Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller: Hands-On Review & Verdict

The Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller refines an already solid design, offering subtle yet meaningful upgrades that enhance gameplay without reinventing the wheel. While it retains much of what made its predecessor great, including premium build quality and responsive controls, new additions like programmable back buttons and a built-in audio jack make it a worthwhile upgrade for serious gamers. However, its higher price tag and lack of analog triggers may leave some players questioning whether it’s truly essential.

Design & Build Quality

Unboxing the Switch 2 Pro Controller reveals a familiar yet refined aesthetic, with light gray accents on the analog sticks and top panel. The matte black finish provides a secure grip, though the handles remain slightly narrow, a common complaint for those with larger hands. Despite this, the controller feels durable and well-balanced, avoiding the cheap, creaky feel of budget alternatives.

The included USB-A to USB-C cable is disappointingly short at just five feet, forcing many users to rely on third-party options for couch gaming setups. Pairing is straightforward, either wirelessly via the Home menu or through a wired connection.

Controls & Performance

Nintendo’s signature face buttons remain a highlight, large, tactile, and perfectly responsive for fast-paced games. The analog sticks glide smoothly with consistent resistance, though the click inputs require more force than ideal. The directional pad sees minor improvements, reducing accidental misinputs in precision-heavy titles.

One notable drawback is the absence of analog triggers, limiting functionality in racing or flight simulators. However, the hair-trigger ZL/ZR buttons excel in action games, delivering instant feedback.

New Features

For the first time, a first-party Nintendo controller includes programmable back buttons (GL/GR), allowing players to remap inputs without lifting their thumbs off the sticks. Configuring them via the Switch 2 system menu is seamless, with settings saved per game.

The addition of a 3.5mm audio jack is long overdue, simplifying wired headphone use for docked play. A new C button provides quick access to Nintendo’s GameChat feature, streamlining multiplayer communication.

Comfort & Ergonomics

While the Pro Controller outperforms the Joy-Con 2 in comfort, its slimmer handles still fall short of competitors like the DualSense or Xbox Wireless Controller. Extended play sessions may cause fatigue for users with larger hands, though the lightweight design helps mitigate strain.

Gaming Experience

In action, the controller shines, precise motion controls and buttery-smooth sticks elevate gameplay in titles like Mario Kart World and The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom. The back buttons prove invaluable in complex games, reducing reliance on face buttons during intense moments.

However, concerns linger about stick drift, as Nintendo hasn’t adopted Hall Effect sensors, a more reliable alternative found in premium third-party controllers. Early impressions suggest excellent durability, but long-term performance remains to be seen.

Final Verdict

The Switch 2 Pro Controller is a refined, high-quality gamepad that improves upon its predecessor in meaningful ways. While not revolutionary, its new features and reliable performance make it the best option for docked play. That said, its higher cost and ergonomic limitations mean casual players may still prefer the Joy-Con 2 or budget alternatives. For competitive and immersive gaming, though, it’s a worthy investment.

(Source: IGN)