Hot, new all-button controller: Keeb Brawler REVIEW! Hit Box move over!

[@deminator1472]

Shoutouts to Canadian fightstick community! Glad to see the coverage of a local company!!

[@HushMySweet1]

Yeah! Mavercade is doing some awesome things! Plus they got TheTrain up there, so Canada bringing the heat.

[@leglonglon]

@@HushMySweet1 Hello, I have a small question, do you know if the thumbs bar requires more actuation force than the other buttons. I like to have the same feeling under all my buttons. Otherwise, interesting design, thanks for the review.

[@HushMySweet1]

@@leglonglon It feels pretty similar. I can't tell an obvious difference if there is one.

[@leglonglon]

​@@HushMySweet1 Thanks a lot for your answer ! The "space bar" being lower compared to the traditional hitbox layout didn't bother you ?

[@HushMySweet1]

@@leglonglon Not really. Or not enough to notice anyway. I bounce around between a lot of different controllers though and typically can adapt pretty quickly to whatever I have in front of me.

[@ThePiratePan]

Just purchased this after watching this video and must say it is very comfortable. I appreciate your videos on so many fightsticks.

[@HushMySweet1]

Awesome! Glad it was of help to you and I'm glad you enjoyed the Keeb Brawler. I really appreciated its focus on ergonomics. Thanks for watching!

[@ghirockslog1736]

It's really cool that people are still looking to improve layouts. It didn't sound like much but knowing that it didn't bother you after playing is proof enough.

[@HushMySweet1]

Yeah, it's been a lot of fun so far! Thanks for taking the time to comment!

[@Bigb671]

This thing looks amazing. I used to play on a stickless controller that had extra distance between the movement and attack buttons. This was because it was more comfortable to keep my hands further apart, but this prevented me from using my right hand for the up button. This controller's wide up button pretty much fixes this issue for me. I'm gonna get one as soon as I can.

[@HushMySweet1]

It should be right up your alley! Thanks for watching/commenting!

[@sefflikejeff1917]

The best controller channel I've found

[@sefflikejeff1917]

(Also I'm working on a controller video and plan on bringing up your channel in it, just a heads up)

[@HushMySweet1]

🙏🙏🙏

[@HushMySweet1]

Awesome! Looking forward to it.

[@sefflikejeff1917]

@@HushMySweet1 Video is up, you are referenced around the 7 minute mark if yo don't feel like watching the whole thing

[@HushMySweet1]

@@sefflikejeff1917 Oh I definitely watched the whole thing. Very nice video and thank you for the channel shout-out!

[@argosfe7445]

Got mine recently. I love it so much, it's so comfortable.

[@HushMySweet1]

Ya know, I think that little extra bit of palm rest actually went a long way in making it more comfortable than a standard Flatbox. I'm glad you got yourself a controller you love. Which color case and caps did you go with?

[@argosfe7445]

@@HushMySweet1 I 100% agree. That extra space might not be much, but it truly makes all the difference for me. I've got black and blue caps with a (mainly) blue Chun Li artwork.

[@badplatano]

Loving your channel dude, been wanting to have my own arcade stick collection. You have great videos.

[@HushMySweet1]

Thanks so much! I really appreciate your comment!

[@normanchilton2569]

Just found your channel. I love your format. Subbed!

[@HushMySweet1]

I appreciate that!

[@moonwalk6803]

the artwork is amazing wow keep make more cool artowrk

[@HushMySweet1]

The concept was a lot of fun since I can't remember the last time I have seen a Primal Rage-themed build. Thanks for commenting/watching!

[@moonwalk6803]

@@HushMySweet1 make more cool art i will support you

[@droogeydroogey8950]

This looks so cool. I wish you could adjust the action buttons. I only use 6 action buttons so it would be cool if you could move the two elsewhere, sorta like what you did on rooflemonger's build. The rotated alignment looks really comfortable on the wrists though!

[@HushMySweet1]

Yeah, that would be slick if you could change the layout further. This one is definitely more solid than a lot of other offerings! Thanks for watching/commenting!

