Top Nintendo Switch Controllers for 2025

When playing your Nintendo Switch or Switch OLED in docked mode, upgrading from the standard Joy-Cons to a more ergonomic and feature-rich controller can significantly enhance your gaming experience. These alternatives offer greater comfort during long gaming sessions, larger and more tactile controls, additional buttons, and specialized features tailored to specific game genres. We've dedicated extensive time to testing and reviewing the top Nintendo Switch accessories on the market to help you select the perfect controller for your needs.

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

Our Top Pick### GuliKit KingKong 3 Max

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

3See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuySee it at Target### NintendoSwitch Joy-Cons

0See it at AmazonSee it at WalmartSee it at Best Buy### Hori Split Pad Pro

1See it at AmazonSee it at WalmartSee it at Target### PowerAFusion Pro

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

0See it at Amazon### NintendoGameCube Controller

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

0See it at Amazon### 8BitDo Ultimate

0See it at AmazonSee it at Best Buy### HoriMario Kart Racing Wheel Pro Deluxe

0See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuySee it at TargetA controller is the best Switch accessory to enhance your console's capabilities. However, choosing the right one depends on your personal preferences and the types of games you play. We've researched and tested to bring you 10 top controllers that cater to various gaming needs. Whether you're seeking 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, there's a perfect match for your style. Many of these controllers are also compatible with PC and handheld gaming PCs, offering versatility beyond the Switch.

Looking for discounts? These are the best Switch deals happening now.

1. GuliKit KingKong 3 Max

Best Switch controller

Our Top Pick### GuliKit KingKong 3 Max

4The KingKong 3 Max elevates your gaming experience with features like hall effect sensors, swappable buttons, and HD rumble, ensuring an immersive and responsive play. 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 even Nintendo’s Pro Controller, offering hall effect joysticks and triggers for enhanced precision and adjustable sensitivity, ideal for shooters like Doom. With four detachable and remappable rear paddles, customizable face buttons, and a large, adjustable D-Pad, it provides a comprehensive gaming solution for just about $10 more than Nintendo’s controller.

This controller is packed with features designed to work seamlessly with the Switch. It includes three vibration modes, including HD rumble, to immerse you in games like Super Mario Odyssey. Additionally, a 6-axis gyroscope supports motion control for better immersion, and it's compatible with Amiibo and can wake the Switch from sleep mode.

Designed to mirror the ergonomics of the Nintendo Pro Controller and many of the best Xbox controllers, the KingKong 3 Max is comfortable to hold. Its lightweight build and textured surface prevent slipping during intense gaming sessions. The RGB lighting around the joysticks not only looks great but also indicates joystick sensitivities, which you can adjust directly on the controller.

The GuliKit KingKong 3 Max connects wirelessly to the Switch via Bluetooth or a wired USB connection for minimal latency. It's also compatible with PCs and comes with a USB dongle for a reliable wireless connection. Expect up to 28 hours of playtime with RGB off, and 15 hours with it on.

2. Nintendo Switch Pro Controller

Best official Switch controller

### Nintendo Switch Pro Controller

3The official Nintendo Switch Pro Controller boasts HD rumble, large face buttons, tactile triggers, and a signature D-Pad, with an impressive 40-hour battery life. See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuySee 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 extensive use and review, the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller ranks second on our list. Its design and feel are reminiscent of the best Xbox controllers, offering a durable build and comfortable ergonomics for long play sessions, though it might be too large for younger children.

Switching from Joy-Cons to the Pro Controller is a notable upgrade, especially with its responsive, large face buttons and classic D-pad, which is ideal for retro 2D platformers. The offset joysticks provide a tactile feel, though the Z triggers could be more distinct from the L and R shoulder buttons.

With a wireless battery life of up to 40 hours, the Pro Controller is highly convenient, charging via USB-C. It also includes an NFC reader for Amiibo and HD rumble, though the rumble is not as strong as the Joy-Cons. At under $70, it offers excellent value.

3. Nintendo Switch Joy-Cons

Best Nintendo Switch Joy-Cons

### NintendoSwitch Joy-Cons

0These versatile controllers are essential for both docked and handheld play, though they are susceptible to drifting. See it at AmazonSee it at WalmartSee 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 issue of Joy-Con drift, these $80 controllers are fundamental to the Switch's functionality. They can be used in various configurations, including handheld mode or detached for tabletop or TV play. They can also be shared as smaller controllers, though using straps is recommended for comfort.

4. Hori Split Pad Pro

Best Nintendo Switch Joy-Cons for Handheld Play

### Hori Split Pad Pro

1Enhance your handheld gaming with the ergonomic grip and larger buttons of these $50 controllers, designed to attach to the sides of the Switch. See it at AmazonSee it at WalmartSee 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

For those who prefer handheld play, the Hori Split Pad Pro offers a more ergonomic design and larger buttons than traditional Joy-Cons. However, these controllers must be connected to the Switch and do not support wireless play.

