1. Haute42 S16
Why to Buy
The S16 is perfect for acrylic lovers, custom art enthusiasts, LED fans, and even those who prefer two USB-C ports.
Where to Buy
2. Haute42 B16
The Haute42 B16 is an all-key controller. With 16 keys, four of those are considered extra keys. The keys are quieter than average.
The B16’s keys have a decent height to them. Activating turbo allows you to press a key once, resulting in multiple inputs. Otherwise, you may be excited to know that the controller uses rarer switches called LEOBOG Graywoods.
In case you prefer another brand, the B16’s switches are hot swappable with MX style switches, giving you access to a wide variety of options.
The B16 runs on the open source GP2040-CE firmware with less than a millisecond of input lag, which is great. Plus, the controller features more than one SOCD cleaning mode. There is an EXT port where you can insert a converter to extend the controller’s compatibility options.
The B16 is one of Haute42’s smaller controllers, and it is quite light, which is good if you need to carry it around. You can even slide it into an appropriately sized sleeve.
Your order of the B16 should also come with:
- Six rubber feet
- Two more function buttons
- Extra switch
- Switch puller
- USB-C cable
The B16 is elegantly black, and because the top layer is a PCB instead of acrylic, you do not have to worry about the accumulation of fingerprint smudges. If you want, though, you can add an acrylic layer to the controller and have it display custom art that represents your personality. We print such art.
Why to Buy
The B16 is best for those with a PC and keyboard background who would like a smooth transition to leverless.
Where to Buy
Buy now on AliExpress or Amazon
3. Haute42 P12
The Haute42 P12 is an elegant-looking controller. Through its screen, you are better informed about your inputs when in a match. More features include turbo for rapid pressing and a tournament lock to prevent you from pressing option buttons accidentally during a competition.
You can enjoy LED with the P12, which makes it shine in an attention catching way. What you also get with the controller is a switch puller for your convenienceâas well as a low profile switch.
The polling rate of the P12 results in even less than a millisecond of input delay. The controller also features multiple SOCD cleaning modes to not violate a tournament’s rules.
A USB port is on the left of the P12, and an EXT port is on the right for inserting an adapter to make your controller compatible with more consoles.
Why to Buy
If you only need 12 buttons, the P12 is probably your best bet, and it has most features that 16 button controllers have.
Where to Buy
Buy now on AliExpress
4. Haute42 M Lite
The Haute42 M Lite comes in a gold or dark gray color. There are more buttons for other inputs you may need, such as L3 and R3. Not only that, there are function buttons on top that include turbo, home, back, and start.
The M Lite’s function buttons are the tiny type, so a hidden benefit is that you are less likely to press them by accident in a way that may disqualify you from a tournament.
The legendary OLED screen makes a comebackâallowing you to see things from your live button presses to which input, directional, and SOCD cleaning modes you are in.
That said, your M Lite will likely arrive with:
- Three extra function buttons
- Extra switch
- Switch puller
- USB cable
- Manual
The M Lite uses low profile Crystal linear switches that sound moderate, and the controller runs on the critically acclaimed GP2040-CE firmware, so the input lag is impressively less than a millisecond.
The buttons of the M Lite feel similar to other Haute42 controllers, so they are high quality. There is even a thin foam pad to reduce the buttons’ sound.
The M Lite’s jump button is bigger than the rest. That way, you can easily hit it with the side of your thumb. In any case, you you can remap buttons through online configuration.
The button layout is comfortableâand while the M Lite is a smaller controllerâthere is still considerable space for your hands to rest. There is even a slope for your comfort. Oh, and do not worry about this controller sliding around while you play your favorite fighting game. It is quite stable.
It is easy to figure out why Haute42 won an Evo award!
The weight, size, and slimness of the M Lite make it very easy to carry. Also, you can tell the aluminum alloy is sturdy. Another positive aspect about the aluminum alloy is that it should not get cold while you play.
When it comes to hardware customization, you can change the M Lite’s keycaps and switches. Also, you can extend the controller’s compatibility with the appropriate adapter.
In closing, the M Lite is a classy looking controller that should not attract fingerprint smudges easily. You can also enjoy RGB LED with the buttonsâplus some backlighting. If you would like to add some vinyl art to the controller, we at The Arcade Stick can print it for you.
Why to Buy
The M Lite’s metal hardware makes it more durable, and it also relieves you from acrylic smudges.
Where to Buy
Buy now on AliExpress
5. DOIO KBGM-H04
The KBGM-H04 has 16 polycarbonate keycaps, and the Gateron Red linear switches are hot swappable for your convenience.