[@MorganAndrew-Morganson-nu5oc]

I normally play on pad, but that looks really nice. I'm tempted to give it a try.

[@HushMySweet1]

It's a cool little unit. I hope you enjoy it if you pick one up.

[@joeymaps]

New to the channel, loving it so far.

[@joeymaps]

just to piggy back off the big hands situation. I notice the spacing from the directional buttons and the action buttons are wider than the other hit boxes. THAT has my attention. Just received my first hitbox (micro XL). I think my hands would feel more comfortable not so scrunched up together.

[@HushMySweet1]

Thank you!

[@HushMySweet1]

@@joeymaps Yeah, I agree. The thought process behind the button spread seemed very logical and the hand/wrist placement felt very good and not overly crowded.

[@joeymaps]

@@HushMySweet1 I wish I came across this channel before I purchased the micro XL. All good though, I just bout my first lever this year and decided to try hitbox style as well.

[@joeymaps]

@@HushMySweet1 I want to try the button spread style. More keyboard posture it seems.

[@sinisterrain2079]

Welp, I just bought another brand as my first one, should have waited a bit for a local product. Ngl I was a bit scared about 3d printed pieces being charged that much. Glad to hear that it was great for you.

[@HushMySweet1]

It's pretty light, but I think that's just the way of these Micro-style all-button controllers. No issues with the 3d printed skeleton or button caps yet, so I'm hopeful it will all stand up to my mashing for years to come.

[@INFILTRATION85]

Just bought it🥰

[@HushMySweet1]

Nice! I think you will love it!

[@StephaneAraos]

Hi @INFILTRATION85, Whats your feeling so far on the more "texturized/rough" buttons on this controller. Can you double tap easy or there too much friction? Thx!

[@GamePassDad]

This thing looks amazing and the price is right, I think I am going to snag one soon!

[@HushMySweet1]

Right on!

[@jasonknobler5473]

I wish they sold an elongated button like this, but it was able to span across two 30mm buttons (to replace the the last two buttons of a traditional 8 button vewlix, into a single button)

[@HushMySweet1]

I agree, that would be very handy.

[@blaze81985]

This looks so good. I wonder if more console support is down the line.

[@HushMySweet1]

The Open Stick Project is a really cool little group of enthusiasts dedicated to making open source stuff. Some of these new boards/firmware appear to be faster than Brook and around half the cost! The PS4 was a recent addition, but the group plugs away in the background solving problems and making things better and better with each firmware update. Check out that other vid on my channel for more info about their work. Thanks for watching!

[@patchworkx7955]

I already ordered a snackbox micro, but I might get this one as a back up.

[@HushMySweet1]

Nice! It's a cool little unit.

[@Delfino_Enjoyer]

Would love this with an all 30mm layout like the Mpress. Or at least a shiokenstar layout.

[@IndexGD123]

im thinking of buying one of these. if i don't check the print & cut option, will i be able to be able to add artwork at home?

[@HushMySweet1]

I think as long as you plan ahead and get the added acrylic piece so it's set up to take art, you should be fine. Cutting can be tedious even with circle cutters, so I'd take advantage of the matched laser cuts just so it looked as professional as possible. I think it's only like an extra $12. But, if you'd rather do it yourself, it should work fine too just so long as you have the correct body height. Good luck! mavercade.com/en-us/products/keebbrawler-acrylic-top-panel Something of note: *Must be purchased with your KeebBrawler as the body will use a different height to compensate the added piece*

[@IndexGD123]

ok, thank you!@@HushMySweet1

[@FLYBOY611]

Always upvote quality fgc content

[@HushMySweet1]

Thanks for your kind words!

[@vthegrigori9137]

Vertigo, my beloved.

[@HushMySweet1]

YES! Chomp a human.

[@cattyg9495]

I keep seeing all of these lever less controllers and it's got me thinking about a Smash Box...

[@HushMySweet1]

But then you'll have to play Smash...

[@ryanwilliamson7657]

what are those purple extenders on the sides of that one snack box?

[@HushMySweet1]

"Footsies." Like 3d printed extensions. I did another quick video on them on this channel if you want to learn more.

