When you have your Nintendo Switch or Switch OLED docked, enhancing your gaming experience with a more ergonomic and capable controller than the Joy-Cons is a game-changer. Not only do these controllers offer comfort for extended play, but they also come with larger, tactile controls, additional buttons, customizable features, and unique capabilities that can elevate your performance in Switch games. We've dedicated countless hours to playing and reviewing the top Nintendo Switch accessories currently available on the market to help you choose the perfect controller for your needs.

TL;DR – These are the best Nintendo Switch controllers:

Our Top Pick: ### GuliKit KingKong 3 Max

4 See it at Amazon! ### Nintendo Switch Pro Controller

3 See it at Amazon See it at Best Buy See it at Target ### Nintendo Switch Joy-Cons

0 See it at Amazon See it at Walmart See it at Best Buy ### Hori Split Pad Pro

1 See it at Amazon See it at Walmart See it at Target ### PowerA Fusion Pro

0 See it at Amazon ### 8BitDo Arcade Stick

0 See it at Amazon ### Nintendo GameCube Controller

0 See it at Amazon ### 8BitDo Pro 2

0 See it at Amazon ### 8BitDo Ultimate

0 See it at Amazon See it at Best Buy ### Hori Mario Kart Racing Wheel Pro Deluxe

0 See it at Amazon See it at Best Buy See it at Target A controller is the best Switch accessory to enhance your console experience. However, not all controllers suit every player and game. We've researched and tested to bring you 10 top-notch controllers that cater to various needs. Whether you need a versatile option like the GuliKit KingKong 3 Max, a Joy-Con alternative, or something specialized for fighting or racing games, we've got a controller that matches your play style. Many of these aren't exclusive to the Nintendo Switch, allowing you to use them as a PC controller or with a handheld gaming PC.

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1. 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 playing experience. See it at Amazon 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 surpasses Nintendo's own Pro Controller by offering Hall Effect joysticks and triggers for enhanced precision and adjustable sensitivity, which is a significant advantage in games, especially shooters like Doom. It includes four detachable and remappable rear paddles, along with slightly mushy, swappable face buttons, and a large, adjustable D-Pad. Priced at about $10 more than Nintendo's controller, it's a worthwhile investment.

The GuliKit KingKong 3 Max is packed with features that seamlessly integrate with the Switch. It offers three vibration modes, including HD rumble, to immerse you in games like Super Mario Odyssey. The 6-axis gyroscope enables motion control for greater immersion, and it supports Amiibo and can wake the Switch from sleep mode.

Its design mirrors the Nintendo Pro Controller and many of the best Xbox controllers, ensuring an ergonomic and comfortable grip. The lightweight build and slightly textured surface prevent slippage during intense gaming sessions. The RGB lighting around the joysticks isn't just for aesthetics; it indicates joystick sensitivities. Sensitivity adjustments can be made directly on the controller, eliminating the need for software tweaks.

The GuliKit KingKong 3 Max pairs effortlessly with the Switch via Bluetooth or a wired USB connection for reduced latency. It's also compatible with PCs and comes with a USB dongle for a reliable wireless connection. Expect up to 28 hours of battery life in wireless mode, or 15 hours with the RGB lights on.

2. Nintendo Switch Pro Controller

Best official Switch controller

### Nintendo Switch Pro Controller

3 This official Nintendo controller features HD rumble, large face buttons, tactile triggers, and a signature D-Pad, boasting a generous 40-hour battery life. See it at Amazon See it at Best Buy See it at Target 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 spending the most time testing the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller, it ranks second on our list. Its design and feel are reminiscent of the best Xbox controllers, offering a durable build that lasts the lifespan of the Switch and an ergonomic design for comfort during long play sessions. However, it's a bit clunky for children under 6 who might prefer Joy-Cons.

Switching from Joy-Cons to the Pro Controller is noticeable, particularly with its responsive, large face buttons and real D-Pad. The D-Pad significantly enhances gameplay in retro 2D platformers. The offset joysticks provide an excellent tactile feel. The only downside is that the Z triggers are hard to differentiate from the L and R shoulder buttons due to their shallow depression.

