The Nintendo Switch 2 console has arrived with unprecedented demand, becoming the fastest-selling Nintendo hardware globally. Alongside the system itself comes a suite of new accessories, including the updated Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller. While it might not be a full-fledged “pro-grade” controller in the vein of a DualSense Edge, retailing at $84.99, it aims to be a significant upgrade over the original $69.99 Pro Controller – and for many players, it could be “pro enough.”
Sporting a slightly updated look with a semi-transparent smoke black finish, the core design philosophy of the original Pro Controller remains. This means fans of its compact form factor, responsive directional pad, and signature small face buttons will feel right at home. This familiar, smaller size could be particularly appealing to gamers who prefer smaller devices or experience discomfort with larger controllers from competing consoles like PlayStation or Xbox.
Key Upgrades and New Features
Nintendo packed several notable additions into the Switch 2 Pro Controller, potentially tempting current Pro Controller owners to upgrade:
Ergonomic Rear Buttons: Perhaps the most impactful addition are two new programmable buttons integrated into the grips (one on each side). Unlike rear paddles placed awkwardly on the back, these wrap around where your middle fingers naturally rest. They require minimal effort to press, feeling incredibly intuitive and arguably setting a new standard for rear button implementation. These can be customized on a per-game basis.
Integrated Headphone Jack: A long-requested feature makes its debut – a 3.5mm audio jack. This allows you to connect wired headphones or a headset directly to the controller for both game audio and GameChat. This convenience, last widely seen on the Wii U Gamepad, streams audio wirelessly from the console to the controller. To make space for the jack, the LED player indicator has been relocated to the top of the controller.
Dedicated GameChat Access: The controller features a new “C” button specifically for launching the Switch 2’s GameChat feature. This new system-level voice chat allows seamless communication with trusted friends, bypassing the need for the old smartphone app and potentially integrating with compatible webcams. While GameChat is free for a limited time initially, it will eventually require a Nintendo Switch Online subscription. Thankfully, the “C” button is fully remappable, so you won’t lose function if you choose not to use GameChat via that specific button.
Wake Console from Sleep: A basic yet highly convenient feature, the Switch 2 Pro Controller can now wake the console directly from sleep mode. This is especially useful for players primarily using the Switch while docked to a TV, though some may find it frustrating that such a fundamental feature wasn’t universally compatible with older or third-party controllers.
The Joystick Question
One area of concern for many Nintendo fans is joystick durability, given the widespread “Joy-Con drift” issues on the original Switch. Unfortunately, the Switch 2 Pro Controller still utilizes potentiometer-based joysticks rather than newer, drift-resistant technologies like Hall effect sensors.
However, initial impressions note that these are exceptionally smooth and quiet, offering minimal resistance while preventing unintended inputs. Teardowns have revealed these sticks are supplied by Alps Alpine and feature a design that allows for solderless replacement of the stick module, a significant improvement for repairability compared to some previous designs. Despite this, the overall internal design of the controller is reportedly more intricate, making complete disassembly and repair more challenging than the original Pro Controller. The hope remains that these new Alps Alpine sticks will prove more robust over time than their predecessors, though only long-term use will tell.
Beyond the Basics: Haptics and Alternatives
The Switch 2 Pro Controller includes HD Rumble 2, an evolution of the original console’s tactile feedback. While a step up from standard rumble, reviews suggest that in initial launch titles like Mario Kart World and Switch 2 Edition of Tears of the Kingdom, the haptics don’t quite reach the nuanced level seen in Sony’s DualSense controller.
For those seeking alternatives, the $84.99 price point is certainly a factor. While third-party manufacturers like 8BitDo are already releasing firmware updates for existing controllers to ensure Switch 2 compatibility, dedicated third-party controllers with similar feature sets (like rear buttons and audio jacks) are likely to emerge in the future, potentially at lower price points. An 8BitDo USB Adapter 2 can also provide a cheaper way to use controllers like the DualSense or newer Xbox pads on the Switch 2, offering features like rumble, gyro (on DualSense), and remapping, but missing Amiibo support, audio passthrough, and console wake functionality.
Is the Upgrade Worth It?
If the convenience of the integrated headphone jack, the excellent implementation of the rear programmable buttons, or the wake-from-sleep function are high priorities for you, the Switch 2 Pro Controller likely justifies its cost, even with the continued use of potentiometer joysticks. It builds upon the comfortable foundation of the original, adding practical features that enhance the gaming experience on the new console. While not a complete revolution, it stands as a premium, capable controller perfectly suited for the new era of Switch gaming, at least until third-party options catch up.
