Although it predominantly depends on personal preference, we would say that a controller is generally more comfortable for longer gaming sessions in comparison to the Joy-Cons. The Joy-Cons are a novel when you first get your console, and they are great for multiplayer games and short bursts, but generally, the smaller form factor makes the controllers uncomfortable after a while. This is why we would recommend getting a controller just in case the Joy-Con don't fit the criteria anymore. Can I use a wireless controller with a Switch Lite? You’ll find our favourites listed below, but before we jump into the entries, it’s worth highlighting the key things to consider when shopping for a Nintendo Switch controller. Some of the top brands to consider include 8BitDo, a maker of retro-inspired controllers and the company behind our favorite Pro Controller alternatives, the Pro 2 and Ultimate; Hori, which makes the Split Pad Pro, Split Pad Compact, and more of the best Nintendo Switch accessories; and PowerA, which offers some of the best budget Switch controllers and a great GameCube-style option as well. Depending on your Switch gaming habits and needs, you can find a great third-party Switch controller out there for less than the price of a Pro Controller--though it's not a bad idea to invest in one of those as well.

Slot them into a Joy-Con grip and they function as a single controller, use them as two separate pads when playing with a friend or simply leave them attached to the console, the choice is yours. Hori's Mario Kart racing wheel's bright red plastic and looming M logo in the center immediately indicate what it should be used for. For years the argument has loomed large: what is the best controller to play Mario Kart? This might just put all those disputes to bed.NFC: Near-field communication (NFC) is what Switch controllers use to interact with amiibos – small figurines that make for great desk ornaments but also grant in-game bonuses. Those bonuses vary depending on the amiibos used and the game being played. Motion controls and rumble/vibration are put through their paces when playing supported games that implement them effectively, including The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Monster Hunter Rise, with both of those titles also used to test Amiibo functionality. Headset compatibility is tested by plugging one into the controller via the 3.5mm port and monitoring the stability of the audio connection over the course of an extended play session. The Fusion Pro Wireless doesn’t support rumble and there’s no NFC support, but the inclusion of a smart hard-shell carrying case goes a long way to softening the blow of their absence.

If you're not keen to pay for an official Pro Controller (they are expensive), the PowerA equivalents are well worth your time. These wireless and wired handsets are comfortable, accurate, stylish, and reliable - we've used them in our own gaming sessions without any complaints or our part. Plus, they have motion control. That's a feature that you don't find too often on cheaper third party Nintendo Switch controllers and means you don't have to go without during Mario Kart tournaments. If all else fails, it's worth noting that Nintendo is operating a Joy-Con drift repair scheme free of charge. Size: Nintendo Switch controllers come in a variety of shapes and sizes. If you have small hands, a bulky pad is going to prove hard to grip properly and you may struggle to comfortably access some of its buttons. Conversely, those with large mitts may want to avoid compact pads as they’ll likely find the button layout rather cramped.Yes, these are the basic controllers that come with the Nintendo Switch, but having a few spares is handy, especially with the number of local co-op games available on the Switch. The PowerA Enhanced Wireless Controller is an honorable mention when it comes to discussing Switch Pro Controller alternatives, largely because of the range of themed designs. No, it's not going to steal any aesthetic awards from the likes of more enthusiast-level racing wheels for PC but it's certainly a design that appeals to its fun-loving Ninty audience. Don't let that light-hearted exterior fool you, though, this is a well-built piece of kit. We were big fans of the original HORI Split Pad Pro but feel the new Compact model is even better. Like the Pro version, the Split Pad Compact delivers something akin to a full-sized controller experience while using the Switch in handheld mode. The officially licensed pads slot into your console in place of Joy-Cons and are smaller and lighter than those of the Pro model, meaning people with smaller hands will find them a lot easier to use. It can be used with PC as well as Switch and there are three connection methods available: Bluetooth, wired and wireless (via a 2.4GHz USB-A transmitter). You’ll be using it wirelessly while playing on Switch and the pad lasts an impressive 40 hours on a single charge, with a full recharge taking around four hours.