Haute42 R16 Review -

If you’re looking for a leverless arcade stick, the Haute42 R16 could be a great choice. It’s lightweight and thin, making it easy to carry around.

This controller is compatible with a variety of systems like Windows 10, Steam Deck, PS3, PS4 (adapter needed), and Switch.

The buttons are customizable, and the acrylic panels let you personalize it even more.

Some people found the instructions a bit lacking, but the overall ease of use makes up for it.

The buttons have a nice feel and the device is very responsive.

If you like to tweak your setup, the hot-swappable keys and customizable RGB lighting might be appealing.

The R16 seems well-built and looks like a solid addition to any gaming setup.

Check out Haute42 R16 on Amazon

Table of Contents

Leverless Design With Rims

The leverless design offers a different way to play, making it easier to execute quick and precise movements. The addition of rims around the buttons makes them look sleek and adds a little extra flair to the overall design. It’s a win for aesthetics and usability.

On the flip side, if you’re used to using a traditional stick, adjusting to a leverless style might take some time. The pinky finger M2 button can be handy, but it also might feel awkward at first.

The buttons are customizable, though, so you can find the setup that works best for you.

In short, this leverless style with rims is a fresh take on arcade sticks. It aims to be user-friendly and stylish at the same time.

System Compatibility and Ease of Use

Connecting the Haute42 R16 to your system is pretty straightforward. It supports PC, PS4, and Switch, so you won’t have to worry about compatibility issues with most popular gaming platforms.

One great thing is that it comes ready to use right out of the box. You’ll appreciate the plug-and-play feature which makes setup hassle-free. No need to tinker with settings for hours.

However, do note that some users have mentioned needing minor adjustments for optimal use with specific games or systems.

The leverless design might take a bit of getting used to if you’re switching from a traditional joystick. But once you get the hang of it, many find it offers more precision in gameplay.

Hot swap and SOCD features add to the convenience, making it a joy to use for extended gaming sessions.

DIY Customization with Premium Acrylic Panels

One cool thing about the Haute42 R16 is the removable acrylic panel. This panel isn’t just for looks; it’s perfect for anyone who loves customizing their gear.

You can swap the panel out and put in your own design, which makes your arcade stick truly unique. The acrylic panel also has good light transmittance.

This means the custom RGB lighting can shine through nicely, giving your controller a slick look. It’s like having a piece of art that you can game with.

On the downside, the panel might scratch easily if you’re not careful. So, consider that if durability is a top priority for you.

But if customizing and showing off your style is important, the Haute42 R16’s acrylic panel is a standout feature.

Custom RGB and Hot-Swappable Buttons

The Haute42 R16 comes with custom RGB lighting that lets you set up your own light show. You can switch out the mechanical keys without needing any special tools.

Pros:

Easy to customize lighting for a better gaming experience.
Hot-swappable buttons make changing keys a breeze.

Cons:

Hot-swapping might be tricky for beginners.
RGB lighting can drain more power.

You’ll find the custom RGB and hot-swappable buttons helpful if you want a personalized and easily adjustable controller.

Ultra Low Latency and Firmware Support

When it comes to gaming, you want the fastest response times. The Haute42 R16 delivers on that front with ultra low latency, making your inputs near-instantaneous. You won’t feel any lag, which is critical for competitive play.

On the firmware side, it’s pretty solid. The developers keep it updated, so you don’t have to worry about it becoming obsolete.

You can also hot swap the switches, which adds to its longevity. If issues arise, the support community and the manufacturer are known for being helpful.

Pros:

Ultra low latency for quick responses
Regular firmware updates
Hot-swappable switches

Cons:

Firmware updates require some tech know-how

Overall, you get a responsive and future-proof controller, ideal for serious gamers.

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Pros and Cons of Haute42 R16

Pros

The device is quite light and thin, which makes it convenient to use on your lap or desk. It features an improved button layout, letting you customize buttons to fit your hand placement.

Another big win is the hot-swappable tech – change out your mechanical keys without hassle.

The RGB lighting customization is cool and adds a fun, immersive touch to your gaming.

You can use it on multiple platforms like PC, Steam Deck, and Switch. It’s also compatible with PS4 and PS5 (though you may need an adapter).

Most reviewers seem impressed with its performance and build quality, with positive mentions of its responsiveness and button feel.

Cons

Some users have mentioned that the instructions are pretty basic, which might make initial setup a bit tricky.

