When you have your Nintendo Switch or Switch OLED docked, using a more ergonomic and feature-rich controller can significantly enhance your gaming experience. These controllers not only offer comfort for long gaming sessions but also provide larger, tactile buttons, additional controls, and customization options that can give you an edge in various Switch games. We've dedicated extensive time to playing and reviewing the best Nintendo Switch accessories available to help you select the perfect controller for your gaming needs.
TL;DR – These are the best Nintendo Switch controllers:
Our Top Pick
GuliKit KingKong 3 Max
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Nintendo Switch Joy-Cons
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Hori Split Pad Pro
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8BitDo Arcade Stick
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Nintendo GameCube Controller
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8BitDo Pro 2
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Hori Mario Kart Racing Wheel Pro Deluxe
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A controller is the best Switch accessory to enhance your gaming experience. However, not every controller suits every player or game. We've researched and tested to bring you 10 top-notch controllers that cater to various gaming needs. Whether you're looking for a versatile all-around option like the GuliKit KingKong 3 Max, an alternative to Joy-Cons, or a specialized controller for fighting or racing games, we've identified the best fit for your play style. Many of these controllers are also compatible with PCs and handheld gaming PCs, offering versatility beyond the Switch.
Looking for discounts? These are the best Switch deals happening now.
GuliKit KingKong 3 Max
Best Switch controller
Our Top Pick
GuliKit KingKong 3 Max
4
With features like hall effect sensors, swappable buttons, and HD rumble, the KingKong 3 Max delivers an immersive and responsive gaming experience.
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Product Specifications
Connectivity: Wired USB-C, Wireless dongle, Bluetooth
Max battery life: 28 hours (RGB off), 15 hours (RGB on)
Weight: 0.47 pounds
PROS
- Hall Effect joysticks and triggers
- Remappable rear paddles
CONS
- AXBY buttons feel a little mushy
The GuliKit KingKong 3 Max outshines the Nintendo Pro Controller, offering Hall Effect joysticks and triggers for precision and adjustable sensitivity, which is a significant advantage in various games, especially shooters like Doom. It includes four detachable and remappable rear paddles, along with swappable face buttons and a large, adjustable D-Pad, all for about $10 more than Nintendo’s controller.
The GuliKit KingKong 3 Max is packed with features that enhance the Switch gaming experience. It offers three vibration modes, including HD rumble, placing you right into the action of Super Mario Odyssey. The 6-axis gyroscope supports motion control, and it's compatible with Amiibo and can wake the Switch from sleep mode.
Its design is ergonomic and comfortable, similar to the Nintendo Pro Controller and the best Xbox controllers. The lightweight build and textured surface prevent slippage during intense gameplay. RGB lighting around the joysticks not only looks great but also indicates sensitivity levels, which you can adjust directly on the controller.
The GuliKit KingKong 3 Max pairs seamlessly with the Switch via Bluetooth or a wired USB connection for minimal latency. It also works with PCs using a USB dongle for a reliable wireless connection. Expect up to 28 hours of playtime wirelessly without RGB lighting, dropping to 15 hours with the lights on.
Nintendo Switch Pro Controller
Best official Switch controller
This official Nintendo controller features HD rumble, large face buttons, tactile triggers, and a signature D-Pad, with a generous 40-hour battery life.
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Product Specifications
Connectivity: Wired USB-C, Bluetooth
Max battery life: 40 hours
Weight: 0.54 pounds
PROS
- Official Pro controller
- Generous battery life
CONS
- Z triggers don't depress far
Despite extensive playtime and review, the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller ranks second on our list. Its design and feel are reminiscent of the best Xbox controllers, offering durability and comfort for extended play. However, it may be too clunky for younger children who might prefer Joy-Cons.
The Pro Controller stands out with its responsive, large face buttons and a real D-Pad, making a significant difference in retro 2D platformers. The offset joysticks provide an excellent tactile feel, though the Z triggers can be hard to differentiate from the L and R shoulder buttons due to their shallow depression.
With a wireless design, the Pro Controller boasts up to 40 hours of battery life on a single charge, recharged via USB-C. It also features an NFC reader for Amiibo compatibility and HD rumble, though less intense than the Joy-Cons. At under $70, it's a robust option.
