The Complete Guide to Leverless Controller Customization: Make Button Layout & Top Panel Your Own

What You Can Customize on a Leverless Controller

The appeal of a leverless controller is that you can do more than use it as is: you can tailor the button layout and top-panel design to your preferences. The customization options available on TIKITAKA FTG models vary. First, let’s look at what you can customize on leverless controllers, based on what our current models actually support.

Button Layout

The button layout has one of the most direct effects on how a controller feels. Finger length, hand size, and pressing habits vary from person to person, so the standard layout is not necessarily right for everyone. The top-tier M16B-elite lets you freely configure the button layout to suit your preferences. Every button has an individual, independent design and is secured with screws to limit wobble, helping maintain a stable feel over long periods even when you change the layout.

With the J2A, you can customize the layout by choosing between “2 layout options” rather than placing a fully custom order. Type A is the standard layout, and Type B is the split-style layout. It is suited to those who prefer to choose from set options.

Top-Panel Design

The top panel has a major effect on appearance. On the Elite version, you can order a panel design as well as the button layout, creating a one-of-a-kind “personal model” to suit your needs and preferences. The top panel uses frosted acrylic, so the surface you touch is acrylic; this can also make the cold feel of aluminum less noticeable in winter.

The M3 Aluminum Alloy Series uses a replaceable acrylic top panel. You can customize it with an image you like, and the panel is easy to replace. This setup is suited to anyone who wants to start customizing with the top panel.

Please note that the Elite carbon-fiber panel does not support custom panel designs. Also, the purple custom panel may have slight color variations due to differences in the oxidation process between production batches. Keep this in mind when choosing a design.

Button Materials: Nylon and ABS

Button material affects how the buttons feel and how they handle perspiration. TIKITAKA original nylon and ABS buttons have different characteristics.

• Nylon: Characterized by sweat resistance and a moderate grip. It is less likely to slip even if your hands sweat and has a smooth, comfortable feel.
• ABS: As a plastic material, it is less sweat-resistant than nylon, but offers a firmer grip. It stays smooth and sits between a typical matte keycap and a nylon cap in feel.

Since the Elite version has individually constructed buttons, you can easily swap them for nylon or ABS buttons. You can choose nylon if sweaty hands are a concern, or ABS if you prefer a firmer feel.

Keycap Color and Appearance

Keycaps are the first surface your fingers touch and can also add a visual accent. In addition to the difference in feel between materials, color changes the overall impression. Considering keycap color alongside the top-panel design can make it easier to create a coordinated look. Please note that the spare nylon caps included in the package may have slight color variations between production batches, but there is no difference in material or quality.

How Does a Full Custom Order Work?

If you want both the layout and design tailored to your preferences, TIKITAKA FTG follows the steps below. These are based on the instructions listed on the Elite and J2A product pages.

1. Prepare a layout file: If you are considering a custom layout, use the dedicated Elite Custom Page to refine your layout idea and prepare a custom file.
2. Attach your custom data: On the product page for a model that supports custom layouts, select your options and upload your custom file in the attachment field. The order cannot be placed without uploading the data.
3. Review the data and place your order: Data attached when placing the order cannot be changed later by email. Review the attached data and your order details before placing the order.

Customization takes approximately 10–14 days to produce for the Elite version. If you plan to use it by a particular date, allow for this production time when scheduling your order.

Choosing a Model That Supports Full Customization

The right model depends on how much you want to personalize. Here are 3 models from our current lineup, viewed from a customization perspective.

Elite M16B-elite — Freedom to Customize the Layout and Panel

If customization flexibility is your top priority, consider the top-tier Elite version. You can freely configure the button layout and also order a custom panel design. From layout to appearance, you can create a one-of-a-kind “personal model.” The body is made from a single piece of CNC-machined aluminum alloy for high rigidity and corrosion resistance. Its buttons have an individual construction and are easy to swap for nylon or ABS. It comes with the high-speed KASUMI switch, which has a 0.5mm actuation point. Alongside the standard version (300×200×18mm), there is a wide version (360×230×18mm) with a larger top panel. The wide version offers more customization flexibility and added stability on your lap.

J2A — Choose a Layout and Maintain the Top Panel Easily

If you do not need a fully custom order but want to choose the layout, consider the J2A. You can choose between 2 options: Type A (standard) and Type B (split). The panel uses an integrated magnetic design and can be removed without tools, making routine cleaning, maintenance, and panel replacement easier. The buttons have an independent design and are secured with nuts; they are easy to remove and stable, which also makes modification and maintenance more convenient. Its wide-panel design (360×230mm) provides a spacious playing area at a desk or on your lap.

M3 Aluminum Alloy Series — Easy Customization by Replacing the Top Panel

If you want to start customizing with the top panel, consider the M3. It combines a CNC-machined aluminum alloy body with a replaceable acrylic top panel that can be customized with an image you like and is easy to change. The frosted acrylic is less likely to feel cold in winter, and the controller comes with a KASUMI switch. It measures 300×200×12mm and is suited to anyone who wants to customize the appearance.

To compare the 3 models, see the Leverless Model Comparison Guide.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q. Which model lets me fully customize the button layout?

A. The Elite M16B-elite. You can freely configure its button layout and order a custom panel design. The J2A offers layout customization by choosing between 2 options (Type A or Type B).

Q. What if I only want to customize the top panel?

A. The M3 Aluminum Alloy Series, with its replaceable acrylic top panel, is an easy option. You can customize it with an image you like, and the panel is easy to replace. The Elite version also supports custom panel designs (the carbon-fiber panel does not support custom designs).

Q. When should I submit my custom data?

A. Upload your custom data in the attachment field on the product page when placing your order. The order cannot be placed without uploading the data. Data attached when placing the order cannot be changed later by email.

Q. How long does a custom item take to arrive?

A. Customization for the Elite version takes approximately 10–14 days to produce. Place your order with enough time before you need it.

Q. Should I choose nylon or ABS buttons?

A. Nylon is recommended if you are concerned about sweaty hands or prefer a smooth feel. ABS may suit you if you want a firmer grip. The Elite version has an individual button construction, so replacing the buttons later is easy.