The Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller, a highly sought-after accessory, is once again available on Amazon after a brief period of being sold out. This official first-party gamepad, priced at $85, quickly became the most popular accessory for the Switch 2 since its listing earlier this month. Amazon resumed selling Nintendo products in late June, ending a year-long absence of Switch games, accessories, and hardware from their online inventory. Now, Amazon offers store pages for all official Switch 2 accessories, Nintendo-published games, new Amiibo figures, and the console itself, though the Mario Kart World Bundle and the console are currently invitation-only.
The Switch 2 Pro Controller features a sleek matte black finish complemented by light gray triggers and shoulder buttons. This design offers a distinct look and feel compared to the original`s translucent plastic and textured grips. While the overall form factor remains familiar, there are several notable enhancements. Key additions include two new back buttons, which can be easily remapped by holding the Home button, and a dedicated C button for GameChat positioned between the right stick and D-pad. A 3.5mm audio jack is also integrated at the bottom of the controller.
Like its predecessor, the new Pro Controller supports motion controls via a built-in gyroscope, HD Rumble for enhanced haptic feedback, and NFC for Amiibo compatibility. Nintendo has refined the rumble motors, motion controls, and analog sticks, which, despite not using Hall Effect sensor technology, provide a much smoother and quieter operation.
Nintendo`s new controller includes two back buttons and redesigned triggers.
Official Nintendo Switch 2 Accessories
Beyond the Pro Controller, Amazon also stocks Joy-Con 2 Controllers, available as two-packs and individual units. The two-pack offers better value at $94 compared to $55 per single controller. It`s worth noting that the Joy-Con 2 can also gain “pro” controller functionality in docked mode with an additional accessory: the $40 Joy-Con 2 Charging Grip, which comes with its own built-in back buttons.
For those struggling to find official Switch 2 carrying cases, the officially licensed RDS Industries Game Traveler Deluxe series is a recommended alternative. These hardshell travel cases start from $20, with a full system case equivalent to the sold-out All-In-One case available for $40.
Other official accessories available include:
- Joy-Con 2 Controller 2-Pack
- Joy-Con 2 Charging Grip
- Joy-Con 2 Racing Wheels (2-Pack)
- Joy-Con 2 (Right, Red Strap)
- Joy-Con 2 (Left, Blue Strap)
- AC Adapter
- Nintendo Switch 2 Camera
- Hori Piranha Plant Camera
- Samsung 256GB microSD Express Card
- Joy-Con 2 Straps (2-Pack)
Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller Alternatives
Several excellent third-party controllers offer compelling alternatives to the Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller, including a range of affordable options from 8BitDo. Following the Switch 2`s launch, 8BitDo released firmware updates to ensure full compatibility for many of its customizable controllers. The flagship 8BitDo Ultimate 2 Bluetooth Controller is particularly notable for its seamless performance on the Switch 2.
8BitDo Wireless Controllers for Switch 2
- 8BitDo Ultimate 2 Bluetooth Controller: A flagship model known for robust customization.
- 8BitDo Pro 3 Bluetooth Gamepad: Scheduled for release on August 12, featuring TMR sticks and swappable magnetic face buttons.
- 8BitDo Ultimate Bluetooth Controller + Case: A more budget-friendly option.
- 8BitDo Pro 2 Bluetooth Controller + Case: Another great value option.
- 8BitDo SN30 Pro Bluetooth Controller: A compact, retro-inspired gamepad.
- 8BitDo Ultimate 2C Bluetooth Controller: A simpler, more affordable choice.
- 8BitDo USB Adapter 1 & 2: Enables support for Xbox, PlayStation, and other Bluetooth controllers on Switch 2.
8BitDo also introduced support for its USB Adapters, allowing users to connect a wider variety of Bluetooth controllers to their Switch 2, which would otherwise not be compatible.
8BitDo Pro 3 Bluetooth Gamepad | 8BitDo Ultimate 2 Bluetooth Controller
8BitDo Ultimate 2 Bluetooth Controller
The 8BitDo Ultimate 2 Bluetooth Controller boasts four remappable buttons (two back, two shoulder), adjustable trigger locks with two stopping points, and TMR electromagnetic sensors, which are superior to Hall Effect sensors. It features RGB lighting rings and extensive customization through 8BitDo`s software suite on PC and Android. Users can set up three custom profiles, adjust stick and trigger sensitivity, define deadzones, modify rumble intensity, and customize lighting effects/colors. This controller, along with other Switch 2-compatible 8BitDo models, also includes turbo buttons, which can be useful for certain games.
The Ultimate 2 Bluetooth comes with a matching charging dock that includes a storage compartment for its 2.4GHz receiver. It can connect wirelessly via Bluetooth or 2.4GHz to Nintendo Switch 1/2 consoles and PCs. Bluetooth mode also supports Android, Apple hardware, and other devices.
8BitDo Pro 3 Bluetooth Gamepad
Another anticipated alternative is the recently announced 8BitDo Pro 3 Bluetooth Gamepad. Launching on August 12 for $70, this controller features TMR sticks, trigger locks, and four remappable buttons, similar to the Ultimate 2. Unique additions include swappable magnetic face buttons and an extra pair of arcade-style ball-top stick tops. The Pro 3 is the successor to the highly-regarded Pro 2, a favorite for players who prefer PlayStation-style stick alignment or enjoy retro games. It connects wirelessly to Switch 2, Switch, and PC via 2.4GHz and Bluetooth, and also supports Apple devices, Steam Deck, and Android over Bluetooth. It`s available for preorder in Gray, G Classic, and GameCube-inspired purple, each including a matching charging dock.
Finally, two other third-party controllers compatible with Switch 2 are worth considering:
- GameSir G8 Plus: This controller can cradle the console, functioning like a Backbone Controller or alternative Joy-Cons in handheld mode.
- NYXI Warrior Lite: A wireless controller inspired by the GameCube, featuring remappable back buttons and Hall Effect sticks.