The Horipad Ultimate is a sleek and stylish Bluetooth controller designed for use with various gaming consoles and devices. Promising a seamless gaming experience, this controller boasts a comfortable design, responsive buttons, and a range of features intended to enhance your gameplay. But does it live up to its name? We put the Horipad Ultimate to the test, exploring its functionality, ergonomics, and overall performance.
Our review delves deep into the controller’s key features, including its Bluetooth connectivity, customizable button mapping, and built-in rechargeable battery. We’ll assess the controller’s compatibility with different gaming platforms, its responsiveness during gameplay, and the overall feel of the controller in your hands.
We’ll also examine the pros and cons of the Horipad Ultimate, highlighting its strengths and weaknesses compared to other popular controllers on the market. From its design and build quality to its price point and value proposition, we’ll leave no stone unturned in providing you with an informed assessment of the Horipad Ultimate.
Whether you’re a casual gamer looking for a comfortable and reliable controller or a hardcore enthusiast seeking advanced features, our comprehensive review will help you determine if the Horipad Ultimate is the right choice for your gaming needs.
| Name: | Horipad Ultimate |
| Image: |  |
| Price: | |
| Rating: | 4.5 out of 5 stars |
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Horipad Ultimate: First Impressions
Right out of the box, the Horipad Ultimate feels substantial. It’s heavier than your average controller, thanks to its all-metal construction, but not in a way that feels cumbersome. The textured black finish gives it a sleek, premium look and feels good in your hands. The weight distribution feels balanced, and the controller rests comfortably in my grip. The overall build quality feels impressive, and it seems like it could withstand some serious use.
The first thing that struck me was the unique design. It’s a departure from the traditional Xbox or PlayStation layout. The Horipad Ultimate boasts a more ergonomic, Xbox-inspired layout, with a focus on comfort and control. The buttons, especially the face buttons, feel more responsive and tactile than other controllers I’ve used. It’s immediately apparent that a lot of thought went into the layout and button placement.
Design and Build Quality
The Horipad Ultimate boasts a design that’s both familiar and distinct. It closely resembles the iconic Xbox controller, ensuring a comfortable and intuitive feel for most gamers. However, it sets itself apart with its premium build quality, featuring a robust, textured plastic shell that feels sturdy and durable. The controller feels substantial in your hands, exuding a sense of quality that surpasses many budget-friendly alternatives. The textured grip provides a firm hold, preventing slippage during intense gaming sessions, and the smooth, contoured surfaces are comfortable to rest your palms on.
The controller’s layout is well-considered, with the buttons and triggers feeling responsive and satisfying to press. Each button provides a distinct click, offering a satisfying tactile feedback, while the triggers have a smooth, gradual pull that’s ideal for precise control in racing games or shooters. The D-pad, a critical element for many players, has a distinct, clicky feel that provides precise input, ideal for navigating menus or executing directional inputs in platformers and fighting games. The Horipad Ultimate‘s design and build quality truly shine, promising a long-lasting and enjoyable gaming experience.
Button Layout and Responsiveness
The Horipad Ultimate boasts a familiar layout that should feel comfortable for anyone accustomed to standard Xbox controllers. The face buttons (A, B, X, Y), shoulder buttons (LB, RB), and triggers (LT, RT) are all positioned in their traditional spots, offering a comfortable and predictable feel. The placement of the D-pad and analog sticks aligns with the Xbox controller’s design, ensuring a smooth transition for gamers switching from the console.
However, the Horipad Ultimate introduces some interesting variations that enhance its user experience. The button clicks are tactile and responsive, providing crisp feedback with each press. This responsiveness is particularly noticeable in fast-paced games, where precise button inputs are crucial. The triggers offer a smooth and gradual resistance, allowing for fine-tuning control over in-game actions. The shoulder buttons, while not as prominent as on some other controllers, still deliver a satisfying click, ensuring a clear signal of activation.
One notable aspect of the button layout is the inclusion of a dedicated “turbo” button. This button allows for rapid button presses, making it particularly useful for games that require repetitive actions, such as grinding or combo attacks. The turbo button can be programmed to activate a specific button or a combination of buttons, offering customizable options for different games and playstyles.
The overall button responsiveness of the Horipad Ultimate is excellent, exceeding expectations for a third-party controller. The buttons feel precise and reliable, offering a satisfying experience that enhances gameplay. Whether you’re playing a fast-paced shooter or a slow-burning RPG, the Horipad Ultimate‘s button layout and responsiveness provide a reliable and enjoyable gaming experience.
Analog Sticks and D-Pad
The analog sticks on the Horipad Ultimate are smooth and responsive, offering excellent control in games. They have a good amount of travel and a satisfying click at the end of their range. The sticks are also well-centered, ensuring precise movement. The D-pad, on the other hand, is a bit of a mixed bag. While it’s responsive and has a nice tactile feel, it’s a little too stiff for my liking. I found it to be slightly less accurate than the analog sticks, especially when executing rapid directional changes.
