Insanely Inexpensive Haute42 G16 and S16 Review and Comparison

Hey, everybody!
Here's my review and comparison of Haute42's G16 and S16 all-button controllers.
In this video, we cover specs, features, and the differences between the two models.
We also compare prices and touch on how expensive other brands can be.
Lastly, we explore who these controllers are for.
A huge thanks to Haute42 for sending these to me. They're fantastic, and I definitely want to check out more from this company in the near future.
If you'd like to check out their site, please use the link below:
haute42.com/

[@Shmuptopia]

The discounts mentioned are as of mid-February. Art-Insall video coming soon! I'll also say that I use these mainly for fighting games currently.

[@bestkoreanjesus]

I watched this a while ago. It came in. Great review. Loving it so far.

[@Shmuptopia]

Thanks for watching and enjoy the controller!

[@cedarandearthco]

Another great video. Thanks Dace!

[@Shmuptopia]

Thanks for watching, Cedar!

[@SirZechs77]

I've got my s16 not long ago and I'm loving it. I'd suggest the S over the G to anyone who prefers jumping with their middle finger since the button is placed in a more ergonomic spot.

[@Shmuptopia]

A great consideration! Thanks for that, and for checking this out!

[@similaritiesendhere]

The S16 has a nicer middle finger jump button but, you have to disable the second up button to be CPT legal anyways. The slightly off center "W" button isn't that big a deal when it's just another hot key. The trade off is that G16's have full-sized MX switches which means you have tons of upgrade and customization options for button feel. Only one other company makes low profile switches for models like the S or T (last I checked) and those limited options were only switch color options

[@Blobertbigly]

​@similaritiesendhere the switch color options represent different feel, for example, the m13/t13/s13 as well as their 16 button equivalent come with a red switch, which is a linear press, I myself ordered an m16 and am going to swap into it the robin switches, which will be clicks and should be similar to tbe mechanical keyboard I play on. So yes, these do have the ability to change your feel as well, from feather light to requiring very assertive. Very excited and curious about mine!

[@similaritiesendhere]

@@Blobertbigly Careful when buying replacement switches. The majority of the models use low profile switches. There are fewer switch options and you might have to buy them in bulk. Ironically, the smaller model (G-series) uses full-sized mx switches. That's the one to get if you have a favorite color/feel.

[@Haute42Gaming]

Super cool comparison！！ Thanks for doing this

[@Shmuptopia]

It was my pleasure!! Thanks for all of your help and for being super awesome!

[@IzInAZ]

Is there any place I can get detailed instructions on how to use the configurator? I got the T16 yesterday and I love the controller but the software has me completely stumped. I was able to turn off the extra jump button but I can't seem to figure out how to remap anything or make a working macro so I have four buttons that do nothing. I can't even get a custom LED theme going. I must be getting old because I used to be good at this stuff

[@Shmuptopia]

@@IzInAZ Thanks for reaching out. Your best best would be to jump into the Haute42 Discord server and check the resource section. There is bound to be information there or someone who will certainly be able to help out more directly.

[@Chinopolis]

Great video, I'd love to hear about your experiences in using a leverless controller too. And yes price is the main factor in things like this for me, I would never pay top dollar for something that I have no idea if I would like but at those prices I could totally see myself picking one up to try.

[@Shmuptopia]

Hey, Chino! Thanks for this. I'm aiming to put together a "my journey with leverless so far" style video in the near future. This project would include gameplay and controller usage. I was close to including this sort of thing for the review, though it was already taking a long time to get this project finished, so I scrapped that idea.

[@SpidersSTG]

Seeing two of these hit boxes side by side are triggering my trypophobia lol. Really appreciate the review! The price is nuts - I paid a lot of my Hitbox back in the day and your right, I wouldn’t want to lay that again for something similar. I’ll definitely be thinking trying this at price.. and the size! How do you like playing shmups on a leverless?

[@Shmuptopia]

Yeah, man - these controllers are bonkers. I actually mainly use these for fighting games - now that I’m easing into the genre a bit. I’m doing casual burst sessions in certain Shmups to start adjusting, though I feel there are some titles that are far too satisfying playing on stick to switch over (not that I necessarily want to anyway). But out of all the game types, I think Shmups demand the most in terms of controlling direction. Fighting games, in contrast are an absolute breeze and I felt comfortable a few days after originally starting.

