The official Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller is now available for purchase on Amazon at $84, just a dollar under its Manufacturer`s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP). This pricing matches what`s offered at Walmart. Amazon listed the controller soon after resuming sales of Nintendo`s first-party games. The Nintendo Switch 2 console and the Mario Kart Bundle are also available on Amazon, though currently by invitation only.
Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller Features
The Switch 2 Pro Controller features a sleek matte black finish complemented by light gray triggers and shoulder buttons. This updated aesthetic and texture provide a distinct look and feel compared to the original`s translucent plastic and textured grips.
While the overall form factor remains largely consistent, several key enhancements have been introduced. Most notably, new back buttons are included, which can be custom-mapped to any input by simply holding the Home button. Nintendo has also integrated a `C` button for GameChat, positioned between the right analog stick and the D-pad, along with a 3.5mm audio jack at the base of the controller.
Similar to its predecessor, the new Pro Controller incorporates a built-in gyroscope for motion controls, HD Rumble feedback, and NFC support for Amiibo figures. Nintendo has refined the rumble motors, motion controls, and analog sticks. Although the analog sticks do not feature Hall Effect sensor technology, they offer significantly smoother movement and operate more quietly.
8BitDo Wireless Controllers for Switch 2
Beyond the official offering, several excellent third-party controllers are available for the Nintendo Switch 2, including affordable choices from the renowned manufacturer 8BitDo. Soon after the Switch 2`s release, 8BitDo provided firmware updates for many of its customizable controllers, ensuring full compatibility with the new console. The standout among these is the 8BitDo Ultimate 2 Bluetooth Controller, which performs exceptionally well on the Switch 2.
- 8BitDo Ultimate 2 Bluetooth Controller – $63
- 8BitDo Pro 3 Bluetooth Gamepad – $70 (Releases August 12)
- 8BitDo Ultimate Bluetooth Controller – $48
- 8BitDo Pro 2 Bluetooth Controller – $45
- 8BitDo SN30 Pro Bluetooth Controller – $40.49
- 8BitDo Ultimate 2C Bluetooth Controller – $27
- 8BitDo USB Adapter 1 & 2 – $19 (Adds support for Xbox, PlayStation, and other Bluetooth controllers)
Additionally, 8BitDo has enabled support for its USB Adapter and USB Adapter 2, allowing users to connect a diverse array of Bluetooth controllers to their Switch 2 that would otherwise be incompatible.
8BitDo Ultimate 2 Bluetooth Controller
The 8BitDo Ultimate 2 Bluetooth Controller boasts four remappable buttons (two back, two shoulder), adjustable trigger locks with two stop points, and TMR electromagnetic sensors, which are noted as superior to Hall Effect technology. It features RGB lighting rings and extensive customization options through 8BitDo`s software suite for PC and Android. Users can configure up to three custom profiles, fine-tune stick and trigger sensitivity, define deadzones, adjust rumble intensity, and personalize lighting effects and colors.
This controller includes a complementary charging dock, which can also house an optional USB-C dongle for 2.4GHz wireless connectivity. While 2.4GHz wireless compatibility with the Switch 2 is currently unconfirmed, Bluetooth and wired connections are expected to function flawlessly.
8BitDo Pro 3 Bluetooth Gamepad
Another significant alternative to the Switch 2 Pro Controller is the recently unveiled 8BitDo Pro 3 Bluetooth Gamepad. Priced at $70 and set to release on August 12, the Pro 3 features TMR sticks, trigger locks, and four remappable buttons, mirroring the Ultimate 2`s capabilities. Additionally, it incorporates swappable magnetic face buttons and an extra set of unique arcade-style ball-top stick caps.
The Pro 3 serves as the successor to the highly regarded Pro 2, a favorite for Nintendo enthusiasts who prefer PlayStation-style analog stick layouts and for playing retro games. The Pro 3 offers wireless connectivity to the Switch 2, original Switch, and PC via both 2.4GHz and Bluetooth. Preorders are open for three color options: Gray, G Classic, and a GameCube-inspired Purple, each bundled with a corresponding charging dock.
Here are two more third-party controllers compatible with the Switch 2, each offering distinct advantages:
- GameSir G8 Plus: Designed to cradle the console like a Backbone Controller, allowing use as Joy-Con alternatives in handheld mode.
- NYXI Warrior: A wireless controller with a GameCube-inspired design, featuring remappable back buttons and Hall Effect sticks.