Is it worth getting a switch Pro controller?

The Nintendo Switch Pro Controller is often considered an essential upgrade for players who are serious about their gaming experience, especially for those who play for extended sessions or enjoy more competitive gaming. But, is it really worth the investment? Let's break down the pros and cons to help you decide whether it's a good fit for you.

Pros of the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller

1. Ergonomic Design

• The Pro Controller is designed with comfort in mind, especially for long gaming sessions. It's significantly larger and more ergonomic than the Joy-Con controllers, making it a great choice if you find the smaller, detachable Joy-Cons uncomfortable or if you experience hand fatigue during play.
• The grips are designed to fit comfortably in your hands, and the controller provides a more traditional layout (like most modern game controllers), making it familiar for those used to playing on Xbox or PlayStation.

2. Improved Battery Life

• Battery life is another major advantage. The Pro Controller lasts up to 40 hours on a full charge, far outlasting the Joy-Con controllers. If you play frequently or for long periods of time, this can save you a lot of hassle since you won’t need to recharge as often.

3. Wireless Convenience

• The Pro Controller connects wirelessly via Bluetooth, making it incredibly convenient for gaming without having to worry about wires. This is especially useful for dock play when you want to sit comfortably without being tethered to the console.
• It's perfect for multiplayer gaming as well, allowing for multiple controllers to be connected to the Switch at once.

4. Motion Controls & HD Rumble

• The Pro Controller supports motion controls, which is great for certain Switch games that use motion-based mechanics, like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild or ARMS. Additionally, it has HD Rumble, which provides immersive vibration feedback, making some games feel more tactile and real.

5. Better for Competitive Games

• For games like Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, the Pro Controller offers more precision and faster inputs compared to the Joy-Con controllers, which can sometimes be too small or imprecise for competitive play.
• If you play shooters or platformers, the buttons and thumbsticks on the Pro Controller provide better accuracy and response time.

6. Easy to Use and Set Up

• The Pro Controller is extremely easy to set up. It pairs seamlessly with the Nintendo Switch via Bluetooth, and if you ever need to use it with your PC or other devices, it's compatible with a wide range of systems as well.

Cons of the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller

1. Price

• At around $70–$80 USD, the Pro Controller is significantly more expensive than Joy-Con controllers. If you're not an avid gamer or don’t mind using the Joy-Con controllers, the price might feel steep for what some might consider to be just a "nice-to-have" upgrade.

2. No Customization

• While the Pro Controller offers a lot of functionality, it doesn't come with the level of customization that other controllers (like those from Xbox Elite or 8BitDo series) offer. For instance, you can’t swap out thumbsticks or triggers, and it lacks some of the specialized buttons that other high-end controllers might have.

3. Larger Size

• If you’re used to the more compact Joy-Cons, the Pro Controller may feel too bulky. It’s a larger controller, which some players may find uncomfortable, especially for those with smaller hands or those who prefer the portability of the Joy-Cons.

4. No D-pad for Handheld Mode

• One downside of the Pro Controller is that it can only be used in docked or tabletop mode. If you like to play in handheld mode, you won’t be able to use the Pro Controller and will have to rely on the Joy-Cons, which don't have the precision of a D-pad.

Is It Worth It?

The Switch Pro Controller is definitely worth it if:

• You prioritize comfort and long gaming sessions.
• You play competitive games (e.g., Smash Bros., Mario Kart, Splatoon).
• You want a more traditional controller that feels like the ones used on other consoles (PS4, Xbox).
• You don’t mind spending a little extra for the convenience of wireless play and longer battery life.

On the other hand, if you’re more of a casual gamer or primarily play in handheld mode, you might be perfectly fine with the Joy-Cons that come with your Switch. If budget is a concern, the Pro Controller might feel like an unnecessary expense.

Ultimately, the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller offers a great combination of comfort, functionality, and durability, making it a top choice for dedicated gamers who want a better experience on the Nintendo Switch.

For those interested in upgrading their controller setup, check out Youwei Trade Gaming Controllers for a variety of options that cater to all types of players.