Best Nintendo Switch Controllers in 2022

Last update: January 7, 2023

Are cheap Joy-Cons worth it?

If you're looking to save a few bucks on Switch Joy-Cons, you might be tempted by the cheaper third-party options out there. But are they worth it? In our experience, the answer is generally no. We've tried a few different sets of Joy-Cons, and while they might work fine at first, they often end up with input lag, connection issues, and build quality that's not up to par with the official Joy-Cons. So, while you might be able to save a few bucks by going with a cheap third-party option

Are there any Switch controllers that don't drift?

There are a few Switch controllers that don't drift, but they're not very common. The most popular one is the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller, which doesn't have any drift issues. There are also a few third-party controllers that don't drift, but they're not as common as the Pro Controller.

Can any Bluetooth controller work with Switch?

Though the Switch comes with its own controllers, the Joy-Cons, you might prefer a different style of play. If you have a Bluetooth controller lying around, you may be wondering if you can use it with the Switch instead. The good news is that, yes, you can use a Bluetooth controller with the Switch. The bad news is that it's not quite as simple as just connecting it and playing. You'll need to do a bit of extra work to get it set up. Once you have your controller paired with the Switch, you'll need to open up

Can you pair an Xbox controller to Switch?

You can't pair an Xbox controller to a Switch, because the Switch uses Bluetooth and the Xbox controller uses proprietary wireless technology.


Nintendo Switch Pro Controller Review:


I used my Wii U Pro Controller so frequently that the analog stick caps have significant wear.When I first purchased a Switch, I felt the price of this controller was absurd. I was reprimanded by a gaming friend who said I would eventually get the Pro Controller.I tried connecting my Wii U Pro Controller and Xbox One controller to the Switch using a Mayflash NS adapter. Although it worked, the controllers either had excessive analog stick deadzones or had the neutral point settings on the analog sticks set incorrectly. I gave up on the adapter out of frustration and instead utilized the Switch's side controllers with the included controller bracket.The Switch's side controllers were difficult for me to operate because of my huge hands. I finally gave in and purchased this Pro Controller after about a week.Nintendo certainly knows how to design an excellent controller, as the same friend noted. The controller has AMAZING fit, finish, and battery life. I've been playing a lot of Payday 2 with that guy and another friend, and despite our extended gaming sessions over the weekend, neither my hands nor my wrists have gotten tired or cramped.So, is this controller's price reasonable? It was in my case. However, I clenched my teeth as I made the Amazon order. Nintendo certainly understands how to convince me to open my wallet, as I've remarked in the past. If kids primarily use the Switch, I don't think you'll need this controller. The ergonomics of this controller, though, could be too nice for adults and teenagers to pass up.



Nintendo Joy-Con (L/R) - Neon Pink / Neon Green Review:


It's a joy-con. Whether you like them or not, they function exactly as promised. These feel even better manufactured and a little heftier than the ones that came with my Switch. This could be be in my head, or it could be because I used my first pair for hundreds of hours before purchasing a second set. The Joy-con feel good, and it's fantastic to have an additional set on hand when I have friends over to play ARMS. I'm not sure if there have been any hardware changes to the Joy-con since I purchased my Switch in March of last year, and it very well could just be in my head, but they feel lovely. With the hope of extending their lifespan, I purchased a charging tower that can recharge two joycons and one pro controller. I alternate which joycons are connected to my Switch and which ones are loose by rotating them. Since some games feel better with the joy-con than the pro controller, it's really convenient to be able to keep one pair connected to the Switch and have another pair available to use when the console is docked. I can still simply remove my Switch from its dock with the other pair already connected. Since they charge on the Switch in its dock as well as on the separate base, it's a terrific method to keep all four charged.



Nintendo Joy-Con (L/R) - Gray Review:


It's a joy-con. Whether you like them or not, they function exactly as promised. These feel even better manufactured and a little heftier than the ones that came with my Switch. This could be be in my head, or it could be because I used my first pair for hundreds of hours before purchasing a second set. The Joy-con feel good, and it's fantastic to have an additional set on hand when I have friends over to play ARMS. I'm not sure if there have been any hardware changes to the Joy-con since I purchased my Switch in March of last year, and it very well could just be in my head, but they feel lovely. With the hope of extending their lifespan, I purchased a charging tower that can recharge two joycons and one pro controller. I alternate which joycons are connected to my Switch and which ones are loose by rotating them. Since some games feel better with the joy-con than the pro controller, it's really convenient to be able to keep one pair connected to the Switch and have another pair available to use when the console is docked. I can still simply remove my Switch from its dock with the other pair already connected. Since they charge on the Switch in its dock as well as on the separate base, it's a terrific method to keep all four charged.



