When talking about TIKITAKA's D-series D16, the first thing to mention is its proprietary nylon buttons. The premium nylon buttons included with the Deluxe version have a remarkably smooth feel while keeping your fingers from slipping. They retain their grip even when your hands are sweaty, and the same is true when they get wet with water. For players whose hands get sweaty during long matches, this is a one-of-a-kind strength that other companies' products do not offer.

All models are currently heavily discounted in the Amazon sale. Getting these nylon buttons and the extensive specifications for a price starting at 8,980 yen is an exceptional deal. There are also 3 switch variations. Panda switch V1 has an actuation point of 1.2mm and an actuation force of 30gf, and offers quiet operation, making it ideal as a first leverless controller. Panda switch V2 has an ultra-short-stroke design with an actuation point of 0.8mm, suited to those looking for an extra step up in speed. Kasumi switch has ultra-fast specifications with an actuation point of 0.5mm, meeting the needs of players who want to pursue the utmost response speed. All of them support hot-swapping, so you can change the switches later.

The frame version (D16B-F) is especially recommended. Its sides are enclosed by a frame, significantly increasing the rigidity of the entire chassis. It does not flex or feel unstable during operation, and together with the stable feel of the nylon buttons, this lets you focus on playing with confidence.

The slim, lightweight body is 12mm thick and weighs 900g, making it convenient to carry. It also features LED lighting and a screen, and there is almost nothing lacking in terms of functionality at this price range. With its one-of-a-kind nylon buttons, the D16 is a unit worth considering now while it is on sale.

The greatest appeal of the “VSNOVA N14” is its Gateron 霞軸 key switches. With remarkably short specifications—a 0.5mm actuation point and 1.5mm total travel—it delivers excellent operability. Its light touch triggers an immediate response, giving it a significant advantage in fighting games that demand precise inputs.

Many products generally come with lower-performance key switches as standard and take the position that “if you want better operability, buy and replace the switches separately.” Having high-performance switches installed from the start is a major strength.

The button layout is neither too wide nor too narrow; its standard, unfussy arrangement makes the design very easy to use. This is another factor that raises the evaluation of this model.

It is also well equipped with features such as large non-slip pads and mode switches on the controller itself. The controller uses thick acrylic, so it has almost none of the creaking or flex often found in slim leverless controllers. And yet, the PC version costs less than 1 ten-thousand yen—a truly remarkable level of value. If you are unsure which one to choose, we recommend starting with the “VSNOVA N14.”

It is also the only model with a PS5-compatible version priced below 15,000 yen. It is therefore a very strong option if you are looking for a PS5-compatible model.

Following the 1st-place model, 2nd place also goes to a VSNOVA, and there is no doubt that this model stands far above the rest. The greatest feature of the “VSNOVA N17SP” is its split layout, which lets you use both hands with ample space between them.

Traditional layouts place the buttons closer to the center so that the right hand can also press the jump button, inevitably making the space between the hands narrow and cramped. This model does not use the right hand to press jump; instead, it adds buttons that can be pressed by the right thumb, which has the fastest reaction speed. This idea brings a major change to how the controller feels to use.

Advantages of pressing jump with the right hand include “performing a Shoryuken quickly with a simplified command” and “inputting an air strike quickly,” but in practice the difference is only a few frames, and it is quite rare for a simplified command to be the reason an anti-air attack just barely makes it in time. For that small benefit, the traditional standard layout may not have been ideal, since it forced users into a cramped position and took away the freedom of the right thumb.

Seen in this light, the split layout adopted by the “N17SP” is an innovative step with the potential to become the mainstream layout for leverless controllers in the future. It is also a model we can strongly recommend to anyone who wants to get started with a leverless controller.

In addition, this model retains the advantages that were well received in the N14, including the highly responsive “霞軸” key switches, mode switching on the controller itself, a large anti-slip area, and excellent value. Its high level of completion, combining comfort and practicality, truly befits the name of a masterpiece.

The reason it is ranked 2nd is that standard layouts are still more common, and many users may find them easier to accept. However, in terms of how strongly we recommend it, this “N17SP” surpasses the N14. It may become the new standard for leverless controllers in the future.

Moving away from the conventional layered acrylic design, the adoption of a frame structure has greatly improved stability during use. The gentle slope on the near side is also designed to make it easy to rest your hands naturally.

The button layout has also been improved from previous Haute42 series models, evolving into a layout closer to that of typical leverless controllers. The button on the lower right, which was somewhat difficult to press before, has been moved to a more natural position, improving usability.

The standard “Wind Engine” key switches use POM material, and their very quiet keypress sound is appealing. However, because the stroke is somewhat long, players who prioritize usability or response speed are recommended to replace them with short-stroke switches.

The acrylic top panel is also designed to be easy to remove, allowing you to casually customize it with your own original design. LED light rings around the buttons are also included as decoration, adding a visual accent. However, these are purely a design element, and you should not expect them to have a clear function as button frames.

When sales first began, it was sold for around 15,000 yen, but the price has now settled, and it offers good value for money. It is the most recommendable model among Haute42 products.

