When comparing SteelSeries Free vs 8bitdo SFC30, the Slant community recommends 8bitdo SFC30 for most people. In the question“What are the best third-party game controllers for Android?” 8bitdo SFC30 is ranked 6th while SteelSeries Free is ranked 9th. The most important reason people chose 8bitdo SFC30 is:
This controller has exactly the same design as a Super Nintendo/Super Famicom controller.
Specs
Ranked in these QuestionsQuestion Ranking
Pros
Pro Built in rechargeable battery
The SteelSeries Free has a built in rechargeable battery that is charged through a USB cable. This makes it more convenient than a AA or AAA battery powered controller, as you won't have to worry about always having extra batteries on hand. Also, a rechargeable battery is cheaper in the long run.
Pro Small and portable
The SteelSeries Free is pretty small and only weighs 1.91 ounces, meaning it is very pocketable and easy to carry around.
Pro 3rd party app support
Luckily there is a third party app that allows for customization of the inputs on this device. It is called Game Controller 2 Touch and has full support for the SteelSeries Free.
Pro First party app available
SteelSeries provides a free app on the Google Play Store to set up ones device.
Pro Nostalgic design
This controller has exactly the same design as a Super Nintendo/Super Famicom controller.
Pro Light and portable
The 8bitdo SFC30 fits in your pocket easily. Dimensions are 61mm (2.4") tall, 144mm (5.66") wide, and 24mm (0.94") thick.
Cons
Con Only two shoulder buttons
Many ports and games utilize four shoulder buttons, meaning some games will not work with this controller.
Con First party app is useless
Apparently the SteelSeries Engine app does not work as advertised and is pretty much useless.
Con The tiny size makes your hands feel cramped after a while
While it's very portable, your hands are going to be squished after playing on it for a few hours.
Con Has issues pairing
No matter which device you try to pair the controller with, it ends up losing the pairing, forcing the player to go through the pairing process frequently enough to be annoying.
Con No analog sticks
Only really useful for 2D games as there are no analog sticks.
Con Not ergonomically designed
There aren't any grips, and the button layout is designed to be functional instead of comfortable.