Ever since I purchased my first 8BitDo arcade stick, I have been fascinated by different sticks, controllers, etc. for arcade games, fighting games, shooters, retro games, etc. If you’ve read any of our fighting game reviews or shmup articles, you’ve probably seen the games I use on a daily basis, like my Hori SF6 Edition stick or the stickless controllers I own (like the Razer Kitsune and more recently the Haute42) Role model. I tried the Haute42 Board mini because it was very cheap and also a new type of controller to me that basically uses a full keyboard of keys. After using the controller across multiple platforms for a few weeks, I was excited to give it a try because it was eye-opening in many ways, but it’s not perfect.
Haute Board mini – the cheapest keyboard controller
So, what makes the Haute Board mini worth introducing? It’s the cheapest keyboard based controller and I’ve had a lot of fun using it in fighting games and shmups since I bought it. Instead of using the D-pad or joysticks in a traditional controller to move, the Haute Board mini moves via four keyboard keys (which act as WASD on the keyboard). In addition to movement, the four main buttons act as ABXY LB RB LT and RT. There are also secondary buttons for Home, Back, Start, Left Stick Press, Right Stick Press, and Turbo Boost.
Haute Board mini – what’s in the box
Well, the Haute Board mini doesn’t actually come in a box, but in a padded envelope. Includes Haute Board mini, a USB cable (A to C), accessories (LEOBOG Graywood V4 switches, keycap pullers, a switch puller, two 6mm button caps, six anti-slip pads) and a small Instruction Manual. Given the low asking price of this kit, I wasn’t expecting a great USB cable, but I’d recommend getting a good one like this one.
Premium Board Mini Compatibility
The Haute Board mini runs on Windows, Steam Deck, PS3, PS4, Raspberry Pi, Android, iOS (in my testing), and more, as stated on the official website. I mainly use it on my iPhone, iPad, Switch, and Steam Deck. I also tested it on a PS5 using an adapter that I’ll cover later.
Premium board mini performance and feel
Despite its lower asking price, the Haute Board mini feels very solid, and the main input buttons all feel great. It has a USB C port for plugging in other devices and a USB A expansion port. The Haute Board mini is a purely wired controller. I had no issues with input when using it to play games like Street Fighter 6, Tekken 8, G-Darius HD, Dariusburst, and more. When I first got the Haute Board mini, though, it did take me a few minutes to get used to it. I’ve since also used it to play some rhythm games without any issues.
Haute Board mini on iOS
When I purchased the Haute Board mini from Amazon, I didn’t see any mention of iOS, but I saw that the official website listed iPadOS keyboard mode compatibility. I can confirm that it does work in PS4 mode (when you plug in the controller, you can change modes by holding down a specific button listed on the back of the controller), and in the few games I’ve played that support the controller, Such as Streets of Rage 4 and Puyo Puyo popular puzzles.
Haute Board mini on Switch and Steam Deck
Haute Board mini connects perfectly with Switch and Steam Deck right out of the box. There’s nothing to do other than plug it in by holding down the correct button (shown on the back). On Switch, I use the Haute Board mini to play retro games, shooters, and fighting games. On the Steam Deck, in addition to these, I also use it for some older platformers. Of course, anything you control with an arcade stick will work fine here as long as you’re comfortable with the keys. It was difficult for me to do 360 and 720 degrees on the Haute Board mini.
Haute Board mini on PS5 and Xbox
To run Haute Board mini on PS5, you’ll need an additional adapter. I use the Brook Wingman FGC converter, but this only works with certain fighting games and shmups. It doesn’t work with many native PS5 games. The converter apparently doesn’t work with the PS5 version of Dragon Ball FighterZ either. However, it does work in games like Tekken 8, Street Fighter, Guilty Gear: Strive, and more. But on Xbox, the Brook converter I was using before didn’t work reliably because Microsoft kept pushing out updates to prevent it. I don’t recommend it for Xbox Series X.
Haute Board Mini Software and Features
Haute Board mini uses GP2040-CE, which is very easy to update, manage and customize (software-wise).The motherboard itself does not have
Premium Mini Board – Customized
Replacing the main buttons and switches on the Haute Board mini is very easy. If you want, you can even order a DIY kit from Haute42’s online store. Speaking of customization, I have two complaints about the Haute Board mini right now. The first is that it’s difficult to press or distinguish the secondary buttons without looking down while gaming. You might get used to this, but I wish one or two of them were larger than the others so I could press them easier. The second complaint is a minor one, but related to customization. Without high-quality sticker printing, it’s quite difficult to get your own artwork in this area. Haute42 has a template, but it’s not as easy as handling art for other controllers.
Haute Board mini – should you buy it?
As my first keyboard push-button arcade controller, the Haute Board mini was great. Aside from the two issues I mentioned above, I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend this if you’re curious about the keyboard style controller options available. It is affordable and extremely compatible. If you want to use it with a PlayStation, just consider purchasing an additional adapter.
If you want to buy the Haute Board Mini Keyboard Controller, you can buy it on Amazon for around $40. The new Haute Board mini plus aka B16 is also out, but I’ll save that for when my recently purchased controller arrives. 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.