As a wireless controller, battery life is crucial, and the Pro Controller excels with up to 40 hours of use per charge. It recharges via USB-C and can also be used wired. It includes an NFC reader for Amiibo compatibility and HD rumble, though not as strong as the Joy-Cons. All these features come at a reasonable price under $70.

3. Nintendo Switch Joy-Cons

Best Nintendo Switch Joy-Cons

### Nintendo Switch Joy-Cons

0 These versatile controllers can be used when the Switch is docked or attached for handheld mode. Just be mindful of potential Joy-Con drift issues. See it at Amazon See it at Walmart See it at Best Buy 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

Despite the potential for Joy-Con drift, Nintendo's $80 Joy-Cons are essential to the Switch's versatility, functioning in both docked and handheld modes. You can play games with the Joy-Cons attached to the console or wirelessly when the Switch is docked or on a table.

You can also share Joy-Cons with friends by turning them sideways to act as smaller controllers, although using the included straps can provide a better grip. Throughout the Switch's life, we've continuously reviewed the Joy-Cons and found them to be great, despite their unique issues.

4. 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 controllers that attach to the sides of the Switch. See it at Amazon See it at Walmart See it at Target 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

While the original Joy-Cons are suitable for most users, the $50 Hori Split Pad Pro, licensed by Nintendo, offers a more ergonomic design for handheld play. It features a wider grip area and larger buttons, including alternate shoulder triggers and a turbo setting for fewer button presses.

However, the Split Pad Pro controllers only work when connected to the Switch and lack wireless functionality, making them incompatible with game modes that require sharing individual Joy-Cons. As there are no true wireless Joy-Con alternatives, this is the next best option.

5. PowerA Fusion Pro

Best customizable Switch controller

### PowerA Fusion Pro

0 A pro-level controller with four rear paddles, interchangeable thumbsticks, and motion controls, but no rumble. See it at Amazon 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 highlighted its extensive customization options for comfort and performance. While it lacks the rumble feature found in Nintendo's Pro Controller and has a 20-hour battery life, it compensates with swappable magnetic faceplates, multiple joystick options, customizable rear trigger paddles, and motion controls for supported games. This level of customization makes the PowerA Fusion Pro a strong contender despite its trade-offs.

6. 8BitDo Arcade Stick

Best fight stick for Switch

### 8BitDo Arcade Stick

0 This budget-friendly arcade stick offers additional macro buttons and a turbo function, with versatile wireless connectivity via a USB dongle or Bluetooth for use with the Switch, PC, or mobile. See it at Amazon 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

Although unlikely for competitive fighting game tournaments on the Switch (unless it's Smash Bros.), the $90 8BitDo Arcade Stick is highly recommended for fighting games. It boasts a retro style and supports customization with Sanwa parts. The stick automatically adjusts button assignments based on whether it's connected to a Switch or PC, wired or wireless.

It can store two profiles for different platforms or games, with digital icons indicating profile changes. Additionally, it includes turbo support and lasts up to 40 hours on a 2.4GHz wireless connection or 30 hours on Bluetooth.

7. Nintendo GameCube Controller

Best Super Smash Bros. controller

### Nintendo GameCube Controller

0 Ideal for playing Super Smash Bros., the GameCube controller features a unique button layout that simplifies executing moves. See it at Amazon Product Specifications:

• Connectivity: GameCube (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 gold standard for Super Smash Bros. games since its introduction in 2001. Its unique button layout, with gray X and Y buttons surrounding a large green A button and a smaller red B button, facilitates quick jumps, air attacks, and smash attacks using the yellow C-stick.

While you can play Super Smash Bros. Ultimate with a Switch Pro Controller, competitive players often prefer the $75 GameCube controller, along with the required $15-to-$20 adapter for the Switch.

8. 8BitDo Pro 2

Best Switch controller for retro games

### 8BitDo Pro 2

0 Experience a retro aesthetic with modern functionality on this controller that allows customizable profiles for on-the-fly switching. See it at Amazon 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 offers a retro aesthetic with a modern feel, making it ideal for Nintendo Switch Online's classic game libraries. Its buttons, direction pad, and shoulder buttons mimic the original SNES controller, while the extended grips and dual Hall Effect joysticks resemble the first PlayStation DualShock, complete with additional trigger paddles.

