10. AFG-controller
You can order the AFG-controller in both traditional hitstick formats. One format has the movement buttons integrated with the attack buttons, and the other format is with the movement buttons to the left of the attack buttons, allowing you to use your controller either as a leverless controller or a fightstick.
The AFG-controller often comes with Sanwa parts, which are known for responsivity and moddability. If you want a Korean joystick instead, almost all types can fit. There is also a headphone jack, and there is anti-slip rubber at the bottom to keep your hitstick in place during play.
The AFG-controller’s bottom panel can be removed by unscrewing a screw on each side with only your fingers. Then, you can uncover the beautifully braided wiring. The PCB is a proprietary blend named the AFB, featuring a Brook board.
Made of acrylic, the AFG-controller is sturdy without being heavy if you need to carry it. There is an aluminum frame pillar as well. You can order this hitstick in blue, red, purple, black, and more, depending on your taste. You can also insert custom art, making the hitstick represent your personality.
Order from AFG-controller
9. vetash32
Ash Huang from vetash32 presents this quality hitstick. It is quite customizable, and you can order it in either hitstick format. The buttons can be standard Sanwa, transparent Sanwa, or mute GamerFinger buttons. Sanwa joysticks are available too. Also, there is a large anti-slip pad at the bottom for lap and table play, keeping your hitstick stable.
There are different Brook PCB options, depending on your compatibility needs. The cable can be two or three meters. The outer frame can be metal or plastic, and you can upgrade to aluminum, which is often light & good if you need to carry the hitstick around.
The paint on the metallic frame is resistant to corrosion from sweat. There are different color options, and custom art is possible, so you can make the hitstick reflect your taste.
You can also opt for the Mad Catz TE variation that is made from ABS injection molding, which is durable. If needed, you can use a translation plugin when filling out the order form.
Order from vetash32
8. Pandorus Fight Stick
The Pandorus Fight Stick is a DIY hitstick that you can enjoy putting together. The top and bottom panels are aesthetically transparent. Aluminum is the reason behind the hitstick’s hefty weight, which means it should not slide when you play.
You can request a custom layout for the Pandorus Fight Stick. The joystick and buttons can be Sanwa, the premium brand. Korean joysticks are possible too if you contact Pandorus about them. The PCB can be by Brook, giving you wide compatibility. There is an LED mount so your hitstick lights up beautifully.
Order from The Arcade Stick Shop
7. JUANminiDIY Titan
The Titan by JUANminiDIY can come in hitstick format. Whether you go for a DIY or preassembled build, JUANminiDIY offers quality parts like Sanwa and GamerFinger. Even Korean joysticks are possible if you are a fan.
To avoid accidental presses, the Titan’s silent function buttons are sized well. If you like, you can also have big buttons on the back and sides in addition to a power switch.
Through a Brook PCB, the Titan can have diverse compatibility, and the detachable USB cable can come out of a Neutrik passthrough. The interior of the hitstick is organized with wire ties, making modding easier for you. The hitstick’s art is customizable, including through certain buttons if you order them when customizing your build.
JUANminiDIY’s wood options include from pinewood to light or dark acacia. The woodworking is excellent, so there are no rough edges or textures you should worry about.
Even if you have larger hands, the Titan has an ergonomic slope for your wrists. Also, the rubber feet at the bottom prevent the hitstick from sliding when you play.
In addition to desks, the Titan should be comfortable on your lap. The hitstick may be lighter than it looks, making it easy to carry around at tournaments.
Order from The Arcade Stick Shop
6. ASI VS1R
The VS1R can be ordered as a standalone case or full build, and it is easy to open with one touch. The directional buttons are integrated with the attack buttons. The modular layout cover allows you to easily switch between button layouts. Additionally, you can carry the hitstick using its handles.
The VS1R has a Sanwa JLF mount for the joystick. The extra movement buttons can be turned off in accordance with some tournament rules if needed. If you wish, you can add a button near the bottom center of the hitstick.
There are anti-slip pads at the bottom per leg, but where the VS1R excels is in its proprietary Iris Tech, which allows you to rotate the lever 1° to 5° to change its diagonal location. You can also rotate it 15° to the left or right.
