The best Nintendo Switch controllers aren’t the ones that come with it. While the removable Joy-Cons included with all non-Lite Switch consoles are convenient given they can be detached for wireless use, their tiny contourless design isn’t that comfortable for long gaming sessions or large hands. And while Nintendo has taken steps to address the dreaded and earlier quality control problems, some issues persist.
In this buying guide, we focus on wireless controllers that are both comfortable and reliable, as well as a few options that come with unique features designed to match your play style. We’re not covering wired controllers that plug into the Switch’s dock, as they’re almost all the same and don’t offer substantial savings in many cases. ( and make decent ones that will do in a pinch, but they’re very basic.
Unless you detest recharging your controllers, it makes more sense to go wireless.) Also, if you buy a third-party wireless controller (as in, one not made by Nintendo), there are certain things that it likely won’t be able to do unless otherwise noted: If you’re playing your Switch while docked, it’s hard to go wrong with the official . It’s the only traditional gamepad that checks all the boxes above — minus the 3.
5mm audio jack — and it’s one of the most satisfying controllers we’ve tested. The , meanwhile, makes for a great Xbox-style controller with exhaustive customization, while the is great for those who prefer to play in handhe.