[@PlayingKarrde]

I have a Snackbox Micro (one of the first runs with micro-usb) and ended up getting a T16 as a replacement. However, I think the move up to 30mm buttons (despite previously being a stick player) is making it hard for me to feel comfortable with it. Seeing the S16 is on sale still I decided to order one and see if it makes a difference. How does the size of the S16 compare with the Micro? iirc the Micro has a bit of space for palm rests (which is why I originally went with the T16) but the S16 looks even smaller? Is this a problem for you?

[@Shmuptopia]

Hey, there! I decided to do a short vid showing the two for you to see and to answer your question. Trust this helps! kzbin.info/www/bejne/qqOTlK1-qMmshbMsi=_vjE4FY7f-zOqB4H

[@Atomic-Punk]

I tried to buy both of 13s last week and they were sold out.. Ugh. I really want a micro sized stick with the WSAD like these but I can't tell which I'd prefer. I feel like the screen on the G pushed the "w" over a bit and it. might be uncomfortable

[@Shmuptopia]

They also just launched their B16 model. It’s like their Mini, except different. It’s tricky to gauge what will be best for you, but ideally you’ll be able to zero in on a solid choice.

[@jLootaveli]

If Tekken 8 and MK1 detect my PS4 Hori RAP4 as a legacy controller, will I still need to buy an adapter for any of the Haute models?

[@Shmuptopia]

This is a great question that I am unsure about. Since I'm only on Switch, I have no way of testing that or confirming one way or another. Trusting someone else can chime in with some helpful input!

[@boink5550]

Is there a way to use the key above the down direction as up? For shmups the hitbox layout of having up on the thumb kinda bothers me, but if you could use that button above as up it'd work fine as a sort of standard keyboard layout.

[@Shmuptopia]

Yes, that button is actually a secondary UP button, so you should be good!

[@boink5550]

@@Shmuptopia Thanks a bunch! Will be trying one soon then.

[@Shmuptopia]

Awesome! All the best with whichever one you zero in on!@@boink5550

[@boink5550]

@@Shmuptopia Thanks, just checked and they're on amazon in europe, that's another nice surprise. Probably going for the m13 since there's no S series or i'd pick that for the chunkier buttons. Seems like the perfect time to try this type of stick with the overall low pricing. Thanks once again!

[@Shmuptopia]

Epic stuff! I would love to check out the M series at some point. Enjoy!​@@boink5550

[@YO-jx6wj]

Sorry, I'd like to ask, my Haute42 G16 has encountered a slight issue. It functions normally, but the small screen won't turn on and there's no light. How can I resolve this issue?

[@Shmuptopia]

This definitely sounds like a question for the Haute42 team. I encourage you to contact them on Discord since that's the fastest way to get in touch.

[@kirbdini]

I've been wanting a lever less, especially now that Tekken is out. I'd still use stick for shmups though. I did spend a chunk on the victrix bfg controller since the buttons had an arcade pad swap out. Hoping it holds up better than the astro c40.

[@Shmuptopia]

I started dipping into fighting games not too long ago, and leverless was the way to go 100%. I couldn't really see myself using stick for fighting games. Thanks for watching!

[@kirbdini]

@@Shmuptopia they're not as hard as people make them out to be. What have you been playing? Playing stick felt more natural than pad. Though I still try pad occasionally.

[@Shmuptopia]

​@@kirbdiniYeah, stick for Shmups is definitely my go-to, more specifically the Hori Mini for Nintendo Switch since that thing is awesome! I have higher-end arcade sticks, yet find the Hori to be a masterpiece controller. I'll sometimes still use Dpad on the pro controller, though that is usually when I'm playing something more casually or less demanding.

[@scowsh]

Why Dace, whhhyyy?!?! I’m just getting to grips with stick, now this! I’ve never considered an all button controller… until now 😂 I shake my fist in your general direction (but also thanks for sharing, these look cool 😅 I wonder if they’re midi compatible 🤓)

[@Shmuptopia]

My use is almost exclusively for fighting games right now, though I'm adjusting to how they feel with certain Shmups, arcade platformers, etc. It's a neat experience and challenge, for sure! I haven't seen anyone mention any midi compatibility, and am intrigued to know now! Thanks for watching, brother!

[@user-gg4pc2qi5u]

After using the G13 and T16, I bought the M13 and settled on it. The g13 has the disadvantage of high button pressure. The corners are square so my palms hurt. The t16 is so big that it takes up a lot of desk space. The m series offers smooth usability thanks to its appropriate size and rounded bottom border. However, the M series has louder button noise than the T series. Less noise than the G series. I think the best pad for people with large hands is the T series. If you want to use it on your lap, the T series is your only choice. It's nice that there are 16 buttons so you can configure a lot of shortcuts, but I liked the 13 buttons because they're neat. If you are looking for an inexpensive model as a beginner, I think the S13 would be better than the G series. Having 16 buttons on a small pad can be a bit overwhelming.

