Best Nintendo Switch Controller 2025

Enhance your Nintendo Switch or Switch OLED docked gaming experience with a more ergonomic and capable controller than the Joy-Cons. These offer superior comfort for longer play sessions, larger and more tactile controls, extra buttons, greater customization options, and unique features to boost your gameplay. We've extensively tested and reviewed the best Nintendo Switch controllers available.

TL;DR – Our Top Nintendo Switch Controllers:

A controller is a key Switch accessory, but the ideal choice varies depending on individual needs and games. We've curated ten top-tier controllers catering to diverse preferences, from all-purpose options like the GuliKit KingKong 3 Max to specialized controllers for fighting or racing games. Many are compatible with PCs and handheld gaming PCs.

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1. GuliKit KingKong 3 Max: Best Switch Controller

The KingKong 3 Max boasts hall effect sensors, swappable buttons, and HD rumble for an immersive and responsive experience. Its features surpass even Nintendo's Pro Controller. The similar design includes Hall Effect joysticks and triggers for enhanced precision and adjustable sensitivity, a significant advantage in various games, especially shooters like Doom. Four detachable and remappable rear paddles are included, along with swappable face buttons and a large, adjustable D-pad—all for a slightly higher price than Nintendo's controller.

This controller offers three vibration modes, including HD rumble, for enhanced immersion in games like Super Mario Odyssey. It also features a 6-axis gyroscope for motion controls, Amiibo support, and the ability to wake the Switch. Its ergonomic design, lightweight build, and textured surface prevent slippage. RGB lighting around the joysticks indicates joystick sensitivities, which are adjustable directly on the controller. Wireless pairing is seamless via Bluetooth or a wired USB connection for low latency. PC compatibility is also excellent, with a USB dongle for a reliable wireless connection. Expect up to 28 hours of wireless battery life (15 hours with RGB on).

2. Nintendo Switch Pro Controller: Best Official Switch Controller

While a top contender, the official Nintendo Pro Controller takes second place. It offers a durable, ergonomic design comfortable for extended play, though slightly bulky for younger children. Responsive, large face buttons and a real D-pad significantly improve gameplay compared to Joy-Cons, especially in 2D platformers. Offset joysticks provide excellent tactile feedback. The Z triggers, however, don't depress far, making them less distinct from the L and R buttons.

This wireless controller boasts up to 40 hours of battery life on a single charge via USB-C. Wired use is also an option. It includes an NFC reader for Amiibo compatibility and HD rumble, though the rumble intensity is less than Joy-Cons. At under $70, it offers excellent value.

3. Nintendo Switch Joy-Cons: Best for Handheld Mode

Essential to the Switch experience, the Joy-Cons function in both docked and handheld modes. They can be used individually or together, wirelessly or attached to the console. While prone to Joy-Con drift, they remain a core part of the Switch's functionality and offer unique versatility.

4. Hori Split Pad Pro: Best Joy-Con Alternative for Handheld Play

Offering a more ergonomic grip and larger buttons than standard Joy-Cons, the Hori Split Pad Pro attaches directly to the Switch. Its improved ergonomics include larger buttons, conveniently placed shoulder triggers, and a turbo setting. However, it only works while connected to the Switch and lacks wireless functionality.

5. PowerA Fusion Pro: Best Customizable Switch Controller

Highly customizable, the PowerA Fusion Pro features four rear paddles, interchangeable thumbsticks, and motion controls, but lacks rumble. Its swappable magnetic faceplates, multiple joystick options, and customizable rear paddles offer extensive personalization. While it compensates for the lack of rumble and shorter (20-hour) battery life with its customization options, it is a trade-off to consider.

6. 8BitDo Arcade Stick: Best Fight Stick for Switch

The 8BitDo Arcade Stick is a budget-friendly fight stick with additional macro buttons and a turbo function. Wireless connectivity via USB dongle or Bluetooth enables use with the Switch, PC, or mobile devices. Its customizable support for Sanwa parts, automatic platform recognition, and dual profile storage make it highly versatile. Turbo support and a long battery life (up to 40 hours on 2.4GHz, 30 hours on Bluetooth) add to its appeal.

7. Nintendo GameCube Controller: Best Super Smash Bros. Controller

The classic GameCube controller remains a top choice for Super Smash Bros. due to its unique button layout, simplifying complex moves. While a Switch Pro Controller is sufficient, competitive players will appreciate the GameCube controller's ease of use (requires a separate adapter).

8. 8BitDo Pro 2: Best Switch Controller for Retro Games

Blending retro aesthetics with modern features, the 8BitDo Pro 2 is ideal for Nintendo Switch Online's classic game library. Its buttons, D-pad, and shoulder buttons offer a feel reminiscent of the original SNES controller, while the grips and joysticks are similar to the PlayStation DualShock. Support for three button layout profiles caters to various retro and modern games.

9. 8BitDo Ultimate: Best Third-Party Switch Controller

The 8BitDo Ultimate controller offers a design similar to the Switch Pro Controller, but with a larger D-pad, Hall Effect sensors, and highly responsive buttons. Its customization options via the 8BitDo Ultimate app include button mapping, stick behavior adjustments, vibration control, and two extra rear paddles. Three profile storage allows on-the-fly switching. This wireless controller offers 22 hours of battery life and includes a charging dock that doubles as a wireless connection, along with a 2.4GHz dongle and Bluetooth support.

10. Hori Mario Kart Racing Wheel Pro Deluxe: Best Racing Wheel for Switch

With limited Switch-compatible racing wheel options, the Hori Mario Kart Racing Wheel Pro Deluxe provides a solid, affordable alternative. While not a pro-level wheel, its decent size, sturdy build, customizable controls, paddle shifters, and adjustable sensitivity levels enhance the racing experience. The included two-pedal set further improves immersion. It's compatible with various Switch and some PC driving games.

What to Look for in a Nintendo Switch Controller

Choosing a Switch controller depends largely on comfort and game type. For general Switch gameplay, Nintendo's options are recommended. For specific game types:

• Fighting Games: Consider a fight stick (8BitDo Arcade Stick recommended).
• Racing Games: The Hori Mario Kart Racing Wheel Pro Deluxe is a good option.
• Retro Games: The 8BitDo Pro 2 provides a classic feel.

Nintendo Switch Controller FAQ

Will Nintendo Switch controllers work with the Switch 2? The Switch 2's upgraded Joy-Cons will likely necessitate separate controllers for compatibility. However, Bluetooth-only controllers (like the Switch Pro or KingKong 3 Max) may work, and an extra USB-C port suggests direct accessory connection.

Can you use Switch controllers on a PC? Official Nintendo controllers are compatible, with the Switch Pro connecting via wired or (with some setup) wireless Bluetooth. Joy-Cons also connect via Bluetooth, requiring programs like JoytoKey or BetterJoy for PC functionality.

Do Nintendo Switch controllers drift? Joy-Con drift is a known issue, but less prevalent in other Switch controllers.

What controllers does a new Nintendo Switch come with? New Switch and Switch OLED models include Joy-Cons; the Switch Lite has no included controllers.

Are there any Joy-Con alternatives? While alternatives exist for handheld mode, none fully replace Joy-Con functionality, especially motion controls. The Hori Split Pad Pro is a good option for improved ergonomics.

When do Switch controllers go on sale? Controllers often go on sale during Amazon Prime Day (July), Black Friday, and Cyber Monday.