyboard.
The A16 comes with many freebies like a USB-C cable, and if you need more length, you can use the cable extender. DuelPad also provides a two-way puller, with one side being for switches and the other for keycaps. There is a guide to help you set up the controller as well.
Your A16 may also come with custom artwork you can easily apply by unscrewing the top, placing the print, and the screwing the top back on.
On a closing note, a couple more things about the A16’s looks: the keycaps are multicolored, and with dozens of LED patterns—the buttons come to life even more.
Why to Buy
You can choose which of the A16’s buttons are EPIG and which of them are Cross. You can also tilt the controller to your most comfortable angle.
Where to Buy
Buy now on Amazon
7. 8BitDo Arcade Controller
After the 8BitDo Arcade Stick’s groundbreaking success, 8BitDo came up with the 8BitDo Arcade Controller, which has all buttons instead of a joystick. This controller is also thinner than its predecessor, so it’s likelier to fit into some laptop sleeve you already have.
Compared to most other 16 button controllers, the 8BitDo Arcade Controller does something a little different: the extra buttons are bean-shaped, and they’re ergonomically slanted. This button shape gives you more surface area to press the buttons without the need for complete precision.
The 8BitDo Arcade Controller’s extra buttons are quickly remappable/programmable if you want. Don’t need any extra buttons? No worries, you can just replace them with the included button lock caps. The controller supports the 8BitDo Ultimate Software V2 for macros, firmware updates, and so on.
That aside, all the 8BitDo Arcade Controller’s buttons use low profile Kailh Wizard switches that are hot swappable, so if you don’t like tactile, light, smooth, and overall satisfying switches: you can easily take out the switches to then replace them with any compatible switches your prefer.
From a tournament lock knob to SOCD cleaning, the 8BitDo Arcade Controller strives to be as tournament-compliant. The controller’s top is made of tempered glass that is smudge-resistant and fingerprint-proof. This is also where you can find plenty of space to rest your wrists.
The 8BitDo Arcade Controller’s bottom has a silicone anti-slip mat to prevent the controller from sliding while you play your favorite game. Also, the magnetic foldable feet made of metal allow you to choose from two angles.
Another way the 8BitDo Arcade Controller can make your life easier is by connecting wirelessly via Bluetooth or 2.4G. Needless to say, a 2.4G adapter is included in the box, and there is a magnetic compartment for it. The controller’s battery only takes three hours to charge—and can last you up to a whopping 20 hours!
Of course, you can still go for a wired connection, and you can find the USB-C port conveniently tucked in the 8BitDo Arcade Controller’s center back. A cable (and manual) are also included in the box.
Let’s wrap up with vanity talk: the 8BitDo Arcade Controller can light up through six RGB LED modes. To customize your controller even further, you can add vinyl art to it, such as art that showcases your favorite show.
Why to Buy
The 8BitDo Controller’s two-in-one offer is its optional wireless connection and the bean-shaped buttons that give you more surface area to press.
Where to Buy
Buy now on Amazon: Switch / Xbox
8. GuileKeys GK-21
The GK-21 is an acrylic controller with 21 primary buttons, so you can use the directional buttons with your left and right hands in unison, but if you do not need 21 buttons, the GK-16 edition only has 16 buttons.
The buttons of the GK-21 are rimmed, and as for the turbo functionality, it allows you to press one button and have that one press result in many inputs, requiring less effort from you.
Regarding the RGB button, it refers to the LED that the GK-21 has, which glows around the buttons and through the midsection in an attractive way.
When it comes to the GK-21’s switches, they are Kailh Choc Reds that are hot swappable, so if you have another preference, you can just change the switches.
Continuing on, you can find a screen that lets you know valuable intel to boost your experience. For instance, you can watch your button presses, and you can also see the GK-21’s current SOCD cleaning mode.
When it comes to the connectivity, the GK-21 lets you pick from a USB-C port in the back and another one on the left side. Compatibility-wise, the RP2040 chip runs on the open source GP2040-CE firmware with negligible lag.
If you plan to play on more consoles than the GK-21 supports, there is a USB-A port to boost the controller’s compatibility through an adapter.
To wrap things up, here are some freebies your GK-21 order may include:
- Couple of extra keycaps
- Couple of extra switches
- Switch puller
- White USB-C cable
- Black USB extension cord
Why to Buy
With 21 buttons, it’s hard to find a controller with more buttons than the GK-21, so whichever game you’re playing, you shouldn’t run out of buttons with this controller.
Where to Buy
Buy now on Amazon
9. GuileKeys GF-16
The GF-16 is an aluminum alloy controller with 16 main buttons for modern fighting game mechanics. Here are some free items the controller may arrive with:
- USB-C cable
- USB extension cord
- Grip pad
- Rubber mat
- Switch puller
- Two switches
- Two screws
- Two stands
- Few keycaps
The GF-16’s buttons are rimmed, the smaller buttons are 20.7 mm, and the larger button is 25.8 mm. With this controller, GuileKeys strived to make sure that the buttons are quiet.
The switches are also quiet, low profile, and hot swappable Kailh Choc Reds, so if you have another favorite, you can swap out the stock switches. There was no significant input latency detected when testing the GF-16.
Moving on, you can find a screen on the slim GF-16’s top panel that tells you valuable info to boost your gaming experience, such as by seeing your button presses live. You can also know which SOCD cleaning mode the controller has deployed.
The GF-16 lets you pick from two USB-C ports: one in the back left and another on the left. The controller has an RP2040 chip, so it runs on the open source GP2040-CE firmware known for negligible input lag—less than a millisecond.
If you plan to play on more consoles than the GF-16 supports, there’s an EXT port in the back to enhance the controller’s compatibility through a dongle, so you get to enjoy this 16 button controller with more consoles.
The GF-16 is an elegant controller, with its black color providing an aesthetic backdrop for the RGB LED that shines through the buttons and midsection. Finally, you’ll likely enjoy the matte finish.
Why to Buy
The GF-16 has many solid features, such as being made of aluminum alloy, using rimmed buttons, featuring two USB-C ports, and having extendable compatibility.
Where to Buy
Buy now on Amazon
10. Mayflash F500 FLAT
The Mayflash F500 FLAT is a stickless installment in the long running F500 series. The controller has L3 and R3 buttons as additional action buttons. Also, the start button being recessed makes it harder to press accidentally.
The width of the F500 FLAT makes it comfortable for lap and desk play. Plus, the controller is large enough with plenty of wrist space. Not only that, the rubber feet at the bottom also enhance stability.
As for the two turbo speeds, they include 15 times or 25 times per second. For your convenience, the F500 FLAT has turbo and mode light indicators.
The F500 FLAT is not that heavy to carry. Its metal enclosure and base increase security overall. Moreover, there is a headphone jack. Next to the jack are a mute button and port for a rumble wrist strap. There is an USB-A port to insert an adapter for extended compatibility with more consoles.
Otherwise, the cable comes out of a compartment on the left, and the F500 FLAT also arrives with USB-C, micro USB, and OTG USB cables.
If needed, the F500 FLAT’s buttons are easy to replace because of the easily visible bottom screws. Sanwa buttons are compatible as well.
The F500 FLAT’s interior is color coded and neat. There is a clear acrylic panel, and you can you get custom art to make the controller a mirror image of yourself. We can print this kind of art.
Why to Buy
If 16 buttons are too many for you, then the F500 FLAT’s 14 buttons are just enough for many modern fighting games, and they’re also compatible with Sanwa buttons.
Where to Buy
Buy now on Amazon