[@jorgeFLuna]

Do you theme sticks on comisión? I’d like to make a theme for my Hitbox but I am not really creative enough.

[@HushMySweet1]

Not usually? I typically have an idea, then sketch it up and pass it on to an appropriate artist. I have been working a lot with "creepsandbabes" lately though and he always does a good job. Look him up on instagram if you'd like something in his style. Then, think about what color buttons and such will work well.

[@SSJ_EWGF]

Hey Iive in Ontario Markham, does this company have any local stores I can drop down to visit or is it purely online?

[@HushMySweet1]

I believe it's all still online right now. You could message the owner with the chat feature on his website to confirm that though.

[@sayken7121]

Wish I had seen this video two weeks ago. Was shopping for a first hitbox and this looks literally perfect for what I want! Sold out right now though. Are you still enjoying yours?

[@HushMySweet1]

Yeah, I don't have any complaints yet. I'm sure they will do a restock soon (I'm sure they are just slammed with the SF6 launch). Thanks for watching!

[@Anklegator]

Exactly what i want, but not enough buttons😔

[@HushMySweet1]

How many buttons is the right amount would you say?

[@Anklegator]

@@HushMySweet1 like extra 5 on left, 14 on the right side to future proof it Def wont be needed for everygame but its nice to have the option

[@oger_ROG]

​@@Anklegator so you want a keyboard almost?

[@MrYouzilyj621]

perhaps what you're looking for is Smash Box/Superslab.

[@miroaisgames8261]

Wonder if Brook Wingman FGC can convert this to be playable on PS5?

[@HushMySweet1]

I would assume so, but I haven't tested personally. I used a Brook SNES adapter at the end of the vid and things worked fine. So I'm gonna assume the Brook PS5 adapters also work. Hopefully will get to confirm that here firsthand soon. Thanks for watching!

[@dez15man]

How do you like this stick vs the snackbox micro? Only difference I'm really seeing is that the snackbox has more support.

[@HushMySweet1]

Here are the things the Keeb-Brawler has going for it. 1) Slightly bigger, 2) Slightly more ergonomic, 3) metal panels gives it a bit more heft and premium feel. 4) that big button is a nice feature and keeps the hands wider without an extra button so stays inside CPT rules, 5) GP2040CE firmware (but that can be a downside depending on your required systems...there is currently no PS5 offering). But the pros for Junk Food is that 1) Super small if that's the number one priority, 2) a bigger company behind it, 3) button feel and selection is better than the 3d printed Keeb offerings (though that element may be changing here in the future). 4) Brook firmware has more support. IDK. Both have good things going for them imo. I have Micro products as well, but I still do really enjoy the Keeb Brawler. Both good.

[@shade692003]

Can you comment on how sliding your finger across a button row feels for stuff like 720s or honda hands? The button surface looks like it has a fair amount of friction and the button side ridges looks kinda sharp too.

[@HushMySweet1]

That's a good question. The button caps are a bit rougher than something like a Sanwa, but I suppose you could replace them (but not the thumb button) with slicker, smoother ones from Junk Food Arcade. If you do a lot of sliding in your gameplay, then that might be the way to go. The texture isn't overly rough for normal play though imo.

[@marotoby]

It's realy a nice looking fightstick. but i am curious about the buttons caps. They are 3D printed right? Are they latched well to the switch. They have like 2 thin pegs. Are they sturdy enough?

[@HushMySweet1]

Yeah, I haven't had an issue yet. The Junk Food Micro units do the same thing (not 3d printed though), but that's just how these things attach. Thanks for watching!

[@MrCrackowacko]

This is a sick board yo!

[@pyuku19]

dont mind me just commenting for the algorithm

[@HushMySweet1]

Appreciate you taking the time!

[@sageen]

Noice

[@TheRuneEternal]

Do reply help the algorithm too 😂? Asking for a friend. 🙃

[@pyuku19]

@@TheRuneEternal yeah sure

[@Anklegator]

Do snaccbox micro keycaps fit on it?, say smooth plastic convex ones?

