The Best Nintendo Switch Controllers
We compared seven controllers for the Nintendo Switch, using 160,000 owner ratings and expert reviews to find the best.
Updated
The bottom line
The AceGamer Wireless Controller is our top pick for its combination of comfort, durability, and programmable buttons at a low price. It has a Hall Effect joystick, programmable buttons, and a long-lasting battery, making it a great choice for gamers. The Nintendo Joy-Con (L/R) is a close runner-up, offering versatility and high customer satisfaction but at a higher price. For budget-conscious buyers, the Lyyes Switch Controller provides good value with its ergonomic design and fast charging, though it lacks some advanced features.
AceGamer Wireless Controller $34.18
Best balance of features and price
The AceGamer Wireless Controller has advanced joystick technology, programmable buttons, and a long-lasting battery for $34.18. It's comfortable and durable, though it requires calibration and manual connection on first use. Gamers looking for a reliable, customizable controller at a low price should choose this one.
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Nintendo Joy-Con $89.00
Best for versatility and high satisfaction
The Nintendo Joy-Con (L/R) offers multiple ways to play and high customer satisfaction for $89. It includes motion control sensors and is praised for its responsive buttons and smooth joystick. Gamers who value versatility and brand reliability should consider this option, despite the higher price and reported joystick drift.
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Lyyes Switch Controller $25.99
Best value for money
The Lyyes Switch Controller has a comfortable design, fast charging, and enhanced sensitivity for $25.99. It's easy to pair and has good battery life, though it lacks some advanced features. Budget-conscious gamers will find this controller offers good performance at a low cost.
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- AceGamer Wireless Controller Best for features and price 9.0/10 $34.18 Amazon
- Nintendo Joy-Con Best for versatility and satisfaction 8.5/10 $89.00 Amazon
- Lyyes Switch Controller Best for budget 8.0/10 $25.99 Amazon
- 8Bitdo Ultimate 2 Controller Good for multi-platform use 7.5/10 $57.99 Amazon
- 8BitDo Ultimate Bluetooth Controller Good for quality and compatibility 7.0/10 $29.09 Amazon
- Nintendo Switch Joy-Con Good for vibrant colors 6.5/10 $89.00 Amazon
- Nintendo Joy-Con (L)/(R) Good for alternative color scheme 6.0/10 $87.00 Amazon
Where the differences show up in daily use
The AceGamer Wireless Controller has advanced joystick technology and programmable buttons, providing a more customizable gaming experience. The Nintendo Joy-Con (L/R) is praised for its versatility and motion control sensors, making it suitable for a variety of games. The Lyyes Switch Controller has a comfortable design and fast charging, making it a good choice for casual gamers.
Who should buy which
Gamers looking for a reliable, customizable controller at a low price should choose the AceGamer Wireless Controller. Those who value versatility and high customer satisfaction should consider the Nintendo Joy-Con (L/R). Budget-conscious gamers will find the Lyyes Switch Controller offers good performance at a low cost.
What owners complain about after buying
The most common complaint across all controllers is joystick drift, particularly with the Nintendo Joy-Con (L/R). Some users also report connectivity issues with the 8BitDo Ultimate Bluetooth Controller. The AceGamer Wireless Controller requires calibration and manual connection on first use, which some users find inconvenient.
The also-rans
The 8Bitdo Ultimate 2 Controller and the 8BitDo Ultimate Bluetooth Controller, while praised for their build quality and performance, fall short due to connectivity issues and less precise D-pads. The Nintendo Switch Joy-Con (Neon Purple and Neon Orange) and the Nintendo Joy-Con (L)/(R) (Pastel Purple/Pastel Green) are essentially the same product in different colors, offering no significant advantages over each other.