GuliKit’s compact USB dongle enables PS5 controller compatibility with Switch 2.
Dongles often get a bad rap for being both pricey and a hassle, but there’s one that stands out for gamers: the 8BitDo USB Adapter 2, priced at just $20. This nifty little device allows you to wirelessly connect controllers to the Switch 2 that typically wouldn’t be supported, including the Sony DualSense (with full rumble and motion controls), the latest Xbox controllers, and more. You can easily plug it into the Switch 2’s dock or use a USB-A-to-USB-C adapter to connect it directly to the console.
Using this adapter is a great way to save some cash since you can utilize a controller you already own instead of shelling out for a new one. I often forget I’m using a PS5 controller while playing games like Splatoon 3 because its motion controls feel just as precise as those of a dedicated Switch controller.
There’s also a slightly cheaper and more compact option available: the GuliKit Hyperlink Gen 2 USB-A adapter. This adapter comes bundled with the company’s TT Pro and TT Max controllers, or you can snag it separately for $16.99. It works with Xbox controllers and PlayStation 4 and 5 controllers, and you can connect it to a Nintendo Switch 2, a PC, a Steam Deck, or even Android devices. However, GuliKit’s list of compatible controllers isn’t as extensive as 8BitDo’s, which has roots going back to the PS3 and Wii era, along with its own range of wireless controllers.
While both dongles are handy, they do have some limitations. Neither offers remote console wake-up (you’ll need to power on the console manually to pair the controller) or wireless audio (the 3.5mm headphone jacks on the DualSense and Xbox controllers won’t work when connected). Additionally, you can only connect one controller at a time to each dongle, so you’ll need to buy two if you want to pair a second controller. These aren’t necessarily deal-breakers, but they’re good to keep in mind.
The 8BitDo dongle has some unique features as well. You can extensively customize various non-8BitDo controller models using its free Ultimate Software, allowing for button remapping, macros, vibration intensity adjustments, trigger range settings, and stick sensitivity tweaks. Currently, GuliKit doesn’t offer similar software, but their PR manager mentioned plans for Android and iOS apps with comparable features in Q2 2026. The 8BitDo model also allows you to input button combinations to switch between different connection modes, including Xinput, Dinput, Mac mode, and Switch mode.
On the flip side, the GuliKit adapter shines in certain games, like Hollow Knight: Silksong, where the rumble feels more akin to the HD rumble found in quality Switch controllers, such as the EasySMX S10. In contrast, the 8BitDo’s rumble in this game feels less impactful. However, the rumble experience can vary by game; for instance, Donkey Kong Bananza’s intense rumble feels subpar on the DualSense, regardless of the dongle used.
According to GuliKit, the standout feature of the Hyperlink Gen 2 is its low-latency wireless connection exclusive to PC. It can enhance the controller polling rate, allowing for quicker input transmission to the gaming device, which is supposed to reduce input latency. While the improved latency wasn’t as noticeable as I had hoped, I appreciated the straightforward setup and overall connection quality—something both dongles and many Bluetooth dongles for PC can provide.
For some gamers, investing in a new controller that’s guaranteed to work seamlessly with the Switch 2 is worth the extra cost. If that sounds like you, there are plenty of solid yet affordable Switch 2 controllers to consider. But if you’re looking to make the most of your existing hardware, these budget-friendly dongles are definitely worth a shot.
