PowerA Advantage Switch 2 Wired Controller Review: Solid but Basic
▼ Summary
– The PowerA Advantage Switch 2 Wired Controller is a budget-friendly option with essential features but suffers from poor build quality and loose thumbsticks.
– It includes all necessary buttons, two remappable rear inputs, a headphone jack, and customizable RGB lighting in the Lumectra variant.
– The controller is lightweight and comfortable for casual use but feels hollow and has exposed circuitry that may collect dust.
– Its thumbsticks use Hall effect technology but are harsh on fingers and lack precision, making them unsuitable for competitive gaming.
– Available starting at $39.99, it is frequently discounted and best suited as a spare or secondary controller rather than a primary one.
For gamers seeking an affordable wired controller for the Nintendo Switch 2, the PowerA Advantage Switch 2 Wired Controller presents a functional, budget-friendly option. It delivers essential features without breaking the bank, though it falls short of premium performance and build quality.
This controller includes all standard Nintendo buttons, including the new C button for GameChat, along with two mappable rear inputs that can be customized without software. A 3.5mm headphone jack supports voice chat and offers three equalizer modes, standard, bass boost, and immersive, adding a bit of audio flexibility. The version with Lumectra lighting features vibrant RGB effects across the faceplate, though the large red Nintendo logo in the center can feel visually intrusive.
Build quality is where the controller shows its price point. The plastic casing feels lightweight and somewhat hollow, with visible gaps near the thumbsticks that may attract dust over time. While comfortable for shorter sessions, extended use highlights its limitations.
The thumbsticks use Hall effect sensors, which should theoretically enhance durability, but their execution disappoints. They offer minimal resistance and feel loose, making precise control challenging, especially in games requiring accuracy like Splatoon 3. The textured surface can also cause finger discomfort during long play sessions.
Included in the box is a generous 10-foot USB-C cable, ensuring most players can comfortably connect to their console. Setup is plug-and-play, and button remapping is straightforward, if a bit clunky without dedicated software.
Performance is adequate for casual or multiplayer use. Buttons are responsive, and the d-pad works well, but the thumbsticks remain a significant weakness. For players who prioritize precision or plan on lengthy gaming marathons, investing in a higher-end model like the Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller or the 8BitDo Ultimate 2 is advisable.
Pricing starts at $39.99 in the US and £29.99 in the UK, with the Lumectra model slightly higher. Frequent sales often bring the cost down further, positioning it as an ideal spare or party controller rather than a primary input device.
In summary, the PowerA Advantage Switch 2 Wired Controller serves its purpose as a low-cost alternative with some nice extras, but its build and thumbstick quality keep it from standing out in a competitive market.
(Source: techradar)
