Nintendo Switch is a versatile machine that combines the experience of a handheld device and a console. While each console comes with a pair of Joy-Con controllers, Nintendo also sells a Pro Controller that offers a more classic gaming experience. While both Switch controllers have their own charm, you may find yourself wondering which one is best for you.
Price comparison
Each Nintendo Switch comes with a pair of Joy-Con controllers, including a left and right controller. However, if you want to buy an additional Joy-Con for multiplayer games, need a replacement set, or just want to mix and match dozens of amazing colors, the additional Joy-Con set costs $79.99.
Nintendo Joy-Con
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Use these handy little controllers while your Switch is docked, or connect them to your device in handheld mode. Just be prepared for potential drift problems.
Nintendo also sells the left and right Joy-Con controllers separately for $39.99 each, which is a great option if you only want to replace one side of your console’s controllers. However, most of the unique colors are circumscribed to double packs.
If you plan on playing on your Switch connected to a TV or monitor, you’ll likely need a Joy-Con grip unless you plan on playing horizontally with one Joy-Con. This Nintendo Switch accessory costs an additional $19.99 and allows you to slide the left and right Joy-Con controllers into it to create a more classic controller, perfect for sitting on the couch.
The Switch Pro controller is a classic Nintendo offering, whose layout is very similar to the Xbox controller. The Pro Controller retails for a suggested retail price of $69.99, although they sometimes go on sale.
Switch Pro Controller
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Specifications and features
Both the Joy-Con and Pro Controller benefit from HD rumble, which provides a unique vibration experience depending on the game you’re playing, an NFC reader for scanning Amiibo figures, and motion controls.
However, Joy-Cons are unique in that they are essentially two controllers in one. When connected to Nintendo Switch, they function like the left and right sides of a standard controller, but each side can also be rotated horizontally and used as a diminutive controller. This is perfect for multiplayer gaming on the go in Tabletop mode or casual couch cooperative gaming sessions of Mario Kart or Mario Party.
You can also employ the Joy-Con controllers detached from the console by holding each one vertically in your hands or by sliding them into the Joy-Con grip for a more classic controller experience. The Joy-Cons can also be conveniently charged when connected to the Nintendo Switch console, so they’re always ready to employ when you need them.
The Pro Controller is not connected to the Nintendo Switch console in any way and does not disconnect. This makes it a more comfortable controller, more ergonomically designed to fit the hand, with improved grips and weight distribution compared to Joy-Con controllers (either separately or used in a Joy-Con grip).
It connects wirelessly to the Nintendo Switch and has larger thumbsticks, larger face buttons, and a real directional pad, unlike Joy-Con controllers, which consist of four separate circular directional buttons. The triggers and shoulder buttons are also noticeably larger and more comfortable to employ.
The Pro Controller also has a built-in lithium-ion battery that lasts approximately 40 hours on a single charge and can be easily charged using a USB-C cable inserted into the port on the top of the controller.
Which one is worth buying?
Joy-Con controllers are truly versatile as they can be used in handheld mode, in tablet mode, and when connected to a TV. Not to mention, each pair of Joy-Con controllers really functions as two separate controllers, which is great for multiplayer or co-op games. While they work great for casual gaming, the smaller size may not be comfortable to employ for long periods of time for people with larger hands.
The Pro Controller is ideal if you mainly play on the couch or in tabletop mode, as it is much more comfortable than the Joy-Con and has larger analog sticks, buttons, triggers, and a better grip. The 40-hour battery life is also a huge advantage as it will almost never run out while gaming.
It is worth noting, however, that although every game can be played using a Joy-Con controller, not all games support the Pro Controller. Although occasional, some titles such as Super Mario Party, 1-2-Switch, Pokemon Let’s Go, Pikachu! and Let’s Go, Eevee! and Ring Fit Adventure cannot be played on the Pro Controller. Fortunately, these are few and far between, and these games are typically designed around the unique form and function of Joy-Con controllers.
Matthew Adler writes trading articles, features, guides, news, previews and reviews for IGN. You can follow him on the website formerly known as Twitter @MatthewAdler and watch as he continues to stream Cramp.
