Looking for a new controller for your Switch? Look no further!
- nov
- 09
The Nintendo Switch Joy-Cons are fantastic controllers, but they are expensive and some of the best Switch third party controllers can be better options. Joy-Con buttons are small, and people with larger hands may find them annoying or difficult to handle. Of course, Nintendo did design the Pro Controller as a more traditional gamepad for people who wanted something bigger, heavier, and a little more conventional. If you want a more traditional gaming controller for your Switch, and you want to spend less money, you do have other options. Here are our favorite third-party controllers for Nintendo Switch.
Solid wireless controller
PowerA Enchanced Wireless Controller
Staff Favorite
This is likely the best Switch third party controller as it's the closest you're going to get to the Nintendo Pro controller. It's wireless and has motion controls, 30 hours of battery life, and the same layout as the Pro controller for the switch. Like PowerA's other controllers, it also takes two AA batteries.
From $31 at Amazon From $50 at Best Buy
Headphones please!
PDP Faceoff Deluxe+ Audio Wired Controller
This is the first Nintendo Switch controller to feature a headphone jack. I know, right? This should have been done sooner. You can adjust music volume during gameplay by using the D-pad, and there are interchangeable faceplates. You won't feel too tethered since it comes with a 10-foot cable.
From $25 at Amazon $43 at Newegg
Joy-Con knock offs
KINVOCA Joycon Pad
If you need to replace your Joy-Cons or you want an extra set for multiplayer games, this pair of controllers will do the trick. They slide on and off your Switch, include motion controls, and even feature rumble. Choose from six different color options.
Get a grip!
JALVDE Wireless Joy Pad Controller
Nintendo's Joy-Cons are definitely unique, but their small size sometimes makes it hard to hold the Switch for long stretches. JALVDE's JoyPad looks a lot like the official Joy-Cons but gives you a better grip so you can play your Switch more comfortably. It also features motion controls and even offers vibrations.
No frills gamepad
HORIPAD Wired Nintendo Switch Controller
If you are okay with sacrificing rumble, motion-control, and NFC capabilities, the HORIPAD Wired Nintendo Switch Controller is a very budget-friendly option. It comes with a 10-foot cable, making it long enough to sit a comfortable distance from your TV. It also has a detachable directional pad so you can choose between that or buttons.
From $20 at Amazon $25 at Newegg
Affordable wired option
PowerA Wired Plus Controller
The included cable is eight feet long, giving you ample length to work with. Plus, the thumbsticks come in three different lengths, so you have some customization of how the physical sensitivity feels. Unfortunately, the PowerA Wired Controller doesn't support NFC (so no amiibo) and doesn't have motion controls.
Classic GameCube feel
PowerA Wireless GameCube Style Controller
For some Nintendo fans, the GameCube controller will always reign supreme, and the PowerA Wireless GameCube Style Controller brings that classic style and feel to the Nintendo Switch. With motion controls on board, it feels much more like a Nintendo Switch controller than other gamepads; however, there's no rumble or NFC capabilities. Plus, instead of being rechargeable, it needs two AA batteries.
From $37 at Amazon $50 at Best Buy $60 at Newegg
Perfect for retro games
8Bitdo SN30 Pro
The Nintendo Switch has a ton of retro and retro-styled games available in the Nintendo eShop, so why not use a controller that embodies that nostalgia in a perfect way? The select and start buttons function as the - and + buttons, respectively, and the 8Bitdo SN30 even adds two joysticks so you can play all your games just like a Pro Controller.
$45 at Amazon $45 at Best Buy $51 at Newegg
Use your own controller
Mayflash Magic-NS
Perhaps you are one of those folks that are totally in love with the Xbox controller or even the PS4 DualShock. Or maybe you just don't want to buy one more controller. Fortunately for you, there is a solution that will allow you to use those controllers on your Nintendo Switch. The Magic-NS will enable you to wirelessly connect a PS4, PS3, Wii U Pro, or Xbox One S controller to your Nintendo Switch.
Wireless alternative
BEBONCOOL Wireless Controller
This is an excellent alternative to Nintendo's official Pro Controller. It features motion controls, dual motors for shocks, and ergonomic design. You can play wirelessly for up to eight hours with the aid of the internal 350mA battery. Should the battery life get low, don't worry. You can plug it in and continue to play. It comes with a three-year warranty and a 45-day return policy, so you'll be able to get it fixed or return it if necessary.
Wired imitation
Sunjoyco Wireless Remote Controller
This conventional-looking controller features HD rumble, motion controls, and enlarged buttons. It also offers both a D-pad and a left joystick so you can play with whichever options feel best. The battery life lasts up to five hours. This is plenty of time for the average gaming session, but you'll want to make sure you charge it in between uses. It also has plug-and-play abilities should the battery get low. You get plenty of freedom when playing with the cable plugged in and charging since it's over 20 inches long.
Take control
The Nintendo Switch is an amazing console, and it can be enjoyed even better with the proper controller. A conventional-looking controller is especially necessary for multiplayer games, shooters, and action RPGs. If you get one of the best Switch third party controllers out there, there's no need to dish out more for the Pro Controller if you don't want to.
Our number one recommendation is PowerA's wireless Nintendo Switch controller due to it's ergonomic and lightweight design. It feels good in adult-sized hands and provides all the functions you need for an intense gaming session. Just keep in mind it doesn't do amiibo support.
If you'd prefer something a little cheaper, check out the HORIPAD Wired Nintendo Switch Controller. It's one of the least expensive controllers on this list but will still provide you with a better gaming experience than the Joy-Cons. Now get gaming!