The Nintendo SwitchThe small Joy-Con controllers are good for simple multiplayer games (Drift problems aside), but the larger Nintendo Switch Pro controller is much better for more demanding games. With the actual grips, the Switch Pro controller is more comfortable, and its full control pad and larger buttons help you find the right controls when you're in the heat of the moment. All controller functions from Nintendo such as HD Rumble, NFC for scanning Amiibo and motion controls are supported and work wired or wireless. It's great, but it also costs anywhere from $ 60 to $ 70, and that was before Coronavirus brought bottlenecks.
There are a number of third-party Switch Pro-like controllers available for a lower price. We tested several options to find the best switch controller you can buy right now. Nintendo's official game controller is still the leader in terms of comfort and key feel, but some of these alternatives come very close.
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There are a few benefits to using a third-party Switch Pro controller along with a lower price point. For example, some have a turbo button for faster rate of fire or assignable buttons to make it easier to trigger certain commands. Plus, some of the ones we've chosen can also be used with Windows, macOS, and Android. We update this list as we try out new products. For more options, see GameSpot's recommendations.
Continue reading: Best Nintendo Switch accessories for 2021
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The wireless PowerA controller comes closest to the feel and design of the Pro controller from Nintendo. You can usually get it for $ 40 to $ 50 on Amazon, Best Buy, and other sources, depending on the design. The PowerA wireless controller does not support HD Rumble, IR or Amiibo NFC like the Switch Pro controller, but has motion controls. It's also available in game-themed versions, including new Grookey, Sobble, and Scorbunny (pictured) versions of Pokemon Sword and Shield.
The only additional function are two additional buttons on the underside of the controller that can be assigned during operation. It runs on AA batteries which some people don't like. I understand, but I like not to worry about running out of power while gaming and I use rechargeable AAs so I don't burn disposables. Since the battery is not built in, you don't have to throw the controller in the trash once the battery runs out of charge.
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Many third-party controllers leave out some functions of the Nintendo Switch Pro controller such as NFC Amiibo functionality, vibration or motion control. The Beboncool, which usually sells for around $ 30, has it all and a customizable turbo button - at half the price. I'm not a fan of the separate buttons for the D-pad, and the buttons are generally a bit mushy, but the performance and overall quality are okay for the money.
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If you want to customize, this bluetooth controller is for you. With the Ultimate software from 8BitDo you can remap keys, adjust the sensitivity of the stick and trigger as well as the vibration control and easily create macros for complicated key combinations. The controls on the left are flipped so the layout is more like a PlayStation controller, but everything feels nice and responsive. It's convenient too, although the black-on-black design makes the button lettering next to impossible, but other colors are available.
The 8BitDo SN30 Pro Plus Bluetooth Gamepad Controller, which typically sells for $ 50, works with the Nintendo Switch console, Android, Windows, and macOS. Another nice feature: the rechargeable battery can easily be exchanged for a new one, so that you can continue playing when the supplied battery is empty or no longer has a charge.
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It's like the regular PowerA Enhanced controller, only it's smaller. The $ 50 Nano has the look, feel, and features of the larger model, including motion controls, rumble (but not HD rumble), and assignable buttons. However, it runs on a built-in rechargeable battery instead of replaceable AA cells. A six-foot USB-C cable is included for charging. Get up to 20 hours on a single charge.
The Nano is designed for travel (it even comes with a nice little pouch for storage) but is also suitable for children or people with smaller hands. Even if the shell is more compact, the keys are full size, which is generally great. However, in some games where I was furiously pressing the button, I would regularly miss the Y button and hit the home button instead - not great when you're in the middle of a fight. At least the mappable buttons on the back of the controller allowed a workaround.
Another small point: I noticed that the Bluetooth range for me is a few meters from the range of the full version. This is easily resolved by sitting a little closer to the switch and making an acceptable compromise for a pro-style controller for on the go.
