The Switch may come with Joy-Con controllers, but the Switch Lite does not. Do not fear this, for the Joy-Con and any controller on this list can be purchased and paired. Adding new controllers will elevate the experience for both Switch and Switch Lite users. Not a Switch owner yet? We can help you decide which is best for you. Check out the best Nintendo Switch controllers for any game below: All the features come at a cost, however, as the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller retails for a hefty coin. The price is worth it, though, as this is one of the best video game controllers out there, period. If you’re looking for a primary controller for long-term gaming sessions, this is your best bet. But, if you’re just looking to add a few extra controllers for kids or party guests, you might want to take a look at some lower-priced options. For other great add-ons, take a look at our best Nintendo Switch accessories roundup. Besides those omissions, the PowerA controller retains most of the other features from Nintendo’s Pro Controller. Motion controls, Bluetooth wireless, and all the buttons you’d expect are present, making this controller a viable third-party alternative. Additionally, it comes with two extra buttons on the backside of the controller that you can map however you like. The battery life lasts 30 hours, but it relies on two AA batteries instead of a rechargeable battery. Lastly, the PowerA Enhanced controller comes in a variety of colors, including themed options based on some of the most iconic Nintendo franchises. And, instead of retaining the strange, inconvenient button layout of the original GameCube controller, PowerA added a left shoulder button, a larger d-pad, and buttons to take screenshots and access the home menu. Nintendo has an official adapter that supports original GameCube controllers on Switch, but the PowerA version is more practical, and can realistically be used with any Switch game that supports the Pro Controller. On the off-chance it goes on sale, it’s a top-notch controller for Super Smash Bros. Ultimate game nights. Like the official Nintendo Switch Pro Controller, the Joy-Cons include HD rumble, motion controls, and an IR sensor. Few games utilize the Joy-Con’s IR capabilities, but Super Mario Party and 1, 2, Switch are just two examples of games that make stellar use of the Joy-Con. The lack of a traditional D-pad will turn off some gamers, but the versatility of the Joy-Con more than make up for any and all concessions. If you’re planning on picking up a Switch Lite, the Joy-Con are essential. Then again, in that case, you’ll also have to purchase a charger for your Joy-Con. While plenty of Joy-Con charging docks currently flood the market, we recommend Nintendo’s official Joy-Con charging grip. It’s a little bit pricey, but it’s a reliable way to charge your controllers, and it makes the detached Joy-Con feel like one, unified controller. The PDP Fightpad isn’t compatible with the Switch Lite, as it uses a 10-foot USB cable to connect rather than Bluetooth wireless. However, for Smash Bros. enthusiasts with an original Switch console, this is a controller worth considering.
