Switch 2 Pro Controller Slammed by Repair Experts as Poor Quality
▼ Summary
– iFixit harshly criticizes the Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller, calling it poorly designed and a “nightmare” to repair, despite its $85 price tag.
– The controller’s battery is extremely difficult to replace, requiring extensive disassembly and the use of adhesive, making repairs impractical.
– The joysticks are hard to remove and use low-quality components prone to drifting, similar to those in cheaper Joy-Cons.
– iFixit recommends third-party controllers like the Elves 2 Pro for better repairability and hardware quality.
– While the controller feels comfortable and has extra buttons, iFixit dismisses it as a “cash grab” rather than true “Pro” hardware.
The Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller is facing harsh criticism from repair specialists, who claim its design makes basic maintenance unnecessarily difficult. iFixit, a well-known YouTube channel focused on device repairability, didn’t hold back in their scathing review, calling the $85 controller a “nightmare” to fix and warning of potential hardware failures.
The biggest issue? Replacing the battery is an absurdly complicated process, requiring users to dismantle nearly the entire controller. First, the top faceplate, secured with excessive adhesive, must be pried off to access seven screws. Then, delicate plastic wedges and thumbsticks need forceful removal, followed by more screws, coverings, and disconnecting rumble motors. Only after all that can the battery finally be accessed. Even reassembly is problematic, as the faceplate won’t stay in place without fresh adhesive, leading to annoying rattling during gameplay.
Joystick removal is equally frustrating, with iFixit describing it as a “pain in the ass.” Worse yet, the internal components appear identical to those in cheaper Joy-Cons, notorious for drift issues. The only redeeming feature was the easily replaceable headset jack, hardly a consolation for a premium-priced accessory.
Given these flaws, iFixit recommends third-party alternatives like the Gulikit Elves 2 Pro, which offers better accessibility and more durable thumbsticks. They dismissed the Pro Controller 2 as a “cash grab” relying on Nintendo’s reputation rather than delivering professional-grade quality. While the controller feels comfortable and includes extra buttons, its poor repairability and questionable component choices make it a tough sell for serious gamers.
(Source: Kotaku)
