I’ve tried out the new Switch 2 controllers, and this one stands out as the top choice.
If you’re thinking about picking up an extra controller for your Nintendo Switch 2, you can invest a bit and get a lot in return. For example, Nintendo’s $89 Switch 2 Pro Controller is the only wireless option that features a 3.5mm headphone jack for private listening, along with impressive rumble feedback and a sleek design. While it has its flaws, it’s a solid choice overall.
However, don’t stop there! There are several budget-friendly third-party controllers that offer great features without breaking the bank. One standout option even mimics the Switch 2 Pro’s OS-level rear button customization on a per-game basis, a feature that was previously exclusive to Nintendo’s own controller. I’ve tested a variety of these gamepads, including the latest releases, and found a selection that should meet the needs of most gamers, offering a mix of styles, prices, and functionalities.
Every controller mentioned here works with both the Switch 2 and the original Switch (all can remotely wake the Switch 2) and is also compatible with PC. They feature superior joystick technology compared to Nintendo’s flagship controller; while the Switch 2 Pro Controller uses potentiometer-based joysticks that can wear out over time, our picks utilize either Hall effect or TMR joysticks. I’ve noted any unique features for each controller below.
**Featured Products**
**EasySMX S10**
Supported platforms: Nintendo Switch 2, Nintendo Switch, PC, Steam Deck, mobile / Connectivity: Bluetooth, wired / Connector type: USB-C / Mappable rear buttons: Yes, two / App customization: No / Rumble: Yes, HD / NFC: Yes / Motion: Yes / Power: Built-in rechargeable 1,200mAh battery / Console wake-up: Yes / Native Switch 2 OS support: No
The EasySMX S10 is almost as capable and comfortable as the Switch 2 Pro Controller, but at a more wallet-friendly price of $59.99. It surprises with an excellent version of Nintendo’s HD rumble, and it’s one of the few controllers that can wake the Switch 2 from sleep mode via Bluetooth. Plus, it supports amiibo, which is rare for third-party options.
Unlike the Switch 2 Pro, the S10 has a grippier design, both on the grips and stick caps. The button presses and trigger pulls feel distinct, offering a softer press and shorter travel, which might be a point of contention for some users. One of my favorite features is its swappable eight-way D-pad, making diagonal attacks in games like Hollow Knight: Silksong much easier.
If I could tweak one thing, it would be the placement of the system-level buttons (screenshot, GameChat, and home), which are awkwardly positioned just below the D-pad and right stick.
**Honorable Mentions**
**EasySMX S10 Lite**
Supported platforms: Nintendo Switch 2, Nintendo Switch, PC, Steam Deck, mobile / Connectivity: Bluetooth, wired / Connector type: USB-C / Mappable rear buttons: Yes, two / App customization: No / Rumble: Yes / NFC: No / Motion: Yes / Power: Built-in rechargeable 1,000mAh battery / Console wake-up: Yes / Native Switch 2 OS support: Yes
The S10 Lite is very similar to the S10 but comes in at a lower price of $39.99 by making a few compromises. It lacks amiibo support and has downgraded rumble effects compared to the S10. However, it does offer native support for the Switch 2, which is a feature I wish the S10 had.
Connecting the S10 Lite to a Switch 2 is straightforward, and it remembers the connection without needing a complicated setup. You can wake the Switch 2 by pressing its Home button, and it allows for rear button customization on a per-game basis, making it the only third-party controller to utilize the OS for mapping commands.
The S10 Lite is a solid choice that mimics the Switch 2 Pro controller in ways that others haven’t managed yet. Its comfortable design is a plus, but the lack of amiibo support and HD rumble keeps it from being the top contender.
**GuliKit TT Pro**
Supported platforms: Nintendo Switch 2, Nintendo Switch, PC, mobile / Connectivity: Bluetooth, wired / Connector type: USB-C / Mappable rear buttons: Yes, four / App customization: Coming in 2026 / Rumble: Yes / NFC: No / Motion: Yes / Power: Built-in rechargeable battery, 950mAh / Console wake-up: Yes / Native Switch 2 OS support: No
The GuliKit TT Pro focuses on packing in features while keeping the price reasonable. This wireless gamepad features TMR thumbsticks in a PlayStation-style layout, and both sticks have adjustable tension, allowing you to customize the feel to your liking.
The TT Pro boasts an excellent floating eight-way directional pad, which is quiet yet responsive. It also includes adjustable trigger stops and the option to install up to four rear paddles for added functionality. The controller comes with a hard case and a wireless adapter for easy connection to the Switch 2.
**Mobapad Chitu2 HD**
Supported platforms: Nintendo Switch 2, Nintendo Switch, PC, mobile / Connectivity: Bluetooth, wired / Connector type: USB-C / Mappable rear buttons: Yes, two / App customization: Yes / Rumble: Yes, HD / NFC: Yes / Motion: Yes / Power: Built-in rechargeable battery, 1,000mAh / Console wake-up: Yes / Native Switch 2 OS support: No
Mobapad’s Chitu2 HD aims to replicate the feel of Nintendo’s Switch 2 Pro Controller, and it does so impressively. The design is similar, and it features customizable rear buttons with satisfying feedback. The build quality is excellent, and the TMR sticks are nearly silent.
However, there are minor issues, such as a slightly louder directional pad and bumpers that are noisier than the analog sticks. The home and screenshot buttons are also somewhat flush with the housing, making them less tactile.
**8BitDo Pro 3 Bluetooth Gamepad**
Supported platforms: Nintendo Switch 2, Nintendo Switch, PC, Steam Deck, mobile / Connectivity: Bluetooth, 2.4GHz, wired / Connector type: USB-C / Mappable rear buttons: Yes, two / App customization: Yes / Rumble: Yes / NFC: No / Motion: Yes / Power: Built-in rechargeable 1,000mAh battery / Console wake-up: Yes / Native Switch 2 OS support: No
The 8BitDo Pro 3 is a premium alternative to the Switch 2 Pro, priced at $69.99. It offers extensive customization options, including TMR joysticks and multiple shoulder buttons. The analog stick caps can be swapped for arcade-style nubs, and the ABXY buttons can be rearranged for different layouts.
However, if you’re looking for solid rumble feedback, you might want to look elsewhere, as the Pro 3 falls short in that area. If you’re considering the similarly priced Ultimate 2 Bluetooth, it also has rumble issues but is otherwise a strong contender with a different stick layout.
Update: Adjusted pricing and availability, and added the EasySMX S10 Lite. Removed Gulikit ES Pro due to better options in its price range.