HORI Nintendo Switch Split Pad Pro (Daemon X Machina Edition) Ergonomic Controller for Handheld Mode - Officially Licensed By Nintendo - Nintendo Switch Review:


I'll start by stating that, despite appreciating many of the switch's design characteristics, I have trouble using the joy-cons. Overall, I just find them unpleasant and challenging to use because they feel so small in my hands. I don't love the Switch because of the joy-cons.I have no regrets about having pre-ordered this controller the moment I laid eyes on it. It is precisely what I anticipated. How else could this controller, which looks like a full-size console controller, do that without making the switch larger? As for their size and the fact that they make using the Switch as a handheld even bigger, Having said that, the feel of this device is similar to an Xbox controller that has been divided in half.This is therefore, depending on your expectations, the ideal option for folks like myself who prefer the sensation of a full-size console controller when using the Switch as a handheld game system. This is my new portable setup, and while the switch is docked, I use the Pro controller.Yes, even with these installed, you can still charge the switch in its dock. No, there isn't a crash. You don't need to charge this controller because it doesn't have a battery. However, everything seems completely natural and is responsive. I sat down to give it a shot and ended up playing Dragon's Dogma for four hours.



Nintendo Neon Purple/ Neon Orange Joy-Con (L-R) - Switch Review:


It's a joy-con. Whether you like them or not, they function exactly as promised. These feel even better manufactured and a little heftier than the ones that came with my Switch. This could be be in my head, or it could be because I used my first pair for hundreds of hours before purchasing a second set. The Joy-con feel good, and it's fantastic to have an additional set on hand when I have friends over to play ARMS. I'm not sure if there have been any hardware changes to the Joy-con since I purchased my Switch in March of last year, and it very well could just be in my head, but they feel lovely. With the hope of extending their lifespan, I purchased a charging tower that can recharge two joycons and one pro controller. I alternate which joycons are connected to my Switch and which ones are loose by rotating them. Since some games feel better with the joy-con than the pro controller, it's really convenient to be able to keep one pair connected to the Switch and have another pair available to use when the console is docked. I can still simply remove my Switch from its dock with the other pair already connected. Since they charge on the Switch in its dock as well as on the separate base, it's a terrific method to keep all four charged.



8Bitdo Sn30 Pro+ Bluetooth Gamepad (Sn Edition) - Nintendo Switch Review:


Since I play a lot of 2D platformers and puzzle games, both of which all but need accurate inputs, I've been using 8bitdo controllers for a few years now. Inconsistencies with the d-pad on both of mine have made me yearn for a Switch controller that didn't share these problems, even though the Switch Pro controller is a wonderful choice for titles that don't require it.I was ecstatic when this controller was announced last year; a controller with SNES-style design and layout but with superior ergonomics and analog sticks? I was curious.For me to deem a controller "good," it needs to do a few things. It must be constructed well, responsive, and with the fewest possible instances of poor quality control. I'm delighted to report that this controller surpasses all expectations.The materials utilized in the SN30 Pro are all strong, albeit I think they are a little too light for my tastes. The d-pad is rock solid no matter how many times I run my thumb around it, the triggers are smooth in their actuation, and the buttons are clicky. also no wrong inputs! Even after using Nintendo's Pro controller for well over two years, I find the analog sticks to be slightly too short, but they are still considerably superior than the ones that are built into the JoyCons.This controller also doesn't seem to have a problem with input latency. If you've ever used a third-party controller in the past few decades, you know that that's not always the case, but it was on par with or even superior to officially-licensed ones.The controller itself is excellent overall. This is a really great piece of equipment when you consider the aforementioned features as well as the fact that it charges through USB Type-C and has gyro-aiming and rumbling like the Pro controller. Strongly advised, especially if you're seeking for a cheaper option to the official offering (even though it is a little more pricey).



HORI D-Pad Controller (L) (Zelda) Officially Licensed - Nintendo Switch Review:


Here's why using a Pro Controller to play with a D-Pay is still the BEST option. In contrast to the Hori D-Pad Controller, which has the D-Pad exactly below the analog stick, the D-Pad on the Pro Controller is located to the left of the left analog stick. This causes a little bit of a cramped feeling in my hands, so I had to experiment with how to hold the Switch handheld to prevent cramping in my left thumb.Having said that, the D-Pay is ludicrously responsive. I was unafraid of messing up the SF 30th anniversary collection's shoryuken or hadoken movements. I only purchased this controller for 2D fighting games, and for that reason alone, I'm happy because the movements are doable. But as far as comfort goes, using a Pro Controller while playing in TV mode is still preferable.



BEBONCOOL Wireless Controller for Nintendo Switch Remote Pro Controller Gamepads - Blue Anti-Skid Review:


