Best Nintendo Switch controller in 2024
Nintendo Switch Pro Controller
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Best Switch Pro Controller alternative (Tie)
Best Switch Pro controller alternative (Tie)
Best for handheld players (Tie)
See Split Pad Pro at Amazon See Split Pad Pro Pokemon editions See Split Pad Pro Attachment Set
Best for handheld players (Tie)
See Split Pad Compact at Amazon See Split Pad Compact Pokemon Edition See Split Pad Compact Attachement Set
Best premium handheld Switch controller
See Nitro Deck at Amazon See Nitro Deck With case bundle
Best four-paddle Switch controller
PowerA Fusion Pro wireless controller
Best for those who just want a real D-pad
Best Switch controller for themed designs
PowerA Enhanced Wireless Controller
Best classic controller for Nintendo Switch
Best controller for GameCube enthusiasts
PowerA GameCube-style controller
See at Amazon (Wireless) See at Best Buy (Wired)
Best Nintendo Switch arcade/fight stick
Best budget Nintendo Switch fight stick
Best Nintendo Switch fight pad
Hori Mario Kart Racing Wheel Pro Deluxe
See Pro Deluxe at Amazon See Pro Mini at Amazon
Best way to use PlayStation/Xbox controllers with Switch
8BitDo Wireless Bluetooth Adapter
With Prime Day 2024 happening on July 16 and 17, chances are it’ll be a great time to pick up a new Nintendo Switch controller. Whether you’re looking for a grip controller for handheld mode, a pro-style pad for playing docked, or fight stick for arcade and fighting games, we’ve rounded up the best Nintendo Switch controllers available ahead of Prime Day 2024 to help make your search for a new gamepad for Nintendo’s hybird console a little easier. And be sure to check our lists for even more early Prime Day sales available now, including the best Nintendo Switch deals.
Amazon Prime Day 2024 Early Deals
Best Nintendo Switch dealsBest PS5 dealsFree games for Prime membersShop early Prime Day deals at Amazon
The Switch Pro controller is an easy and safe choice, but numerous third-party controllers give it a run for its money. Some of the top brands to consider include 8BitDo, a maker of retro-inspired controllers and the company behind our favorite Pro Controller alternatives, the Pro 2 and Ultimate; Hori, which makes the Split Pad Pro, Split Pad Compact, and more of the best Nintendo Switch accessories; and PowerA, which offers some of the best budget Switch controllers and a great GameCube-style option as well. Depending on what you play, you may even want to pick up a couple of the controllers on this list.
From Switch Pro Controller alternatives and better Joy-Cons to fight sticks and retro pads, here are the best Switch controllers we’ve tried and swear by. Plus, check out our picks for the best Nintendo Switch carrying cases, screen protectors, and grips as well as great Bluetooth headsets for Switch.
Best Nintendo Switch controller in 2024
Nintendo Switch Pro Controller
Specs:
Battery: 40 hoursGyro: YesRumble: Yes (HD rumble)NFC: YesHall Effect sticks: NoPro features: N/AConnectivity: Wireless (Bluetooth), Wired (USB-C)Supported platforms: Switch, PC, Android
Pros:
Amazing battery lifeSupports all Nintendo Switch featuresComfortable
Cons:
No pro features like back buttonsStick drift is possible
Six years after launching alongside the Nintendo Switch, the official Pro Controller remains the best bet for most players. It arguably has the best ergonomics among Nintendo, Microsoft, and Sony’s first-party console video game controllers. The face buttons feel good, the analog sticks have excellent tension, the triggers and shoulder buttons are great, and D-pad is solid as well. It’s also the only conventional Switch controller that utilizes all of the Switch’s features, including HD Rumble, gyro motion controls, and NFC support for Amiibo.
The Pro Controller is significantly better for playing games in docked mode than the Joy-Cons, whether attached to the grip or not. It also has an incredible battery life, holding a charge for around 40 hours.