Nintendo Switch Joy-Cons
Best Nintendo Switch Joy-Cons
Nintendo Switch Joy-Cons
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Use these versatile controllers when the Switch is docked or attach them to the device in handheld mode. Be prepared for potential issues with drifting.
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Product Specifications
Connectivity: Bluetooth
Max battery life: 20 hours
Weight: 0.11 pounds (each)
PROS
- Best for handheld mode
- Easy for kids to use
CONS
- Joy-Con drift still exists
Nintendo’s $80 Joy-Cons are essential to the Switch's versatility, despite the ongoing issue of Joy-Con drift. They enable seamless transitions between docked and handheld modes, allowing you to play with them attached or wirelessly detached.
You can also share Joy-Cons with friends by turning them sideways, though using the straps is recommended for better grip. As the controllers that come with the console, they are indispensable for the full Switch experience.
Hori Split Pad Pro
Best Nintendo Switch Joy-Cons for Handheld Play
Hori Split Pad Pro
1
Enjoy a more ergonomic grip and larger buttons than traditional Joy-Cons with these controls that attach to the sides of the Switch.
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Product Specifications
Connectivity: Docked in Switch
Max battery life: N/A
Weight: 0.18 pounds (each)
PROS
- Easy to hold in handheld mode
- Larger buttons
CONS
- No wireless option
The $50 Hori Split Pad Pro, licensed by Nintendo, offers a more ergonomic grip and larger buttons for handheld play. It's an excellent choice for comfort, featuring alternate shoulder triggers and a turbo setting.
However, these controllers only work when connected to the Switch and do not support wireless play, limiting their use in some game modes. As there are no true wireless Joy-Con alternatives, the Split Pad Pro is a valuable option.
PowerA Fusion Pro
Best customizable Switch controller
A pro-level controller with four rear paddles, interchangeable thumbsticks, and motion controls but no rumble.
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Product Specifications
Connectivity: Wired USB-C, Bluetooth
Max battery life: 20 hours
Weight: 0.99 pounds
PROS
- Highly customizable
- Swappable faceplates
CONS
- 20-hour battery life
Our hands-on review of the PowerA Fusion Pro revealed its impressive customizability, though it lacks the rumble feature and has a shorter 20-hour battery life compared to the Pro Controller.
It offers swappable magnetic faceplates, multiple joystick options, customizable rear trigger paddles, and motion controls, making it a versatile choice despite the trade-offs.
8BitDo Arcade Stick
Best fight stick for Switch
8BitDo Arcade Stick
0
This budget-friendly arcade stick delivers additional macro buttons and a turbo function, with wireless connectivity via a USB dongle or Bluetooth for use with the Switch, PC, or mobile.
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Product Specifications
Connectivity: Wired USB-C, Wireless dongle, Bluetooth
Max battery life: 30 hours (Bluetooth), 40 hours (wireless dongle)
Weight: 4.63 pounds
PROS
- Wired or wireless
- Two profiles (for Switch and PC)
CONS
- Expensive
The $90 8BitDo Arcade Stick is perfect for fighting games on the Switch, featuring a retro style and customizable support for Sanwa parts. It automatically recognizes the connected platform and adjusts button assignments accordingly.
With the ability to store two profiles and support for turbo functions, this stick offers up to 40 hours of battery life on a 2.4GHz connection and 30 hours on Bluetooth.
See more of our picks for the best fight sticks for gaming.
Nintendo GameCube Controller
Best Super Smash Bros. controller
Nintendo GameCube Controller
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Ideal for playing Super Smash Bros, the GameCube controller features a unique button layout, making it easier to pull off moves.
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Product Specifications
Connectivity: Game Cube (adapter required)
Max battery life: N/A
Weight: 0.44 pounds
PROS
- A retro classic
- Simple controls
CONS
- Requires an adapter
The Nintendo GameCube Controller became the standard for Super Smash Bros. since its introduction in 2001. Its unique button layout simplifies complex moves in the game, making it a must-have for competitive players. You'll need the $15-to-$20 adapter to use it with the Switch.
8BitDo Pro 2
Best Switch controller for retro games
8BitDo Pro 2
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Get a retro aesthetic and modern sensibility on this controller that has customizable profiles that you can swap on the fly.
