The official Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller is now available on Amazon for $84, matching its price at Walmart and coming in just under its Manufacturer`s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP). This release follows Amazon`s resumption of selling Nintendo-published games. While the Pro Controller is widely available, the Nintendo Switch 2 console and its Mario Kart Bundle are currently offered by Amazon on an invitation-only basis.
Official Pro Controller Details
Sporting a sleek matte black finish complemented by light gray triggers and shoulder buttons, the Switch 2 Pro Controller offers a distinct aesthetic and tactile experience compared to its predecessor`s translucent plastic and textured grips.
While retaining a familiar form, the new Pro Controller introduces several key enhancements. Most notably, it features programmable back buttons that can be remapped by simply holding the Home button. A new “C” button for GameChat is positioned between the right analog stick and the D-pad, and a 3.5mm audio jack is conveniently located at the bottom.
Like the original, it includes a built-in gyroscope for motion controls, advanced HD Rumble, and NFC support for Amiibo. Nintendo has also refined the rumble motors, motion controls, and analog sticks. Although it doesn`t incorporate Hall Effect sensor technology, the sticks provide a significantly smoother and quieter operation.
8BitDo Alternatives for Nintendo Switch 2
Beyond Nintendo`s official offering, several excellent third-party controllers are available for the Nintendo Switch 2, including cost-effective options from the renowned manufacturer, 8BitDo. Shortly after the Switch 2`s debut, 8BitDo provided firmware updates, ensuring full compatibility for many of their customizable controllers. The 8BitDo Ultimate 2 Bluetooth Controller, in particular, performs exceptionally well with the new console.
Selection of 8BitDo Wireless Controllers for Switch 2:
- 8BitDo Ultimate 2 Bluetooth Controller – Currently $63 (originally $70)
- 8BitDo Pro 3 Bluetooth Gamepad – Set to release on August 12 for $70
- 8BitDo Ultimate Bluetooth Controller – Available for $48 (reduced from $60)
- 8BitDo Pro 2 Bluetooth Controller – Priced at $45 (down from $50)
- 8BitDo SN30 Pro Bluetooth Controller – Now $40.49 (previously $45)
- 8BitDo Ultimate 2C Bluetooth Controller – At $27 (from $30)
- 8BitDo USB Adapter 1 & 2 – Only $19 (reduced from $20)
- These adapters enable support for Xbox, PlayStation, and other Bluetooth controllers.
8BitDo`s USB Adapters (Versions 1 & 2) also provide broad compatibility, allowing users to connect a wide array of Bluetooth controllers to their Switch 2 that would otherwise be unsupported.
Detailed Look at 8BitDo Ultimate 2 Bluetooth Controller
The 8BitDo Ultimate 2 Bluetooth Controller boasts four remappable buttons (two back, two shoulder), adjustable trigger locks with dual stopping points, and advanced TMR electromagnetic sensors (surpassing Hall Effect technology). It features RGB lighting rings and extensive customization options accessible via 8BitDo`s software suite on PC and Android. Users can configure three custom profiles, fine-tune stick and trigger sensitivity, define deadzones, adjust rumble intensity, and customize lighting effects and colors.
This controller comes with a dedicated charging dock, which also houses an optional USB-C dongle for 2.4GHz wireless connectivity. While its 2.4GHz wireless compatibility with Switch 2 is yet to be confirmed, both Bluetooth and wired connections are expected to be seamless.
Introducing the 8BitDo Pro 3 Bluetooth Gamepad
Another compelling alternative to the Switch 2 Pro Controller is the recently unveiled 8BitDo Pro 3 Bluetooth Gamepad. Launching on August 12 for $70, the Pro 3 inherits TMR sticks, trigger locks, and four remappable buttons from the Ultimate 2. Additionally, it features swappable magnetic face buttons and an extra set of stick tops, including unique arcade-style ball-top sticks.
The Pro 3 serves as the successor to the highly-regarded Pro 2, a favorite for Nintendo players preferring PlayStation-style analog stick layouts and those who enjoy retro gaming. The Pro 3 connects wirelessly to Switch 2, original Switch, and PC via both 2.4GHz and Bluetooth. It is available for pre-order in three distinct colors: Gray, G Classic, and a GameCube-inspired Purple, each bundled with a matching charging dock.
Other Noteworthy Third-Party Controllers for Switch 2
- GameSir G8 Plus: This controller is designed to cradle the console, functioning similarly to a Backbone Controller, and can serve as an alternative to Joy-Cons in handheld mode.
- NYXI Warrior: A wireless controller inspired by the GameCube, featuring remappable back buttons and Hall Effect sticks for enhanced precision.