MAYFLASH Arcade Stick F700 Elite: A Premier Fighting Game Controller

The MAYFLASH Arcade Stick F700 Elite is worth buying for dedicated fighting game enthusiasts, priced at £168.90, a slight 1% discount from its RRP of £169.99. With a solid rating of 4.4 out of 5 from 98 reviews, it has established itself as a reliable choice in the arcade stick market. The F700 Elite is designed specifically for fighting games on consoles like PS5, PS4, and Switch, providing a robust option for competitive players.

Key Features in Detail

The F700 Elite supports a wide range of devices including the PS5 (specifically for fighting games like Street Fighter 6 and Tekken 8), PS4, PS3, Nintendo Switch, and even Windows and Apple devices. It features three connection methods: Bluetooth, 2.4G wireless, and wired USB, making it extremely versatile. The included 2.4G receiver is cleverly stored in a hidden compartment, which is a thoughtful addition for portability.

This arcade stick uses premium Sanwa components, consisting of eight responsive buttons and a precision 4-way joystick, ensuring that gamers can execute combos with speed and accuracy. The support for wired headsets is a nice touch, allowing for background music and online chat functionality on PS5 and PC.

Performance Assessment

Gamers have reported that the F700 Elite excels in responsiveness and build quality, largely attributed to its Sanwa components. This stick is particularly praised for its performance in fast-paced fighting games, where split-second reactions can make the difference between victory and defeat. Turbo functions with adjustable speeds further enhance its competitive edge.

Build Quality

The build quality of the F700 Elite is robust, designed to withstand the rigors of intense gaming sessions. However, a downside to note is that it can feel bulky and heavy for some users, which may affect portability if you plan to take it to tournaments.

Value for Money

At £168.90, the F700 Elite is positioned at the higher end of the market. While it provides premium features, this price point is significantly above competitors such as the 8Bitdo Arcade Stick at £75.46 and the MAYFLASH F300 at £67.80, both of which have decent ratings of 4.6 and 4.5 respectively. If you're only casually playing fighting games, these alternatives may offer better value. However, for serious players, the investment in the F700 Elite can be justified by its performance and quality.

How does it compare to alternatives?

When compared to competitors such as the 8Bitdo Arcade Stick and MAYFLASH F300, the F700 Elite stands out for its Sanwa components and support for PS5. However, if you are looking for a more budget-friendly option, the F300 still offers great functionality for £67.80 and is compatible with various consoles. The choice largely depends on your commitment level to fighting games.

Genuine Weaknesses

Despite its strengths, the F700 Elite is not without flaws. Many users have pointed out that it is primarily tailored for fighting games, limiting its versatility for other genres. Additionally, while the build quality is commendable, some users find it less portable due to its weight. Lastly, the price may deter casual gamers who don't require such a specialized controller.

Verdict

The MAYFLASH Arcade Stick F700 Elite is an excellent choice for dedicated fighting game players who seek precision and responsiveness. However, casual gamers or those on a budget may want to explore less expensive alternatives that still provide solid performance without the premium price tag.