Haute42 C16: Best Haute42 Yet???

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A New Family In The Haute42 Line Up

This latest addition to the Haute42 lineup brings a fresh take on design and functionality, making it a compelling choice for players seeking both top-tier performance and unparalleled customization right out of the box. Playable in 2 styles Low Profile Flat with the artwork top installed or Rings with the artwork top removed.

The Haute42 C16 arrives with upgraded packaging, featuring a holographic logo and a design that feels ready to be picked off a store shelf. Inside, you’ll discover not just the controller, but a collection of accessories including a braided USB-C to USB cable, extra Wind Engine switches, and a switch puller. A standout feature is the innovative artwork system: the pad comes with five pieces of custom artwork, with two blank sheets allowing you to create your own designs using a pen or marker. Changing the artwork is remarkably easy; simply press a button on the bottom, slide your finger to lift the magnetic top, lay in your desired artwork, and the magnets will hold it securely in place. The C16 boasts a metal base with a plastic body and an acrylic top, striking a balance that makes it feel sturdy yet very light in hand, without any creaking when flexed.

Living with the C16 is great for anyone that loves the S or the R today. When plugged in, a light bar illuminates across the top, complemented by vibrant light rings around the buttons that sit flush with the base. The ability to personalize your pad doesn’t stop at the included artwork; you can easily use card stock or clear gloss paper for your custom prints. For those who prefer a solid look, additional aluminum magnetic tops are available for purchase. Removing key caps and switches remains simple, as the rings are securely snapped into the base and do not interfere with component removal. While the home row buttons are slightly clicky and the wrist rest is shorter compared to some other models like the T, M Ultra or R, these minor points are quickly unnoticeable after extended play. Playable in 2 styles flat with the artwork top installed or Rings with the artwork top removed.

The C16 integrates seamlessly into your gaming setup with its multiple connectivity options. It supports Xinput mode for general PC use, and for console compatibility, it can be set to PlayStation or Xbox mode, utilizing its pass-through port with various booter devices or adapters such as the Brooks Wingman FGC or MayFlash Magic Boot for PS5 and Xbox, respectively. The pad comes equipped with Wind Engine switches, and adding O-rings under the key caps can enhance responsiveness, resulting in a snappy and quiet playing experience. When comparing it to other Haute42 models, the C16 fits well within the “S+ family” due to its smaller buttons and tighter spacing, offering a more spacious alternative to the compact S, or a R an “S+ with rings” for fans of that style.

The Haute42 C16 is an exceptional fighting game controller that truly delivers on its promise of customization and robust performance. Its metal base and plastic frame provide a durable yet lightweight feel, making it comfortable for long gaming sessions whether on your desk or lap. The secure USB-C port ensures your connection is stable, with an added usb C port as a backup, and the innovative magnetic push button artwork system, combined with included custom and blank sheets, allows for a really nice experience. With dedicated tournament and light switches, pre-installed grip tape, and a layout that appeals to fans of the compact S series seeking a larger footprint and slightly wider S+ spacing. The Haute42 C16 stands out as a highly recommended option that covers a lot of bases for fighting game enthusiasts.

Haute42 C16 Key Specs & Features:

  • New C Family a S+ Family Layout & Spacing: Designed with smaller buttons and tighter spacing but slightly wider given the new added color light rings, akin to the Haute42 S, but provides a larger footprint suitable for both desk and lap play.
  • Magnetic Customizable Artwork System: Features a unique push-button magnetic lid for easy swapping of included custom artwork or your own printed designs, offering a distinct advantage over pads requiring vinyl wraps.
  • Playable in 2 styles flat with the artwork top installed or Rings with the artwork top removed.
  • Durable & Lightweight Build: Constructed with a metal base, plastic body, and acrylic top, ensuring both sturdiness and a remarkably light feel in hand.
  • Pre-installed Grip Tape: Located on the bottom of the pad to provide stability and comfort during intense gaming sessions on any surface.
  • Secure & Extra USB-C Ports: Includes a braided cable and a top-mounted USB-C port that securely locks in place, along with a backup regular USB-C port on the side.
  • Enhanced Lighting: Boasts new base lights and vibrant light rings around the buttons, which sit flush with the base for a sleek appearance.
  • Tournament-Ready Features: Equipped with a dedicated tournament switch to disable specific buttons, helping players avoid disqualification in competitive settings.
  • Easy Switch & Keycap Removal: Despite the innovative ring design, both keycaps and switches are simple to remove and replace, allowing for quick maintenance or modification.
  • Broad Console Compatibility: Connects via Xinput mode and supports PlayStation or Xbox modes, with a pass-through port for various booter devices or adapters like Brooks Wingman or MayFlash Magic Boot for console play.
  • Optimized for Snappy Play: Comes standard with Wind Engine switches, which can be further enhanced for a “snappy” and quiet feel by adding O-rings under the keycaps.


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