A lot has changed in the world of controllers since I discovered leverless controllers. In fact, I find myself sticking to stickless or full-button controllers in 2D games instead of using traditional battle sticks. I use the Razer Kitsune multiple times a week to play games on the Steam Deck or PS5. The Haute42 (aka COSMOX) is a new entrant into the arcade controller scene that basically changed the landscape for most people with its very low price and wide variety of options. A few months ago, I introduced the Haute42 T16 as an excellent stickless controller, as well as the Haute Board Mini, a keyboard-based arcade controller.
What is a leverless controller?
Before we go any further, if you’re not sure what a stickless controller is or why people like it, it’s a stickless controller that uses four buttons instead of the traditional arcade sticks to represent the four directions. The location and size of these buttons vary by controller and style, but the design is basically similar to using the following keyboard keys A (left) S (down) D (right) and the space bar (jump/up) to move. The remaining eight operating buttons are ABXY LB RB LT and RT. This covers the main buttons you’ll need when playing fighting games, shooters, or even retro games.
As for why some people prefer leverless over traditional arcade controllers, I really think it comes down to preference, but it also makes certain inputs easier. I found myself more comfortable playing games like Street Fighter 6 with a stickless controller, but I found that I preferred using the Hori sticks for games like Tekken 8. preference is more comfortable than anything else. Simply having the best controller isn’t enough if it’s uncomfortable or causes extra strain on your wrists.
Haute42 P12 Controller Features
Since I bought something from the Haute42 store on Amazon, I’ve bought a few more of their budget controllers, but the one that stands out to me the most is the Haute42 P12 controller I bought, despite its flaws. Not only is this the company’s first ABS-injected version of a stickless, or barless, controller, it’s also the first controller the company has released that feels like it’s for the average consumer, rather than one with a DIY element. I say this because it has properly labeled extra buttons, a tournament lock, better button placement above the main controller action and directional buttons, and even a better anti-slip solution.
So far, the out-of-the-box experience with the Haute42 P12 is much better than the company’s other controllers. Others have more flexibility and customization options, but I’ll get to that later in this feature. For the low asking price of $59.99 (usually) on Amazon, assuming you know which platforms you want to use the Haute42 P12 on, you can’t go wrong now.
One thing to note is that, as the name suggests, the P12 has 12 buttons, while the T16 has 16, allowing you to do more and make things like in Street Fighter 6 take into account the location options. Things like Drive Impact or Parry become easier. The P12 is a more traditional layout, which makes for a more compact size and price.
Like other Haute42 controllers, the P12 has a small screen that shows what mode it’s in, inputs, and more. This one fits the body particularly well, giving the entire controller a more refined feel than it does in the T16 controller.
Haute42 P12 Controller Compatibility
Haute42 P12 officially supports Windows, Steam Deck, Android, PS3, PS4 (with dongle attached), Nintendo Switch, MiSTer, iPadOS, Linux and Raspberry Pi, as shown on the official website. Not having native PS5 support is definitely the biggest drawback if you own a PS5, but this can be solved with dongles like Haute42’s own Booter 5 or the Brooks Wingman FGC I use.
Haute42 P12 Controller – What’s in the Box
Before you get to know what’s in the box, the box itself feels much better, more like a product you’d buy in a store rather than a blank box with a sticker on the top. The Haute42 P16 comes with the controller itself, USB cable, instruction manual, and accessories (an extra switch and a switch lever). The controller comes in a box and is protected with properly cut foam. I wasn’t happy with my existing USB-C cable, so I used one of those.
Haute42 P12 controller performance, buttons and feel
In the three months or so I’ve been using the Haute42 P12 controller, it’s worked perfectly. I didn’t initially realize how much of an impact the smaller size buttons would have. I still don’t know what size I prefer, but I understand why some people would be annoyed by the large buttons in the T16 controller. The P12 uses smaller sized buttons for everything except jumping, which as you can see in the photo is larger. The button caps have the same matte texture and you can easily replace them.
The Haute42 P12 controller comes with Crystal switches instead of the stock Kailh low profile red switches. The crystal transmits light better, but otherwise feels very similar to the red one. I’ve ordered the Wind Engine switches they sell to see how they feel and may cover these in a dedicated modding article in the future.
In recent testing, I’ve spent the majority of my time playing Guilty Gear Strive, following its latest update that added new Season Pass 4 skins, and revisiting the game after its last DLC. I use Strive by Brook dongle on my Steam Deck and PS5. After Guilty Gear Strive, I played some more Under Night In-Birth II Sys: Celes and Melty Blood. Everything is perfect.
Haute42 P12 Controller – Mods, Art, Switches and Keycaps
Speaking of replacing the button caps, you can also remove the included switch to use the Wind Engine or any other compatible switch. I recommend checking the official Haute42 Discord or Reddit for compatibility, since I haven’t changed mine yet except for one or two to test. I will be replacing all T16s soon though.
Haute42 P12 controller issue
My only real complaint, besides the fact that the controller is louder than I expected from other controllers with a plastic body, is that it’s not suitable for single-lap gaming. Still, it feels great to play on a desktop or desk. If you want to play with it on your lap, I recommend something like the IKEA OEJULF. I also use it when I’m working on my MacBook Air, and it’s a great complement to using the smaller stickless controller on my lap.
How to use the Haute42 P12 controller on PS5
To use the Haute42 P12 controller with PS5, you will need a dongle. I use a Brook Wingman FGC, but I’ll be testing Haute42’s own Booter 5 dongle when my order arrives. This dongle plugs into the expansion USB A slot on the right side of the P12 and is required when playing games on the PS5. Please note that this only allows you to play PS5 games supported by older versions of the controller, not all PS5 games. I played Riot Games’ 2XKO alpha test on PS5 using the P12 on my desk, and it ran flawlessly using my Brook dongle. I ended up sticking with the Razer Kitsune for lap gaming, but decided it would be perfect for tabletop gaming. I’m also looking forward to getting as many 2XKOs as possible.
If you’re wondering why I haven’t covered how to use these controllers with the Xbox Series these controllers.
If you do plan on purchasing a Haute42 controller for PS5, make sure you factor in the price of the adapter as well.
The Haute42 P12 Controller is the Best Budget Stickless Controller for Switch and Steam Deck
At less than $60, not many can compare to the Haute42 P12. Of course, it’s not perfect, and aside from a few issues, this would be the controller I would recommend to anyone who wants a small, lever-free version. I’m always tempted by the larger T16, or even the R16, but the P12 is excellent at the moment and if you’re curious about the leverageless world and want a budget entry point, consider the P12.
If you want to buy one, the Haute42 T16 controller can usually be purchased for under $60 (or so) from official Amazon sellers ( here , here , or here ). If you end up buying it or already own one, I’d love to know what you think of it. Let us know in the comments below and let us know if there are any specific controllers you’d like to check out.
It will help TouchArcade a little if you purchase the controllers or items listed and linked above through our links on Amazon.
