This goes without saying, the Nintendo Switch is by far one of the most sought-after handheld gaming systems out there. That means, there are a plethora of choices when it comes to getting a controller.
While some slip right into the controller, others cater to a more traditional design. But one thing remains constant. Any Switch controller that is licensed by Nintendo is going to perform many folds better than an after-market one.
So, in this article, we have compiled a list of some of the best Nintendo Switch controllers that money can buy.
Also Read: Best Nintendo Switch Games
Best Nintendo Switch Controllers
The Nintendo Switch offers varied functionality. This makes it quite hard to find the perfect controller based on your gameplay style. Here’s the list of all the controllers you can use to toggle between handheld, docked, and tabletop modes.
The Best Nintendo Switch Controller You Can Use
1. Nintendo Switch Pro Controller
The Nintendo Switch Pro Controller is the ideal choice for anyone looking forward to using the Switch in docked mode. Even it has a close resemblance to that of any PlayStation or Xbox controller.
Not to mention, the Switch Pro Controller offers a better gaming experience as compared to the standard Joy-Cons that come with the Switch. You don’t have to worry about your characters falling off the cliff anymore.
The only downside is far is the Switch Pro Controller’s lack of portability. So, if you are a frequent traveler, our recommendation would be to look for other options within our list.
Pros:
- Offers a very comfortable grip
- Adequate number of buttons
- No drift issues whatsoever
Cons:
- Best suited for dedicated gaming setup
Buy Nintendo Switch Pro Controller
2. Nintendo Joy-Cons
The Nintendo Joy-Cons are the classic controllers that come with the Switch. In fact, it offers great versatility as well. You can simply snap the controllers to the Switch and use them for handheld games. Attach it to a grip and you have a dedicated controller.
Lastly, add a strap to one of them, and you get two dedicated controllers. Although if your Joy-Cons are away from the Switch, our recommendation would be to go with the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller.
Furthermore, the Joy-Con drift issue is something that has plagued the Nintendo Switch for a long time now. But at the same time, Joy-Cons are aesthetically pleasing, and you can color match them just the way you want. In fact, there are themed controllers for Fortnite and the Legends of Zelda.
Pros:
- Comes with great versatility
- Offers very accurate motion tracking
- High level of portability
Cons:
- Jon-Cons drift issues are a thing
3. Nintendo GameCube Controller
Bear in mind, over the US Website, there is no officially licensed GameCube controller from Nintendo. Although the Nintendo GameCube Controllers are available for purchase from Japan.
So there are a plethora of importers, who makes it possible to purchase the controller directly from Amazon. The only downside is the lack of any quality check whatsoever. It comes down to your hands, to thoroughly inspect the product.
Otherwise, the entire design language can take you back to the good old days of Smash Bros. Who knows, the muscle memory from 20 years ago would kick in for some melee and combo attacks.
Pros:
- Offers a classic GameCube design
- Best suited for Smash Bros
- Dedicated for Nintendo Switch
Cons:
- Can be hard to purchase at times
Buy Nintendo GameCube Controller
4. Little Wireless Controller
For anyone who wants a gamepad on the go, the Little Wireless Controller might be the perfect fit for you. Compared to the Joy-Cons, it is certainly smaller, but at the same time doesn’t take up a large amount of space on your backpack.
Get yourself a pack of two Little Wireless Controller, and you are good to go for a tabletop or docked mode gameplay. Coming with two dedicated joysticks and four face buttons, it is adequate enough to go get you going.
It also comes with a dedicated home and screenshot button, along with plus, minus, and shoulder buttons. Just bear in mind, the Little Wireless Controllers can’t be attacked directly to the Nintendo Switch.
Pros:
- A very compact design
- Offers high portability
- Comes with plenty of buttons
Cons:
- Might feel small for large hands
Buy Little Wireless Controller
5. Nintendo Entertainment System Controller
If you already have the Nintendo Switch Online membership, you can actually explore a vast category of NES games. Not to mention, the good old emulator games are still worth playing to 2024 standards.
This is exactly where the dedicated Nintendo Entertainment System Controller shines. Optimized for NES games, you can play all the golden titles all in one place. The only catch is, NES controllers don’t work too well with normal games due to the lack of buttons.
Pros:
- Best optimized for NES games on the Switch
- Offers the classic NES design language
Cons:
- Limited to NES games only
Buy Nintendo Entertainment System Controller
Also Read: Best Gaming Laptops
Pick Your Favorite Nintendo Switch Controller
Due to the variety of Switch controllers offered by Nintendo, it can be hard at times to pick what exactly you were looking for. The Pro Controllers are best suited for anyone who spends the majority of their gaming hours in docked mode.
While if you are always on the go, the Joy-Cons can be a better option. Furthermore, the more exotic options like GameCube or NES controller are more suited for niche players.
