Enhance Your Nintendo Switch Gameplay with the Best Controllers: A Comprehensive Guide
Docking your Nintendo Switch or Switch OLED opens up a world of enhanced gameplay with ergonomic and feature-rich controllers beyond the standard Joy-Cons. These controllers offer superior comfort for extended play, larger and more responsive controls, extra buttons, customization options, and unique features to elevate your gaming experience. This guide, based on extensive testing, highlights the top Nintendo Switch controllers available.
TL;DR – Top Nintendo Switch Controllers:
Our Top Pick: GuliKit KingKong 3 Max
8.8/10: Nintendo Switch Pro Controller
Nintendo Switch Joy-Cons
Hori Split Pad Pro
8/10: PowerA Fusion Pro
8BitDo Arcade Stick
Nintendo GameCube Controller
8BitDo Pro 2
8/10: 8BitDo Ultimate
Hori Mario Kart Racing Wheel Pro Deluxe
A top-tier controller significantly enhances your Switch setup. However, the ideal controller varies depending on individual preferences and game genres. We've rigorously tested ten exceptional controllers to cater to diverse needs, from all-purpose options like the GuliKit KingKong 3 Max to specialized controllers for fighting or racing games. Many are also compatible with PCs and handheld gaming PCs.
For current Switch deals, check out the best Switch deals available now.
Poll: What's the most important feature in a Nintendo Switch controller?
(Options: Ergonomics, Battery life, Customizability, Additional buttons and controls, Connectivity)
Detailed Controller Reviews:
- GuliKit KingKong 3 Max: Best Overall Switch Controller
- Key Features: Hall effect sensors, swappable buttons, HD rumble.
- Pros: Superior precision, remappable rear paddles, adjustable sensitivity, excellent value.
- Cons: Slightly mushy ABXY buttons.
- Specifications: Wired USB-C, Wireless dongle, Bluetooth; 28 hours battery (RGB off), 15 hours (RGB on); 0.47 pounds.
- Nintendo Switch Pro Controller: Best Official Switch Controller
- Key Features: HD rumble, large face buttons, tactile triggers, 40-hour battery life.
- Pros: Official Nintendo product, long battery life, comfortable ergonomics.
- Cons: Z triggers lack depth.
- Specifications: Wired USB-C, Bluetooth; 40 hours battery life; 0.54 pounds.
- Nintendo Switch Joy-Cons: Best for Handheld Mode
- Pros: Essential for handheld and docked modes, versatile functionality.
- Cons: Prone to Joy-Con drift.
- Specifications: Bluetooth; 20 hours battery life; 0.11 pounds (each).
- Hori Split Pad Pro: Best Joy-Con Alternative for Handheld Play
- Pros: Ergonomic design, larger buttons, improved handheld comfort.
- Cons: Wired only.
- Specifications: Wired; N/A battery life; 0.18 pounds (each).
- PowerA Fusion Pro: Best Customizable Switch Controller
- Key Features: Four rear paddles, interchangeable thumbsticks, motion controls.
- Pros: Highly customizable, swappable faceplates.
- Cons: No rumble, shorter battery life.
- Specifications: Wired USB-C, Bluetooth; 20 hours battery life; 0.99 pounds.
- 8BitDo Arcade Stick: Best Fight Stick for Switch
- Key Features: Customizable, supports Sanwa parts, wireless connectivity.
- Pros: Retro style, versatile compatibility.
- Cons: Relatively expensive.
- Specifications: Wired USB-C, Wireless dongle, Bluetooth; 30 hours (Bluetooth), 40 hours (wireless dongle) battery life; 4.63 pounds.
- Nintendo GameCube Controller: Best Super Smash Bros. Controller
- Pros: Classic design, optimized for Smash Bros.
- Cons: Requires adapter.
- Specifications: GameCube adapter required; N/A battery life; 0.44 pounds.
- 8BitDo Pro 2: Best for Retro Games
- Key Features: Retro aesthetic, customizable profiles.
- Pros: Excellent feel, inexpensive.
- Cons: Lacks some Switch-specific features.
- Specifications: Wired USB-C, Bluetooth; 20 hours battery life; 0.50 pounds.
- 8BitDo Ultimate: Best Third-Party Switch Controller
- Key Features: Customizable button mapping, swappable stick behavior, adjustable vibration.
- Pros: Responsive buttons, Hall Effect sensors, included charging dock.
- Cons: Design may not appeal to all.
- Specifications: Wired USB-C, Wireless dongle, Bluetooth; 22 hours battery life; 0.54 pounds.
- Hori Mario Kart Racing Wheel Pro Deluxe: Best Racing Wheel for Switch
- Pros: Solid build, customizable controls, includes pedals.
- Cons: Lacks force feedback.
- Specifications: Wired USB; N/A battery life; 7 pounds.
Controller Selection Guide:
- Fighting Games: 8BitDo Arcade Stick (or consult our best fight sticks guide).
- Racing Games: Hori Mario Kart Racing Wheel Pro Deluxe.
- Retro Games: 8BitDo Pro 2.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
- Switch Controllers and Switch 2 Compatibility: While standard Joy-Cons won't be compatible, Bluetooth controllers like the Pro Controller and KingKong 3 Max likely will be.
- PC Compatibility: The Switch Pro Controller and Joy-Cons are compatible with PCs (with potential need for adapters or software).
- Joy-Con Drift: Joy-Con drift is a known issue; other controllers are less susceptible.
- New Switch Bundles: New Switches come with Joy-Cons; the Switch Lite does not.
- Joy-Con Alternatives: The Hori Split Pad Pro offers improved ergonomics for handheld play.
- Controller Sales: Check for discounts around Amazon Prime Day, Black Friday, and Cyber Monday.
This comprehensive guide provides a clear path to selecting the perfect controller to enhance your Nintendo Switch gaming experience. Remember to consider your preferred play style and game genres when making your choice.