A fantastic value is the EALNK controller. The Nintendo Switch's original equipment controllers are beautifully made and ergonomic, if a little on the small side—likely made for smaller hands. However, they are really well made and always function. Since the EALNK wireless controller costs about 25% less than the Nintendo alternatives that came with the original equipment, I must admit that I had lesser expectations for it. Although the materials and fit/finish are not exceptional, they are excellent for the price. I was really aback by how quickly the controller and Switch connected; I completely anticipated having trouble. However, the controller was connected after a few button presses. Then, I anticipated running into problems with the various states of connection (using the EALNK controller as the primary controller, connecting the original Switch controller first and then trying to connect the EALNK as controller #2, etc.). I was pleasantly surprised, though, to see that the EALNK connected without a hitch. It doesn't seem to be able to independently turn on the Switch (e.g., when everything is off, pressing the home button on the original controller boots the Switch — the EALNK does not seem to do this). There are no problems after that; you just need to approach the console in the dock and press home on it.It is unquestionably larger in the hand than the Switch controller from the beginning. It might take some getting used to the feel and layout, but I've come to prefer it to the original Switch controller's smaller size. My six-year-old son can also operate this controller, despite the fact that it is a little big for his hands; he usually rests it partially in his lap. If you are shopping for a child, take this into consideration. The buttons feel good, but compared to the original controller, I'd say the control sticks are a little stiff. They also seem to have a linear tune rather than a progressive or exponential one. But you rapidly grow used to it. I've been playing for about 10 hours, and I don't think the EALNK has missed any inputs. Additionally, the range looks a little bit superior to the original controller (which tend to drop out if you sit more than 15-20 feet from the console as we do in our Family Room). It was also unexpected that I am still using the battery's first charge. The EALNK has performed well. VERDICT: A wireless Switch controller at a great price.



4 Trigger Mobile Game Controller with Cooling Fan for PUBG/Call of Duty/Fotnite [6 Finger Operation] YOBWIN L1R1 L2R2 Gaming Grip Gamepad Mobile Controller Trigger for 4.7-6.5" iOS Android Phone Review:


I bought this to play Call of Duty on my phone since I was sick of having all the controls at the tips of my thumbs and needed some extra buttons. I first thought I could buy a regular controller, but I soon discovered that either most controllers weren't compatible with Call of Duty or that you may get caught "cheating" and be put on servers with emulator players (I'm not sure if this is true, but I didn't want to take the chance). All of my issues were resolved when I discovered this controller since it functions like an extension of your fingers. You simply map the buttons in the game's settings, and that's it. It works fantastic and even improves your grasp on your cellphone. The fan that comes with the phone is ok; it's a little noisy and doesn't push a lot of air, but it keeps the phone cool. The fan's battery hasn't caused any problems thus far.



Wireless Switch Pro Controller for Nintendo,Remote Pro Controller Gamepad Joypad,Joystick for Nintendo Switch Console, Supports Gyro Axis, Turbo and Dual Vibration Review:


I was unsure about buying this controller since I occasionally get concerned when I see an electronic item that is significantly less expensive than the competitors. I took a slight risk by purchasing this controller. I can honestly state that I have no regrets at all.The controller feels fantastic in the hands, the buttons click smoothly, and the joysticks feel decent too. The controller actually seemed heavier at first than I had anticipated, which is fine for me. The Home and /- buttons are positioned a touch too closely together; I would like if they were more tactile and further apart. Oh, and this controller does really include RUMBLE.For those of you who are interested, pairing instructions aren't that complicated. You wait for the LED lights to flash after pressing the Home button for three seconds. The switch should couple with it without a hitch once you hold the L and R triggers for about 3 seconds. To make this work, though, you must be on the Switch's Controller Configuration page. When using wireless technology for the first time, it can be a little tricky, but after a few attempts, it becomes incredibly simple and effective. This controller, like a number other 3rd party controllers I've seen, won't wake up the Switch if you put it to sleep.The only thing about this controller that I can say is slightly bad is that it has an unpleasant battery-saving feature, which I believe it has. The controller automatically disconnects and switches off after a short period of inactivity. I want it could go on forever!This is a fantastic third-party controller, except from that. I haven't encountered any problems, pairing is quick (and simple once you get the hang of it), and it feels wonderful in the hands. Oh, and it costs roughly one-third less than Nintendo's Pro controller. ... What more could you possibly want?


Can you replace controllers on Nintendo Switch?

There are a few reasons why you might want to replace the controllers on your Nintendo Switch. Maybe your Joy-Cons are starting to show wear and tear, or you want to get a different color to match your Switch console. Whatever the reason, it's easy to do. You can buy replacement Joy-Cons from Nintendo, or from third-party retailers. If you're buying from Nintendo, you can choose between the left and right Joy-Con, or you can buy a set that includes both. If you're buying from a third-party retailer, you'll likely find

Do Joy-Cons need charging?

No, Joy-Cons do not need charging. They are powered by AA batteries.

Do Joy-Cons run out of battery?

Do New Joycons still drift?

There's been a lot of talk lately about the Joycons on the Nintendo Switch and whether or not they still drift. For those who don't know, Joycon drift is when the analog sticks on the Joycons register input even when they're not being touched. This can be extremely frustrating for gamers, as it can cause characters to move on screen even when you're not touching the control sticks. So, do the new Joycons still drift? Unfortunately, it seems like they do. There have been numerous reports of Joycon drift from gamers who have purchased the new Joycons

Does Nintendo still fix 2022 Joy-Cons free?

No, Nintendo does not fix Joy-Cons for free in 2022.

How long do Joy-Cons last?

The Joy-Cons are the primary controllers for the Nintendo Switch console. They are small, lightweight, and versatile; however, some users have complained about how long they last. The average Joy-Con will last for around 20 hours on a single charge; however, this will vary depending on how much you use them and what games you are playing. If you are playing games that require a lot of motion, such as Super Mario Odyssey, your Joy-Cons will drain faster.