A split-layout version called “C16-S” has also appeared, following the direction of the N17SP, but its layout is a compromise that does not fully capitalize on the benefits of a split layout, so it is not highly recommended. If choosing one, we recommend the conventional “C16”.

Overall, this is a highly refined product that delivers clear improvements in rigidity, usability, and customizability.

As 8BitDo's first leverless controller, this model stands out for its wireless connection. In particular, the 2.4GHz connection lets you play comfortably with no latency. However, the Bluetooth connection had noticeable latency. Its quality is also excellent, with a tempered-glass top, full-coverage anti-slip material, and metal tilt legs. Its price is also kept low despite the built-in battery.

The frame is made of plastic, and the top uses tempered glass that resists fingerprints. The full underside has anti-slip material, and the retractable tilt legs show that the design considers usability down to the details. The magnetic tilt legs in particular provide just the right amount of incline and are very easy to use.

On the other hand, the standard switches have significant drawbacks. They are a clicky type with a heavy 50gf actuation force, the keystroke sound is loud, and after pressing once, you have to apply force again, which feels quite unusual. Choosing clicky switches may be an idea that comes naturally to a manufacturer whose main products are gamepads, but for a leverless controller, it has to be called a poor choice. Of course, preferences vary, but not many people are likely to find these switches a good fit. The oval-shaped buttons are also in easy-to-reach positions and are very convenient, but springs at the edges make them even heavier and quite difficult to press.

However, this drawback can be overcome because the model supports hot-swapping. You can get the feel you prefer by replacing the switches with various Kailh low-profile switches. Replacing the switches is not merely recommended; it could be called essential. If you want a lighter feel, Panda switches V1 are an option; if you prefer a shallow actuation point, Panda switches V2 or Saker mini are candidates. Saker mini is slightly shorter, so personally, Panda switches V2 felt like the best balance.

Although replacing the switches is a prerequisite, this is a highly refined leverless controller that we can recommend.

This Kylinix product, from a brand in the same TIKITAKA group as VSNOVA, delivers exceptional value through extensive cost cutting. A major appeal is that it comes equipped with Gateron “霞軸” key switches by default; being able to enjoy a light touch and fast input at a low price is especially rare.

On the other hand, the low price comes with some concerns about quality. There are many reports that the function keys are prone to breaking, and the buttons are made of inexpensive ABS. The included accessories are also kept to a minimum, and the effects of cost reduction are apparent throughout.

However, its unique layout, with extra buttons above the movement keys that allow WASD input, is a feature you won't find elsewhere. It also includes an OLED screen and LED lighting despite being a cost-cutting model, so it does not feel lacking in features.

The price frequently fluctuates between ¥8,999 and ¥11,980, apparently rising and falling independently of Amazon sales. We recommend waiting for the price to drop instead of buying when it is high.

Overall, its exceptional value for under ¥9,000 is unmatched, making it an ideal choice for anyone trying a leverless controller for the first time.

As products from emerging Chinese manufacturers sweep the market, this controller drew high expectations as a product from a long-established Japanese manufacturer. Still, it is hard to deny that it feels somewhat disappointing.

The key switches installed by default have an actuation point of 1.1mm and a travel of 2.2mm, relatively short specifications for this price range. However, they inevitably look less impressive now that options with even shorter travel have appeared, such as the VSNOVA with 霞軸 installed as standard and newer-generation switches like Kailh's Saker Mini.

In addition, the lack of a button frame and, above all, the fact that the main buttons are not hot-swappable are significant drawbacks. Switches cannot be replaced except for expansion buttons 1–3, and if a switch fails, you need to contact the support desk where you purchased it, making maintenance inconvenient.

Leverless controllers are evolving very quickly, and it is hard to deny that this model has fallen one or two steps behind. If it had appeared a little sooner, it could have been introduced as a “recommended product”; it is a very unfortunate case.

Warranty and repair terms vary by sales region and place of purchase. The HPC-082 at the linked page is a model for sale in Japan, and the manufacturer states that it is sold only in Japan. HORI's repair service in Japan does not accept products purchased overseas or repair requests where the return destination is overseas. This does not mean that the 1-year free repair service for products sold in Japan is guaranteed as-is for orders shipped overseas. This does not limit rights to repair, replacement, return, refund, or other remedies under applicable law. It also has features such as a cable lock, key lock function, and headphone jack.

This is an option for people making their fighting game debut who want to choose a product from a Japanese manufacturer first. Check the sales region and compatible platforms for the model you are buying, as well as the warranty and support terms offered by the seller.

This unit features a rugged full-aluminum body and can withstand minor impacts without budging. Its buttons use “FeatherTap,” equipped with 霞軸, and their light, responsive operation is a key feature.

The buttons are hot-swappable, and their internal key switches can be replaced with Kailh and Gateron key switches. The interior is also approximately 40mm high, making the unit compatible with almost all commercially available buttons and giving it outstanding expandability compared with slim leverless controllers where only the key switches can be replaced. The flexibility to customize it to your preferences is a major appeal.

On the other hand, many issues around the screws have been reported, including durability concerns such as screw heads coming off. The bottom cover is secured with screws, so tools are essential when performing maintenance or replacing buttons. More models that open and close easily with magnets have appeared recently, so you may find this a little inconvenient.

