Best Nintendo Switch controllers for 2020
I have huge hands with a toddler’s dexterity and arthritic thumbs, so it didn’t take long for me to become painfully frustrated Nintendo Switch‘s tiny Joy Con Controller. The larger size of the Nintendo Switch Pro controller is the answer for me. Not only is it more convenient, it also has larger buttons and a full D-Pad to make up for my awkwardness (some of them anyway). It’s great, but it’s also between $ 60 and $ 70 to buy, and that was before COVID-19 Bottlenecks.
There are third-party Switch Pro-like controllers that offer more comfortable gaming for less money. We tested several of them to find the best switch controller. To be honest, none of them offered the same comfort and feel that we value on Nintendo’s official game controller. But there are those who come close.
Using a third-party Switch Pro controller offers several advantages in addition to a lower price. For example, some have a turbo button for faster shot rates or assignable buttons to make it easier to trigger certain commands. In addition, some of them can also be used with Windows, MacOS and Android.
Continue reading: Best Nintendo Switch accessories for 2020
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The PowerA wireless controller comes closest to the feel and design of the Nintendo Pro controller and is usually sold for $ 40 to $ 50 depending on the design Amazon, Best Buy and more. The wireless PowerA controller does not offer rumble, IR or Amiibo NFC support like the Switch Pro controller, but has motion controls.
The only additional function is two additional buttons on the bottom of the controller that can be assigned during operation. It also runs on AA batteries, so you no longer have to worry about running out of power while playing, and you can use batteries anytime. Since the battery is not built in, unlike some other controllers, you no longer have to throw the controller away as soon as the battery stops charging.
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Many third-party controllers omit some features of the Nintendo Switch Pro controller such as NFC Amiibo functionality, vibration or motion control. The Beboncool has it all and a customizable turbo button – for half the price. I’m not a fan of the separate buttons for the D-Pad and the buttons are generally a bit mushy, but the performance and overall quality are decent for the money.
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If you want to customize this bluetooth controller is for you. With the Ultimate software, you can remap keys, adjust stick and trigger sensitivity, vibration control, and easily create macros for complicated key combinations. The controls on the left are flipped over so they are more like a PlayStation controller, but everything feels good and responsive. The 8Bitdo SN30 Pro + Bluetooth gamepad controller works with the Nintendo Switch console, Android, Windows and MacOS. Another nice feature: the rechargeable battery can be easily replaced with a new one.
Look at that:
Yes, you can fix your cracked Nintendo Switch
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Do you want something retro, but not as retro as a joystick or an arcade stick? The fully featured ergonomic design of the SN30 Bluetooth gamepad controller makes it a more travel-friendly alternative to the Nintendo Switch Pro controller. And there are no mushy buttons here: everything feels firm and responsive. It can also be programmed for Android, Windows and MacOS.
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As with the 8BitDo controllers above, the sticks of the RegeMoudal are both at the bottom. If that doesn’t turn you off, this lightweight controller is a great choice for a Nintendo Switch Pro controller alternative thanks to an adjustable turbo button, long battery life, and three vibration levels.
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It’s wired, but the $ 20 Horipad is one of the more comfortable controllers we’ve tested, and its buttons and sticks feel good too. Although it has a turbo button, it lacks vibration and motion controls. The D-Pad is not a real pad, but a plastic part that clicks into place using four discrete buttons. It works well, but the fact that it’s a wired controller could be a deal breaker for some.
Josh Goldman / CNET
The Insten for me falls under “You get what you pay for”, but for what it is worth, it is the favorite of my 8 and 10 year olds. It’s just a simple wireless controller with aggressive dual shock vibrations. It’s comfortable, but feels cheap and thin. To be fair, the controller survived my TV at high speed, and I can’t say that for the TV. The best part is the price, especially if you want multiple controllers: you can buy a two-pack for less than $ 50.
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Originally published earlier and updated regularly when we review new products.
