Why You Need a Better Nintendo Switch Controller
The best Nintendo Switch controllers aren’t the ones that come with it. While the removable Joy-Cons included with all non-Lite Switch consoles are convenient since they can be detached for wireless use, their tiny, contourless design isn’t ideal for long gaming sessions—especially for players with larger hands.
Beyond ergonomics, Joy-Cons have long been plagued by Joy-Con drift, a notorious issue where the controller registers movement even when untouched. Despite Nintendo’s efforts to improve quality control, this problem still exists for many users. That’s why many Switch gamers opt for alternative controllers that provide better comfort, durability, and functionality.
Whether you’re looking for a pro-level controller, a budget-friendly alternative, or a unique controller for specific games, this guide will help you choose the best one.
Best Nintendo Switch Controllers in 2025
1. Nintendo Switch Pro Controller – Best Overall
💰 Price: ~$70
⭐ Why We Recommend It:
- Superior comfort with ergonomic grips
- Long battery life (up to 40 hours per charge)
- Reliable motion controls and HD rumble
- USB-C wired and Bluetooth wireless support
The Nintendo Switch Pro Controller is widely regarded as the best all-around controller for the Switch. It mimics the layout of a PlayStation or Xbox controller, making it a comfortable upgrade from Joy-Cons. Its battery lasts significantly longer than Joy-Cons, and it offers precise motion controls, NFC support for Amiibo, and HD rumble. If you play games like The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom or Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, this is the best option for serious gaming.
👉 Best For: Players who want a high-quality, first-party controller with excellent comfort and performance.
2. 8BitDo Ultimate Bluetooth Controller – Best Third-Party Option
💰 Price: ~$70
⭐ Why We Recommend It:
- Hall effect sticks (prevents drift issues)
- Excellent D-pad for retro and platforming games
- Customizable button mapping and profiles
- Charging dock included
8BitDo has earned a reputation for making some of the best third-party controllers, and the 8BitDo Ultimate Bluetooth Controller is its finest offering for the Switch. Unlike Nintendo’s official controllers, it uses Hall effect sensors, which means the joysticks are drift-resistant. The buttons are ultra-responsive, and the D-pad is one of the best available for platformers like Hollow Knight and Celeste.
👉 Best For: Gamers who want a premium experience with customizable features and drift-resistant joysticks.
3. Hori Split Pad Pro – Best for Handheld Mode
💰 Price: ~$50
⭐ Why We Recommend It:
- Ergonomic full-size grips for handheld gaming
- Tactile buttons and triggers
- Customizable rear buttons
- More comfortable than Joy-Cons for long sessions
If you primarily play the Switch in handheld mode, the Hori Split Pad Pro is a must-have. Unlike the tiny Joy-Cons, these snap onto the sides of the Switch but provide full-sized controller grips, making them perfect for long gaming sessions. The larger analog sticks and trigger buttons feel much more responsive, especially for FPS and action games.
👉 Best For: Gamers who play in handheld mode and need a more comfortable alternative to Joy-Cons.
4. PowerA Enhanced Wireless Controller – Best Budget Wireless Option
💰 Price: ~$45
⭐ Why We Recommend It:
- Affordable alternative to the Pro Controller
- Ergonomic design with button remapping
- Long battery life (30+ hours on AA batteries)
- Officially licensed by Nintendo
The PowerA Enhanced Wireless Controller offers a Pro Controller-like experience at a fraction of the price. While it lacks HD rumble and NFC support for Amiibo, it still provides excellent comfort and programmable buttons, making it a great option for budget-conscious gamers.
👉 Best For: Players looking for an affordable alternative to the Pro Controller with great wireless performance.
5. 8BitDo SN30 Pro – Best for Retro & 2D Games
💰 Price: ~$40
⭐ Why We Recommend It:
- Classic SNES-inspired design
- Excellent D-pad for 2D platformers and retro games
- Bluetooth wireless support
- Compact and portable
If you love classic SNES-style controllers, the 8BitDo SN30 Pro is the perfect choice. It features responsive buttons and an amazing D-pad, making it ideal for retro games, platformers, and Metroidvanias. The compact design makes it highly portable, and it works with multiple devices, including PC and Android.
👉 Best For: Gamers who love classic platformers, retro games, and precise D-pad controls.
How to Choose the Best Nintendo Switch Controller for You
When choosing a controller, consider these key factors:
🕹️ Playstyle – Do you play mostly in dock mode, handheld mode, or a mix of both? A Pro Controller is great for docked gaming, while the Hori Split Pad Pro is best for handheld.
🔋 Battery Life – Some controllers like the Switch Pro Controller and PowerA Enhanced Wireless Controller last 30-40 hours, while others may need frequent recharging.
🎮 Features & Customization – Do you need remappable buttons, motion controls, or Amiibo support? First-party controllers offer better compatibility, but third-party ones can offer more features and customization.
💰 Budget – Official Nintendo controllers tend to be more expensive, while third-party options provide cheaper alternatives without sacrificing too much quality.
Final Verdict: Which Controller Should You Buy?
- Best Overall: Nintendo Switch Pro Controller
- Best Third-Party: 8BitDo Ultimate Bluetooth Controller
- Best for Handheld Mode: Hori Split Pad Pro
- Best Budget Wireless Controller: PowerA Enhanced Wireless Controller
- Best for Retro & 2D Games: 8BitDo SN30 Pro
No matter your gaming style, there’s a perfect Switch controller for you. Whether you need ergonomic comfort, customizable features, or budget-friendly options, upgrading from Joy-Cons will make your gaming experience significantly better.
👉 Which controller are you using? Let us know in the comments!
