Last Updated: November 25, 2018 (Refresh Now)

8Bitdo N30 Pro Controller with Bonus Carrying Case for iOS Android Mac PC Switch SNES Classic

Last Updated: November 25, 2018 (Refresh Now)
8.3
SCORE
/10
Total Reviews
591
Old Reviews
5
Unverified
23
Spam Test
!
Yes
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Review Analysis - 563 recent, verified reviews

Detailed Mode
Gaming
 192
retro, nes, snes, emulators, retropie
+91%
-9%
comment
" ...  Love be these controllers.  ...  "
comment
" ...  Love this controller. ... Perfect for NES/SNES emulation.  ...  "
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" ...  supper happy with this nostalgic controller!  ...  "
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" ...  Great feel for retro games.  ...  "
comment
" ...  Emulation is great also, enjoing a good amount of Snes, Sega, and Playstaytion titles.  ...  "
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" ...  One of the best controllers I ever had, and works with most of the console.  ...  "
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" ...  This controller is awesome for retro gaming with emulators and Steam games that have a controller option.  ...  "
comment
" ...  I been gaming for the last 30+ years and this are the ONLY third party game controllers that are equal or even superior to their original cabled counterparts, regarding NINTENDO consoles.  ...  "
Device Compatibility
 143
switch, raspberry pi, works great, ios, bluetooth
+76%
-24%
comment
" ...  came on time and no issues using it with Raspberry Pi  ...  "
comment
" ...  I bought this to use with my Raspberry pi system.  ...  "
comment
" ...  The other advantage is that everything is compatible and can be used in many systems include your PC.  ...  "
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" ...  I use it on my Android 8.0.0 and my Surface Pro4.  ...  "
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" ...  It has saved so much space in my laptop bag, and it works with everything: PC, Android, Switch.  ...  "
comment
" ...  Works perfectly with my MacBook!  ...  "
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" ...  Great for gaming with your mobile device  ...  "
comment
" ...  Works great for my Rasberry Pi and Switch!  ...  "
Controls
 102
shoulder buttons, nintendo, controller, analog sticks, r1
+67%
-33%
comment
" ...  Buttons have a great feel and good travel when pressed.  ...  "
comment
" ...  Nice firm button response and no lag on button input.  ...  "
comment
" ...  Each button has fantastic tactile response and the shoulder buttons being on the same row is easier to adapt to than you would think. ... Button layouts are exactly as you would expect them to be, and the 4 face buttons are in a perfect triangle, making the layout easily translatable to current controller layouts.  ...  "
comment
" ...  It's light but feels sturdy, it has all of the buttons you'd expect on a modern controller, and the battery life is good.  ...  "
comment
" ...  Button response it nice  ...  "
comment
" ...  Works great on nintendo switch  ...  "
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" ...  Buttons are very firm, solid construction.  ...  "
comment
" ...  The battery life is exceptional, the buttons all have a nice responsiveness to them .  ...  "
Comfort
 87
hands, feels, uncomfortable, feels great, joysticks
+85%
-15%
comment
" ...  Overall it's a very nicely designed controller and I recommend it for all  ...  "
comment
" ...  Things like this make me feel alive again.  ...  "
comment
" ...  It’s a little small so it may not be comfortable for people that have bigger hands or prefer larger controllers like the Duke controller for the og Xbox, but it’s fine for me. ... Each button has fantastic tactile response and the shoulder buttons being on the same row is easier to adapt to than you would think.  ...  "
comment
" ...  The looks and the feels are superb, it feels sooo good and surprisingly confortable, aye candy and everything but .  ...  "
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" ...  It's small enough that it will probably be uncomfortable for longer gaming sessions, but that's the price you pay for portability, I suppose.  ...  "
comment
" ...  Feels really nice to hold  ...  "
comment
" ...  The controller feels like it is made of good quality.  ...  "
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" ...  It had all the buttons I wanted to map and compared to others I've used has been precise and feels great in the hands.  ...  "
Design
 86
retro, feel, look, feels, nes
+98%
-2%
comment
" ...  Overall it's a very nicely designed controller and I recommend it for all  ...  "
comment
" ...  The nostalgic look coupled with a modern button layout had me right away.  ...  "
comment
" ...  The controller also looks really cool.  ...  "
comment
" ...  If you've been looking for a small, sleek, functional, and pretty neat looking controller, go not further.  ...  "
