Best Nintendo Switch controllers for less than $20
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Of all the accessories a gaming console has to offer, none are more important than the controller. It determines how well your game responds and in turn determines how good your gaming experience is. Whether you need a replacement or simply want to have more controllers for multiplayer games, we've got you covered. Here are the best Nintendo Switch controllers you can purchase for just $20 or less.
Wireless wonder
BEBONCOOL Switch Pro Controller
Staff Pick
This controller is a unicorn in a strange land. It manages to feature motion controls, wireless Bluetooth, and adjustable vibration. You'll be able to play for up to eight hours on one battery charge before needing to plug in the micro USB to recharge. Since it operates wirelessly, you'll have a greater amount of freedom to move about while playing.
Best budget
Sunjoyco Wired Controller
This is without a doubt the least expensive controller you can get. It skimps out on motion controls, vibration, and NFC capabilities to bring the price that low, but it looks and feels similar to the official Pro Controller. You'll be able to move about using the 7.2-foot, permanently-attached cable.
High marks
PowerA Wired Controller
This wired controller is one of the best you can buy for $20. It features a 10-foot cable so you have plenty of room to move while playing. Since the cord is detachable you can pack it up easily without damaging it. Like most other controllers on this list, it doesn't feature motion controls, amiibo functionality, or rumble functions, but we still highly recommend it for its quality.
Sound choice
HORIPAD Wired Controller
As with most other controllers on this list, HORIPAD doesn't feature motion controls, work with amiibo or include rumble abilities. However, it's still a great product from a trusted brand. We also like that it gives you the option to switch out the directional pad to be either a D-pad or button design.
Mario Bros.
PDP Faceoff Wired Pro Controller with 2 Mario Faceplates
It comes with two interchangable faceplates: a Mario-themed one and a Luigi-themed one. Switch them out to get the look you want. It doesn't feature motion control, vibration or NFC, but it does have a detachable 10-foot cable to give you plenty of room when playing.
Wired Nostalgia
PDP GameCube Style Wired Fight Pad (Zelda Link)
When it comes to affordable controllers, this brand has the most colorful options. They are designed to look and feel like GameCube controllers but feature a larger D-pad for easier control. The attached cable is 10 feet long giving you plenty of freedom. You can also purchase a Mario-themed and Pickachu-themed version for under $20.
South paw
HORI Nintendo Switch D-Pad Controller (L) (Pikachu)
If you're just interested in replacing your left Joy-Con for one that features a D-pad, consider this awesome, Pikachu-themed option. Keep in mind that this controller does not operate wirelessly, so you'll only be able to use it when it's attached to your Switch console. The company also offers a Zelda-themed left Joy-Con if that interests you more.
Cord free
Gamemon Bluetooth Wireless Switch Controller
This is a great wireless option for anyone who sits close to their screen. You must be no more than three feet away from your console for the wireless function to work. It has a good feel in your hands, features a turbo function, and has large joysticks and trigger buttons for easy gaming.
In motion
Rii Wired Gaming Controller
Despite its low cost point, this controller still includes vibration and motion controls, which are perfect for action RPGs and OMMs. The plastic controller features rubber grips to give you better control during intense gaming moments. You'll find it also has a Turbo Button, and a 6.5-foot cable.
Wired up
Nyko Core Controller
Nyko doesn't have the most capable Switch controller on offer, what with it missing motion controls, NFC compatibility, and vibration. But it has a 10-foot cord, a programmable turbo button, and comes from a solid long-standing brand.
Snazzy
ZD-N Wired Controller
This is one of the coolest designs we've seen in this price-range. In addition to its aesthetic, this wired controller comes with a turbo button, motion controls, and vibration. You can even turn motion controls and vibration off if you want to.
Quality control
We've looked at every Nintendo Switch controller you can purchase for just $20 or less and have determined the best options. To get this cheap, many controllers sacrifice features but you can occasionally find something that stands out above the rest. The best ones have motion controls, vibration, and work wirelessly via Bluetooth. If you'd prefer a wired controller, make sure you choose one that has a decent cord length, preferably a detachable cord that's seven feet or more.
We recommend the BEBCONCOOL Switch Pro Controller since it somehow manages to fit in this price range while working wirelessly and including motion controls and vibration. It's definitely the best value for your money. If you're a long-time Nintendo fan, consider the PDP GameCube Style Wired Fight Pad, which comes in a few different colorful themes and has the look and feel of an original GameCube controller.