8BitDo Ultimate Software V2 vs Pulsar Fusion
8BitDo Ultimate Software V2
app.8bitdo.com
Pulsar Fusion
pulsar.ggSide by side
| Figure | 8BitDo Ultimate Software V2 | Pulsar Fusion |
|---|---|---|
| Price from | Free | — |
| Free plan | Yes | — |
| Free trial | — | — |
| Open source | — | — |
| Web | — | Yes |
| Windows | Yes | Yes |
| macOS | Yes | Yes |
| Linux | — | Yes |
| Plans published | 1 | 0 |
| Spec score · Gaming Peripheral Software | 8.2 (#10) | 7.3 (#24) |
| Spec score · Keyboard and Mouse Customization Software | 7.6 (#72) | 7.6 (#69) |
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Macros | Users can record macro instructions and trigger multiple instructions with one keystroke. | The Windows software can record advanced macros and assign them to mouse buttons. |
| Macro support | Yes | Yes |
| Purpose | The software configures 8BitDo devices and keeps their firmware up to date. | Pulsar describes its wireless mouse software as a tool for customizing Pulsar wireless gaming mice. |
| Support | The company’s shop contact page lists [email protected] for customer support. | Pulsar Support provides a submit-a-ticket option for users with further questions. |
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.
Pulsar Fusion
Pulsar Fusion is software for configuring compatible Pulsar gaming mice. The Windows application supports multiple settings profiles, import and export of settings files, up to three DPI profiles, and advanced macros assigned to mouse buttons. Wireless Fusion supports Pulsar wireless mice except the eS Series; separate Fusion2 software covers wired Pulsar mice released after September 2024. Newer compatible models can use Pulsar web software in a browser, while the Windows application does not work on macOS. Scroll-wheel movement in macros requires the compatible web driver. Using 4K or 8K polling requires both a compatible mouse and the corresponding receiver or dongle. Turbo Mode is beta-available for CrazyLight, TenZ and X2F models; it holds the sensor at a 20,000 FPS scanning rate and increases battery demand. The download page lists separate Fusion and Fusion2 software, and pairing a 4K dongle uses the 4K Wireless Pairing tool. Some models receive firmware updates within the software. Pulsar lists the software as free.