8Bitdo Pro 2 Bluetooth Controller Instruction Manual

Introduction

The 8Bitdo Pro 2 Bluetooth Controller is a versatile gaming controller designed for a wide range of platforms including Nintendo Switch, PC (Windows), Apple devices (iOS, iPadOS, Apple tvOS, macOS), Android, and Steam Deck. Featuring Hall Effect Joysticks for enhanced precision and durability, two pro-level back buttons, and customizable profiles via the 8Bitdo Ultimate Software, this controller offers a premium gaming experience with extensive compatibility and advanced features.

Package Contents

• 8Bitdo Pro 2 Bluetooth Controller
• USB-C Cable
• Rechargeable Battery Pack
• Instruction Manual (this document)

Figure 1: The 8Bitdo Pro 2 Controller retail box, showing the controller and included accessories.

Controller Layout

Familiarize yourself with the buttons and features of your 8Bitdo Pro 2 controller.

Figure 2: Front view of the 8Bitdo Pro 2 Controller, highlighting the D-pad, analog sticks, and face buttons.

• D-Pad: Directional pad for precise movement in retro games.
• Analog Sticks: Dual Hall Effect joysticks for smooth, drift-free 360-degree control.
• Face Buttons (A, B, X, Y): Standard action buttons.
• Select (-) / Start (+): Menu and pause buttons.
• Home Button: System-specific home functionality.
• Star Button: Special function button, often customizable.
• Profile Switch Button: Located between the analog sticks, allows quick switching between custom profiles.

Figure 3: Top view of the 8Bitdo Pro 2 Controller, showing the shoulder buttons (L1, R1) and triggers (L2, R2), and the USB-C port.

• Shoulder Buttons (L1, R1): Top-mounted buttons.
• Triggers (L2, R2): Analog triggers for precise input in racing or shooting games.
• USB-C Port: For charging and wired connection.

Figure 4: Back view of the 8Bitdo Pro 2 Controller, highlighting the P1 and P2 back paddle buttons and the 4-way mode switch.

• Back Paddle Buttons (P1, P2): Two programmable buttons on the rear for advanced control.
• 4-Way Mode Switch (S, A, D, X): Allows quick selection of compatibility mode for different platforms.

Setup

Charging the Controller

Connect the included USB-C cable to the controller's USB-C port and the other end to a USB power source (e.g., computer, USB wall adapter). The LED indicators on the controller will show charging status. A full charge provides approximately 20 hours of gameplay.

Power Options

The 8Bitdo Pro 2 controller supports both the included rechargeable battery pack and standard AA batteries. To access the battery compartment, slide open the cover on the back of the controller.

Figure 5: The 8Bitdo Pro 2 Controller with its battery compartment open, illustrating the flexibility of power options.

Mode Switching

Before connecting, set the 4-way mode switch on the back of the controller to the appropriate platform:

• S: Nintendo Switch / Switch 2
• A: Apple (iOS, iPadOS, Apple tvOS, macOS)
• D: Android / Steam Deck
• X: PC (Windows - XInput mode)

Connectivity

Bluetooth Pairing

1. Set the mode switch to your desired platform (S, A, D, or X).
2. Press and hold the Home button on the controller for 3 seconds to turn it on.
3. On your device, navigate to Bluetooth settings and search for new devices.
4. Select "8Bitdo Pro 2" from the list of available devices to pair. The LED indicators will confirm successful pairing.

Wired Connection

For a direct and low-latency connection, you can connect the controller to your device using the included USB-C cable. Ensure the mode switch is set correctly for your platform.

Operating Instructions

Platform Compatibility

The 8Bitdo Pro 2 is designed for broad compatibility:

• Nintendo Switch / Switch 2: Full support including motion controls and rumble vibration.
• PC (Windows): Functions as an XInput controller, compatible with most PC games.
• Android: Seamless connection for Android gaming.
• Steam Deck: Plug and play compatibility for an enhanced portable gaming experience.
• Apple (iOS, iPadOS, Apple tvOS, macOS): Officially supported for Apple Arcade and other compatible games.
• Raspberry Pi: Compatible for retro gaming setups.

Figure 6: The 8Bitdo Pro 2 Controller in use with various compatible devices, including a Nintendo Switch, Steam Deck, and a mobile phone.

Hall Effect Joysticks

The Hall Effect Joysticks utilize magnetic sensors instead of traditional potentiometers, significantly reducing stick drift and increasing durability and precision over time. This provides a more accurate and reliable gaming experience.

Figure 7: A close-up view of the Hall Effect Joystick on the 8Bitdo Pro 2 Controller, highlighting its advanced magnetic sensing technology.

Customization with 8Bitdo Ultimate Software

Unlock the full potential of your controller with the 8Bitdo Ultimate Software, available on PC, Android, and iOS. This software allows you to:

• Button Mapping: Remap any button to your preference.
• Stick & Trigger Sensitivity: Adjust dead zones and sensitivity for analog sticks and triggers.
• Vibration Control: Customize rumble intensity.
• Macros: Create and assign complex button sequences to a single press.
• Profile Switching: Save up to three custom profiles directly to the controller and switch between them instantly using the dedicated profile button.

Figure 8: A visual representation of the 8Bitdo Ultimate Software interface, demonstrating the various customization options available for mapping, sticks, triggers, vibration, and macros.

Rumble Vibration and Motion Controls

The controller supports rumble vibration for immersive feedback and motion controls, particularly useful for Nintendo Switch games that utilize gyroscope functionality.

Maintenance

• Keep the controller clean by wiping it with a soft, dry cloth.
• Avoid exposing the controller to extreme temperatures, humidity, or direct sunlight.
• Store the controller in a safe place to prevent physical damage.

Troubleshooting

• Connectivity Issues: Ensure the mode switch is set correctly for your device. Try re-pairing the controller or connecting via USB-C cable.
• Input Lag: For optimal performance, ensure your device's Bluetooth drivers are up to date. A wired connection can also reduce latency.
• Controller Not Responding: Check battery level. If using the rechargeable pack, ensure it's properly seated. If using AA batteries, ensure they are inserted correctly and have sufficient charge.
• Stick Drift: The Hall Effect Joysticks are designed to prevent drift. If you experience any issues, ensure the controller firmware is updated via the 8Bitdo Ultimate Software.

Specifications

Warranty and Support

For detailed warranty information, technical support, and firmware updates, please visit the official 8Bitdo website. You can also find additional resources and community forums there.

No official seller videos are available for this product in the provided data.