Ahead of its Kickstarter launch on November 13, Abxylute CEO Donald Zhang is pulling back the curtain on the development of the Abxylute M4 snap-on controller. Built for mobile gaming, this lightweight accessory went through a rapid but hands-on design process in Shenzhen and it shows.
Abxylute M4 snap-on controller started with 3D-printed ideas
Zhang and his team began with a simple CAD file. Using 3D printing, they tested early versions to check button layout, grip feel, and basic structure. This allowed them to move fast, tweaking and reprinting without long delays.
Once they needed to test actual materials, they shifted to CNC machining and soft tooling. These methods helped evaluate texture, real-world tolerances, and magnetic alignment. In total, they went through 14 discarded prototypes before finalizing the design.
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Fast prototyping was possible thanks to Shenzhen
The entire process moved quickly because of Abxylute’s location. Their factory sits less than an hour from their office. If a joystick cap or button layout needed changing, they could revise the CAD file and visit the factory the next day. This three-day CAD-to-prototype cycle helped them avoid long waits and build smarter.
Abxylute M4 snap-on controller focused heavily on buttons
Zhang stressed the importance of buttons. In his words, “A good button isn’t just about the click. It’s about travel, push force, rebound, and sound.”
They tested over 10 types of tact switches, searching for that “old-school” controller feel. The final design uses conductive rubber, the same material found in many console-grade gamepads. It offers better durability, avoids metal fatigue, and feels smoother during long sessions.
Even small changes like silicone firmness, dome height, or carbon pill size made a difference in how the buttons responded.
M4 controller enters Kickstarter with early-bird pricing
The Abxylute M4 snap-on controller will launch on Kickstarter at 8:00 AM PST on November 13. Early supporters can grab it for $39. While Abxylute is best known for Android handhelds, the M4 is their first major step into mobile accessories, and they’re aiming high.