Another point to consider is that while it’s compatible with many systems, making it work with certain consoles like the PS4 or PS5 might require an extra adapter.

Switching to a leverless control might take time to get used to, especially for those who are more familiar with traditional arcade sticks.

Authentic Customer Reviews

People who bought the Haute42 R16 are pretty happy with their purchase. They love how it feels solid and the buttons are satisfying to press.

Some folks mentioned that it was easy to set up and use right away, especially on a PC or Steam Deck. They appreciate the customization options too.

A few users said they were used to gamepads but found the transition to this new controller smooth. Though, some pointed out that the instructions are a bit minimalistic, so you might need to figure out some things by yourself.

Interestingly, a reviewer mentioned buying it with another model for the thinner acrylic, and it met their expectations.

If you’re considering the R16, the general vibe from other users is positive. Just be ready to dig into some minor troubleshooting if needed.

Haute42 R16 Reddit Reviews

Here’s a detailed review by el_teqck on Reddit:

“Hands down, the R16. The placement of the button on the far left allows a button for every finger at all times. AND, it has the new clear, CRYSTAL, switches that allow more light to shine through and feel slightly better than any other controller I’ve used thus far.”

Another review from Reddit user Vorg444:

“I personally own a R16 because it’s bigger, and the custom artwork Is easy to add and remove.”

And lastly, honest review from MentalOriental:

“The R16 is easy to mod and nice to look at when you’ve set it up the way you like. It’s also cheaper and with those savings you can get the Booter 5 dongle (if you play on PS5) and even pay someone to design and cut your art for you.”

Click here to read more Haute42 R16 Reddit Reviews.

Conclusion

The R16 Arcade Stick delivers on quality and performance. It’s a solid choice if you enjoy customizable controllers with responsive buttons.

Some users found the instructions to be lacking, but many agreed that it’s easy to set up and use. Its compatibility with multiple platforms like PC, PS4, and Switch adds flexibility.

If you’re into arcade-style gaming and want a leverless option, the R16 can be a good fit for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the features and performance characteristics of the Haute42 R16 arcade stick?

The Haute42 R16 arcade stick is designed to be thinner and lighter, with rims added to the buttons for a more delicate and special look. The M2 button has been moved to the pinky finger of the left hand, allowing you to customize its function easily.

It has a high-quality removable acrylic panel, which enhances both the appearance and your overall gaming experience. The controller supports hot-swappable technology, so you can replace mechanical keys without the need for soldering.

It also features customizable RGB lighting and ultra-low latency, making it responsive and immersive to use.

How does the Haute42 R16 arcade stick compare to traditional lever-based controllers?

The main difference between the Haute42 R16 and traditional lever-based controllers is the leverless design. This means there is no joystick; instead, you use buttons for directional inputs.

This can make movements more precise and less physically taxing during long gaming sessions. The customization options and low-profile switches also set it apart.

If you’re used to a lever, it might take some time to adjust, but many users find leverless controllers to be more intuitive after a while.

Is the Haute42 R16 compatible with PlayStation 5?

The Haute42 R16 is not directly compatible with the PlayStation 5. However, it can be connected using adapter solutions. This allows you to use the controller on your PS5, although you may need to purchase additional hardware for it to work seamlessly.

Where can I find an art template for customizing my Haute42 R16 arcade stick?

You can find art templates for customizing your Haute42 R16 arcade stick on the official ONEED website. The removable acrylic panels are suitable for custom art, so you can create a unique design that fits your style. Look under the support or resources section for templates and additional customization options.

How does the build quality and durability of the Haute42 R16 measure up in long-term use?

The build quality of the Haute42 R16 is often praised for being robust. The high-quality acrylic panels, durable buttons, and solid construction make it a reliable choice for long-term use.

Users have mentioned that it maintains its responsiveness and performance even after extended periods of play, which indicates good durability.

What are the main differences between the Haute42 R16 and the Haute42 M16 arcade sticks?

The Haute42 R16 and the Haute42 M16 differ mainly in their design and features. The Haute42 R16 is thinner and lighter, with a focus on portability and ease of use. It includes customizable buttons and RGB lighting for an enhanced gameplay experience.

Meanwhile, the M16 might have a different set of features and design language. If weight and thinness are crucial factors for you, the R16 might be the better option.

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To see some of our previous builds, check out our Facebook page and YouTube channel. Message us on Facebook to inquire about our products and services, or visit our Lazada shop for parts and accessories.

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Haute42 R16 Review