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As expected, the Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller has remained one of the most sought-after accessory add-ons for the anticipated console since preorders commenced last month. The fascination with Nintendo’s latest standard controller has led numerous retailers to exhaust their stock prior to release. With just a fortnight left until the Switch 2’s debut, preorders for the Pro Controller are actively available at Target and GameStop.
Depending on your vicinity, you might manage to secure a preorder for in-store, launch-day collection at Best Buy. The Switch 2 Pro Controller is completely sold out at Walmart, and it seems unlikely that it will be replenished before the controller’s (and console’s) June 5 launch.
Notice: If you’re aiming to acquire an additional set of Joy-Con 2 Controllers, you will probably need to wait until launch, as we haven’t yet observed a
retailer listing for pairs or individual Joy-Con 2 Controllers that were indeed suitable for preorder.
Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller
$85 | Launches June 5
The Switch 2 Pro Controller resembles the original quite closely, yet it features several significant enhancements: a duo of remappable rear buttons, a C button for the Switch 2’s GameChat functionality, and a 3.5mm headphone socket.
Nintendo has enhanced the controller’s vibration, gyro motion controls, and analog sticks. Regrettably, the sticks do not incorporate Hall Effect sensor technology, but Nintendo claims they were crafted to deliver a more fluid and quieter experience. The controller will also support NFC for Amiibo figures.
The most prominent enhancements to the Pro Controller are also present on a couple of forthcoming third-party controllers. Officially licensed Nintendo Switch 2 wired controllers by Hori and PowerA have remappable back buttons along with the C button. As both controllers are wired, they are significantly more economical than the official choice from Nintendo. The Horipad Turbo retails for $50, while PowerA’s Switch 2 Advantage Controllers commence at $40, feature Hall Effect sticks, and are available in four diverse color options, including two designs themed after Super Mario.
Although the new Switch 2 Pro Controller and the officially licensed themed controllers appear impressive, it’s a gentle reminder for current Switch users that numerous controllers they already possess are likely compatible with Switch 2. The console supports backward compatibility with both games and accessories. All first-party and officially licensed Switch controllers are anticipated to function seamlessly on the new platform. If you have a Bluetooth controller you prefer, it should operate without complications. Controllers that link via 2.4GHz adapters might vary in performance, depending on the manufacturer, but it’s improbable that you’ll encounter significant problems with leading accessory brands such as 8BitDo.
Consequently, you might want to explore a more affordable option to the Switch 2 Pro Controller. Currently, the best controller for Nintendo Switch and Switch OLED, irrespective of cost, is the 8BitDo Ultimate 2 Bluetooth Controller. Launched earlier this year, the Ultimate 2 Bluetooth is a significant upgrade in 8BitDo’s primary controller series.
The Ultimate 2 offers four remappable buttons—two rear, two shoulder—adjustable trigger locks with dual stopping points, TMR electromagnetic sensors (superior to Hall Effect), RGB lighting rings, and extensive customization capabilities through 8BitDo’s software on PC and Android. You can configure three custom profiles, adjust stick and trigger sensitivity, create dead zones, modify rumble intensity, and set various lighting effects/colors.
The Ultimate 2 Bluetooth is accompanied by a matching charging dock that accommodates an optional USB-C adapter for 2.4GHz Wireless. It’s uncertain if the Ultimate 2 Bluetooth will connect with Switch 2 via 2.4GHz Wireless, but Bluetooth and wired connections should function effortlessly.
If you’re keen on utilizing the new GameChat capability with video communication, take a look at our analysis of the official Switch 2 cameras launching in June. There are three alternatives available: Nintendo’s official camera, Hori’s Piranha Plant Camera, and the portable Hori USB Camera.
Nintendo Switch 2 preorders have been out of stock for almost a month now, and it appears that the console will not be replenished until its launch.
If you were fortunate enough to secure a preorder and want to pair your console with additional accessories and games, take a look at our compilations of first-party Switch 2 equipment and all the Switch 2 physical games you can preorder currently available.
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