[@HushMySweet1]

The back of these ones look identical to the 3d-printed hexagonal ones from that switch video I did a while back. Those were aftermarket and swapped easily with the stock ones I had from JFA. So I'm inclined to say yes. Didn't test, but these extras look like they should work at a glance.

[@Anklegator]

The Answer Is Yes

[@HushMySweet1]

@@Anklegator Good to know! I would have guessed that, but I hate misinformation so I will sometimes waffle until I can test for myself for the 100% correct answer.

[@imohbalu]

@HushMySweet can you make above all-button controller with SOCD priority, neutral, last win ? or we only can choose one type of SOCD.

[@HushMySweet1]

It uses GP2040-CE firmware so you have some different options: Up Priority (a.k.a. Stickless), Neutral, and Second Input Priority.

[@imohbalu]

@@HushMySweet1 hi Sr, Neutral, and Second Input Priority..... can you please show us how to switch between them .... also can i request to add more buttons.... i need 2 more buttons as an extra L1 & L2 ... if you allow me i can make & create a picture and send you screen shot of my request to your site ?

[@HushMySweet1]

@@imohbalu Oh, I don't make these units. I just reviewed one here. Mavercade is the company you'll want to talk to, but they don't do custom layouts at this time. As for your SOCD modes, you have three options. You can hold [S2]+[A1]+[UP]= Up priority mode, or you can hold [S2]+[A1]+[LEFT]= Last input priority (last win), or you can hold [S2]+[A1]+[DOWN]= neutral mode. There's more information at GP2040-CE.info Good luck!

[@imohbalu]

@@HushMySweet1 i would really appreciated if you could make video on how to change SOCD modes from / neutral , last win , priority .. and test them on SFV or SF6 ?

[@HushMySweet1]

@@imohbalu I'll look into it for next week.

[@honuk435]

I don't know about that action button layout. it seems to be designed around resting your index finger on the lp button and your thumb on lk. I exclusively hit up with my right thumb, which mean my hands are never in that position.

[@HushMySweet1]

Yeah, that's probably a fair assessment. I've noticed there are a couple different ways people orient their hands when they play on these all-button controllers. Some use their index finger on the LK and middle on the LP, and some use their index finger on the LP and the thumb on the LK. How you prefer to orient your hands will definitely change where your natural thumb press would be.

[@kaz-abcd9067]

1:49 Did you take the Kailh Choc Blue (25g) or red (50g) for the sound test?

[@HushMySweet1]

Those were the red switches that came with it. I typically use dark yellows, so reds were closer to my ideal.

[@kaz-abcd9067]

@@HushMySweet1 are the blue ones supposed to be quieter?

[@HushMySweet1]

@@kaz-abcd9067 Not really. I think all the linear ones sound basically the same. Blues just require a bit less force to actuate. That works well for some people, but I kind of like to rest my fingers on mine (I'm used to Crown 202s and Seimitsu buttons, so there's a bit of feedback before a press) and red still works for that.

[@tripsmiley7913]

A little late to the party but I was wondering if there was any way I can use this on my Xbox Series console? A yes or no would be amazing and what else I would need. Great to see a Canadian company doing this and would love to support home.

[@HushMySweet1]

No. You'll need to invest in a Brook converter solution to get Xbox play. Good luck!

[@Saskaruto16]

I'm debating between a few of these controllers right now and this makes it harder. The wider jump button seems like a really great idea. IMO Mpress seems best overall, but most expensive. Snackbox, jabslab, etc, seem a bit too small. Hard to choose.

[@HushMySweet1]

They all have their own pros and cons. I need to do a thorough video comparing all the major types sometime. I need to grab an MPress first, but it's on my list at some point. Thanks for watching.

