Enhance Your Nintendo Switch Gaming Experience with the Best Controllers

Docking your Nintendo Switch or Switch OLED unlocks a world of enhanced gaming with superior controllers. Beyond the comfort they offer for longer play sessions, many provide larger, more responsive controls, extra buttons, extensive customization options, and unique features to elevate your gameplay. After extensive testing, we present the top Nintendo Switch controllers available:

TL;DR – Top Nintendo Switch Controllers:

Our Top Pick

GuliKit KingKong 3 Max

4See it at Amazon

Nintendo Switch Pro Controller

3See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuySee it at Target

Nintendo Switch Joy-Cons

0See it at AmazonSee it at WalmartSee it at Best Buy

Hori Split Pad Pro

1See it at AmazonSee it at WalmartSee it at Target

PowerA Fusion Pro

0See it at Amazon

8BitDo Arcade Stick

0See it at Amazon

Nintendo GameCube Controller

0See it at Amazon

8BitDo Pro 2

0See it at Amazon

8BitDo Ultimate

0See it at AmazonSee it at Best Buy

Hori Mario Kart Racing Wheel Pro Deluxe

0See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuySee it at Target

A superior controller is a crucial Nintendo Switch accessory. However, the ideal choice varies depending on individual preferences and gaming styles. We've rigorously tested ten exceptional controllers to cater to diverse needs – from versatile all-rounders like the GuliKit KingKong 3 Max to specialized options for fighting or racing games. Many are also compatible with PCs and handheld gaming PCs.

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What's the most important feature of a Nintendo Switch controller?

ErgonomicsBattery lifeCustomizabilityAdditional buttons and controlsConnectivityAnswerSee Results

(Detailed controller reviews follow, mirroring the structure of the original text but with paraphrasing and minor stylistic changes. Due to length constraints, only the first two controller reviews are included here. The remaining reviews can be generated upon request.)

1. GuliKit KingKong 3 Max: The Ultimate Switch Controller

Our Top Pick

GuliKit KingKong 3 Max

4With hall-effect sensors, interchangeable buttons, and HD rumble, the KingKong 3 Max delivers an immersive and highly responsive gaming experience.See it at Amazon

Product Specifications:

• Connectivity: Wired USB-C, Wireless dongle, Bluetooth
• Max battery life: 28 hours (RGB off), 15 hours (RGB on)
• Weight: 0.47 pounds

Pros: Hall Effect joysticks and triggers; Remappable rear paddles

Cons: ABXY buttons feel slightly mushy

The GuliKit KingKong 3 Max surpasses even Nintendo's Pro Controller. Its design resembles Nintendo's gamepad, but with significant enhancements: Hall Effect joysticks and triggers provide superior precision and adjustable sensitivity, a considerable advantage in games like Doom. Four detachable and remappable rear paddles add further control options. While the face buttons are slightly mushy, they are swappable, and the D-pad is large and adjustable. All this is available for a slightly higher price than Nintendo's controller.

The GuliKit KingKong 3 Max boasts numerous features: three vibration modes (including HD rumble), a 6-axis gyroscope for motion controls, Amiibo support, and the ability to wake the Switch. Its ergonomic design, lightweight build, and textured surface ensure a comfortable and secure grip. RGB lighting around the joysticks indicates joystick sensitivity, adjustable directly on the controller. Wireless pairing is seamless via Bluetooth, or a wired USB connection minimizes latency. PC compatibility is excellent, with a USB dongle for wireless connection. Wireless battery life reaches 28 hours (RGB off).

2. Nintendo Switch Pro Controller: The Official Champion

Nintendo Switch Pro Controller

3This official Nintendo controller boasts HD rumble, large face buttons, tactile triggers, and a signature D-pad, all while delivering a generous 40-hour battery life.See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuySee it at Target

Product Specifications:

• Connectivity: Wired USB-C, Bluetooth
• Max battery life: 40 hours
• Weight: 0.54 pounds

Pros: Official Pro controller; Long battery life

Cons: Z triggers have shallow depression

While a top contender, the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller takes second place. Its design and feel are comparable to top Xbox controllers, offering a robust build and ergonomic comfort for extended play sessions. However, it might feel bulky for younger children.

Compared to Joy-Cons, the Pro Controller offers a noticeably superior experience, with responsive, large face buttons and a satisfying D-pad. The D-pad significantly improves gameplay in 2D platformers. The offset joysticks provide excellent tactile feedback. The main drawback is the Z triggers, which are difficult to distinguish from the L and R buttons due to their shallow depression.

The Pro Controller's 40-hour battery life is impressive, rechargeable via USB-C. Wired use is also supported. An NFC reader enables Amiibo functionality. While HD rumble is included, its intensity is less pronounced than the Joy-Cons. Nevertheless, the Pro Controller offers exceptional value at under $70.

(Continue with reviews 3-10 and the remaining sections as needed.)