When you buy a Nintendo Switch, you can’t go wrong by pairing it with the Switch Pro controller. Though the Pro controller can also suffer from joystick drifting, in general it tends to hold up very well, even after years of consistent use. It’s a high-performing controller with super ergonomics and an all-around great feel. You can’t ask for much more than that from a first-party controller. That said, there are a couple of third-party Switch controllers that outperform the Pro Controller in some respects…
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Best Switch Pro Controller alternative (Tie)
8BitDo Pro 2
Battery: 20 hours (or AA batteries)Gyro: YesRumble: Yes (adjustable rumble)NFC: NoHall Effect sticks: YesPro features: Two back buttons, custom layout profiles,Connectivity: Wireless (Bluetooth), Wired (USB-C)Supported platforms: Switch, PC, Mac, Android, iOS, Steam Deck
Pros:
20-hour battery lifeOption to use AA batteriesGood customization options
Cons:
Lacks NFT supportMinimal pro features
The 8BitDo Pro 2 is, quite simply, the best Switch Pro controller alternative on the market for those who prefer aligned joysticks and/or play a lot of games that control better with a D-pad. The Pro 2’s nostalgic design calls back to the SNES controller, which gives it a charming retro aesthetic while maintaining modern features.
This Bluetooth gamepad features extensive customization for button mapping, analog sticks, trigger inputs, and vibration adjustments. Notably, the Pro 2 has two back paddle buttons to give you more control while playing, along with an enhanced grip and more ergonomic shape. It allows you to swap button inputs, invert the X and Y axis on your analog sticks, and more. You can even create macros of up to 18 inputs.
All of this customization can be done on Windows, Mac, Android, or iOS. The convenient mobile app allows you to remap inputs and make other adjustments on the fly. You can store up to three custom profiles on the Pro 2–a handy feature if you’re regularly switching between multiple games.
The Pro 2 has a switch on the back that can be toggled between devices: Switch, Mac, D-Input, and X-Input. This makes it easy to use the Pro 2 on other platforms such as PC, Mac, and Steam Deck without having to reconfigure inputs.
Its battery life isn’t nearly as impressive as the official Pro controller, though. You can get around 20 hours on a full charge, but you can also use disposable AA batteries in a pinch. The Pro 2 is equipped with motion controls and rumble–but not “HD” rumble, so it doesn’t offer pinpoint, variable vibration like the first-party controller. One feature it is missing altogether is NFC support, so that’s worth keeping in mind, but it does have anti-drift Hall Effect sticks, which is a huge pro.
The 8BitDo Pro 2 is perfect for retro gaming and can also be a wonderful pick for all of your games. The back buttons and customization suite make it well-worth considering if you like the form factor and look.
Best Switch Pro controller alternative (Tie)
8BitDo Ultimate
Specs:
Battery: 22 hoursGyro: YesRumble: Yes (adjustable rumble)NFC: NoHall Effect sticks: YesPro features: Back triggers, adjustable trigger sensitivity, customizable macros and button layoutsConnectivity: Bluetooth, 2.4GHz, USB-CSupported platforms: Switch, PC, Android, Mac, iOS, Steam Deck
Pros:
Amazing customization optionsCharging dock included2.4GHz connection on PC
Cons:
Missing a few features compared to the Switch Pro controller
If you’re looking for a pro controller that doesn’t feature the retro stylings of the 8BitDo Pro 2, then you’ll want to look at the newer 8BitDo Ultimate. Featuring a charging dock, two back buttons, and custom profile switching, it offers tons of premium functionality and comes in a sleek, modern design. We’re calling this a tie between the two 8BitDo heavyweights. It really comes down to your form factor and stick layout preferences.
Despite looking like an expensive gamepad, the 8BitDo Ultimate can be had for just $70, putting it in-line with the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller. That’s an impressive price for a pro-style gamepad–especially one that comes with a charging dock. You’ll also get support for vibration, motion controls, USB-C, and a battery that lasts up to 22 hours. It connects via Bluetooth, but it also comes with a 2.4GHz dongle (stored inside the charging stand) that can be used on PC. Like the Pro 2, it doesn’t have NFC support.
The Ultimate shares many of the same features as the Pro 2, including the impressive customization options. Once again, you can tinker with your controller’s settings using 8BitDo’s easy-to-use Ultimate app. You can remap the excellent back triggers, adjust stick tension and trigger sensitivity, calibrate intensity rumble on both handles, and set up macros. The controller stores three different user profiles.
