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8BitDo's Ultimate 3E gamepad for Xbox offers swappable button modules and joysticks

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8BitDo just revealed a new gamepad at CES and it's a doozy. The Ultimate 3E Controller for XBox is a modular marvel that should suit just about any configuration preference. That's because many elements are swappable.

There are two different button modules, each with a different feel when pressing down. There are several joystick options, including standard, tall and thick-neck designs. The controller even ships with a pair of D-pad options. One is intended for precision and the other for "smooth, directional rolls."

8BitDo

There are other bells and whistles here. The Ultimate 3E offers a 1000Hz max polling rate, hall-effect impulse triggers, remappable bumpers that have been designed for speed and customizable 6-axis motion control. It also ships with a wireless charging case. This thing is a beast.

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Despite being officially licensed by Xbox, the controller works with other platforms. It looks like a great option for PC, Android and Apple devices.

Now for the bad news. These pro-level features come with a pro-level price tag. The Ultimate 3E costs $150. The company says preorders will open up in the near future and that it should ship later in the year. In the meantime, you'll have to make due with this nifty arcade-style controller by 8BitDo.

CES 2026 is taking place in Las Vegas from January 4 to January 9, and as usual Team Engadget is on the ground covering all the news and checking out the products at the show. Follow live coverage of Monday press conferences from LG, Lego, Hisense, NVIDIA, Hyundai and more, see the everything announced at CES 2026 so far and check out our ongoing CES 2026 liveblog to find out what happens next.