Even so, it offers the distinctive appeal of a BOX-style controller that combines high rigidity with customizability, making it a strong option for players who prioritize sturdiness or want to pursue their own customizations. It is also worth noting that this unit offers outstanding value for money among BOX-style controllers, many of which are expensive.

The most unique feature of the TIKITAKA T16 is its nylon button caps. Their rough surface makes them less slippery even when your hands get sweaty, which is a major benefit. Even when deliberately wet, they retain almost all of their grip, making them very reassuring for players whose hands get sweaty. The acrylic is also high quality, and the edges are carefully beveled, so the overall quality is high.

Unfortunately, the key switches are a major weakness. The Kailh Choc V1 switches used as standard have an actuation force of 50gf, an actuation point of 1.5mm, and total travel of 3.0mm. By recent standards, they are quite heavy and have long travel. As a result, they may feel heavy during use and may not suit fast inputs.

Hot-swapping is supported, but because the keycap shape is a 2-pin type, replacements are limited to switches of the same Kailh Choc V1 type, leaving very few options.

Although this goes a little beyond an introduction to low-cost leverless controllers, TIKITAKA also sells a “Deluxe version” equipped with Gateron 霞軸 switches. If you are interested in nylon buttons, that may also be a good option.

For better or worse, this model could be called the culmination of the same manufacturer's slim leverless controllers. Previous models had an issue with sharp, hazardous acrylic edges that had not been chamfered, but the U16 resolves this shortcoming by adding a frame around the body.

However, the standard key switches (Kailh Choc V2 Crystal) have a long total travel of 3.2mm, which leaves the operating feel somewhat lacking. Fortunately, it supports hot-swapping, so replacing them with switches that have shorter travel, such as Kailh's Saker series or Shadow Hunting, can greatly improve the feel. If you plan to customize it this way, it is a very appealing option.

Another point to consider is the button layout. Haute42's leverless controllers have a rather unusual button layout. The buttons are arranged much wider than usual, which may feel a little too wide for people with smaller hands. Also, the additional button on the lower right is positioned somewhat too far up and to the right, making it hard to press quickly with your thumb, which is a drawback.

The addition of a button frame and resolution of the acrylic-edge issue have improved quality, but the key switches and button layout still need improvement.

This product was once a strong recommendation near the top of the rankings, but the situation has changed. The same manufacturer's later model, C16, has become less expensive, and an even higher-performing, lower-priced product called Kylinix T16 has also appeared. Models that surpass it in both performance and price have emerged, so there is less reason to choose it now.

If you frequently carry it and prioritize light weight above all else, it is a practical option. Otherwise, you will likely be more satisfied considering other models.

When you pick up the Guilekeys GM-16, the first thing you notice is how similar it is to the Haute42 C16. Its design is based on the C16, while its exterior looks like it incorporates Mad Catz's design. Copy products like these are not uncommon in China, but as more products seek to stand out through original button layouts and features, it is hard to evaluate a copy this direct.

The next problem is the quality of the copy. The Haute42 C16 revises the button placement that was a shortcoming of the previous model, moving the right-hand thumb buttons to positions that are easier to press. For some reason, however, the GM-16 does not incorporate the C16's improvements and instead copies the poor button layout of an older Haute42 product as it was. Also, the C16 is properly covered by a frame, improving rigidity, while the GM-16 just has acrylic fitted into slightly recessed areas, cutting costs. A cheaper product can be a valid choice if it is equivalent, but an inferior copy is another matter.

The only point worth recognizing is that it is equipped with the Kailh Saker Mini (actuation point 0.8mm, total travel 1.8mm, actuation force 37gf). These low-travel switches are suited to fast inputs in fighting games. However, since there is an alternative called VSNOVA that uses higher-performance key switches, there is little reason to choose this product for its switches either.

Guilekeys originally offered leverless controllers with the distinctive feature of having 22 buttons. Multi-button models have a niche but definite demand, and were valued as original products. For that reason, it is very disappointing that Guilekeys has suddenly turned to copy products with the GM-16.

In conclusion, we recommend that anyone considering the GM-16 simply buy the Haute42 C16. There is a price difference, but when you consider the improved button layout and the reliability of the Haute42 brand, the C16 will be the more satisfying choice.

The Haute42 B16 is an unusual keyboard-style product that stands apart from typical leverless controllers. For players who are accustomed to moving with WASD keys in PC games such as FPS titles, it may be a particularly interesting way to step into the world of leverless controllers.

The unit is small and lightweight, making it especially convenient to carry. Its key switches are compatible with MX switches, and they can be hot-swapped. This makes it enjoyable to customize the typing feel to your preference.

However, care is needed when replacing the key switches. Because it is designed to retain some of the typing feel of a keyboard while being used as a leverless controller, switching to keys with shorter travel can easily make the controls feel unnatural. If you prioritize response speed as a leverless controller or short-travel performance, it would be wiser to choose a model designed specifically for that purpose from the outset.

Although it is a highly distinctive model, this is a unit we can recommend to players who want to try a leverless controller with a keyboard-like feel.