Haute42 S16 Review -

Finding the perfect arcade stick for your gaming setup can be a challenge. Haute42 S16 might just be what you need with its leverless design and customizable RGB lighting.

It’s compatible with many systems, including PC, PS3, PS4, Switch, and Steam Deck, making it a versatile choice.

The Haute42 S16 boasts ultra-low input latency, under 1ms, which ensures smooth and responsive gameplay.

The compact and portable design allows you to take it on the go, and the detachable USB Type-C cable makes it convenient.

Plus, the included accessories, such as anti-slip pads and extra button caps, add value to your purchase.

Check out Haute42 S16 on Amazon

Table of Contents

Discover the Haute42 S16 Leverless Arcade Stick

The S16 is noted for its responsive buttons, which many users appreciate for gaming.

It features RGB lighting that’s customizable in under ten minutes, making it look as good as it feels.

Setup isn’t too hard, and it comes with cool extras like replacement caps and an extra switch.

Pros:

Quick Input: Fast response times make gaming smooth.
Portable: Small and easy to carry.
Durable: Quality materials ensure it lasts.

Cons:

Size: Some find it too small.
Looks: The design isn’t for everyone.

If you’re looking for a compact, leverless option with solid features, the S16 might be a great pick for you.

Optimized for Multiple Platforms

You can use the Haute42 with a range of devices, making it very flexible.

It works with PS3, PS4, Switch, Steam Deck, Windows 10 and above, Raspberry Pi, Android, Linux, iPadOS, and macOS.

The performance remains consistent thanks to its low input latency, regardless of which platform you choose.

One downside though is setting it up for PS4 or PS5, which requires extra steps you can find on the official website.

If you switch between platforms often, this stick’s hot-swap support can be really useful, making it easy to change buttons without trouble.

Innovative <1ms Input Latency

When you’re gaming, even the smallest delay can mess you up. The Haute42 S16 shines with its super quick response time that’s under 1 millisecond.

This speed means that every button press gets instant action on-screen. As a result, you can react in the game almost immediately, giving you an edge over your opponents.

Pros:

Fast Responses: Makes your gameplay fast and smooth.
Reliable: No noticeable delays or missed actions.

Cons:

Room for Improvement: The device is small, which might be a bit uncomfortable for longer sessions.

This controller does its job well. The quick response time makes it worth considering if you’re serious about your gaming performance.

Designed for Portability

This arcade stick excels in being easy to carry around. Its slim design fits snugly in a backpack.

Plus, the detachable USB Type-C cable makes it simple to pack and go. If space is a concern, you’ll like how this compact design can be stored without hassle.

On the downside, smaller might mean it’s less comfortable for big hands during long gaming sessions. Yet, if you need something portable for gaming on various platforms, it’s a solid choice.

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Pros and Cons of Haute42 S16

Pros

Responsive buttons: The buttons are highly responsive with minimal input lag, making your gaming experience smooth and enjoyable. The open-source firmware is a nice touch, allowing for customization.

Low latency: With an input latency of less than 1ms, you can expect immediate response times, which is crucial for precision gaming.

Portable design: Its slim and compact design makes it easy to carry around. The detachable USB Type-C cable adds to its portability.

Additional features: Comes with DIY RGB setup and turbo functions. The package also includes useful accessories like a spare switch and button caps.

Cons

Small size: The compact design might be too small for some users, making it awkward to handle during intense gaming sessions.

Setup for PS4/PS5: Connecting to a PS4 or PS5 requires following detailed instructions on the official website. This might be a bit cumbersome for less tech-savvy users.

Aesthetics: Some users find its appearance less attractive, which may not suit everyone’s taste.

Limited reviews: While the product has received high ratings, it has been reviewed by a relatively small number of users, so the feedback pool is limited.

Real World Experience

Using the Haute42 S16 feels smooth and responsive. The buttons react quickly and are comfortable to use, making it great for long gaming sessions.

Setting up the custom RGB lighting is a breeze, taking only about 6 minutes. This adds a fun, personal touch to your gear.

The compact size is both a plus and a minus. It’s easy to carry but may feel a bit small for some users.

Features like replaceable caps for the start and select buttons add convenience. Additionally, the firmware is configurable, allowing you to fine-tune your setup.

Overall, if you want a leverless arcade stick with minimal input lag that works well across multiple platforms, this product delivers.

Check out Haute42 S13 on AliExpress

DIY Features for Customization

You’ll love the DIY options on the Haute42 S16. It’s easy to customize the RGB lighting to match your gaming setup. You can also tweak the turbo functions to suit your play style.

The hot swap support is great for quick switch-outs. If a button wears out or you just want a different feel, change it easily without tools. Plus, the anti-slip pads keep everything steady, so you won’t have to worry about it sliding around during a heated match.

A few users did mention that the setup for PS4/PS5 is a bit tricky, so you might need to refer to the manual or the official website. Still, the flexibility and control you get make the effort worth it.