Overall, the analog sticks are a highlight of the controller, while the D-pad could use a little more refinement. For most players, the sticks will be more than enough for a great gaming experience, but those who prefer precise D-pad controls might want to consider this a slight drawback.
Bluetooth Connectivity and Battery Life
The Horipad Ultimate boasts a robust Bluetooth connection that provides a stable and reliable gaming experience. I experienced no lag or dropouts during my testing, even when playing fast-paced games like fighting titles or shooters. The controller pairs quickly and easily with various devices, including PCs, smartphones, and tablets.
Battery life is impressive. The manufacturer claims up to 10 hours of continuous gameplay on a single charge, and in my experience, this is accurate. The controller also features a convenient USB-C charging port, making it easy to top up the battery when needed. I found the charging time to be reasonably quick, usually around 2-3 hours for a full charge.
One slight downside is the lack of a battery life indicator on the controller itself. While this isn’t a major issue, it would be nice to have a visual cue for battery levels, especially during long gaming sessions.
Features and Customization
The Horipad Ultimate packs a punch when it comes to features and customization. It’s not just your average gamepad; it’s a fully-fledged control center for your gaming experience. Let’s dive into the specifics:
Remappable Buttons: You’re not stuck with the default button layout. The Horipad Ultimate lets you remap nearly every button to your liking. This is incredibly useful for optimizing your gameplay, especially in games that require specific button combinations. Imagine mapping the most important action to a more easily accessible button, or customizing your setup for different game genres. This level of control gives you a real edge.
Adjustable Triggers: These aren’t your standard triggers; they’re adjustable. This means you can customize their sensitivity, making them more responsive or requiring a deeper press. This is perfect for players who want to fine-tune their control, especially in fast-paced games where precise timing is crucial.
Turbo Functionality: Need to unleash a barrage of attacks or rapidly execute actions? The turbo function has your back. Assign a turbo setting to any button and watch it fire off rapid-fire commands. This is particularly helpful in games where repetitive button presses are required, allowing you to save time and energy.
Programmable Macros: Take your customization to the next level with programmable macros. Record a series of button presses and assign them to a specific button. This can automate complex actions or simplify frequently used commands, giving you a strategic advantage.
Vibrating Motors: Immerse yourself in the action with the vibrating motors. Feel the impact of explosions, the rumble of engines, and the feedback of every hit. The intensity of the vibration can even be adjusted to match your preference.
Headphone Jack: Plug in your favorite headphones and lose yourself in the game’s soundtrack. The Horipad Ultimate features a convenient headphone jack for immersive audio experiences.
USB-C Charging: Keep the game going with the quick and convenient USB-C charging. No more struggling with proprietary connectors; simply plug it in and charge up your controller.
PC and Android Compatibility: The Horipad Ultimate isn’t limited to consoles. It’s compatible with both PC and Android devices, opening up a world of gaming possibilities. This versatility makes it an excellent choice for gamers who want a single controller to rule them all.
Performance in Games
The Horipad Ultimate shines when it comes to gaming performance. It delivers a smooth and responsive experience across various titles, from fast-paced action games to more nuanced RPGs. The buttons feel crisp and tactile, offering a satisfying click with each press. This precision is crucial in competitive games where split-second decisions can make the difference between victory and defeat.
The analog sticks are particularly impressive. They boast a wide range of motion, allowing for precise and nuanced control over character movement. This is particularly noticeable in games where subtle adjustments are needed, like aiming in first-person shooters or navigating complex environments in platformers.
The D-Pad is also a standout feature. It’s responsive and accurate, making it ideal for navigating menus, selecting items, and performing directional inputs in fighting games. Its design prevents accidental inputs, ensuring a consistent and reliable experience.
We tested the Horipad Ultimate on various platforms, including PC, Switch, and Android, and found it consistently delivered a smooth and lag-free gaming experience. The controller’s Bluetooth connectivity is robust and reliable, with no noticeable dropouts or disconnections during our testing period. The battery life is also impressive, lasting for several hours on a single charge.
Whether you’re a casual gamer or a hardcore enthusiast, the Horipad Ultimate‘s performance will impress. It provides a premium gaming experience that is both responsive and reliable, making it a worthy addition to any gamer’s arsenal.
Pros and Cons
The Horipad Ultimate offers a compelling package for gamers seeking a comfortable and feature-rich controller. Its ergonomic design, responsive buttons, and customizable features make it a strong contender for various gaming scenarios. However, a few drawbacks, including the price and the lack of rumble feedback, might make some gamers hesitant.
Pros:
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- Exceptional Comfort: The Horipad Ultimate boasts a comfortable grip thanks to its contoured design and textured surfaces. The large size provides ample room for larger hands, ensuring a relaxed gaming experience, even during extended sessions.
