What Controllers Work on the Nintendo Switch? A Passionate Gamer‘s Guide
As a passionate Nintendo Switch gamer and content creator, one of the most common questions I see is "what controllers actually work on the Switch?" And are there good options beyond the included Joy-Cons?
Well good news, fellow gamers – the Switch is compatible with a wide array of excellent first and third party controllers! 😃 In this definitive guide, I‘ll cover everything you need to know about Switch controller options, compatibility, connecting them, and plenty of gamer-focused insight!
Let‘s dive in!
Nintendo Switch First Party Controllers
Of course the Switch comes packed with the innovative Joy-Con controllers right out of the box. But Nintendo also offers additional 1st party controller choices:
Joy-Cons
The iconic Joy-Cons might be small, but they pack a punch! These versatile controllers can be used:
- Separately for local multiplayer
- Attached in handheld mode
- Slid into accessories like wheel or charger grip
Pros
- Innovative design, HD rumble, IR camera
- Motion controls for immersive gameplay
- Attaches directly to console for portable play
Cons
- Small size uncomfortable for big hands
- Battery life of ~20 hours
- Analog sticks prone to "drifting"
The Verdict:
Joy-Cons unlock the Switch‘s full capabilities. Their smart design makes them a must-have, despite some drawbacks.
Pro Controller
For players craving a traditional feel, the Switch Pro Controller really delivers with its Xbox-style ergonomic design.
| Battery Life | 40 hours |
| Connection | Bluetooth |
| HD Rumble | Yes |
| Amiibo NFC | Yes |
Pros
- Excellent battery exceeds 40 hours
- Comfortable and familiar controller shape
- Supports amiibo NFC scanning
Cons
- Expensive at a $70 MSRP
- No motion controls
The Verdict:
While pricey, the Pro Controller finally gives core gamers a ergonomic, full-sized wireless option with exceptional battery life. It‘s a must for marathon play sessions!
Special & Limited Edition Controllers
Nintendo has also released many unique Joy-Cons and Pro Controllers featuring custom designs tied to specific game launches:
These slick special editions work indentically to standard controllers, they just let you customize your look! Popular variants have included designs based on:
- Animal Crossing
- Super Mario Odyssey
- Splatoon
- Xenoblade Chronicles
Limited edition runs sell out extremely quickly though, so snag them fast!
Having covered Nintendo‘s first party controller lineup, now let‘s explore popular third party brands gamers can connect…
Third Party Controller Options
Thanks to USB and Bluetooth support directly inside the console, the Switch is amazingly compatible with many third party controllers:
Popular choices include controllers from:
Xbox Wireless
The Xbox Wireless Controller has emerged as the gold standard for third party gamepads across various systems. Gamers can now enjoy the comfort of Xbox on Switch too!
To connect wirelessly, you‘ll need an adapter like the Mayflash Magic-NS.
Pros
- Premium design perfected over years
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Choice of Xbox One or Series X|S
Cons
- Requires ~$20 wireless adapter
PlayStation DualShock 4/DualSense
Similarly, PlayStation owners can tap into a fantastic controller experience by pairing their DualShock 4 or next-gen DualSense to the console. These gamepads feature touchpads, gyroscopes, rumble, paddle buttons and more, all available on your Switch with an adapter.
Pros
- Industry leading gamepads
- Features like adaptive triggers
- Wireless potential
Cons
- Also requires wireless adapter
Logitech Gamepads
When it comes to quality wired USB controllers, Logitech leads the way. Their popular gamepads like the Logitech F310 (PlayStation style) and F710 (Xbox style) can simply plug into the Switch dock with USB and work flawlessly in wired mode.
Pros
- Affordable quality
- Wired docked play
- Xbox/PlayStation style options
Cons
- Can‘t be used portably
Additional wired options like HORI gamepads and arcade sticks round out the third party ecosystem nicely.
Connecting & Using Third Party Controllers
Connecting additional controllers is a breeze – simply put the console in pairing mode through Controllers > Change Grip/Order in System Settings, hold the sync button on your device, and wait for the "Paired" confirmation.
Up to 8 wireless controllers can connect simultaneously – perfect for party games! So break out those PS5 and Xbox Series X gamepads for intense Mario Kart showdowns. 🏎️
Third party controllers unlock options tailored to individual play styles and ergonomic needs lacking from Nintendo‘s lineup – take advantage!
Now let‘s cover a few final additional pointers…
Additional Tips for Controllers on Switch
The Switch supports up to 8 wireless controllers connected at once for local multiplayer – break out those Joy-Cons and Pro Controllers for epic Overcooked cook-offs! 🍳 🔥
For longest battery life to survive a cross country flight or lengthy Zelda adventure, the Pro Controller exceeds 40 hours on a charge. Joy-Cons and third party options typically run 15-30 hours.
JoyCon drift continues plaguing players – contact Nintendo if your analog sticks aren‘t properly recalibrating. Some gamers opt for the 8BitDo Pro 2 with Hall effect sticks resistant to drift.
In my experience testing controllers, the Pro Controller and Xbox Wireless options are most comfortable for extended gaming sessions. Their ergonomic, full-sized grips prevent hand strain over 10+ hours traversing Skyrim or catching Pokémon.
I‘d love to see Nintendo offer custom designer JoyCons and Pro Controllers! Imagine glossy black controllers with vibrant neon highlights and trims straight from Splatoon 3. Please make it happen Nintendo! 🙏
In Conclusion: Best Nintendo Switch Controllers
While everyone has personal preferences, here are my easy picks for best all-around Nintendo Switch controllers:
- Joy-Cons – default packed-in controllers unlocking system‘s full capabilities
- Pro Controller – excellent first party ergonomic wireless controller with superb battery
- Xbox Wireless – premium third party wireless gamepad connectivity
I hope this deep dive on the controllers compatible with Nintendo Switch aided fellow passionate gamers and content creators! Let the gaming marathon begin. 😎🎮
Do you have any other Switch controller questions or recommendations? Let me know in the comments!