When hot swapping, you can prop up the KBGM-H04’s keycaps with any tool that can do the job, and the switches can come off with a puller. You can even try DOIO’s switch puller.
The KBGM-H04’s switches have a pronounced sound that’s similar to a mechanical keyboard. As for the buttons, they have a pleasant texture to them, and they should not come off if you start mashing. Another detail about the buttons is that you can remap them through web configuration or even disable them.
Except for the 25 mm jump button, all the KBGM-H04’s main buttons are 22 mm. That’s because you want the jump button to require less precision to press. Also, you might alternate between your left and right thumbs to jump.
The KBGM-H04 is suitable for both desk & lap play, and if you place the controller on your lap, you can spread out your legs a bit. This controller is thin, but because it’s heavier than it looks, this adds stability.
Five layers make up the KBGM-H04, so the top is made of aluminum alloy, and the bottom is acrylic. The acrylic bottom is see-through, meaning you can see the PCB.
The KBGM-H04 runs on the critically acclaimed GP2040-CE open source firmware. To keep you informed, there is an OLED screen that shows the input mode, directional mode, and SOCD mode.
Based on your preference, you can plug the USB-C cable into the KBGM-H04’s back or left side. You should also be able to insert a dongle into the USB-A port for extended compatibility options.
The KBGM-H04 is actually available in different colors, and custom RGB LED shines from underneath the top panel, making the controller stand out.
The matte finish of the KBGM-H04 is one of the reasons it looks like so elegant. Also, the bevels on the edges make the controller look less bland. This controller combines looks with performance, resulting in a bargain.
Why to Buy
The KBGM-H04 elegantly combines metal with acrylic, and its polycarbonate keycaps have a pleasant texture. Plus, its width makes it possible to place on your lapâwithout taking up too much space.
Where to Buy
Buy now on Amazon
6. DOIO KBGM-H06M
The KBGM-H06M has 13 keycaps made of PBT. The extra button serves as an R3 button, which can come in handy when you play a modern fighting game.
Essentially, the KBGM-H06M’s buttons are smooth with a slight texture. As for the Gateron switches: they are linear, quiet, and hot swappable.
On the KBGM-H06M’s top panel, there’s an OLED screen that shows you the input mode, directional mode, and SOCD mode. You can also see your button presses there. For button remapping, you can do it through web configuration.
Despite being small and light, the KBGM-H06M is made up of five layers:
- Aluminum alloy
- PCB
- Cotton
- PCB
- Acrylic
The KBGM-H06M’s cable is USB-C, and it goes in the back left. You should also be able to insert an adapter into a USB-A port for enhanced compatibility.
Running on the open source and highly acclaimed GP2040-CE firmware, the KBGM-H06M provides you extremely tiny input latency that you shouldn’t even notice.
So you can choose your preference, the KBGM-H06M is available in various colors. Finally, custom RGB LED beautifully shines around the buttons as well as through the middle layer of the controller.
Why to Buy
The KBGM-H06M is your go-to controller if you prefer PBT keycaps with a little texture, and the right thumb button can come in handy.
Where to Buy
Buy now on AliExpress
7. DOIO KBHX-01 Pro
The DOIO KBHX-01 Pro uses XDA keycaps, and the switches have a nice spring to them. Also, the middle four attack keys are ergonomically raised for the comfort of your fingers. Needless to say, the controller features turbo support.
The KBHX-01 Pro is made of aluminum alloy on top and see-through acrylic at the bottom. With that being said, the aluminum alloy is quite sturdy, and so is the thick acrylic, so this controller should last you a long time.
USB-C is the industryâs favorite, and it is also the type of port that the KBHX-01 Pro uses. In fact, there are two USB-C ports: one in the back and one on the left, so you can choose your desired location. There is also a cable loop found in one of the corners. By the way, you can insert a compatibility boosting dongle into the back USB-A port.
The KBHX-01 Pro has a screen that shows a visual representation of your live inputs as well as:
- Input mode
- Directional mode
- SOCD cleaning mode
In case you need different compatibility options, the KBHX-01 Proâs PCB is hot swappable. Otherwise, the controller can come in different colors. What truly brings the controller to life, however is the RGB LED that shines through the keys in a gorgeous way.
Why to Buy
The KBHX-01 Pro is a great pick for keyboard lovers, and its spacebar-like thumb keys are very convenient. You can even make use of two more right index keys.
Where to Buy
Buy now on AliExpress
8. LBER 2040-R16
While the LBER 2040-R16 looks heavily inspired by Haute42’s bestselling controllers, it still has enough nuance for you to consider buying it.
Despite its compact size, the R16 still packs a whopping 16 main buttons. There’s even a 13 button edition if 16 buttons are too much for you.
