The Best Pro Controller for Nintendo Switch: Top Picks and Why You Should Choose Them
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Title: The Best Pro Controller for Nintendo Switch: Top Picks and Why You Should Choose Them
When it comes to gaming on the Nintendo Switch, the Pro Controller offers a more traditional, ergonomic option than the Joy-Con controllers. With a more comfortable grip and advanced features, Pro Controllers can greatly enhance your gameplay experience. But with multiple options available, it can be tough to choose the best one.
In this blog, we’ll highlight some of the top Pro Controllers for the Nintendo Switch, explain their features, and help you decide which one is best suited for your gaming needs.
1. Nintendo Switch Pro Controller
Best For: Gamers looking for a premium, reliable option that feels like a traditional console controller.
The official Nintendo Switch Pro Controller is widely regarded as one of the best controllers for the Switch. It offers everything you need for a premium gaming experience and remains the most reliable choice for many players.
Key Features:
- Ergonomic Design: The controller has a traditional shape, making it comfortable for extended gaming sessions.
- HD Rumble and Motion Controls: Includes Nintendo's signature HD rumble and motion-sensing capabilities, adding a more immersive gaming experience.
- Built-in Amiibo Support: Just like the Joy-Con controllers, the Pro Controller features Amiibo support, allowing you to scan your figures in compatible games.
- Long Battery Life: The Pro Controller offers up to 40 hours of gameplay on a single charge, which is perfect for long sessions.
- Wired or Wireless: It connects wirelessly via Bluetooth, but you can also use it with a USB cable for wired play when needed.
Why It’s Great: This controller is perfect for players who want a comfortable, reliable option without sacrificing features. It’s officially licensed by Nintendo and provides a premium feel with excellent build quality. If you're playing games like Breath of the Wild or Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, the Pro Controller is the best choice for a traditional, high-quality controller.
2. PowerA Enhanced Wireless Controller for Nintendo Switch
Best For: Budget-conscious gamers who want a wireless Pro Controller with customizable features.
PowerA’s Enhanced Wireless Controller is an excellent choice for gamers who want a high-quality alternative to the official Nintendo Pro Controller, at a more affordable price.
Key Features:
- Ergonomic Design: Similar to the official Pro Controller, it provides a comfortable grip for long gaming sessions.
- Wireless Connectivity: It connects wirelessly to your Switch via Bluetooth, with no need for cables.
- Advanced Gaming Buttons: The controller includes mappable buttons, giving you a customizable experience for some games.
- Up to 30 Hours of Battery Life: While the battery life is slightly less than the official Pro Controller, it still offers a decent amount of playtime on a single charge.
- No NFC or HD Rumble: Unlike the official Pro Controller, this one lacks Amiibo scanning and HD rumble, which might be a dealbreaker for some players.
Why It’s Great: If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option with wireless functionality and a great design, the PowerA Enhanced Wireless Controller is an excellent alternative. Although it lacks some premium features like NFC and HD rumble, it offers excellent value for the price.
3. Hori Onyx Wireless Controller for Nintendo Switch
Best For: Gamers who want a Pro Controller with competitive features and extra buttons for enhanced gameplay.
The Hori Onyx Wireless Controller is an excellent choice for competitive gamers who want more control options than what the standard Pro Controller offers.
Key Features:
- Ergonomic Design: It features a familiar layout and an ergonomic design, similar to the Xbox controller.
- Wireless Bluetooth Connectivity: The controller connects wirelessly to the Nintendo Switch via Bluetooth.
- Extra Buttons for Customization: Includes additional programming buttons to create shortcuts for specific commands.
- Comfortable Grip: Its shape is designed for extended play sessions and comfort.
- No Motion Controls or Amiibo Support: This controller doesn’t support motion controls or Amiibo scanning, which might be a drawback for some.
Why It’s Great: If you're a competitive player who needs extra features and better control, the Hori Onyx Wireless Controller is a fantastic choice. The extra mappable buttons and excellent grip make it ideal for games that require quick responses, like Super Smash Bros. Ultimate or Mario Kart 8 Deluxe.
4. 8BitDo SN30 Pro+ Bluetooth Controller
Best For: Gamers who want a retro-inspired design with modern wireless features.
The 8BitDo SN30 Pro+ is a unique controller that combines retro aesthetics with modern functionality. It's a great option for players who appreciate a more nostalgic design but still want all the features of a modern Pro Controller.
Key Features:
- Retro Design: Inspired by classic controllers, it features a Super Nintendo-style layout with a comfortable grip.
- Customizable Buttons: You can remap buttons and adjust the analog stick sensitivity through 8BitDo’s software.
- Wireless Bluetooth: The controller connects wirelessly to your Switch and also works with other platforms, including PC, Android, and Raspberry Pi.
- Long Battery Life: Offers up to 20 hours of gameplay on a single charge, which is decent for a wireless controller of this style.
Why It’s Great: If you love retro gaming and want to combine that with modern features, the 8BitDo SN30 Pro+ is a fantastic choice. It’s customizable, comfortable, and perfect for retro-inspired games or those who simply want a unique design.
5. PDP Afterglow Wireless Deluxe+ Controller
Best For: Gamers who want a visually stunning controller with great functionality.
The PDP Afterglow Wireless Deluxe+ Controller is a visually striking option, featuring RGB lighting while maintaining great performance for your Switch gaming needs.
Key Features:
- RGB LED Lighting: The controller comes with customizable RGB lighting, adding a fun and personalized touch to your gaming setup.
- Ergonomic Shape: It provides a comfortable and responsive experience with a layout designed for both casual and competitive players.
- Wireless Bluetooth Connectivity: It connects to the Nintendo Switch wirelessly with Bluetooth.
- Up to 40 Hours of Battery Life: The controller offers the same great battery life as the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller.
Why It’s Great: If you want a controller that’s both functional and visually appealing, the PDP Afterglow is a top contender. Its customizable RGB lighting makes it a standout choice for gamers who want to show off their setup.
Final Thoughts: Which Pro Controller Should You Choose?
The best Pro Controller for your Switch depends on your budget, gaming preferences, and desired features:
- For the best overall experience, the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller offers premium build quality, long battery life, and excellent comfort.
- If you’re on a budget, the PowerA Enhanced Wireless Controller provides a great alternative with most of the features you need, minus a few premium extras.
- For competitive gamers, the Hori Onyx Wireless Controller and its extra buttons may be more appealing.
- For retro fans, the 8BitDo SN30 Pro+ offers a unique design and modern functionality.
- For visual appeal, the PDP Afterglow controller offers stunning RGB lighting alongside great performance.
No matter which one you choose, each controller provides an upgraded and comfortable gaming experience compared to the standard Joy-Con controllers. Choose the one that best fits your needs, and enjoy your Switch gaming to the fullest!
For more information and to explore options, check out our YouweiTrade Gaming Controllers Collection.