5. PowerA Fusion Pro

Best customizable Switch controller

### PowerAFusion Pro

0This pro-level controller offers extensive customization with four rear paddles, interchangeable thumbsticks, and motion controls, but lacks 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

The PowerA Fusion Pro allows for extensive customization, including swappable faceplates, multiple joysticks, and rear trigger paddles. While it lacks rumble and has a shorter battery life than the Pro Controller, its customization options make it a strong contender for players looking to tailor their gaming experience.

6. 8BitDo Arcade Stick

Best fight stick for Switch

### 8BitDo Arcade Stick

0This budget-friendly fight stick features additional macro buttons and a turbo function, suitable for Switch, PC, or mobile use. 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

For fighting games on the Switch, the $90 8BitDo Arcade Stick is a solid choice. Its retro design is customizable with Sanwa parts, and it automatically adjusts button assignments based on the connected platform. It can store two profiles for different games or platforms and includes turbo support with a long-lasting battery.

7. Nintendo GameCube Controller

Best Super Smash Bros. controller

### NintendoGameCube Controller

0Perfect for Super Smash Bros., this controller's unique layout simplifies executing moves. See it at Amazon

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 has become synonymous with Super Smash Bros. since 2001, thanks to its distinctive button layout that makes executing moves easier. For competitive play, it's a must-have, though it requires an adapter for Switch compatibility.

8. 8BitDo Pro 2

Best Switch controller for retro games

### 8BitDo Pro 2

0This $50 controller combines a retro aesthetic with modern features, perfect for playing classic games on the Switch. 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 8BitDo Pro 2 is designed for players of classic games, offering a feel similar to the original SNES controller with modern additions like extended grips and dual Hall Effect joysticks. It supports three unique button layout profiles, making it versatile for both retro and modern games.

9. 8BitDo Ultimate

Best third-party Switch controller

### 8BitDo Ultimate

0Customize your gaming experience with this controller, featuring robust software for button mapping, stick behavior, and vibration adjustments. See it at AmazonSee 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

The 8BitDo Ultimate offers a design similar to the Switch Pro but with a larger D-pad and Hall Effect sensors for enhanced responsiveness. Its customizable features, including button mapping and vibration adjustments, make it an excellent choice for a versatile gaming experience.

10. Hori Mario Kart Racing Wheel Pro Deluxe

Best racing wheel for Switch

### HoriMario Kart Racing Wheel Pro Deluxe

0This $100 racing wheel and two-pedal set offers customizable controls and different sensitivity levels for an immersive racing experience on the Switch. See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuySee 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

The Hori Mario Kart Racing Wheel Pro Deluxe is an affordable racing wheel option for Switch players, offering customizable controls and a solid feel. While it lacks advanced features like force feedback, it enhances the racing experience and is compatible with other Switch and PC driving games.

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 Switch gameplay, official Nintendo options are recommended. For specific genres, consider:

Fighting games: A fight stick like the 8BitDo Arcade Stick enhances your experience with traditional arcade-style fighting games.

Racing games: The Hori Mario Kart Racing Wheel Pro Deluxe offers a solid, affordable option for racing on the Switch.

Retro games: The 8BitDo Pro 2 is ideal for those seeking a controller that feels close to classic consoles.

Nintendo Switch controller FAQ

Will Nintendo Switch controllers work with the Switch 2?

The upcoming Switch 2 will feature larger, magnetic Joy-Cons, making standard Switch Joy-Cons incompatible. However, Bluetooth-only controllers like the Switch Pro and KingKong 3 Max should work, and the new USB-C port may allow direct accessory connections.

Can you use Switch controllers on a PC?

Official Nintendo controllers like the Switch Pro and Joy-Cons are compatible with PCs. The Switch Pro can connect via wired USB-C or Bluetooth, with Steam recognizing it as an Xbox controller. Joy-Cons connect via Bluetooth and can be used with software like JoytoKey or BetterJoy.

Do Nintendo Switch controllers drift?

Joy-Con drift is a common issue affecting many Switch users, where the controller registers unintended inputs. While there are DIY fixes, Nintendo offers repair services. Other Nintendo controllers are less prone to this issue.

What controllers does a new Nintendo Switch come with?

The Switch OLED and original Switch models come with a set of Joy-Con controllers for handheld and detached play. The Switch Lite has built-in controls for handheld mode only, requiring separate controller purchases for other game types.

Are there any Joy-Con alternatives?

While there are alternatives like the Hori Split Pad Pro for handheld play, no options fully replace the Joy-Cons' motion sensor capabilities.

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.