[@Shmuptopia]

Hey, thanks for such an elaborate comment. I saw your previous comment and intended to respond shortly, though things were quite busy for me. I actually lean more toward the feeling and performance of the G series buttons. That said, I haven't been on the S16 nearly as much as the G16, so there's potential that I'd develop a different take on them after further use. Despite the larger size of the T16, I'd love to sample it at some point and intend to do so in the near future. I have the new P12 here, though haven't started sampling it yet since I'm finishing up some other reviews first - including their HauteBoard Mini and B16, QRD's Maestro S3, and The Summit by Granola Arcades.

[@TheFrenchy82]

I' ve seen leverless "joystick" before but never played with those... I'm worried about .... diagonal directions. It must pretty hard to get the knack in the beginning, no ??? I also never played shmups with a keyboard : I always use a joystick or a joypad to play...

[@Shmuptopia]

I mainly use these for fighting games, though I am adjusting to certain types of Shmups and platformers as well. I think Shmups will be the trickiest since movement is nowhere near as linear or spaced out in them compared to other games.

[@Albertredneck]

Can I swap G16 switches by Mx cherry switches?

[@Shmuptopia]

I’m not 100% certain. I suspect you could, though it’d be worth asking someone in the Haute42 Discord server to confirm.

[@MyOnlyFransAccount]

These look so neat, I wish there was footage of the controllers during gameplay. I remember you mentioning that you’re getting into Sam Sho, is that what you’re using these for? I’d love to know how your progress is so far!

[@Shmuptopia]

Hey, Fran! Always great having you pop by! I was back and forth about whether to include gameplay, and even had some recorded for this video. I ultimately decided against it since this video was already taking way too long to get out. That said, future reviews (not every single one, though) will include gameplay. Additionally, I was thinking about just doing a video by itself of just the performance/controllers in action. So, that might be in the works. No promises, though since there’s a ton of exciting things in store for everyone. Thanks for watching!

[@tobjord]

These Controllers S-Series T-Series G-Series are almost a steal how much you get for the money! I'd never spend 400€ for a Razer Kitsune... Instead i bought a T13 and a S16.

[@Shmuptopia]

Yeah, it's mind boggling how inexpensive these are! I still want to check out a T series at some point. I have the P12 here at home but haven't jumped on it yet since I want to finish up my mini and B16 double review video, which is almost done. How's the T13?

[@charliegriffin8738]

Can confirm there are other workarounds for getting around the ps5 8 minute limit without uploading those verification files. A mayflash magicboots, brooks wingman, or mayflash s ultimate all work!

[@Shmuptopia]

That's fantastic! Thanks for letting us know!

[@Rockinsilver]

Do you know if the may flash x still works for Xbox?

[@charliegriffin8738]

@Rockinsilver im on PS, but i believe the s ultimate covers ps, xbox, and switch IIRC

[@Shmuptopia]

@@charliegriffin8738Thanks for that!

[@FenixPajarito]

I have the S16 & I'm waiting for the G16, I also bought Akko Silver Pro V3 Switches for the G16 can't wait!! BTW I also purchased the Snack Box micro 2023 for $300 dollars glad I sold that thing cuz these S16 and G16 have better built quality than the Snack Box plus they look way better and a lot cheaper...

[@Shmuptopia]

I prefer the look and feel of these as well. That said, I'll keep my Micro and eventually get some art onto it. Who knows how often I'll use it after branching out into the Haute42 controllers (and soon others which I'll be sharing my thoughts on in the near future). Thanks for checking this out! Let me know how the Akko switches go!

[@Albertredneck]

Hey FenixPajarito, do you know which switches are compatible with the G16? Can I swap in some Mx Cherry's?

[@FenixPajarito]

@@Albertredneck That I'm not sure but I saw a video of a guy using Cherry MX switches with the G16 so I believe yes u can use Mx Cherry 🍒

[@chubby4853]

i got so lucky bro , something i was sad about before turned out to be a blessing. never know what life has in store. i was trying to buy one of the evo edition snack box micros , and they sold out , i was bummed but eventually i took a break from fighting games and figured id just buy it when i come back. now i get to save all this money and get a cooler looking item for way less money. i ended up buying the T G and mini and its still less than half the price of the snackbox lmfao!!! im gonna check out those switches you bought for the g16 and see if i swap mine too , how do they compare?

[@FenixPajarito]

@@chubby4853 They actuate faster than the stock ones. And I like them they're literally the same but with better build quality and faster Actuation Point.

