8BitDo Ultimate Software V2 vs VIA
8BitDo Ultimate Software V2
app.8bitdo.comVIA
caniusevia.comSide by side
| Figure | 8BitDo Ultimate Software V2 | VIA |
|---|---|---|
| Price from | Free | — |
| Free plan | Yes | — |
| Free trial | — | — |
| Open source | — | — |
| Web | — | Yes |
| Windows | Yes | — |
| macOS | Yes | — |
| Plans published | 1 | 0 |
| Spec score · Gaming Peripheral Software | 8.2 (#10) | 6.8 (#31) |
| Spec score · Keyboard and Mouse Customization Software | 7.6 (#72) | 7.1 (#96) |
| Lighting | The software can adjust supported devices’ lighting effects and colors. | VIA definitions can provide built-in controls for supported QMK lighting features such as RGB Matrix and RGBLight. |
| Macro support | Yes | Yes |
| Purpose | The software configures 8BitDo devices and keeps their firmware up to date. | VIA lets users configure, test, and design for compatible keyboards. |
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.