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Product Specifications
Connectivity: Wired USB-C, Bluetooth
Max battery life: 20 hours
Weight: 0.50 pounds
PROS
- Great for retro games
- Inexpensive
CONS
- Some Switch-specific features are lacking
The $50 8BitDo Pro 2 combines a retro aesthetic with modern features, ideal for Nintendo Switch Online’s classic game libraries. Its buttons and D-pad mimic the feel of the original SNES controller, while the extended grips and Hall Effect joysticks add a modern touch.
It supports three unique button layout profiles, making it versatile for both retro and modern games.
8BitDo Ultimate
Best third-party Switch controller
Customize button mapping, swap stick behavior, and adjust vibration levels using robust software on this controller with two extra rear paddles and a charging dock.
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Product Specifications
Connectivity: Wired USB-C, Wireless dongle, Bluetooth
Max battery life: 22 hours
Weight: 0.54 pounds
PROS
- Larger D-pad
- Hall Effect sensors
CONS
- Style isn’t for everyone
The 8BitDo Ultimate offers a design similar to the Switch Pro but with a larger D-pad and Hall Effect Sensors for enhanced responsiveness. Using the 8BitDo Ultimate app, you can customize button mapping, stick behavior, and vibration levels, with two extra back paddles for additional commands.
It provides a 22-hour battery life and comes with a charging dock that doubles as a wireless connection. Bluetooth support makes it versatile across platforms, including potential compatibility with the Switch 2.
Hori Mario Kart Racing Wheel Pro Deluxe
Best racing wheel for Switch
Hori Mario Kart Racing Wheel Pro Deluxe
0
A budget-friendly racing wheel and two-pedal set for the Switch that offers wheel sensitivity levels and programmable buttons.
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Product Specifications
Connectivity: Wired USB
Max battery life: N/A
Weight: 7 pounds
PROS
- Feels solid
- Customizable controls
CONS
- Lacks features like force feedback
The $100 Hori Mario Kart Racing Wheel Pro Deluxe is a solid choice for Switch racing games, though it lacks advanced features like force feedback. It offers a decently sized wheel, customizable controls, sturdy paddle shifters, and adjustable sensitivity levels.
The two-pedal set enhances immersion for racing games on the Switch and some PC titles, making it a versatile option for Mario Kart enthusiasts.
What to look for in a Nintendo Switch controller
When choosing a new Nintendo Switch controller, focus on comfort and the type of game you play. For general gameplay, Nintendo’s own options are recommended. For specific genres, consider the following:
Fighting games: A fight stick like the 8BitDo Arcade Stick is ideal for traditional fighting games. Competitive players should refer to our guide on the best fight sticks.
Racing games: The Hori Mario Kart Racing Wheel Pro Deluxe is a solid, affordable choice for Switch racing games, despite limited options.
Retro games: The 8BitDo Pro 2 offers a feel close to original controllers, making it perfect for retro gaming on the Switch.
Nintendo Switch controller FAQ
Will Nintendo Switch controllers work with the Switch 2?
The Switch 2 introduces upgraded, larger, magnetic Joy-Cons, incompatible with standard Switch Joy-Cons. However, Bluetooth-only controllers like the Switch Pro or the KingKong 3 Max should work with the Switch 2, and an extra USB-C port may allow direct accessory connections.
Can you use Switch controllers on a PC?
Yes, official Nintendo controllers like the Switch Pro and Joy-Cons are compatible with PCs. The Switch Pro can connect via a wired connection or Bluetooth, recognized as an Xbox controller in Steam. Joy-Cons work over Bluetooth, with programs like JoytoKey or BetterJoy enabling PC compatibility.
Do Nintendo Switch controllers drift?
Joy-Con drift is a common issue where the controller registers unintended inputs. While the cause isn't fully clear, it's widespread among Switch users. You can attempt to fix Joy-Con drift yourself or have Nintendo repair the Joy-Cons. Drift is less problematic in other Nintendo controllers.
What controllers does a new Nintendo Switch come with?
A new Switch OLED or original model comes with Joy-Con controllers for handheld, tabletop, and TV modes. The Switch Lite has built-in controls for handheld mode only, requiring separate purchases for other game types.
Are there any Joy-Con alternatives?
While there are controllers like the Hori Split Pad Pro that enhance handheld play, no alternatives fully replace Joy-Cons, especially for motion sensor-dependent games.
When do Switch controllers go on sale?
Switch controllers often see discounts during Amazon Prime Day in July and during Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales events.
