
In a nutshell: 8BitDo has introduced a new Bluetooth gamepad designed for players with limited mobility. The 8BitDo Lite SE was created in collaboration with two members of the gaming community as an alternative to pricier accessibility-minded solutions. All buttons are positioned on the front face of the controller – this includes triggers, bumpers and stick-click buttons. The bottom is lined with a non-slip rubber material to keep the controller in place on a table.
The pad's joysticks are more sensitive than a standard controller and the buttons offer less resistance so they are easier to press.
The Lite SE works with Android, Raspberry Pi and Nintendo Switch, and features vibration, a motion sensor and a customizable turbo function. Its 480mAh Li-on rechargeable battery affords up to 18 hours of runtime with a 1-2 hour charging time. The gamepad measures 4.72 inches x 2.59 inches x 1.03 inches and weighs just 2.92 ounces.
8BitDo's Lite SE isn't as flexible as Microsoft's Xbox Adaptive Controller or Logitech's expansion kit , but it's also nowhere near as expensive. Those retail for $99.99 apiece, whereas 8BitDo's gamepad will set buyers back just $34.99. It's not a one-size-fits-all solution either, but it is another option that will work for some and that's why it matters.
The 8BitDo Lite SE is available to pre-order from today and is scheduled to ship on July 15.