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" ...  The controller case is nice.  ...  "
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" ...  Esthetically the controller is gorgeous. ... The injection-molded feel of the plastic is completely reminiscent of NES controllers of yore, and they did an incredible job of recreating the look and feel of the original it is based on while still updating the number of buttons and adding analog sticks.  ...  "
comment
" ...  Looks pretty awesome though.  ...  "
comment
" ...  Feels really nice to hold  ...  "
Build Quality
 56
controller, build quality, solid, sturdy, feels great
+96%
-4%
comment
" ...  Very well made product.  ...  "
comment
" ...  Feels really nice to hold  ...  "
comment
" ...  It is quite a nice product, but not as sturdy a construction as I expected.  ...  "
comment
" ...  it is very sturdy and reliable, size is good.  ...  "
comment
" ...  The whole thing just feels premium.  ...  "
comment
" ...  Buttons are very firm, solid construction.  ...  "
comment
" ...  I think this is a really solid product, build quality does the very good for a plastic device. ... Looking out it though I do wish it was metal or some kind of aluminum but for the price it works really well and does not feel cheap to me.  ...  "
comment
" ...  This thing looks and feels great in the hand.  ...  "
Product Reliability
 44
worked, switch, working, update, week
+32%
-68%
comment
" ...  The controller worked great for a few sessions, but after only a handful of uses is already unusable.  ...  "
comment
" ...  Then it started connecting/disconnecting upwards of 10x per minute, which made it unusable.  ...  "
comment
" ...  The connectivity issues are a nightmare.  ...  "
comment
" ...  Should cost much less if you're going to make faulty products.  ...  "
comment
" ...  Had it for 3 weeks.  ...  "
comment
" ...  Only had it for 2 months and 2 of the buttons don't work.  ...  "
comment
" ...  Again it was a great controller until it stopped working.  ...  "
comment
" ...  Worked great for the first few weeks, then randomly started disconnecting.  ...  "
Bluetooth
 44
controller, pairing, paired, via bluetooth, works great
+70%
-30%
comment
" ...  this is one of the best bluetooth controllers i have ever seen.  ...  "
comment
" ...  - USB and Bluetooth enabled  ...  "
comment
" ...  The first time I used this with Bluetooth, it went great.  ...  "
comment
" ...  Awesome BT controller!  ...  "
comment
" ...  Overall, if you need a good bluetooth controller for 2D gaming, this is the best for the price.  ...  "
comment
" ...  It is capable with other Bluetooth devices that is enabled.  ...  "
comment
" ...  It works great with my Mac and Pi (wired) and Switch (Bluetooth).  ...  "
comment
" ...  Easy to pair .  ...  "
Firmware
 39
update, controller, switch, update the firmware, nintendo switch
+62%
-38%
comment
" ...  Works with Nintendo switch perfectly though it does need firmware updates every now and then to continue to work but they were readily available on the web and super easy to do  ...  "
comment
" ...  Make sure you update your RetroPi to the most recent firmware and update all the drivers, or this won't work wirelessly!  ...  "
comment
" ...  dled the firmware to use for my switch and it's great .  ...  "
comment
" ...  I upgraded the firmware, it works wonderfully on the switch.  ...  "
comment
" ...  compatible with Nintendo Switch after firmware update  ...  "
comment
" ...  A reminder to upgrade the firmware from the manufacturer's site (at the time of writing this, the current FW is 4.0).  ...  "
comment
" ...  Updating the firmware (which I highly suggest) was really easy with the instructions from their website.  ...  "
comment
" ...  When they came I looked up a youtube video on how to update the firmware.  ...  "
Setup
 34
instructions, controller, raspberry pi, firmware, set
+74%
-26%
comment
" ...  But overall, it works fantastically with my Retro Pi setup.  ...  "
comment
" ...  -Setup was easy on Android.  ...  "
comment
" ...  - not the easiest to set up  ...  "
comment
" ...  Well made and easy to setup!  ...  "
comment
" ...  Set up was a breeze with both my Raspberry PI and my Shield!  ...  "
comment
" ...  No setup was necessary, just plug and play for nostalgic fun.  ...  "
comment
" ...  I had to install an emulator, x360ce, to get this to work with Steam.  ...  "
comment
" ...  The initial setup with my Raspberry Pi was painless.  ...  "
Software Platform
 32
ios, controller, windows, switch, firmware
+59%
-41%
comment
" ...  -Setup was easy on Android.  ...  "
comment
" ...  That said, it is otherwise a nice, compact controller that IS compatible with Android and Windows.  ...  "
comment
" ...  I mainly use this controller for SNES, GBA, and PS1 emulation on my Android device.  ...  "
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" ...  Really awesome controller, links nicely with android devices.  ...  "
comment