[@Saskaruto16]

@@HushMySweet1 I currently play on a hitbox layout on keyboard but I'm looking to switch to a leverless controller. From what I've seen: Hitbox seems to be the worst. Sanwa buttons are pretty much just worse than switches and require more expensive gamer fingers to swap out for. Mpress seems best in basically every category but most expensive. Has hotswaps, decreased button travel, 30mm buttons but still with 24mm spacing for superior button accuracy. Only negative for some may be that it used the vewlix layout which gives you less access to the top pinkie button than the modern favorite noir or noir esque style curve used by most "hitbox" style controllers. No one has reviewed the jabslab yet but it seems almost identical to this Keeb brawler in terms of the case. However it uses 30mm buttons the same as the Mpress, but with a more curved "hitbox" layout (which actually comes from the sm4sh B0xx which the people behind the jabslab designed with Hax). Unfortunately no hotswaps, however it is the cheapest and seems to have the best interface to easily swap any button or SOCD setting very easy through just a web browser. Keebs jump button seems superior to others and obviously allows better hand spacing for less strain on the shoulders. Also the second cheapest from what I've seen. Snack box is well reviewed but very small. Has unique concave keycaps some people like some people don't. Has hotswaps but only for the micro switches not full size switches. Supposedly indestructible but with how tiny it is forces you to have your legs very close together to sit it on your lap which isn't something I love the idea of, especially as I frequently like to sit cross legged. Snackbox XL is basically just bigger snackbox in a much worse case with no art capabilities or anything which aesthetically makes it the worst by far. Might as well just get the extensions for the snackbox instead IMO if you want artwork as the case is the only thing different anyway.

[@HushMySweet1]

@@Saskaruto16 Great assessment!

[@duckonquack6404]

Wouldn't say I have the biggest hands. But they're definitely not small, how does this feel compared to an original hitbox or a bigger hitbox like the wooden one you have? Really wanna buy this since this is actually a hitbox less than $200 but I'm not sure how this is gonna feel on my hands. I don't want it to be too small. Thanks!

[@HushMySweet1]

Hmmm. Have you played on a Micro at all? The KeebBrawler felt most similar to their XL version, but definitely has its own flavor with the layout. I think if you have larger hands and you want something similar to a Micro or XL, then this one will be great. If your hands are more substantial than I am picturing, you may want 30 mm buttons and need to go with a unit that's a bit bigger. Good luck with your search and I hope you find the best version for you.

[@duckonquack6404]

@@HushMySweet1 nah, never touched a hitbox before. Is there a version that is bigger and has 30mm buttons?

[@HushMySweet1]

@@duckonquack6404 Often people call that hitbox-style layout with 30 mm action buttons "shiokenstar." You can go fully custom to get exactly what you want (look at cases from Jony Fraze or AllFightsticks, etc.), but if you just want something off the shelf right now, I know that FightBox Arcade has a model called the F9 which is basically a shiokenstar layout. Good luck!

[@duckonquack6404]

@@HushMySweet1 ahh okay, i see! Thanks man! Really appreciate it!

[@duckonquack6404]

@@HushMySweet1 also forgot to mention, what consoles does the keeb brawler work with?

[@HoodieKayy]

how exactly did you set up the art work? did you use github or something?

[@HushMySweet1]

I just grabbed the .psd template file from Mavercade, applied my own art, and then sent it back. They cut it all before they sent.

[@thug0071984]

Commenting for algorithm also

[@HushMySweet1]

Who would win in a fight between Talon and Chaos in Primal Rage?! (Thanks for the comment!)

[@RuTo94]

These so popular they sell out quick LOL

[@HushMySweet1]

The SF6 debut has slammed all of the smaller fightstick shops. Many of them will restock once a week or so, and some offer email notifications when a product is back in. Definitely sign up for that if they offer it. Good luck in the hunt!

[@h2_]

It's not out yet, but I imagine this would probably work with the new Brook adapters for PS5 compatibility without needing to wait for the Open Stick Project to get there on their own, yea?

[@HushMySweet1]

I haven't tried PS5 Brook adapters firsthand (don't have one yet), but at the end of the vid, I used a Brook SNES adapter and it worked well. So I'm gonna assume it will work just fine. I know the OSP guys are working hard on trying to get playable PS5, but if that's your top priority, best go with the bird in your hand.

[@bunnybreaker]

Is there a wireless (Bluetooth or dongle based) hitbox type controller available for pc?

[@HushMySweet1]

I don't believe so. Like, there is a Brook Wireless PCB you could use in your own custom build, but I don't think there's an easy, over-the-counter solution for what you're after. Let me know if you find something though.

