How to Setup 8BitDo micro as left-handed device on Procreate for iPad
*This article is just a translation of this.
Introduction
I have been looking for a left-handed device that I can use with Procreate on my iPad for a long time.
There is a way to use a small gaming controller 8BitDo zero2 as a left-handed device, but Procreate does not allow key customization, so only some shortcuts can be used... So it was a popular device for CLIP STUDIO PAINT users.
I liked the look and size of the device, so I was wondering if I could use 8bitdo somehow. 8BitDo Micro, which was released in August, allows key customization, so I bought it.
Compare 8BitDo zero2 and 8BitDo Micro
The size is almost the same, with the micro version being slightly larger.
The number of buttons has been increased from 12 to 16.
The micro USB port is now type-C, which is nice.
The texture of the zero2 is smooth, while the micro is a little rough and semi-matte.
Setup key mapping
This is how I set up the key mapping for now.
The settings can be easily customized using the 8BitDo Ultimate Software app, which you can access from 8BitDo's official website.
Key Points for Setup
The key that replaces ⌘ on a Mac is the windows key, not ctrl.
The key that replaces ⌘ on the Mac is the windows key instead of ctrl.
It is replaced by ⌘ → win key and option → alt key.
So you need to set win+C for copy and win+Z for undo.
The alt key corresponds to the □ button on the sidebar.
It is necessary to check "Tap □" or "□ + Apple Pencil" or "□ + Touch" for the item you wish to set from the Gesture control in the Preferences.
This way you can call up the Eyedropper and Layer Select.
But for some reason, the QuickMenu cannot be called up this way, so if you want to call up the QuickMenu, you need to set the SPACE key.
Then there are buttons that are exquisitely difficult to press when I position my hand around the cross keys, whether it is a matter of the way I hold it or the size of my hand. I am wondering if there is something that can be done about this.
For now, I would like to assign shortcuts that seem to be used infrequently to the places that are difficult to press.
However, there are times when it is easier to use gestures, so I will make adjustments as I use it.
Summary
Just being able to swap the brush and eraser is too convenient and impressive.
By the way, you can also swap them by tapping the Apple pencil, but I had to turn off the setting because it often malfunctioned when I re-gripped the pen.
I'm glad I bought it just for that.
I'm glad to see this type of device finally added, as I think the only options for a left-handed device for Procreate have been a numeric keypad type, make your own, or give up and use a keyboard.
To everyone who has been looking for a left-handed device for Procreate, I recommend it and encourage you to give it a try.👋