8Bitdo M30 Bluetooth Controller Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

The 8Bitdo M30 Bluetooth Controller is a redefined 6-button gamepad designed to bring classic gaming experiences to modern platforms. With its versatile connectivity and familiar layout, it is ideal for SEGA's classic games and a wide range of other titles across multiple systems.

Figure 1: Front view of the 8Bitdo M30 Bluetooth Controller.

2. Key Features

• Wireless connectivity with a classic 6-button layout.
• Multi-platform compatibility: Nintendo Switch, Windows 10 or above, Android, and Raspberry Pi.
• Built-in Turbo Function (Note: This feature is unavailable on Nintendo Switch).
• Integrated Bluetooth for wireless play and a rechargeable battery for convenience.
• Upgradeable firmware to ensure ongoing compatibility and performance enhancements.

3. Setup and Connectivity

3.1. Initial Charging

Before first use, fully charge the controller. The 8Bitdo M30 features a built-in 480 mAh Li-on battery, providing approximately 18 hours of play time on a full charge. Charging typically takes 1-2 hours via the USB-C cable.

• Battery Status Indicators:
• Low Battery Mode: Red LED blinks.
• Battery Charging: Red LED stays solid.
• Battery Fully Charged: LED turns off.

3.2. Bluetooth Pairing Instructions

The M30 controller supports various input modes for different platforms. Follow the steps below for your specific device:

• Nintendo Switch Mode:
  1. Press and hold Y + Start to turn on the controller. LEDs 1 & 2 will blink.
  2. On your Switch Home Page, navigate to 'Controllers' then 'Change Grip/Order'.
  3. The LEDs on the controller will pause for 1 second when the connection is successful.
  4. The controller will automatically reconnect to your Switch with the press of the Start button once it has been paired.
• Windows (X-Input) Mode:
  1. Press and hold X + Start to turn on the controller. LEDs 1 & 4 will blink.
  2. On your Windows device, go to 'Bluetooth & other devices' settings and pair with '[8Bitdo M30 gamepad]'.
  3. The LEDs on the controller will pause for 1 second when the connection is successful.
  4. The controller will automatically reconnect to your Windows device with the press of the Start button once it has been paired.
• Android (D-Input) Mode:
  1. Press and hold B + Start to turn on the controller. LEDs 1 & 3 will blink.
  2. On your Android device, go to 'Bluetooth settings' and pair with '[8Bitdo M30 gamepad]'.
  3. The LEDs on the controller will pause for 1 second when the connection is successful.
  4. The controller will automatically reconnect to your Android device with the press of the Start button once it has been paired.
• macOS Mode:
  1. Press and hold A + Start to turn on the controller. LEDs 1 & 2 will blink.
  2. On your macOS device, go to 'Bluetooth settings' and pair with '[8Bitdo M30 gamepad]'.
  3. The LEDs on the controller will pause for 1 second when the connection is successful.
  4. The controller will automatically reconnect to your macOS device with the press of the Start button once it has been paired.

Figure 2: Top view of the 8Bitdo M30 controller, highlighting the button layout.

4. Operating the Controller

4.1. Button Functions

The 8Bitdo M30 features a classic 6-button layout (A, B, C, X, Y, Z) on the face, along with L and R shoulder buttons. The D-pad provides precise directional control.

4.2. Turbo Function

To activate or deactivate Turbo functionality for a specific button:

1. Hold down the button you wish to apply Turbo to.
2. While holding the button, press the Star button.
3. The Turbo function will now be active for that button. Repeat the process to deactivate.

Note: Turbo Function is not available when using the controller in Nintendo Switch mode.

4.3. Power Saving Modes

The controller is designed with power-saving features to extend battery life:

• Sleep Mode (No Bluetooth Connection): The controller will enter sleep mode after 1 minute if there is no active Bluetooth connection.
• Sleep Mode (Bluetooth Connected, No Use): The controller will enter sleep mode after 15 minutes of inactivity while connected via Bluetooth.
• Waking Up the Controller: Press the Start button to wake up your controller from sleep mode.
• Wired Connection: The controller remains on and connected when plugged in via a wired USB connection.

5. Maintenance

5.1. Cleaning

To clean your 8Bitdo M30 controller, use a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, as these may damage the surface or internal components.

5.2. Battery Care

To prolong the life of your controller's battery:

• Avoid exposing the controller to extreme temperatures (hot or cold).
• Store the controller in a cool, dry place when not in use.
• If storing for an extended period, ensure the battery is partially charged (around 50%) to prevent deep discharge.

6. Troubleshooting

6.1. Connectivity Issues

• Ensure the controller is in the correct mode for your platform (Switch, X-Input, D-Input, macOS).
• Verify that Bluetooth is enabled on your device and the controller is within range.
• Try re-pairing the controller by following the setup instructions for your specific platform.
• Check the battery indicator to ensure the controller has sufficient charge.

6.2. Button Mapping Discrepancies (Nintendo Switch)

When using the M30 controller with Nintendo Switch, particularly with classic game compilations, you may encounter unexpected button mapping (e.g., A mapping to B, or C mapping to a shoulder button). This is due to the Switch's default button assignments for Pro Controllers and the specific game's internal mapping.

While the Switch allows remapping of controls, some older game compilations may not fully support custom button assignments. For the most accurate classic experience, consider using the 8Bitdo Retro Receiver with original SEGA hardware, where button mapping is typically preserved as intended.

6.3. Firmware Updates

If you experience persistent issues, ensure your controller's firmware is up to date. Visit the official 8Bitdo support website (support.8bitdo.com) for the latest firmware and update instructions.

7. Specifications

8. Warranty and Support

For detailed warranty information, product support, and the latest firmware updates, please visit the official 8Bitdo support website:

support.8bitdo.com