Bottom line: The 8BitDo Pro 2 Ultimate and Pro 2 are the best Switch controllers when it comes to customization. The Ultimate costs $20 more than the Pro 2, but it also comes with a charging dock. These controllers have features that pro-style controllers sold for twice the price or more don’t have. Incredible value.
Best for handheld players (Tie)
Hori Split Pad Pro
Specs:
Battery: N/AGyro: NoRumble: NoNFC: NoHall Effect sticks: NoPro features: Remappable back triggers, turbo modeConnectivity: Joy-Con slotsSupported platforms: Switch (handheld) and docked (wired) with Attachment Set
Pros:
ComfortableFull thumbsticksCan still dock the Switch when attached
Cons:
Missing important features like gyro, rumble, and NFC.
The Hori Split Pad Pro is the best set of Joy-Cons around. The Split Pad Pro gives the Switch a more conventional controller form factor when playing in handheld mode thanks to its curved handles that add a welcome bulkiness to your grip. In addition to the added ergonomics, the Split Pad Pro boasts regular analog sticks, not the low-profile thumbsticks seen on the Joy-Cons. It also has beefier triggers and buttons as well as a real D-pad, making it great for both modern and classic games. Mappable back triggers add more customization and make the Split Pad Pro the ideal controller for competitive handheld play on Switch.
The Split Pad Pro is sold in two different models. You can buy just the controller, or you can pick up the controller with an attachment that lets you use the Split Pad Pro in docked mode with a wired connection. The Split Pad Pro draws its power from the Switch itself, so it’s primarily (and understandably) designed with portable play in mind.
The Split Pad Pro remedies the ergonomic issues that plague the Joy-Cons. And while there are a bunch of great Nintendo Switch grips, none of them fix the Joy-Cons’ limitations better than the Split Pad Pro.
See Split Pad Pro at Amazon See Split Pad Pro Pokemon editions See Split Pad Pro Attachment Set
Best for handheld players (Tie)
Hori Split Pad Compact
Specs:
Battery: N/AGyro: NoRumble: NoNFC: NoHall Effect sticks: NoPro features: Read triggers, turbo modeConnectivity: Joy-Con slotsSupported platforms: Switch (handheld) and docked (wired) with Attachment Set
Pros:
Great portabilityFull-size thumbsticks
Cons:
May be too small for some handsMissing important features, especially gyro controls
The Hori Split Pad Compact takes everything that made the Split Pad Pro so popular and trims down its footprint. This makes it a great option for handheld gamers that are constantly traveling, as it’s easy to find space in your bag for the tiny controllers.
Despite its small size, the Split Pad Compact still features full-sized analog sticks, buttons, and a responsive D-pad. There’s even a set of programmable rear triggers and a turbo functionality that lets you rapidly input button presses by simply holding down the button instead of constantly mashing it.
Larger hands still might be best served with the Hori Split Pad Pro, but folks in need of something highly portable that doesn’t cut features to achieve that goal will find much to love about the Split Pad Compact.
See Split Pad Compact at Amazon See Split Pad Compact Pokemon Edition See Split Pad Compact Attachement Set
Best premium handheld Switch controller
Nitro Deck
Battery: N/AGyro: YesRumble: Yes (adjustable rumble)NFC: NoHall Effect sticks: YesPro features: Four back buttons, companion app, swappable thumbstick capsConnectivity: USB-CSupported platforms: Switch, Switch OLED
Pros:
Good customization settingsDurable designUSB-C passthrough
Cons:
Awkward right thumbstick placementToo large to fit in the Switch dock
Yes, we have a third option for the best handheld Switch controller, but the Nitro Deck’s features require its own category. Unlike the Hori Split Pads, the Nitro Deck features its own battery, which enables extra features like rumble support. It also features more robust buttons and triggers compared to other controllers of this style and uses Hall Effect thumbsticks. It also ships with two extra thumbstick caps, and you can buy more styles separately.