The VS1R is beautiful, and you can order it in different colors & custom art, engravement included. There is an acrylic cover for a clean finish, and the bottom is clear to show you the wiring. Brook PCBs are also compatible.
Order from ASindo.pro
5. Eternal Rival Dual
Eternal Rival offers enclosures such as the High Tier Plus 18″ Dual Enclosure. When you order it, you receive the items needed to build it, and the assembly is easy.
A manual is included with the hitstick, and you do not need glue to put it together. In fact, you can order kits from Eternal Rival that have all the inner components, making things convenient.
Sanwa buttons with optimal travel distance can work with the hitstick. As for the board, you can fit in any Brook PCB to enjoy wide compatibility. Your passthrough brand choices include the well known Neutrik and Adafruit. Mounting holes & hardware are included and can be upgraded to your liking.
The countersunk screws on the top panel should not irritate your hands. Also, the rubber feet at the bottom get the job done, so the hitstick should not slide around when you play.
Addons may include:
- Steel weights for more stability
- Pad for lap play
- LED to add beauty
Order from Eternal Rival
4. AllFightSticks HitStick
AllFightSticks provides DIY cases in different sizes, such as the HitStick Shiokenstar. AFS often lets you pick aspects like:
- Overall layout
- Material & color
- Custom artwork
- Foam etching
- Anti-slipping method
- Wiring kit
- USB passthrough
- PCB
Consider, for example, a Brook PCB and Neutrik USB passthrough. You can enjoy diverse compatibility as well as durability. You see, because AFS cases are compatible with some of the industry’s best parts, you can deck out your hitstick with Sanwa parts for excellent responsivity.
This specific case is quite big, but a heavier case can reduce the odds of sliding around during desk play. There is actually a modular aspect to AFS cases as different layout panels can fit the same case, so down the line, you might switch the layout. It is also worth mentioning that AFS cases’ art is often customizable, reflecting your taste.
Order from AllFightSticks
3. 4TW
The 4TW is a cast acrylic controller that can be ordered in DIY format or preassembled, the latter for which there are limited slots. Assembly should be easy for both veterans and newcomers.
The heavy duty 4TW can fit Sanwa parts known for their responsivity and durability, benefitting you long term. Korean joysticks are acceptable too. With a Neutrik passthrough and Brook PCB, you can enjoy diverse compatibility.
The size of the 4TW is comfortable for both desk & lap play, and the edges should not irritate your wrists. Also, the panel should not flex when your palms rest on it. There are foam cushions at the bottom, so you should not worry about sliding during play.
The 4TW has optional artwork covers, and when ordering printed art from jonyfraze, you can use the discount code, THEARCADESTICK, to get 10% off.
Order from jonyfraze
2. Hit Box Cross|Up
The Cross|Up is what started the hitstick trend. The Sanwa joystick and buttons are as crisp as they are expected to be. The width of the hitstick is satisfying, and the bottom is foam, which provides you grip.
From the metal-plexiglass shell to the weight, the Cross|Up is a class act. The cherry on top is the nifty switch on the side that changes the directional mode depending on what game you want to play. All of the screws are easily visible if you want to take the hitstick apart and mod it. Also, the cable is detachable for your convenience.
The Cross|Up stands out with its glossy black finish, tasteful branding, and distinguished button colors. Custom art is possible as well, so you can feature your favorite fighting game characters, for example.
Order from Hit Box Arcade
1. FightBox M8
The FightBox M8 has a Sanwa joystick and buttons. The secondary buttons are Baolian. There is a macro recording function that allows you to customize the four directional buttons using a record button. Needless to say, the hitstick features SOCD cleaning, which is good if you attend tournaments.
The M8 is metallic, and there is a black matte acrylic panel on top. At the bottom, you can find four anti-slip pads to keep your hitstick in place during play.
The size and weight make the M8 convenient for both desk & lap play. Furthermore, you can add custom art, and we at the Arcade Stick have our own custom art service.
Order from AliExpress