Figuring out which
Nintendo Switch controller to buy
is tough. There are a lot of different options out there, and figuring out which of the extra controllers is for you is a stress that you probably don't need right now.
Aside from the vast array of third-party options, you've only got a few official ones to choose from, one of which, the
, come with the console anyway. So, let's talk a little bit about the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller, as it's the other main official controller that you should be looking at...
Performance - Score 92
As you'd expect from the performance of an official controller, the Pro Controller excels in this category. Each and every button is wonderfully responsive, and the analogue sticks are perfectly placed for more serious gaming.
The likes of
Super Smash Bros Ultimate
are served well by the layout and seamless response time. It'll make even a hardcore Melee player reconsider the GameCube controller as their main way of gaming.
There's also the benefit of it being a single controller. This eliminates some of the issues that arise from having to connect two separate Joy-Cons to a console. You simply hit a button and you're good to go.
Comfort - Score 94
The comfort is unparalleled. Even amongst the likes of the wonderful Xbox One controller, it's hard to choose one over the other.
The offset analogue sticks allow for a natural hand position no matter what kind of game you're playing. This, in turn, allows you to play for hours upon hours with no issues. It feels as natural in your hand as the air does, and that's an impressive feat for a company known for the trident design of the N64 controller.
The only real downside is that the triggers feel a little lacklustre compared to others on the market, but it's a small price to pay for everything else being spot on.
Design - Score 92
The design is incredibly appealing too. Thanks to the sleek black/transparent design of the normal model, you get to play with something that has a real sense of style.
There's something gratifying about being able to see the insides of your tool of choice, and the Pro Controller looks all that much better for it.
The grips sit comfortably in your hands, and there's never any stress involved in hitting any of the buttons. Yes, even while trying to make your way through Lost Izalith in Dark Souls. It's not the controller that will be stressing you out.
Price - Score 70
Alas, we can't all be perfect, and neither can the Pro Controller. This is the one area where it really takes a hit.
While the high-price does fit the level of quality offered by the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller, it's still a hard pill to swallow when you have to sink the better part of
.
It hurts that little bit more because the Switch technically comes with two controllers too. There's just something galling about it.
Our Score
Pros
- Incredibly comfortable
- Exceptional battery life
- Satisfying button layout and feel
Cons
- Quite expensive
In short, the
Controller is the best Switch controller you can buy. Hell, it might even just be one of the best controllers you can buy in general. The performance is excellent, it feels great to use, and it looks excellent sat on a TV stand.
The only real issue here is the cost, which is justified, but still kind of hard to stomach thanks to the Switch's unique design philosophy and the surprising flexibility of the Joy-Cons that it comes with.
It's definitely well worth the investment though, and if you're looking to upgrade your gaming on your Switch then you'd be a fool not to go for the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller.
READ MORE:
Nintendo Switch Pro could have TWO screens!
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