Customer Reviews

The reviews for the Haute42 S16 Leverless Arcade Stick are quite positive. Many users mention that the buttons are responsive and comfortable. The setup, especially the RGB customization, is said to be fairly easy, taking only a few minutes.

Some noted that the small size can be a bit awkward, but it’s clear from the product description. Another highlight is the quality of life features like replacement caps for the start and select buttons, adding to the overall user experience.

While some found the design not very appealing, they still praised its high functionality and minimal input lag.

If you’re looking for a feature-rich, leverless arcade stick, this one seems to deliver.

Haute42 S16 Reddit Reviews

Here’s a detailed review by kusanagimotoko100 on Reddit:

“Pros: ideal for desktop playing, low profile buttons and keykaps I can even do slide techniques, highly customizable firmware and art, extra buttons layout I use them for lab settings mostly, triple usb connection, nice quality build.

Cons: very uncomfortable for lap playing, small hard buttons for start, select and home, they actually kinda hurt, I don’t trust the cheap USB-C cable to not break so I don’t unplug it ever.

Extra possible con: I don’t really know this until I had it for at least a year, but I’d like to know how long the microswitches inside are gonna last since I was used to sanwa buttons and I hit those pretty hard with zero issue, these ones feel a little bit weaker so I play gentler, but sometimes I just hit them hard, however I’ve had the S16 for two months and I’m very happy with it, no problems, I hope it’s durable enough.”

Another review from Reddit user SomeRandomDude821:

“It’s much smaller than I was expecting. I probably would have preferred a T or M, but if you like the small form, it’s been working well.”

And lastly, honest review from saltyphoks:

“I am using the S16 and I love it. The buttons are smaller and less spread apart than usual fightsticks which makes it a lot more comfortable for me. I built a normal fightstick first and couldn’t use it very well since the buttons are spread too much for me even tho I got quite big hands. The switches also feel nice imo and I am usually quite picky when it comes to switches. You can’t really use it on your lap tho, I am playing on my desk since I am playing on PC anyways.”

Click here to read more Haute42 S16 Reddit Reviews.

Conclusion

If you’re in the market for a leverless arcade stick, the Haute42 S16 is a solid pick. The buttons are not only responsive but also comfortable to use. Customizing the RGB is quick, and even beginners can handle it. The compact size might be tricky for some, but it’s clearly stated in the description.

The build quality is impressive for the price. The device’s input latency is minimal, making it great for serious gaming. It’s also compatible with multiple platforms, expanding its use.

On the downside, some may find its small size off-putting. But if you’re after a feature-rich, leverless arcade stick that won’t break the bank, the Haute42 S16 is worth considering.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the standout features of the Haute42 S16 leverless arcade stick?

The Haute42 S16 has several standout features that make it a great choice for gamers:

Ultra-low <1ms input latency: Great for responsive gameplay.
Customizable RGB lighting: Easy to set up and looks cool.
Hot swap support: Easily replace switches without soldering.
Turbo functions: Give you a performance boost when needed.
Compatibility: Works with various systems including PS4, PS5, PC, and more.

How does the Haute42 S16 perform on PS5 compared to PS4?

The Haute42 S16 performs seamlessly on both PS4 and PS5 once you follow the setup instructions found on the official website. Whether you’re gaming on older or newer consoles, you can expect smooth and responsive controls thanks to its high-quality components.

Can you share user experiences with the Haute42 S16 from online forums?

Users from online forums have generally shared positive experiences with the Haute42 S16:

Responsive and comfortable buttons: Many users highlighted the quality of the buttons and switches.
Customizable firmware: The open-source firmware has been a hit for those who like to tinker.
Compact size: Some find it convenient for portability, while others feel it’s a bit small.
Durable build: Users have praised its sturdy construction and long-lasting performance.

What are the differences between the Haute42 S16 and T16 arcade sticks?

When comparing the Haute42 S16 to the T16:

S16 has leverless design, while T16 might feature a traditional joystick.
S16 includes hot-swappable switches, making customization easier.
Both models offer low latency and are praised for good build quality, but the S16 is noted for its slim, portable design.

What button sizes does the Haute42 T16 use, and are they comfortable for extended play?

The Haute42 T16 usually uses smaller, low-profile buttons, which some users find comfortable for extended play. The buttons are praised for being quiet and responsive, making them a good choice for long gaming sessions.

In what ways does playing with an arcade stick like the Haute42 S16 enhance the gaming experience?

Using an arcade stick like the Haute42 S16 can enhance your gaming experience in several ways:

Improved accuracy: The leverless design provides precise inputs.
Faster response times: The ultra-low latency makes your actions more immediate.
Customization options: You can personalize your experience with RGB lighting and firmware options.
Comfort: The ergonomic layout can reduce hand strain over long periods.

For more information, you can check out the product page.

Want Your Own Custom Fightstick?

At JUANminiDIY, we specialize in building custom arcade sticks tailored to your gaming style and personality. We’ve crafted over 300 custom wooden arcade sticks for gamers around the world, and we’re passionate about bringing your dream arcade stick to life.

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 S16 Review