[@plusonframes]

Cool video. I got an S16 as a result of watching your video, but it's unfortunate you don't mention the S16's back having six protruding screws which cause the controller to slip around on a table as a result of it lacking any sort of rubber feet or grip like a keyboard would have. The controller comes with these 8 circular pieces of rubber with adhesive on them which resemble feet, but the backside of the controller has no obvious place where they go. Placing them on-top of the screws does not stay adhered, and placing them in a different place doesn't offer traction because of the screws protruding past those pieces of rubber. I'm still determining to refund the S16 or come up with some method of reducing the slip.

[@Shmuptopia]

Hey there, thanks for checking this out. You bring to my attention a great observation I wouldn't have noticed since I've only ever played with the controller on my lap. I'll be sure to start checking that on future controllers. I'd imagine there are various rubber feet options elsewhere with different sizes or heights. It would require an additional purchase, yet would be a simple solution. I'm intrigued to know if Haute42 can expand their rubber feet selection as that appears to be an oversight on their part given the controller's design and screw choice. Or they alter the plexi layer so that the screws are not exposed.

[@plusonframes]

@@Shmuptopia I was able to get the rubber feet that come with the controller to work but I had to put them in sort of a jank location diagonal of the screws. Not that big of a deal. There are other videos on YT showing where people put their rubber feet in-case anyone has this same issue. But yeah, thanks again for the reply.

[@Shmuptopia]

Glad you could sort something out! Definitely share that link, so I can add information to the details and or a pinned comment.​@@plusonframes

[@talkerbot_tjj]

Thanks for taking a look at the Haute controllers, Dace. I am playing my Shmups, Platformers, Fighting games, etc. on my HitBox Arcade controller whenever I can. It’s a great controller and I have another custom HitBox as well. Nevertheless your video sparked an interest for the Haute S series. The price is what makes this thing super attractive. I also like the additional buttons and the display. The compatability with a lot of system is great too. The „Lightshow“ is a nice touch, but nothing I am crazy about. Great to hear that the build quality is good. What concerns me I the size. I love that it’s compact. The problem is, that I am a tall guy with big hands. No idea if my hands would cramp while playing. Moreover it might be a little hard to play it on the lap. Still torn whether to order one or not. Nevertheless, thank you very much for this awesome and detailed showcase.

[@Shmuptopia]

Hey, Timo! It's my pleasure. Thanks for watching. Yeah, you might not be as interested if your hands are much larger and if you know you're into bigger controllers on your lap. You could do a mock-up with a small piece of cardboard cut to size and draw the button holes to get a feel for how cramped things may or may not feel. Let me know if you end up getting one, though!

[@talkerbot_tjj]

@@Shmuptopia I will keep the cardboard advice in mind. It’s a great idea 💡

[@jdrukman]

If your hands are that big you might want to check out the T16 which is basically the same as S16 but in a much larger footprint with larger buttons. There’s also an M model which is in between sizes but it’s metal not acrylic, buttons are black, not transparent.

[@Shmuptopia]

@@jdrukmanI’d love to eventually sample the M16 and they have the super tiny keyboard style one that looks really neat. The T series would be cool in terms of size comparison.

[@talkerbot_tjj]

@@jdrukman Thanks for the heads up! I saw the bigger variant , but didn’t realize, that the metal variant is an in between size. If I find the time and I will compare all the sizes to see what fits.

[@user-db3wf3vr6b]

What does the turbo button do?

[@Shmuptopia]

Great question! So, in general, Turbo buttons can be switched on and when active will make it so that each press of a certain button will act as though multiple presses are happening. For example, the fire button might normally need to be tapped once per shot, but with Turbo, a single press might be equivalent to ten or fifteen. Trust this helps.

[@user-db3wf3vr6b]

@@Shmuptopia oooooh so for like if I wanna do electrics with Kazuya I can tap two buttons and instead of three!? Or maybe make a button that does wavedashes!? How do I set it please tell me!?

[@Shmuptopia]

I'd imagine the effect would vary depending on the game, so it would be a matter of experimenting.@@user-db3wf3vr6b

[@omarbulayhid8554]

@@user-db3wf3vr6b you tryina turbo-electric people god dammit

[@McMeatBag]

I think the big names are going to be very worried about Haute. Their products don't make sense in comparison now.

[@Shmuptopia]

Thanks for jumping in! Yeah, it'll be interesting to see what changes some of the bigger names make - if any.

[@drjones694]

nice review i pinged their email I'm hoping to get in contact with the Haute team to do a product review as well nice