Read the Apple iPhone 11 review. Any Mac that can run the latest. This new feature allows players to use a combination of controller and touchscreen controls for Arcade games. Gaming on the Mac isn't as big as on PC, but there's still some great games out there for Apple computers. In some cases you'll be OK using a keyboard and mouse, but for a lot of people, kicking back and using a controller is the way to game. If that sounds like you and you're looking for a good controller, look no further. Here's what to get.
Works with Switch, PC, and Android
Fully customizable buttons
Supports macros
Analog sticks and triggers (customizable)
Rumble and six-axis gyro support
USB-C wired support
Use the rechargeable battery pack or AA batteries
Multiple colorways
Doesn't support wake on Switch
No IR or Amiibo support
Must use in-box cable
Grips can get uncomfortable during long sessions
For people looking to play emulated Nintendo games, there is no better controller than the 8bitdo SN30 Pro Plus. It will work on Windows, Mac, Linux, and Android and offers a customization suite that is unbelievably powerful.
It is also fully compatible with the Nintendo Switch. However, those of you looking for a controller to use exclusively with a Switch should probably skip this as there are a few integral features it lacks.
The bottom line is that folks looking for an all-around controller to play Nintendo games on multiple systems will fall in love with this controller immediately.
For people looking to play emulated Nintendo games, there is no better controller than the 8bitdo SN30 Pro Plus. It will work on Windows, Mac, Linux, and Android and offers a customization suite that is unbelievably powerful.
It is also fully compatible with the Nintendo Switch. However, those of you looking for a controller to use exclusively with a Switch should probably skip this as there are a few integral features it lacks.
The bottom line is that folks looking for an all-around controller to play Nintendo games on multiple systems will fall in love with this controller immediately.
You may not have heard of the company 8bitdo (pronounced “eight-bit-doe”), but you really should know about it. The brand has carved out a strong niche for itself as the creator of retro-inspired gaming accessories that focus on build quality, compatibility, and customization. The 8bitdo SN30 Pro Plus is the flagship controller of the company. In our 8bitdo SN30 Pro Plus review, we’re going to tell you why it is one of the best controllers you can get for the Nintendo Switch, as well as computers and Android devices.
8bitdo SN30 Pro Plus review: What is it?
You likely recognize the design of the SN30 Pro Plus as looking like the Super Nintendo Entertainment System’s controller. That is deliberate. The original version of this product — the SN30 — was basically just a replica of the SNES controller but designed for wireless use. The follow-up — the SN30 Pro — introduced analog sticks and wider system compatibility. The SN30 Pro Plus adds analog triggers and a more ergonomic grip system.
Related: The best PC game controllers you can get
At its core, though, the 8bitdo SN30 Pro Plus is a controller that should specifically appeal to people who want to play Nintendo games. Whether those are modern titles on the Nintendo Switch, emulated retro games on your PC, Mac, or Linux machine, or even emulated games on your Android phone, this controller can do it all. It can be used in both Bluetooth and wired modes as well as in Xinput, Dinput, and Switch modes. Basically, there’s not much you can’t do with this controller.
To make things even more interesting, it comes with free software from 8bitdo that offers a full customization suite. You can reprogram every single button, adjust dead zones for the analog sticks and triggers, and even write macros that get saved to the controller directly. The macros even work with Switch games!
In other words, don’t be fooled by the retro looks of this controller. This is a very powerful device that should appeal to gamers of all ages.
What’s good?
One of the biggest signs of a cheap controller is a reliance on AA batteries. Most premium controllers these days come with a rechargeable battery pack, which immediately sets them apart from their cheapo rivals. However, 8bitdo offers the best of both worlds by including a rechargeable battery pack that you can take out and replace with AA batteries. The choice is yours!
The build quality of the 8bitdo SN30 Pro Plus is exemplary. It feels the way it looks — like someone smashed an SNES controller into a Sony DualShock 4 controller. As such, both younger and older gamers should feel right at home.
As mentioned, you can use this controller with a variety of systems. It works natively with the Nintendo Switch and offers almost all the same things as the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller. That includes rumble (which is customizable and includes both a left and a right motor) and a six-axis gyro. There are very few Switch games that won’t work with this controller.
