Logitech's $100 kit for the Xbox Adaptive Controller makes accessible gaming cheaper
The Logitech kit provides a full set of buttons, variable-actuation triggers and two mounting pads for less than Microsoft's accessories.
The kit includes big and small buttons and variable triggers.
The Microsoft Xbox Adaptive Controller is a pretty amazing leap forward for gamers with disabilities -- but it's pricey at $100 and it may not meet your mobility constraints and gaming preferences. Adding in the cost of a bunch of accessories, which are frequently about $50 each (£50, AU$100), can double or triple the total price and put it out of reach for a lot of gamers who might benefit from it. Logitech's new G Adaptive Gaming Kit is a cheaper option. It includes three small, three large and four light-touch buttons, two variable triggers, two mats you attach them to and more, all for $100 (roughly £80 or AU$150). That way you don't have to pay a bundle for trial and error with the accessories.
It's available now on Logitech's site or through Microsoft's online and brick-and-mortar locations and will work with any platform that the XBAC supports: Xbox One or PC via Bluetooth and wired connections. The triggers connect via the USB connections on the side of the hub, while the rest connect via the jacks on the back.
The veteran gaming-accessories maker worked with a variety of partners to develop the kit, including Microsoft, AbleGamers, Abilities Research Center at Mount Sinai and SpecialEffect. It includes clever touches, such as two 8x10 hook-and-loop pads, one rigid and one foldable to wrap around narrow objects, like a chair arm. They can also link to each other to create one large pad. This design allows you to position, arrange and rearrange the different controls, or simply pack up without having to remove them (the box accommodates storage that way). There are also places to attach standard and rewritable labels, screws and Velcro cable ties for organizing.
The kit includes the inputs, two pads you can attach them to, Velcro cable ties and rewritable labels. Plus, it all comes in easy-open packaging.
Logitech used its own mechanical switches for the buttons. In this case, they're the low-profile ones found in the G915 wireless keyboard with their 1.5mm actuation distance and 2.7mm travel. The big buttons include stabilizers to prevent them from rocking or failing to register when you hit them off-center.
At the moment, there's no option to buy any extra buttons or triggers separately if you, say, decide you want three big ones. But you'll be able to get replacements through Logitech's support.
Correction, Nov. 19 at 10:47 a.m. ET: Removed attribution of third-party accessories to Microsoft.