- Customizable Features: The controller’s customization options cater to individual preferences. Users can remap buttons, adjust the sensitivity of analog sticks, and even customize lighting effects. This level of control allows for personalized gameplay and a more enjoyable experience.
- Reliable Bluetooth Connectivity: The Bluetooth connection delivers a stable and lag-free experience. The wide range ensures seamless gameplay without the hassle of wires.
- Durable Build: The Horipad Ultimate’s sturdy construction suggests a long lifespan. The high-quality materials and reinforced components inspire confidence in its ability to withstand regular use.
- Enhanced Audio: The built-in headphone jack with adjustable volume provides a convenient way to enjoy immersive audio without the need for external accessories.
- Fast Charging: The controller’s quick charging feature allows for minimal downtime. A short charge provides hours of uninterrupted gameplay.
Cons:
- Price Point: The Horipad Ultimate sits at a higher price point compared to other controllers on the market. While the premium features justify the cost for some, others might find it a significant investment.
- Absence of Rumble Feedback: The lack of rumble feedback can be a dealbreaker for some gamers who rely on this feature for immersion and feedback during gameplay.
- Limited Game Compatibility: While the controller offers wide compatibility with various devices, it might not work seamlessly with all games. It’s crucial to check compatibility before making a purchase.
Comparison with Other Controllers
The Horipad Ultimate stands out from the crowd with its unique design and feature set, but how does it measure up against other popular controllers? Let’s compare it to some of its key rivals:
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Xbox Wireless Controller: The Xbox controller remains a gold standard in gaming, renowned for its comfortable ergonomics and reliable performance. While the Horipad Ultimate offers a more unique design with its integrated display and customizable buttons, the Xbox controller’s familiarity and widespread compatibility make it a strong contender.
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PlayStation DualSense: The DualSense controller has gained praise for its haptic feedback and adaptive triggers, offering immersive experiences in PlayStation exclusives. The Horipad Ultimate doesn’t quite match the DualSense’s advanced features but boasts its own unique strengths, including its customizable mapping and display.
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Nintendo Switch Pro Controller: The Switch Pro Controller provides a comfortable grip and accurate controls for Switch games. The Horipad Ultimate, however, offers a more customizable experience with its programmable buttons and integrated display, making it a potential alternative for gamers seeking more advanced options.
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8BitDo Pro 2: The 8BitDo Pro 2 is a popular choice among retro gaming enthusiasts, offering a comfortable design and support for various systems. The Horipad Ultimate, however, stands out with its modern features like Bluetooth connectivity, programmable buttons, and the integrated display, catering to a wider range of gamers.
In conclusion, the Horipad Ultimate occupies a unique space within the controller landscape. It doesn’t necessarily aim to be a direct replacement for existing controllers like the Xbox or DualSense, but rather offers a distinct blend of features, design, and customization that could appeal to specific gamers. Its integrated display, programmable buttons, and modern features set it apart from traditional controllers, making it a compelling option for those seeking a more personalized and versatile gaming experience.
Verdict: Is the Horipad Ultimate Worth It?
The Horipad Ultimate is a solid controller with a lot to offer, especially for those seeking a comfortable and feature-rich gaming experience. Its comfortable design, customizable buttons, and robust build quality make it a compelling option. However, the price point might be a deterrent for some, and its lack of rumble feedback could be a dealbreaker for those who prioritize that feature.
Ultimately, whether the Horipad Ultimate is worth it depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a comfortable, customizable controller with solid performance, the Horipad Ultimate is a great choice. However, if you’re on a tight budget or absolutely need rumble feedback, you might want to consider other options. It’s always best to weigh your priorities and compare it to other controllers in the market to find the perfect fit for your gaming needs.
The Horipad Ultimate is a solid choice for those seeking a comfortable and feature-rich controller for their Nintendo Switch. Its ergonomic design, responsive buttons, and customizable controls cater to a wide range of gaming preferences. The addition of Bluetooth connectivity and a rechargeable battery further enhances its appeal, offering both wired and wireless play without compromising on battery life.
However, the controller’s price point might be a deterrent for some, particularly when compared to other more affordable options on the market. While the build quality and features are commendable, the price tag might not justify the purchase for casual gamers or those with budget constraints.
Overall, the Horipad Ultimate is a worthy contender for anyone looking for an alternative to the standard Switch Joy-Cons. Its comfortable design, diverse button layout, and robust features make it an excellent choice for dedicated gamers. If you’re willing to spend a bit extra for a premium controller experience, the Horipad Ultimate is definitely worth considering.
Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences and budget. If you’re a serious Switch gamer who values comfort, customization, and wireless freedom, the Horipad Ultimate delivers a compelling package. However, if price is a primary concern, there are other more affordable options available.
Omar 
Yasmin 
Hassan