In fact, the analog triggers of the SN30 Pro Plus give it a leg-up over even the Switch Pro Controller. However, there are only a handful of Switch games that take advantage of analog triggers, so they will be more useful for PC games or emulated GameCube titles.
All the fundamentals of a good controller are here, too. Long battery life (probably about 20 hours or so), USB-C support, wired mode support, and a well-crafted D-pad.
On a final note, if you don’t like the SNES-inspired color scheme of the 8bitdo SN30 Pro Plus, there are two other models. One has a color scheme reminiscent of the original Game Boy while another is just blacked out: black controller, black sticks, black buttons, black everything.
What’s not so good?
It may seem like the 8bitdo SN30 Pro Plus is perfect. It almost is, but there are a few things about it that could still see improvement.
For Switch players, the controller does not have IR or Amiibo support. Granted, even the Switch Pro Controller doesn’t support IR, but Amiibo lovers won’t find compatibility here.
The biggest letdown for Switch users, though, will be that you cannot use this controller to power on your Switch. You’ll need to go through the anguish of getting off the couch and manually turning your Switch on before playing. This likely isn’t 8bitdo’s fault, though — it seems like a classic Nintendo caveat to me.
Related: The best Nintendo Switch controllers for all budgets
Outside of Switch compatibility, all users will face a USB-C cable issue. The instructions that come with the SN30 Pro Plus very plainly say that you should not use just any USB-C cable with the controller. Instead, you should only use the matching cable that comes with the controller itself. Now, it’s absolutely plausible that this is just 8bitdo covering itself from buyers messing up their controllers using faulty USB-C cables, but I wouldn’t want to risk finding that out. To protect your investment here, you should only use the included cable.
Finally, I have noticed that during long play sessions, the plastic seam that connects the two halves of the controller can dig into my palms a bit. This causes some slight discomfort after a few hours. This doesn’t happen with a lot of other premium console controllers such as the Switch Pro since there is no seam on the grips. Hopefully this is something 8bitdo rectifies in a future version of this product.
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8bitdo SN30 Pro Plus review: Should I buy it?
The reason I first bought an 8bitdo SN30 Pro Plus was to play emulated Nintendo games. For that, it is perfect. It works on all my systems. The ABXY buttons are in the “Nintendo” arrangement rather than the “everyone else” arrangement. It’s totally customizable. If you want a controller for Nintendo emulation, this is what you are looking for, without question.
If you’re looking for an all-around controller that you can use with your PCs, Android devices, and Nintendo Switch, this is also a stellar buy. It will lack some compatibility with the Switch, but its robust customization software and seamless compatibility with other systems more than make up for those losses.
Related: The best Bluetooth gaming controllers for Android, PC, and more
That all being said, if you are looking specifically for a controller just to play Nintendo Switch games, you should probably skip this. For $10 more, you should pick up the official Nintendo Switch Pro Controller as that will offer Amiibo support as well as the ability to turn on the console from the couch. That’s a worthwhile $10 if you ask me.
The 8bitdo SN30 Pro Plus is not cheap: its list price is $49.99. However, 8bitdo puts it on sale quite often for as much as 50% off. If you’re trying to be cash conscious, just wait around a bit and you’ll eventually find it at a cheaper price.
Even though Mac is not a hardcore gaming OS, there are some exciting games to play. Gaming Keyboards and Mouse are okay to deal with, but nothing can replace the comfort of playing with a Game Controller on your Mac. The additional comfort is that you can lay down cozily in your Couch while you enjoy the game.
A thing to note with gaming controllers is their design. No matter how pro you are in a game, but if you aren’t comfortable with your controller, you are likely to lose the battle. If you are going through this trouble, better have a look at some of the best gaming controller for Mac we have handpicked down here in this list.
High-Quality Gaming Controllers for Mac in 2020
#1. Thrustmaster
While playing a game on your Mac, you need superior comfort. For more extended gaming sessions, a gaming controller has to have wide hand-rest for optimal comfort. Thrustmaster’s joystick highlights this feature. With easily accessible buttons, this controller provides you hassle-free gaming pleasure.
This gaming joystick comes with 12 buttons and five axels, which are fully programmable. If you love to play games related to civil aviation and military air strikes, this controller has a trigger for brakes and rapid fire.