However, the sticks are also one of the Nitro Deck’s few sticking points. Specifically, the right thumbstick is just a tad too low, which can feel awkward depending on the size of your hand. And while it has USB-C charging and video passthrough, you need to supply an additional USB-C to HDMI adapter or an HDMI to USB-C cord if you want to use the video output while playing. It also won’t fit in the Nintendo Switch dock, so you have to remove it from the grip to play in docked mode.
Outside of those issues, however, the Nitro Deck beats out both Split Pads in a few key areas, including four programmable back buttons instead of just two. And thanks to the Nitro Deck’s built-in power supply, its programmable buttons can be mapped to inputs on either side of the controller, whereas the Split Pad limits the right back button to the right inputs and left to left inputs. It also has a free companion app for further customizations like adjustable trigger sensitivity, dead zones, and rumble intensity. Overall, the Nitro Deck offers a more premium feel than either Split Pad.
The Nitro Deck is available in multiple color schemes, including retro-inspired designs that pay homage to the GameCube and SNES. You can also bundle the controller with a carrying case that includes a mesh accessory pouch and an insert that holds eight game cartridges.
See Nitro Deck at Amazon See Nitro Deck With case bundle
Best four-paddle Switch controller
PowerA Fusion Pro wireless controller
Specs:
Battery: 20 hoursGyro: YesRumble: NoNFC: NoHall Effect sticks: NoPro features: Four remappable back triggers, swappable thumbsticksConnectivity: Bluetooth, USB-CSupported platforms: Nintendo Switch, PC
Pros:
Lots of customization3.5mm audio jack (wired-mode only)
Cons:
More expensive than other third-party Switch controllersNo rumble or NFC
The PowerA Fusion Pro retains the same layout and form factor as the Switch Pro controller while adding four mappable back paddles. The Fusion Pro has rubber grips for added comfort and connects via Bluetooth. You also get two faceplate options and four swappable thumbsticks with different heights and either convex or concave caps.
Another great feature on the Fusion Pro is that it has a headphone jack, which is curiously absent from some of the other best Switch controllers. That said, the headphone jack only works when playing with a wired connection. The Fusion Pro comes with a 10-foot USB-C cable and a storage case for the controller. It’s important to note that it does not have HD rumble or Amiibo support. It does offer motion controls, though.
Feels like an Xbox controller
Gulikit KingKong Pro 2
Specs:
Battery: 25 hoursGyro: YesRumble: Yes (adjustable rumble)NFC: YesHall Effect sticks: YesPro features: Custom button mapping, up to 10 minute input recordingConnectivity: Bluetooth, USB-CSupported platforms: Switch, PC, Android, Mac, iOS, Steam Deck
Pros:
Lots of cool bonus features like input recordingOne of the few third-party controllers with NFC supportApp-free button remapping
Cons:
Some features may be superfluousSome similarly priced options still beat it
At a glance, you’d be forgiven for thinking the Gulikit KingKong Pro 2 was an Xbox Series X controller. It features most of the same buttons in a nearly identical layout as the latest Xbox gamepad, but it’s actually designed specifically for Nintendo Switch.
Aside from looking like an Xbox controller, the KingKong Pro 2 brings a few cool features to the table. The first is its Hall Sensor joysticks, which are much more resistant to drift than other sticks and should provide a smooth gaming experience for the life of your Switch. Its buttons are also clicky and responsive, leading to a premium feel despite its standard $70 price tag.
The Switch Pro Controller and 8BitDo Ultimate should still be high on your shopping list, but Xbox fans crossing over to the world of Nintendo will find plenty of reasons to check out the KingKong Pro 2. Premium features such as autopilot gaming and customizable buttons, a slick design, and top-tier joysticks make it a great, under-the-radar option.