When you buy an R16, you should be getting the following for free:
- Two extra function buttons
- Two extra main buttons
- Two extra switches
- Switch puller
- Eight grip feet
- USB-C cable
That said, the R16’s main buttons feature fast red switches thatâif you have another preferenceâyou can simply hot swap with other switches.
Now, you may have noticed a small screen on the R16’s top panel. It shows your button presses live, and it also lets you know which SOCD, input, and directional modes you’re in.
Essentially, the R16 is an acrylic sandwichâa design we at The Arcade Stick have grown to love. The multilayered design doesn’t mean the controller is thick, though. In fact, it’s quite thin.
Moving on, the R16 has two ports: a USB-C port near the center back and a USB-A port on the right. The USB-A port is where you can insert a dongle to boost the controller’s compatibility, giving you more connectivity choices.
The R16’s modus operandi is basically the GP2040-CE firmware: updateable, open source, and critically acclaimedâwith less than a millisecond of input delay.
About looks, you can buy your R16 in black or white. An alternative would be to buy the black edition for yourself and gift the white edition to someone you appreciate. To make this controller even lovelier, you can enjoy the custom RGB LED with adjustable colors and effects.
Still not convinced the R16 is a beauty? You can have custom art designed specifically for this controller, making it look like your visionâin addition to performing solidly.
Why to Buy
Aside from the R16’s obvious advantages, something interesting you may have not noticed is how all of its function buttons are on the top panel’s upper rightâinstead of being scattered.
Where to Buy
Buy now on Amazon
9. Sunga G1
The most interesting aspect about the Sunga G1 is that it has five more buttons than what we’re used to. You can also buy an edition of this controller with only 12 buttonsâthe traditional layout.
The G1 often comes with smoothly injection molded ABS keycaps and hot swappable Cherry MX Silver linear switches. There’s a silicone anti-slip bottom pad as well.
That said, the G1’s optional screen shows your:
- Turbo speed
- Input mode
- Directional mode
- SOCD cleaning mode
You can cycle through SOCD cleaning modes that include up priority, neutral, and last win. You should also be able to see on the same screen which of the G1’s buttons you’re pressing. The aforementioned features are made possible due to the popular Raspberry Pi Pico chip that’s used.
By the way, it’s good that the G1 can come in black or white editions. More than that, the art is customizable, and the LED functionality adds some flair to the controller.
Why to Buy
The G1’s 17 buttons are more than most mini leverless controllers, and its big start button is especially useful if you need it a lot.
Where to Buy
Buy now on AliExpress
10. Brook Fighter Starburst
The Brook Fighter Starburst is the result of when the fightstick industry’s greatest PCB provider makes an actual controller. This controller features 15 main buttons, has handles on both of its sides, and can be tilted to certain angles. With your order, you should also be receiving freebies like 20 keycaps, 20 switches, a lanyard set, and a magnetic cover.
It’s that same magnetic cover that allows you to tilt the Starburst to an angle. It also serves as a grip pad for more stability. About the lanyard set, it allows you to run a shoulder strap through a couple of rings you can attach.
That said, the Starburst’s 15 main buttons mean you have access to modern fighting game features. The jump button is bigger than the restâsomething we at The Arcade Stick have gotten used to when studying the best controllers.
The Starburst also has a button to make your right pinky useful. Generally, the main buttons are quite smooth and produce a pleasant sound.
By pressing a certain combo of function buttons, you can activate a tournament lock to not press a function button by accident, disqualifying you. The Starburst has six function buttons.
That being said, the Starburst’s Kailh Choc V2 Red switches are hot swappable. Because they’re low profile, they have a shorter travel distance, leading to responsive gameplay. Regardless, you can swap them out with other switches you may prefer.
With Brook being a reputable provider of PCBs, their modern boards have almost no input delay. This is also true with the Starburst, and a test confirmed this. In addition, there are four SOCD cleaning modes to comply in tournaments.
Moving on, the Starburst being wider than a lot of its mini counterparts means that you shouldn’t have to squeeze your legs too much when placing it on your lap.
It’s also up to you to tilt the Starburst to an angle of 4° or 8° to optimize the ergonomics, including if you just want to lay the controller flat.
The Starburst was designed to be light and portable. Aesthetically, the controller is rectangular with slanted corners. Also, the cover is black, which goes with any other color. What brings the controller’s appearance to life is RGB LED with five effects, adjustable brightness, and customizable art.
Why to Buy
The Starburst’s bigger button gaps are better for large handed players, you can set it at an angle too, and you can run a lanyard through it as well.
Where to Buy
Buy now on Amazon