| Played on a CLX Gaming PC |
The gaming industry is constantly evolving, and with it, the demand for high-performance gaming peripherals is on the rise. Turtle Beach has introduced the Stealth Ultra pro controller, a device that promises to elevate the gaming experience with its innovative features and advanced technology. I have to be honest, I was super eager to try this as it has a frickin’ screen on the controller! I mean, it reminds me of the age-old PS3 “concept art” that was floating around in the early 2000’s. I’ll delve into the intricacies of the Stealth Ultra Pro Controller, exploring its patented technologies, precision components, customization options, and overall design to see how it holds up.
It’s All in the Build
I immediately need to talk about Stealth Ultra’s hallmark feature, The Command Display dashboard – this neat little add-on is embedded where the trackpad would be on a DualSense controller. It allows gamers to receive social notifications from their phones for various platforms, ensuring that they stay connected with friends and the gaming community without leaving the gaming environment. It’s awesome and feels really futuristic, it doesn’t deter from its performance nor battery life surprisingly. More on that later. One of the standout features of the Stealth Ultra Pro Controller is its AntiDrift thumbsticks. Unlike traditional analog-style sticks, these contactless, hall effect thumbsticks utilize internal magnets, providing high-resolution, smooth control without the risk of drift. Gamers can fine-tune stick performance, choosing between linear input for racing games and precision input for action and FPS games. The inclusion of two sets of additional thumbcaps caters to diverse tactile preferences, further enhancing the controller’s versatility. Every single piece of hardware that has thumbsticks NEED hall effects, it’s a state-of-the-art technology that, so far, eliminated any stick drifting.
Designed with high-end components, the Stealth Ultra incorporates tactile microswitches in key areas such as the D-Pad, ABXY cluster, mappable buttons, and bumper buttons. These microswitches not only deliver a faster and more reliable response but are also rated at an impressive 5 million clicks, offering up to 5 times the longevity of standard buttons. This focus on durability ensures that the controller can withstand the rigors of intense gaming sessions. The Stealth Ultra provides on-the-fly modification of trigger throw distance, allowing gamers to tailor the controller to suit different game genres. Shorter hair trigger locks enable a faster return profile for FPS games, while full travel settings deliver precise throttle and brake control in racing games. This adaptability ensures that the controller seamlessly integrates with a variety of gaming experiences. Adding to its customization capabilities, the controller features four mappable microswitch buttons on the back. Gamers can set up the controller to align with their specific preferences, creating a personalized experience for different game types. With 10 onboard profiles available, users can easily switch between button mappings and settings for various games and loadouts.
For gamers seeking enhanced long-range accuracy, the Pro-Aim™ Focus Mode is a noteworthy inclusion. Selectable as one of the preset functions for the mappable buttons, Pro-Aim™ allows users to fine-tune thumbstick sensitivity. Whether executing a long-range snipe or a precise free kick, Pro-Aim™ ensures that sensitivity can be dialed in precisely to match the demands of the moment. The Control Center 2 companion app serves as a hub for customizing various aspects of the Stealth Ultra Pro. Whether adjusting social notification preferences, button mapping, dead zones, axis response modes, vibration intensity, audio enhancements, or for those that love to rave while gaming, RGB lighting, the app provides a user-friendly interface across Xbox consoles, PCs, iOS, and Android smartphones. Moreover, the app facilitates quick product updates, ensuring that the controller stays up-to-date with the latest features and improvements. The Stealth Ultra goes beyond traditional audio capabilities, enhancing any 3.5mm connected headset with Turtle Beach’s exclusive audio features. With four EQ presets and Superhuman Hearing, gamers can fine-tune their audio experience to gain a competitive edge. Additionally, the controller allows precise control over game and chat volume mix, mic monitoring, and more, directly accessible from the Command Display dashboard.
Function Over Everything
Aesthetics meet functionality with the intelligent RGB LED lighting system of the Stealth Ultra Pro Controller. Offering 16.8 million distinct colors and effects, users can personalize the controller to match their style. The RGB lighting system also serves practical purposes, enabling different color combinations for notification alerts and low battery warnings, ensuring that users stay informed about the controller’s status. I’m a sucker for dual rumble motors on any controller – it doesn’t hinder me in any way during competitive play. The rumble can be adjusted of course, but just like the RGB options, it also be fine-tuned via the Command Display dashboard to suit the specific requirements of different games. Depending on your play style, racer or shooter, its easily adjustable. Designed with longevity and comfort in mind, the Stealth Ultra features soft-touch finishes, long-lasting microswitches, and ergonomic grips. These premium materials contribute to the overall durability of the controller while ensuring a comfortable and satisfying grip during extended gaming sessions.
The inclusion of a charge-through case enhances the portability and convenience of the Stealth Ultra Pro Controller. The hardshell travel case provides storage for the controller, charge dock, cables, and additional thumbcaps. With a built-in slot for charging while in the case, gamers can keep their controller powered up even when on the move. The Stealth Ultra Pro Controller offers versatile connectivity options. With a wireless USB-A transmitter for Xbox and Windows PCs, Bluetooth® compatibility for Android devices, Windows PCs, and supported Smart TVs, and a wired USB-A connection for Xbox and Windows PCs, the controller ensures compatibility across various platforms.
The inclusion of a 3.5mm audio port for stereo audio output and microphone input enhances the controller’s versatility. This feature enables seamless integration with a variety of headsets, allowing users to enjoy their preferred audio setup without compromise.
Weighing in at 246g (0.54 lbs) and measuring 120 x 160 x 64.2 mm (4.72 x 6.30 x 2.53 inches), the Stealth Ultra Pro Controller strikes a balance between portability and functionality. The compact design ensures that the controller is comfortable to use while maintaining a form factor that accommodates a wide range of hand sizes.
REVIEW SCORE: 9/10
The Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra Pro Controller stands out as a formidable contender in the gaming controller market. Its blend of patented technologies, precision components, extensive customization options, and premium materials culminate in a device that caters to the discerning needs of gamers. Whether seeking unparalleled precision in gameplay, immersive audio experiences, or a personalized aesthetic, the Stealth Ultra Pro Controller delivers on multiple fronts, solidifying its position as a top-tier gaming accessory.
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