Best for those who just want a real D-pad
Hori D-Pad Controller
Specs:
Battery: N/AGyro: YesRumble: NoNFC: NoHall Effect sticks: NoPro features: NoConnectivity: Joy-Con slot (handheld mode only)Supported platforms: Nintendo Switch (handheld mode only)
Pros:
Great D-padFeels almost identical to the standard Joy-Con
Cons:
Only replaces the left Joy-ConCan’t be used wirelesslyLots of missing features
Perhaps the most disappointing thing about the Switch Joy-Con as a game controller is the lack of a proper D-Pad on its left Joy-Con. It’s not an automatic dealbreaker, with games like Breath of the Wild and Super Smash Bros. Ultimate not utilizing the D-pad for anything super demanding, but when the situation calls for it, the Hori D-Pad Joy-Con feels a lot more precise and comfortable when playing in handheld mode without having to resort to a fully alternate gamepad. The D-pad on Hori’s Joy-Con is a bit soft, but it’s hard to deny just how pleasant the experience is.
There are a few things that are important to note, however. First off, this Joy-Con can’t be used wirelessly, so you’re restricted to using it in handheld mode. Secondly, it’s incompatible with most cases and grips. This is because the latch button protrudes out further than the official Nintendo Joy-Cons. We took a pair of scissors and cut out a space for it on a cheap Orzly grip case, Finally, you should note that you’ll only get one left controller–there’s not matching right controller included.
Best Switch controller for themed designs
PowerA Enhanced Wireless Controller
Specs:
Battery: N/AGyro: NoRumble: NoNFC: NoHall Effect sticks: NoPro features: Two remappable back buttonsConnectivity: USBSupported platforms: Switch, PC
Pros:
10-foot USB cableSimple designLots of unique themes and color options
Cons:
No gyro, rumble, or NFCWired-only
The PowerA Enhanced Wireless Controller is an honorable mention when it comes to discussing Switch Pro Controller alternatives, largely because of the range of themed designs.
PowerA has outdone itself when it comes to the range of designs available for the Enhanced Wireless Controller, with bold and striking designs themed after Nintendo franchises and other popular series, from Mario and Zelda to Cuphead, Spyro, and The Witcher. Priced at $50, you’ll often find nice deals on older designs at Amazon as well.
Build-wise, the PowerA Enhanced Wireless Controller is simply lacking compared to some other controllers on this list. It feels lighter and cheaper than the Pro Controller, the joysticks are slightly taller, and the D-pad is slightly further in. Overall, the controller looks and feels quite similar to the first-party option with a comfortable, ergonomic design and standard button layout, but it lacks that premium feel. You do get two mappable rear buttons and support for motion controls, but not HD rumble, IR, or Amiibo NFC. Finally, this model runs on AA batteries and can’t be recharged similar to the Pro Controller, though you could use rechargeable AA batteries in it.
Ultimately, we love the PowerA Enhanced Wireless Controller for its unmatched range of themed designs and its overall similarities to the Pro Controller with a cheaper price tag, though we don’t recommend picking this up to be your main Switch controller. Instead, make this your second or third Switch controller that you pick up for multiplayer sessions or for when your Pro Controller needs to charge.
Best classic controller for Nintendo Switch
8BitDo M30 Bluetooth
Specs:
Battery: 18 hoursGyro: NoRumble: NoNFC: NoHall Effect sticks: N/APro features: Button mapping, turbo mode (PC and Android-only)Connectivity: Bluetooth, USB-CSupported platforms: Switch, PC, Android
Pros:
Six-button layout is great for multiple retro consoles on NSO
Cons:
Lack of thumbsticks and other features limits its use for modern games
8BitDo’s M30 controller is an excellent retro gamepad, especially if you have Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack to play the library of Sega Genesis games. The M30 uses the six-button Genesis layout, which makes it far more versatile than the original three-button Genesis controllers. Its ergonomics have been shaped differently to make it more comfortable to hold than the Sega original, and the D-pad simply incredible. Classic titles, platformers, and fighting games are the obvious choice for the M30, but it’s great for a wide variety of genres. It’s definitely not going to work with every game, especially those that rely on a second analog stick, but it’s a nice option to have around.
