M-Ultra Gen 2 2025
The M-Ultra Gen 2 pretty much nails everything its going for. I should be in love with it but I’m not. And I can’t figure out why.
At A Glance
Pros & Cons:
Pros:
- Big, Bold and Bulky.
- Comes with Shadow Hunting switches
- 2 USB-C ports; 1 with Cable lock
- Has the ‘Daigo Layout’ of the R16
- Bigger Screen, LED and Tourney mode toggles.
- Modern Ringed LEDs from the C-Series
Cons:
- I don’t love the coarse finish.
- Some users find the racing stripes tacky.
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
Dimensions |
30cm X 20cm |
Buttons |
16 ( 23.5 mm x 15, 25.8mm x 1 ) |
USB-Ports |
2 x USB-C, 1x USB-A (Passthrough) |
Artwork Friendly |
No (Vinyl/Sticker Only) |
Material |
Full Body Aluminium |
Switches |
Shadow Hunting |
Price |
₹10000 (Approx.) |
Variations:
A Fusion of the R, S, and C Series
The M-Ultra Gen 1 was released as a follow-up to the M-Plus. The M-Plus was essentially a metal version of the T-Series, featuring sixteen 25.8 mm buttons. The M-Ultra Gen 1, on the other hand, was a larger metal controller based on the S-Series layout and included the LED strip also found on the M-Lite series.
I did not purchase the M-Ultra Gen 1, so my knowledge is based on user feedback. At the time, it was widely regarded as the best Haute42 controller in terms of build quality. It retained the M-Lite LED strip and introduced tournament lock and RGB toggle buttons, allowing players to independently disable the RGB lighting and menu buttons. It also brought back the dual USB-C ports seen on the S and G series, a feature that effectively became a standard moving forward. The M-Ultra Gen 1 was later followed by the modular X-Series and the C-Series, both of which also featured dual USB-C ports.
In 2025, Haute42 updated the controller to the M-Ultra Gen 2. The Gen 2 comes in two colors, blue and black. It retains the S-Series sized button caps from Gen 1, but one shortcut button has been moved to the left of the movement buttons, similar to the R-Series. This makes it the only metal controller with the Daigo layout. It also keeps the Gen 1 toggle buttons, while upgrading the menu buttons to be larger and higher quality.
The Gen 2 has a wide body with a sloped bottom, offering ample space for wrist rests. The surface now uses a coarse texture instead of the smooth finish found on the M-Lite. Haute42 says this helps prevent fingerprints and sweat stains, which were a common issue with the Gen 1. Personally, I still prefer the smooth finish of the M-Lite.
The standout feature of the M-Ultra Gen 2 is its cable lock. This was not present on any earlier controller but appears to be a new standard, as the C-AT also includes it. The top USB-C port is recessed behind a clasp that opens by sliding a button. Once opened, you can insert a cable and lock it in place. This design reduces lateral force on the port and helps prevent long-term wear. It also addresses the loose port and disconnection issues seen on some T-Series units.
The Cable Lock in action. Image by Haute42.
Excellent at Everything, But Lacking a Signature Identity
On paper, the M-Ultra Gen 2 does almost everything right for a large controller. While it is priced higher than many alternatives, it remains reasonable compared to competing brands. The build quality is excellent, even if I am not a fan of the coarse finish or the racing stripe decals. I do not dislike them, but I would have preferred a smooth surface and no decals beyond button labels.
There is a lot to like here. The shortcut button placement borrowed from the R-Series is great. The toggle buttons, larger screen, LED strips, shadow hunting buttons, and overall heft all feel premium. The wrist rests are comfortable, the cable lock is genuinely useful, and the smooth bottom with pre-installed padding is a nice touch.
Despite all of this, I do not find myself reaching for the Gen 2 as a daily driver. If I want the Daigo layout, I would rather use my art-modded R16. If I want a metal controller, I am more drawn to the M-Lite’s striking smooth gold finish. After thinking about it for a while, I believe the issue is that the Gen 2 lacks a truly unique, standout feature. Other controllers simply do certain things more distinctly. The M-Lite excels in finish and aesthetics. The R-Series allows artwork on both sides, which matters a lot to me as someone who values customization. And if I want a balanced mix of features, I would choose the C16-S with its unique button layout, partially metal body, and dual USB-C ports. And while the Cable Lock was a great exclusive feature, I know it’s going to be a standard on future controllers.
That said, setting my personal preferences aside, I cannot justify giving the M-Ultra Gen 2 anything less than a perfect score. It may not be for me, but everything it sets out to do, it does exceptionally well.