" ...  First saw this, thought it was just a nice android/iOS controller for a few mobile games.  ...  "
comment
" ...  Works great, connected without any issue, and easily usable with the legacy console emulator I'm using on my android device.  ...  "
comment
" ...  Also works on Android, Mac OS X, and Windows.great build quality.  ...  "
comment
" ...  These work great on Windows 10, and I haven't had any issues on the latest RetroPie 4.2 on Pi3.  ...  "
Ease of Use
 28
instructions, controller, setup, set, easy to use
+89%
-11%
comment
" ...  - not the easiest to set up  ...  "
comment
" ...  It's not really user friendly but once you get the just of it you'll be happy you bought it.  ...  "
comment
" ...  Well made and easy to setup!  ...  "
comment
" ...  Syncing it up to stuff is very easy.  ...  "
comment
" ...  Easy to pair .  ...  "
comment
" ...  Not only is the design nice, but the controller itself is light and easy to use, no problems at all.  ...  "
comment
" ...  Easy to connect, light, durable, and very responsive.  ...  "
comment
" ...  Very easy to connect with devices and no lag at all.  ...  "
Apps
 23
ios, controller, 8bitdo, emulator, download
+48%
-52%
comment
" ...  It says it is IOS compatible and should work with my phone, except it will not.  ...  "
comment
" ...  Does not work with iOS  ...  "
comment
" ...  I googled around for iOS pairing instructions, ended up installing the 8bitdo iOS app.  ...  "
comment
" ...  NOT iOS COMPATIBLE.  ...  "
comment
" ...  You have to download app from website for it to work properly.  ...  "
comment
" ...  Despite the title, this is NOT compatible with iOS software.  ...  "
comment
" ...  First off, this doesn't work for the Switch OR for Android.  ...  "
comment
" ...  I literally have not found this information anywhere else, not even on troubleshooting forums or the lot, and one would think this would be a common misunderstanding!  ...  "
Ports
 23
usb cable, usb, raspberry pi, works great, via
+83%
-17%
comment
" ...  It can also be used wirelessly, via Bluetooth, and using the included micro-USB cable.  ...  "
comment
" ...  Really no issue as you can plug in in via USB, but I think that maybe if I used the provided case this wouldn't be an issue.  ...  "
comment
" ...  Works great for my Rasberry Pi and Switch!  ...  "
comment
" ...  it's just large enough to fit the controller and USB cable inside, so it'll do its job.  ...  "
comment
" ...  - USB and Bluetooth enabled  ...  "
comment
" ...  I purchased one for my Raspberry Pi 3 and had no issues connecting.  ...  "
comment
" ...  Hope they change the micro usb to usb c for the changing of technology. ... Most smart phones that are going to be coming out from now on is going to have this port.  ...  "
comment
" ...  Works excellent with my Nintendo Switch, Raspberry Pi 3B running RetroPi, and my Main PC (using a Plugable Brand Bluetooth 4.0 Low Energy USB Adapter).  ...  "
Size
 23
size, travel, controller, compact, carrying
+96%
-4%
comment
" ...  The travel case is a nice touch.  ...  "
comment
" ...  I use the carrying case (which is nice) so I know I haven’t abused it. ... While it was working, it was a decent controller, nice and compact.  ...  "
comment
" ...  It is also lightweight, which is nice for portability purposes.  ...  "
comment
" ...  This thing is a great buy, as long as you prepare yourself for the limitations of a controller this size.  ...  "
comment
" ...  I got one of these to carry around a portable controller for use with my tablet or phone when I'm traveling so that I can either play games on them or stream them to them.  ...  "
comment
" ...  it is very sturdy and reliable, size is good.  ...  "
comment
" ...  - great travel size  ...  "
comment
" ...  It's great to carry around in your pocket for gaming on the go on the phone.  ...  "
Battery Life
 23
charge, battery, hours, long, controller
+91%
-9%
comment
" ...  The battery life is good too.  ...  "
comment
" ...  The battery life is also really good, haven't had to charge it in a while.  ...  "
comment
" ...  It holds a sizeable charge, and recharges quickly.  ...  "
comment
" ...  So the battery life in this thing is pretty good.  ...  "
comment
" ...  Holds a charge forever.  ...  "
comment
" ...  The battery life on it is amazing, 20 plus hours like it saids.  ...  "
comment
" ...  Battery life is very good, functionality is good.  ...  "
comment
" ...  Hours of play with no problem.  ...  "
Price
 21
worth, controller, money, worth the money, build quality
+81%
-19%
comment
" ...  In the long run, you'll be saving money.  ...  "
comment
" ...  This absolutely one of the best controllers out on the market.  ...  "
comment
" ...  It was worth the price.  ...  "
comment
" ...  Well worth the price and will be ordering another one here in a sec!  ...  "
comment
" ...  For what it is I think it is a great product at a great price.  ...  "
comment
" ...  Add in wireless bluetooth and it is well worth the premium price you are paying.  ...  "
