CRKD ULT PRO: $70 Switch 2 Controller Takes on 8BitDo

CRKD launches its first pro controller, the ULT PRO, for $69.99 with TMR thumbsticks, trigger stops, and swappable parts, aiming at Switch 2 and PC gamers.

Looking for a pro controller for your Switch 2 that won't break the bank? CRKD just dropped its first ever pro controller, the ULT PRO, and it's coming in at just $69.99. That's a pretty aggressive price considering what you get.

The ULT PRO packs TMR thumbsticks, trigger stops, swappable components, and 1,000Hz polling on Windows. Those specs usually scream premium, but CRKD is undercutting a lot of the competition. Just this month, SteelSeries launched the $260 Aeon Pro, so the ULT PRO is definitely playing in a different arena.

One look at the BAYX face button layout tells you this controller is aimed squarely at Nintendo Switch 2 players. You won't find clicky mechanical buttons, 8,000Hz polling rates, or complex software tweaks here, but for $70, the ULT PRO has some serious green flags over rivals like the 8BitDo Ultimate 2, the Switch 2 Pro Controller, and the GameSir Super Nova.

The ULT PRO is available now on Amazon in Pal Grey and Smoke Black. There are two versions: one for Switch and one for PC, but the only difference seems to be the face button orientation. With a charging dock included, its main competitor is likely the 8BitDo Ultimate 2, which also costs $69.99. The Ultimate 2 matches the ULT PRO's TMR thumbsticks, trigger stops, profile selection, and asymmetrical layout, but adds motion control and wake functionality. It's odd that CRKD skipped gyro, especially since they made two separate SKUs for Nintendo and PC.

However, the ULT PRO has its own perks. Instead of 8BitDo's two back buttons, CRKD goes with four back paddles. These are skinnier than others on the market, similar to the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro's design. You also get two extra shoulder buttons for more programmability, plus swappable stick toppers and a d-pad. It's shaping up to be an all-in-one pro controller for those who don't want to spend $90 on the official model.

Sure, the official Pro Controller is all about feel, with satisfying controls and smooth thumbsticks. But would you trade that for $20 savings, profile presets, extra controls, trigger locks, and a charging dock? We'll have to wait until we get our hands on it to know for sure, but it looks promising on paper.

What do you think? Will you be picking up the CRKD ULT PRO for your Switch 2?