The Best Nintendo Switch Controllers
We compared seven Nintendo Switch controllers on owner ratings, expert reviews, and specs. The Nintendo Switch Pro Controller is our top pick for its build quality and features.
Updated
The bottom line
The Nintendo Switch Pro Controller (B0F3VTFD6J) is our top pick for its build quality, features like HD Rumble and motion controls, and excellent owner ratings. It costs $74.99. The PDP Afterglow Wave Wireless Nintendo Switch Pro Controller (B0D1L1CG8S) is a close runner-up at $69, offering customizable RGB lighting and programmable back buttons. For a budget option, the PowerA Advantage Wired Controller (B0F6W7L66T) at $25.99 provides good value with Hall Effect thumbsticks and mappable buttons.
Nintendo Switch Pro Controller $74.99
Best overall Nintendo Switch controller
The Nintendo Switch Pro Controller has premium build quality, features like HD Rumble and motion controls, and excellent owner ratings. At $74.99, it provides the best balance of features and comfort. The tradeoff is its higher price compared to third-party options.
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PDP Gaming Afterglow Wave Wireless Nintendo Switch Pro Controller $69.00
Best wireless controller with RGB lighting
The PDP Afterglow Wave Wireless Nintendo Switch Pro Controller offers customizable RGB lighting, programmable back buttons, and a comfortable design. At $69, it is a close second to the Pro Controller with added aesthetic appeal.
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PowerA Advantage Wired Controller for Nintendo Switch $25.99
Best budget controller with Hall Effect thumbsticks
The PowerA Advantage Wired Controller provides good value at $25.99 with Hall Effect thumbsticks, mappable buttons, and a comfortable design. It is a good choice for those on a budget, though it lacks wireless capability.
Check price on AmazonThe field, ranked
- Nintendo Switch Pro Controller Best overall with premium features and build 10.0/10 $74.99 Amazon
- PDP Gaming Afterglow Wave Wireless Nintendo Switch Pro Controller Best wireless with RGB lighting and programmable buttons 9.0/10 $69.00 Amazon
- PowerA Advantage Wired Controller for Nintendo Switch Best budget with Hall Effect thumbsticks 8.0/10 $25.99 Amazon
- PDP Afterglow Wave Wireless RGB Good wireless with RGB lighting, slightly higher price 8.0/10 $59.96 Amazon
- Nintendo Switch Joy-Con Good Joy-Cons with motion controls, higher price 7.0/10 $99.00 Amazon
- Nintendo Joy-Con Good Joy-Cons with pastel colors, higher price 7.0/10 $99.00 Amazon
- GameSir Nova Lite 2 Budget wireless with multi-platform compatibility, mixed reviews 6.0/10 $29.99 Amazon
What owners say
Owners consistently praise the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller for its build quality, comfort, and features. The PDP Afterglow Wave Wireless Nintendo Switch Pro Controller is also well-received for its RGB lighting and programmable buttons. The PowerA Advantage Wired Controller is noted for its value and Hall Effect thumbsticks, though some owners mention odd button placement.
Also-rans
The Nintendo Joy-Con (B09Z1KQLW2) and Nintendo Joy-Con (B0GFQ25QWY) are good options but are priced higher and lack some features. The GameSir Nova Lite 2 (B0F3D25PD3) is a budget wireless option but has mixed reviews and shorter battery life.