We've tested the Pro 2 with modern Switch games and found it satisfactory. Its support for three unique button layout profiles makes it versatile for both classic and contemporary gaming.

9. 8BitDo Ultimate

Best third-party Switch controller

### 8BitDo Ultimate

0 Customize button mapping, swap stick behavior, and adjust vibration levels using robust software on this controller, which includes two extra rear paddles and a charging dock. See it at Amazon See it at Best Buy 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

Our initial review of the 8BitDo Ultimate controller praised its competency and design, similar to the Switch Pro. It features a slightly larger D-pad, Hall Effect sensors in the sticks, and highly responsive buttons, making it ideal for fighting games like Smash Bros.

Using the 8BitDo Ultimate app, you can customize button mapping, swap stick behavior, and adjust vibration levels. The controller includes two extra back paddles and a custom profile switch button for storing three profiles and switching on the fly.

It offers a 22-hour battery life and comes with a charging dock that doubles as a wireless connection, alongside a 2.4GHz dongle. Its Bluetooth support ensures versatility beyond the Switch, making it a great choice for potential use with the Switch 2.

10. Hori Mario Kart Racing Wheel Pro Deluxe

Best racing wheel for Switch

### Hori Mario Kart Racing Wheel Pro Deluxe

0 An affordable racing wheel and two-pedal set for the Switch with adjustable wheel sensitivity and programmable buttons. See it at Amazon See it at Best Buy See it at Target Product Specifications:

• Connectivity: Wired USB
• Max battery life: N/A
• Weight: 7 pounds

Pros:

• Feels solid
• Customizable controls

Cons:

• Lacks features like force feedback

While many of the best racing wheels are incompatible with the Switch, the $100 Hori Mario Kart Racing Wheel Pro Deluxe fills the gap. Though it lacks advanced features like force feedback, it offers a solid feel, customizable controls, sturdy paddle shifters, and different sensitivity levels for improved handling.

The included two-pedal set for brakes and gas enhances the immersive gaming experience beyond traditional controllers. It's not just for Mario Kart but also works with other Switch and some PC driving games. It's likely compatible with the upcoming Mario Kart game expected on the Nintendo Switch 2 in 2025.

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 basic gameplay, Nintendo's options are recommended. However, for specific genres, consider the following:

Fighting games: A fight stick like the 8BitDo Arcade Stick is ideal for traditional arcade-style fighting games. For competitive play, check our guide to the best fight sticks.

Racing games: The Hori Mario Kart Racing Wheel Pro Deluxe is a solid, affordable option. Basic plastic wheels for Joy-Cons are less robust but still an option.

Retro games: The 8BitDo Pro 2 offers a feel close to classic controllers, making it perfect for retro gaming on the Switch.

Nintendo Switch controller FAQ

Will Nintendo Switch controllers work with the Switch 2?

With the Switch 2 officially announced, we expect upgraded, larger, magnetic Joy-Cons that function like a mouse. This means standard Switch Joy-Cons won't be compatible. However, Bluetooth-only controllers like the Switch Pro and KingKong 3 Max should work. An extra USB-C port suggests direct accessory connectivity.

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, and wireless pairing is straightforward with Bluetooth. Steam recognizes it as an Xbox controller, simplifying button mapping. For non-Steam games, the 8BitDo Wireless USB Adapter or special software is required. Joy-Cons connect via Bluetooth, and software like JoytoKey or BetterJoy enables PC use.

Do Nintendo Switch controllers drift?

Yes, Joy-Con drift is a common issue where the controller registers an input without user action. It's not just wear and tear; it affects many Switch users. You can fix Joy-Con drift yourself or have Nintendo repair it. Other Nintendo controllers are less prone to this issue.

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; you'll need to buy a separate controller for other game types.

Are there any Joy-Con alternatives?

While there are many controllers that enhance handheld play, none fully replace the Joy-Cons' motion sensor functionality. The Hori Split Pad Pro offers an excellent handheld experience but doesn't fully substitute Joy-Cons for all games.

When do Switch controllers go on sale?

Although the Nintendo Switch rarely goes on sale, controllers often do. Key sale times include Amazon Prime Day in July and Black Friday/Cyber Monday.