Best SNES-style controller
8BitDo SN30 Pro
Specs:
Battery: Up to 18 hoursGyro: YesRumble: Yes (standard rumble)NFC: NoHall Effect sticks: YesPro features: Turbo modeConnectivity: Bluetooth (wireless), USB-C (wired)Supported platforms: Switch, PC, Android, iOS, Mac
Pros:
Modern inputs with classic lookGood battery lifeAnti-drift Hall Effect sticksCompatible with many other devices
Cons:
No customization optionsFewer features than the 8BitDo Pro 2
If you want to make the experience of playing the SNES games included in the Nintendo Switch Online library feel more authentic, you’ll want a controller that looks and feels more like the classic Super Nintendo pad. 8BitDo’s SN30 Pro not only looks the part–featuring the classic shape, D-pad style, and facebutton layout of the SNES controller–it merges those retro aesthetics with modern controller functionality, making it well-suited for games of any generation.
The SN30 features all of the modern inputs you need, including four triggers and two thumbsticks, all in an SNES form factor. It’s not 100% identical to the SNES controller, but that’s for the best, as its thicker form factor offers better ergonomics. The controller supports wired and wireless connections on a variety of platforms, including the Switch, PC, iOS, Mac, Android, and even the Steam Deck and Analog Pocket.
The SN30 Pro’s only major flaw is its lack of customization options compared to some of the other 8BitDo controllers on this list, such as remappable back buttons or support for 8BitDo’s Ultimate software. However, its baseline features are solid, and it has a long battery life. Plus, 8BitDo recently updated the SN30 Pro with Hall Effect sticks, which prevent stick drift.
Best controller for GameCube enthusiasts
PowerA GameCube-style controller
Specs:
Battery: 30 hours on 2 AA batteriesGyro: YesRumble: NoNFC: NoHall Effect sticks: NoPro features: N/AConnectivity: Bluetooth or USBSupported platforms: Switch
Pros:
Nostalgic designGreat for Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
Cons:
Only works with select games
PowerA’s GameCube-style controller feels very similar to Nintendo’s original controller with its shape and size; however, that doesn’t mean it’s without changes. The biggest difference is the larger D-pad, which makes it better suited for games like 2D platformers or fighting games–though there are still controllers with better D-pads out there if you’re looking for one. Thankfully, where PowerA’s controller excels is with games like Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, Animal Crossing: New Horizons, and The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild.
If you’re looking for a controller that is nearly identical to the GameCube’s–but with some modern niceties–then PowerA’s pad is a great option. It comes in both wireless and wired designs.
See at Amazon (Wireless) See at Best Buy (Wired)
Best Nintendo Switch arcade/fight stick
8BitDo Arcade Stick
Specs:
Battery: N/AGyro: N/ARumble: N/ANFC: NoHall Effect sticks: N/APro features: Remappable buttons and macrosConnectivity: Bluetooth, 2.4GHz, USB-CSupported platforms: Switch, PC
Pros:
Solid build qualityArcade-like button responseLots of modability and customization options
Cons:
Minimal support for other platforms
There’s no shortage of great fight sticks on the market, but there aren’t many designed specifically for Switch. The 8BitDo Arcade Stick is one of those, and you can’t beat the combination of price and performance, so that’s why it’s getting the nod here. Built around a retro chassis that features premium buttons and a reliable joystick, it’s well worth the $90 price tag. It’s not an ultra-premium fight stick, but the Switch isn’t really a platform for competitive fighting games outside of Smash Bros. anyway.
The 8BitDo Arcade Stick works on both Switch and PC, giving you a bit of multiplatform support should you decide to connect it to your gaming rig. It offers eight large face buttons that have been placed in a way that mimics the natural curvature of your hand for easy access (and comfort during extended play sessions). It also supports button mapping and lets you connect via Bluetooth, 2.4Hz, or a wired USB-C port.
If you find something you don’t like about the Arcade Stick, 8BitDo has ensured that the unit is easy to mod. That means you can swap out the arcade buttons or replace the joystick with a new one if needed. And according to 8BitDo, the unit supports “virtually every arcade stick ever made,” so it shouldn’t be hard to find something that fits your preferences.
