Nintendo unveiled exciting details about the Switch 2 during its April Direct, and since then, U.S. fans have eagerly awaited the start of preorders. The price of the new console was no shock, but the launch cost of first-party Switch 2 games certainly raised some eyebrows. A prime example is Mario Kart World, which will retail at a hefty $80 upon release. Furthermore, Nintendo is rolling out a new line of Switch 2 accessories, which come with price tags that are higher than those of their original Switch counterparts—and these have increased even further since the initial announcement.
One particular accessory that caught my attention was the new Switch 2 Pro controller, priced at a staggering $85. As someone who already owns several Switch Pro controllers, the thought of purchasing another version was unappealing. Fortunately, Nintendo assured us in a developer interview that the original Switch Pro controller will be fully compatible with the Switch 2.
Where You Can Still Buy Switch Pro Controllers
Nintendo Switch Pro Controller
Not the Switch 2 version.
See it at Walmart | See it at Target | See it at Best Buy
While many gamers might opt for the new Switch 2 Pro controller, it's not essential for most titles. If you're already equipped with a Switch Pro controller, you can stick with it and save $80 for new games. For those without a Pro controller and planning to purchase the Switch 2, the standard Switch Pro controller is currently a more budget-friendly choice at $69.99.
Keep in mind, these older controllers might sell out as the Switch 2 launch approaches to make way for the new model. Amazon is already showing a significant lack of stock, offering only third-party alternatives. Besides compatibility with the regular Switch Pro controller, Nintendo confirmed that the original Joy-Con controllers will also work with the Switch 2—although for most games, we generally recommend the Switch Pro controller over Joy-Con.
When Will the Switch 2 Pro Controller Be Available?
If the Switch 2 Pro controller is the only accessory you're interested in, you'll need to wait until the console's launch. The new controller will be available officially on June 5, coinciding with the Switch 2 release. Preorders for the new console will start on April 24, and it's likely that the official accessories will also be available for preorder at that time. Note that the Switch 2 Pro controller is exclusive to the Switch 2 and won't work with the standard Switch.
Listings for the Switch 2 Pro controller have already begun appearing at Walmart and Best Buy, although without a specific preorder date. Walmart's listings also include upcoming Switch 2 game preorders.
Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller
Preorder listing only
$79.00 at Walmart
