The Nintendo Switch 2 Pro controller is available to pre-order, and here's where we recommend you get yours

The official Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller launches on June 5, 2025. Just like the rest of the official first-party accessories, the brand-new controller will become available on the same day as the Nintendo Switch 2 console.

If you intend to spend most of your time playing the Switch 2 in docked mode and don't fancy using the Joy-Con 2 controllers to do so, the Switch 2 Pro Controller is an ideal alternative.

The gamepad comes with all you need to get the most out of your brand-new handheld, including HD Rumble 2, motion controls, amiibo-reading compatibility, a capture button, the new 'c' button to toggle on GameChat, mappable GL/GR Buttons, and an audio jack to hook up a wired gaming headset. Not to mention, its ergonomic shape makes it a more comfortable alternative to the new Joy-Con 2 controllers, which still feature that flat-black as the previous ones.

If that all sounds good to you, then the Switch 2 Pro Controller is probably right up your alley. However, its price might be a deal-breaker for some. At $79.99 / £74.99, it's pricier than the older controller. It's also a lot of cash to spend on a console that comes with controllers from the get-go, and not everyone has the budget to fork out on additional accessories. If you're on a tight budget, you could stick with the Joy-Con 2 controllers and invest in the official Joy-Con 2 charging grip, which is cheaper and transforms them into one gamepad.

Alternatively, there's also the very valid option of sticking with the previous Pro controller, that is, if you have it. You won't be able to use GameChat, benefit from the upgraded HD rumble, or make use of the new audio jacket, but it's still a versitile controller and a valid (and cheaper) option until you want to make the next-generational leap. Even better, you could hold out and wait to see what third-party controllers are confirmed to be compatible with the Switch 2.

Both the new Joy-Con 2 and Switch 2 Pro Controller are missing hall effect sticks, so they could still be subject to some dreaded stick-drift and a ton of neat features found on controllers from brands like 8BitDo. Not to mention, a lot of third-party controllers can be cheaper too, so if you just wait a little longer, you'll have a bigger pool to pick from and even some discounts when big sales events like Black Friday rolls around later this year.

Yes, you can use the original Switch Pro Controller with the upcoming Switch 2. The official Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2 Accessory Compatibility list states that the older pro controller can be paired with the new handheld via Bluetooth, and it can be charged by connecting it to the new Switch 2 dock.

Sticking with the current Pro Controller can save you vital cash, which is great if you're trying to keep costs low as possible with the Switch 2. But it will also mean missing out on some of the new features, including the upgraded HD rumble, the Gamechat 'c' button, and the newly included audio jack.