comment
" ...  But overall its well priced.  ...  "
comment
" ...  It's must buy for switch owners at a great price.  ...  "
Marketplace
 20
thanks, thank, seller, response, expected
+85%
-15%
comment
" ...  The vendor has been quick and I have had no problems.  ...  "
comment
" ...  Thank you Dynamic Distributor for also including a case to put it in.  ...  "
comment
" ...  Works exactly as expected.  ...  "
comment
" ...  Product came as described, very happy with this seller!  ...  "
comment
" ...  Thank you, both 8BitDo and Dynamic Distributor.  ...  "
comment
" ...  Product good as advertised.  ...  "
comment
" ...  It's done exactly what I expected.  ...  "
comment
" ...  I will definitely be buying more 8bitdo products.  ...  "
Charging
 18
charging, controller, fully charged, hours, green
+78%
-22%
comment
" ...  The controller arrived on time and after charging the controller up it plays like a dream, just as good as the original nes controller, the case for the controller is perfect for compact storage as well as holding the cord and any little things for your gaming experience.  ...  "
comment
" ...  It holds a sizeable charge, and recharges quickly.  ...  "
comment
" ...  Holds a charge forever.  ...  "
comment
" ...  It charges with micro sub and is small to make it portable.  ...  "
comment
" ...  Charging is quick and straightforward using a micro usb port.  ...  "
comment
" ...  and yea the battery is fully charged  ...  "
comment
" ...  Just make sure to give it a good charge before you start set up.  ...  "
comment
" ...  Holds a charge for what feels like forever!  ...  "
Lagging
 16
switch, controller, second, input, delay
+50%
-50%
comment
" ...  Downside is the pain of syncing with the Switch sometimes.  ...  "
comment
" ...  The product lags considerably.  ...  "
comment
" ...  Has some serious latency issues with the switch.  ...  "
comment
" ...  The input lag makes them unplayable.  ...  "
comment
" ...  I checked to make sure it wasn't the tv, and changed the setting to game mode, apparently that is supposed to minimize lag. ... So many people say it works perfectly with not much lag, but so many others have had the same results that I have.  ...  "
comment
" ...  After over a month of constant isage I can tell that there is significant lag when playing with 3 or more players, the lag is noticeble in games like puyo tetris for the nintendo switch.  ...  "
comment
" ...  Works for a little while and disconnects.  ...  "
Delivery
 14
day, two, time, shipment, packaging
+86%
-14%
comment
" ...  It did arrive fast and it looks  ...  "
comment
" ...  Very quick shipment.  ...  "
comment
" ...  Arrived the same day as expected.  ...  "
comment
" ...  It arrived the next day and it was beautiful to look at.  ...  "
comment
" ...  I understand now they are being delivered ready-for switch.  ...  "
comment
" ...  I received this with a shipment of 3 more.  ...  "
comment
" ...  Shipping was fast controller is awesome !  ...  "
comment
" ...  Works right out of the box.  ...  "
For Kids
 13
son loves, old school, controller, son, 5
+100%
comment
" ...  My 4 year old son loves to grab the controller and play with it even when its off bc he likes how it looks.  ...  "
comment
" ...  I would think old school made new again would be made of aluminum casing or something of the nature for gamers.  ...  "
comment
" ...  I have a Moto Z with a projector screen and emulators for all the games I grew up with as a kid!  ...  "
comment
" ...  My 5 year old son loves it.  ...  "
comment
" ...  Got this for my 11 year old's birthday.  ...  "
comment
" ...  My 5 year old son and I are building a RetroPie and I decided on the 8bitdo NES30 controllers.  ...  "
comment
" ...  Such a nice design and old school feel to it  ...  "
comment
" ...  Fun device and great retro feeling.  ...  "
Fit
 12
controller, fit, feels, nes30 pro, sturdy
+100%
comment
" ...  Feels really nice to hold  ...  "
comment
" ...  definatly makes a great gift and its very light and can fit almost anywhere.  ...  "
comment
" ...  I have small hands so it fits perfectly for me.  ...  "
comment
" ...  The buttons feel great, and I like the small size so it and the case fit in my laptop bag easily.  ...  "
comment
" ...  The NES30 pro is just the perfect size fits in my pocket just right.  ...  "
comment
" ...  The case it lightweight, but sturdy enough that it should hold up under any normal use.  ...  "
comment
" ...  Fit and finish are top tier manufacturer good.  ...  "
comment
" ...  Everything fit snugly, each box having a cool graphic to indicate what it is. ... The controller also feels great to hold. ... For example the left "trigger" sits on the upper left side of the controller while the left "bumper" sits next to it on the right (towards the middle of the controller).  ...  "

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Specifications

Connectivity
Bluetooth:  Yes 
Yes
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