USP: High-precision
Check out on Amazon
#2. Nimbus SteelSeries
Nimbus SteelSeries brings a Bluetooth gaming controller for your Mac. This MFi-certified controller gives you a real wireless console experience on your Mac and other iOS devices. Pressure-sensitive buttons allow you to play games for hours without causing finger cramp.
Once you recharge this controller, it can be used for more than 40 hours to enjoy non-stop gaming. You can use the Nimbus Companion app to explore free and paid controller-enabled games on your mobile devices.
USP: 40+ hours battery
Check out on Amazon
#3. iNNEXT
iNNEXT offers two pack retro USB super controller gamepad for your Mac. It is not Bluetooth-enabled but has five feet long cord to keep a reasonable distance between your Mac and the joypad. You can connect this generic USB controller with a standard USB port.
Sensitive buttons ensure precise control over your game. This joypad can be connected to your personal computer, Notebook, laptop, MacBook, and Android smartphones via USB OTG cable.
USP: 5-feet cable
Check out on Amazon
#4. Miadore
Bring back your childhood memories with this classic USB controller for your Mac and NES gaming. This retro gamepad is compatible with 32-bit and 64-bit computers. You can connect this controller to your Mac with a USB port.
It is effortless to plug and play this controller as it doesn’t require drivers and software. Sensitive buttons ensure precision in controlling your game.
USP: No drivers required
Check out on Amazon
#5. GameSir
GameSir presents officially MFi certified gaming controller, which is compatible with all Apple products like Mac, iPhone, iPad, iPod touch and more. Make sure your device is macOS 10.6 or later. Get the best professional gaming experience for shooting, fighting, action, and sports games.
For hassle-free connectivity, GameSir offers wireless 4.0 and excellent LED crystal buttons. A notable feature of this gamepad is 256 levels of pressure sensitivity, which gives you superior gaming control.
USP: Lag-free connectivity
Check out on Amazon
#6. Urvoix
Urvoix wireless gaming controller boasts a classic design; but inside, it is packed with state-of-the-art technology to control games on Mac. This cordless controller allows you to play from 30 feet away. Simply plug and play; you are not supposed to install any driver.
You can charge this controller with a micro USB cable as it has built-in rechargeable lithium-ion battery. The USB adapter is compatible with most emulators on Mac.
USP: Rechargeable Battery
Check out on Amazon
#7. RunSnail
RunSnail has achieved greater performance value with new features like motion controls, vibration, USB-C, and turbo functionality. RunSnail’s gaming controller is known for its broad compatibility, and this quality makes it the first choice of real gamers. This multi-compatible controller is perfect for gaming aficionados, who love to switch platforms at office and home.
A notable feature of this controller is built-in smart CPU. Its firmware can be upgraded to expand its function in the future. Enjoy its retro design and make the most of its clickable joysticks. Free board games for macbook pro.
USP: Built-in smart CPU
Check out on Amazon
#8. Gam3Gear
With its pocket-size profile, Gam3Gear wireless gamepad controller is your perfect companion while you are playing games on your Mac. Its petite body and delicate design can be moved around like a jewelry piece. Tie the lanyard (comes in the package) to the gamepad, and you can use it as a keychain.
Fully charge this gamepad for once and enjoy your games for 20 long hours. The product is compatible with all mainstream gaming platforms like macOS, Android, and Windows.
Game Controllers For Pc
USP: Pocket-size profile
Check out on Amazon
#9. CC&SS
CC&SS brings Mac gaming controller, which boasts super sensitive buttons. You can precisely control your game without missing any shot. With its six-feet long cord, you can play all games comfortably from your couch.
You are not supposed to install any driver as the controller comes with a plug-and-play feature. The design of this controller reminds you of a vintage gamepad, which you used to hold when you were a kid.
Game Controller For Mac Reviews 2020
USP: Super sensitive buttons for precision control
Check out on Amazon
That’s all, friends!
Are you in the game?
Best Controller For Mac
Mac offers an excellent platform for gamers to play their favorite games. A controller with ergonomic design and high-quality material, you can play games for a long time tirelessly.
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Which game controller would you like to buy for your Mac? Share your thoughts and feedback with us in the comment box.
Jignesh Padhiyar is the co-founder of iGeeksBlog.com who has a keen eye for news, rumors and all the unusual stuff that happens around Apple products. During his tight schedule, Jignesh finds some moments of respite to share side-splitting contents on social media.
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