Besides being the most family-friendly console, the Nintendo Switch takes a quirky approach to gaming that prioritizes inventive gameplay ideas over high visual fidelity more common with Sony and Microsoft. That’s reflected the most through its Joy-Con controllers. These feature everything from HD rumble and motion control to usage as two separate controllers. Alongside the Joy-Cons included with the Switch, there are other controller methods available for Switch Lite, Switch and Switch OLED owners.
To help you find the right controller for you, we’ve created a list of some of the best Switch controllers available.
A large majority of first-party-developed games on the Nintendo Switch usually keep utilization of the Joy-Con controllers in mind. For multiplayer games such as Mario Kart 8 Deluxe and Arms, having extra Joy-Cons in hand can make all the difference when gaming alongside friends. Like the ones that come packed with the Switch, the Joy-Cons can be used as two separate controllers with the added wrist strap attachment.
Nintendo’s first-party Switch Pro Controller definitely caters more toward traditionalist gamers and those who play more multi-platform releases from third-party developers. In addition to motion controls, the controller supports HD rumble and includes built-in Amiibo functionality. The Switch Pro Controller charges via USB-C and has an average battery life of around 40 hours.
Nintendo Switch Online subscribers have the ability to play both original Nintendo and Super Nintendo games on the console. Those who want a bit more nostalgia can get 8BitDo’s SN30 Pro. Outside of the look and feel of a Super Nintendo gamepad, the wireless controller also features vibration, motion controls and a rechargeable battery (via USB-C). As an added bonus, the controller is compatible with PC, OSX, Android and Linux.
The original Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) revitalized the gaming industry when it was released in the US in the mid-’80s. Nearly 40 years later, Nintendo still finds ways to tap in to people's nostalgia. Alongside the NES Classic, Nintendo released a limited-edition classic control set for Nintendo Switch Online users. Your best bet? Buy this exclusive controller in a bundle from Nintendo directly, though you can also purchase it used from other retailers.
If you can't find Nintendo's NES controller or you're on a tight budget, then this third-party option from Retro-Bit is a good substitute. It's optimized for the Switch's online NES library, it conveniently connects to consoles wirelessly and it features a rechargeable battery.
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate players will normally tell you two things about the series: Super Smash Bros. Melee is the best entry in the series, and the game was made even greater due to the GameCube controller. There are ways to use an original GameCube controller with Ultimate through an adapter; however, those who want the old-school feel with new-school functionality should look into the PowerA Wireless GameCube-Style Controller.
A no-frills Switch controller with quality, the Horipad is an officially licensed wired controller for those who may simply need an extra gamepad with a low price tag. The D-pad is swappable with either a cross or button cross that’s housed on the controller’s backside, and the controller has a Turbo function for gamers who desire it.
Big-handed Switch owners who prefer the more portable handheld mode usually understand how longer gaming sessions can be uncomfortable. This controller from NexiGo helps alleviate potential cramping with a wider controller. By plugging the Switch directly into the controller, users with bigger hands can get a more comfortable playing experience. There are some other great features as well, including the ability to change the analog stick nubs and utilize the gyroscope.
The PowerA Spectra Enhanced Wired Controller is one of the cheapest gamepads available with the official Nintendo quality seal. Coming at a budget price of under $30 doesn’t mean it lacks any features. Besides having LED lighting in eight vibrant colors, there are two mappable buttons on the control’s back and a 3.5mm stereo audio jack.
The GuliKit KingKong 2 Pro boasts all of the features of the Nintendo Switch Pro controller and then some. It includes not only motion sensors and adjustable vibration motors but also durable hall effect joysticks and a key that lets you automate repeated actions. If you've got extra dough to spend, you can't go wrong with this high-end controller.
Switch owners who are looking for a more affordable take on the Switch Pro controller should give the NexiGo Elite Switch Pro a shot. It shares many features with the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller, and it has adjustable vibration frequency. Its 6D dual vibration supports five different levels, which is good if players want to switch from The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild to Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. Battery life is around eight to 10 hours, with charging taking between two and three hours.
Available in three colorways, this controller is pretty great for gamers who travel and play on various portable platforms, from PC to Switch. When using the controller outside of the Switch, 8BitDo has its Ultimate Software mobile app, which allows users to customize controller settings as they want. Utilizing USB-C for charging, the Pro 2 has a promised battery life of around 20 hours.
There are plenty of wheel attachments one can use with Joy-Con controllers. However, those who want more of a console-ready steering wheel solution can look toward Hori’s Nintendo Switch Mario Kart Racing Wheel Pro Mini. It features paddle controls in addition to a giant item button at the center of the wheel, brake/accelerator pedals and traditional console controls.
One surprise hit during the 2020 lockdown was a free release created by Nintendo software developers in their spare time called Jump Rope Challenge. This Nintendo Switch fitness game is a simple exercise of jump rope, where players attempt to do at least 100 jumps per day with a simple monitoring system for keeping up with progress. For those who want more of an immersive experience past making the motions on the Joy-Cons, users can purchase a jump rope compatible with the controllers.