8BitDo Ultimate Software V2 vs Keychron Launcher
8BitDo Ultimate Software V2
app.8bitdo.comKeychron Launcher
launcher.keychron.comSide by side
| Figure | 8BitDo Ultimate Software V2 | Keychron Launcher |
|---|---|---|
| Price from | Free | Free |
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Free trial | — | — |
| Open source | — | — |
| Web | — | Yes |
| Windows | Yes | Yes |
| macOS | Yes | Yes |
| Linux | — | Yes |
| Plans published | 1 | 1 |
| Spec score · Gaming Peripheral Software | 8.2 (#10) | 8.4 (#5) |
| Spec score · Keyboard and Mouse Customization Software | 7.6 (#72) | 8.6 (#12) |
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Lighting | The software can adjust supported devices’ lighting effects and colors. | Launcher can modify keyboard lighting effects and configure RGB controls such as hue, saturation, brightness, and effect speed. |
| Macros | Users can record macro instructions and trigger multiple instructions with one keystroke. | Users can create macro commands that trigger multiple keys to perform an operation. |
| Macro support | Yes | Yes |
| Operating systems | The stated requirements are Windows 10 (1903) or above and macOS 13.0 or above. | Keychron says its web-based Launcher supports Windows, macOS, Linux, and other operating systems. |
| Purpose | The software configures 8BitDo devices and keeps their firmware up to date. | Keychron Launcher is a free web application for customizing Keychron keyboards and mice. |
| Support | The company’s shop contact page lists [email protected] for customer support. | Keychron directs users with Launcher detection problems to its help center and support email [email protected]. |
Plans
In their own words
8BitDo Ultimate Software V2
8BitDo Ultimate Software V2 configures supported 8BitDo devices and provides firmware updates when available. Users can remap or disable supported keys, create profiles, record macros that trigger multiple instructions with one keystroke, and adjust lighting effects and colors on supported devices. Audio configuration is listed among V2’s enhanced features. The page lists selected 8BitDo controllers for Windows and macOS and indicates which customization features each supports; listed device types also include mechanical keyboards, numpads, mice, speakers, adapters, arcade controllers and mod kits. The software is free for supported 8BitDo devices. Its requirements are Windows 10 (1903) or above and macOS 13.0 or above, and an 8BitDo FAQ says there is no mobile version. For certain devices that are not recognized, the product FAQ gives button combinations and USB connection steps. 8BitDo’s privacy policy says it may collect software-use and device details, including operating system, applications, IP address and location.
Keychron Launcher
Keychron Launcher is a free web app for customizing compatible Keychron keyboards and mice. It remaps individual keys and knobs, assigns functions, and creates macros that trigger multiple keys for an operation. For keyboards, it offers lighting controls for hue, saturation, brightness, and effect speed, along with firmware updates and flashing. You can upload, reset, and export keymap files, and adjust polling rate and sensitivity. The remapping guide covers Keychron keyboards using QMK or ZMK firmware; onboard device memory is also supported. Devices connect by cable or 2.4 GHz receiver, though some models work only over a wired connection. Keychron recommends the latest Chrome, Opera, or Edge. The web app supports Windows, macOS, Linux, and other operating systems. Quick Start requires separate Keychron Assistant software, with installation instructions for macOS and Windows. Keychron says community members can review its open-source keyboard firmware for safety and hidden features. The listed plan is free.