[@bunnybreaker]

@@HushMySweet1 Thanks for the tip on the wireless brook board. And yeah, I'll let you know if I find anything 👍🏽

[@outlawdg]

is there a way to mod this to be compatible with ps5?

[@HushMySweet1]

Mmm, I think your best bet right now is the Wingman converter. My hope is that one day the Open Stick Project crew will crack the PS5 puzzle and we'll just be able to update the firmware to get compatibility. Might be a ways off though.

[@outlawdg]

@@HushMySweet1 I did some research while I made that comment and yeah, the FGC converter does seem to be the best option rn, too bad it's sold out everywhere in my region 😭 I noticed that streetfighter 6 digital version on psn actually gives you both ps4 and ps5 versions so at least I'll be able to try mine that way until I get a hold of the adapter. Also love your videos btw keep it up 👍

[@kaz-abcd9067]

Sold out

[@HushMySweet1]

Dang. Try back again soon. Mavercade is still a smaller operation, so I think they have to throttle their releases so they don't overwhelmed in the build queue. Thanks for watching all the same!

[@5T0Px]

Is it possible to use it on ps5 and series x ? Dongle converter or something?

[@HushMySweet1]

Look into Brook Wingman products.

[@minimumcan]

They wouldn't happen to a southpaw version, would they?

[@HushMySweet1]

Not at this time, but maybe down the road if there is sufficient interest. Thanks for watching!

[@michaelkhanmusic]

Which controller is the best

[@HushMySweet1]

I'll try and do a definitive list at some point in the future, but I still need a few more controllers first. I want it to be pretty exhaustive.

[@syzoth5026]

Truly wish this controller was compatible with PS5 😢

[@HushMySweet1]

Fingers crossed they solve the PS5 compatibility issue and can update the firmware. That would be so great. (But yeah, right now, you'd have to use a Wingman converter)

[@helloion]

i hope they get a ps5 update in the future

[@HushMySweet1]

Me too!

[@Riot-ippo]

These look great but i need ps5 compatibility

[@HushMySweet1]

Yeah, right now you'd have to rely on a Brook wingman converter. But, I'm hopeful that one day the crew on the Open Stick Project will crack the PS5 compatibility issue, and then it would be just a matter of updating firmware. I have a lot of faith in those people. Thanks for watching!

[@Riot-ippo]

@@HushMySweet1 yeah if im shelling I'd dont wanna have to buy another brook lol there all sold out specialy right now i wanna make the switch to hit/ all button

[@HushMySweet1]

@@Riot-ippo I hear ya.

[@Riot-ippo]

@@HushMySweet1 heres hoping they add in brook options or tackle the ps5 issue

[@MeiRei_]

So does this work on xbox?

[@HushMySweet1]

No. 5 input modes: XInput, Nintendo Switch, PS4(requires key), PS3, and Keyboard. You can get it to play on Xbox with a Brook converter though.

[@Svyatozor]

Not being able to use it on ps5 is a deal breaker

[@HushMySweet1]

If you like the form factor, they are working on a passthrough edition for PS5 play. No idea on the ETA though.

[@armorgiraffe]

Cool another leverless controller thats sold out 😂😭

[@HushMySweet1]

Dang it! SF6 has these smaller fightstick makers swamped. I'm sure there will be open orders soon enough (and I believe Mavercade is working on another style of controller behind the scenes, so stay tuned for that). If you need something right now, then I put out a video walking you through the build process of another smaller leverless option called the Flatbox.

[@armorgiraffe]

@@HushMySweet1 indeed! Oh yeah that one, I believe I came across it when you dropped that vid, im lookin for something a tad bigger. Here is hoping the Razer Kitsune will launch soon and be decently stocked.. inshallah my friends.

[@superpotato657]

popopopopopopop

[@HushMySweet1]

Yes.

[@mcdonamw]

No Xbox support?

[@HushMySweet1]

It uses GP2040-CE firmware which is compatible with PC, PS3, PS4, Switch, Steam Deck, MiSTer, and Android. I think you'll have to look into a Brook Wingman Converter for Xbox play.