Best budget Nintendo Switch fight stick
Hori Fighting Stick Mini
Specs:
Battery: N/AGyro: N/ARumble: N/ANFC: NoHall effect Sticks: N/APro features: N/AConnectivity: USBSupported platforms: Switch, PC
Pros:
Simple and compact designClassic arcade-style button layoutAffordable compared to other fight sticks
Cons:
Minimal featuresCan’t be moddedFeels cheaper than other sticks
If you’re somebody who plays fighting games but has been hesitant to drop the serious amount of money that’s required for a high-end fight stick, then Hori’s Fighting Stick Mini is a great beginner’s stick. Despite its cheap price and lightweight form factor, it’s perfectly capable of keeping you in the fight, whether you’re gaming on Switch or PC.
Because the Fighting Stick Mini is much cheaper than higher-end sticks, it’s questionable whether its components will last the punishment a fighting game fan can dish out. The lack of features is a tad disappointing as well, especially the inability to swap the joystick’s control from the D-pad to the analog sticks. Despite all that, the Fighting Stick Mini performs well, especially considering the price. There’s no denying that it’s an excellent option for beginners or even parents looking to introduce their kids to fighting games.
Best Nintendo Switch fight pad
PowerA Fusion Wired Fight Pad
Specs:
Battery: N/AGyro: NoRumble: NoNFC: NoHall Effect sticks: N/APro features: N/AConnectivity: USBSupported platforms: Switch
Pros:
ComfortableGreat layout for fighting games and retro titlesIncludes multiple faceplate options
Cons:
Stiff buttonsMore expensive than other wired controller
There aren’t a lot of options for fight pads on the Switch, and while there are a number of retro controllers that make for great fighting game pads, there’s always something you’re giving up, whether it’s a pair of shoulder buttons or control over the analog sticks. PowerA’s wired Fusion Fight Pad solves these problems with a dedicated switch that lets you swap between D-pad and left and right analog stick control–it also features all four shoulder buttons. The pad itself resembles that of the Sega Saturn, which is one of the best controllers for fighting games and 2D platformers ever. The Fusion Fight Pad doesn’t quite reach those heights, but it’s still a great option if you’re looking for a versatile controller.
The buttons are stiffer than those of most fight pads, so the first impressions weren’t great, but when it came to actually playing, that stiffness wasn’t an issue. The Fusion is very comfortable in the hands, and while it’s not a perfect match for the Saturn, it still feels familiar and good because of the similarities. If you’re looking for a proper fight pad for the Switch, then PowerA’s Fusion Fight Pad is sure to impress, especially if you’re a fan of more traditional controller buttons.
Best Switch racing wheel
Hori Mario Kart Racing Wheel Pro Deluxe
Specs:
Battery: N/AGyro: NoRumble: NoNFC: NoHall Effect sticks: N/APro features: N/AConnectivity: USBSupported platforms: Switch
Pros:
Colorful designAvailable with or without pedals
Cons:
Missing features found on other racing wheels
If you’re looking for a racing wheel for Mario Kart or other racing games on Nintendo Switch, Hori manufactures officially licensed Mario Kart-themed wheels that are great for the price. The Pro Deluxe version comes with a wheel with on-board controls as well as foot pedals. If you opt for the Mini version, which has a more colorful design, you’ll get a similar wheel without the pedals. While these wheels don’t feature high-end features like force feedback, they are reasonably priced and feel high quality nonetheless.
See Pro Deluxe at Amazon See Pro Mini at Amazon
Best way to use PlayStation/Xbox controllers with Switch
8BitDo Wireless Bluetooth Adapter
Specs:
Connectivity: USB (controllers pair via Bluetooth)Supported platforms: Switch
Pros:
Lets you use Bluetooth-compatible PlayStation, Xbox, and PC controllers on Switch
Cons:
Some controllers will not workDoesn’t allow for rumble, gyro, or NFC.
Sure, this isn’t a controller, but it unlocks the ability to use a wide variety of non-Nintendo controllers on the Switch. You simply plug the adapter into the dock’s USB port and then you can play your Switch games using a DualSense, DualShock 4, Bluetooth-enabled Xbox controller, and plenty others.
Of course, any controller you’ll use with this adapter won’t include features like HD rumble, motion controls, or Amiibo support. These losses are negligible for the vast majority of experiences, especially when using your favorite Bluetooth controller is the trade-off. If you want a cheap way to have a great controller you already own work with your Switch console, this is the gizmo to buy.
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