Nintendo has launched the new Pro Controller for the Switch 2 alongside the Nintendo Switch 2. MeinMMO editor Benedikt Schlotmann was able to test the controller and explains how the new controller performs.
The Pro Controller is always considered an alternative to the Joy-Cons when you want to play on the Switch (2). This has not changed with the release of the Switch 2. To complement the Switch 2, Nintendo has also launched a new Pro Controller. The old and new models look very similar externally, but is the expensive upgrade of around 90 euros really worth it? After all, the old Switch controllers are also compatible with the Switch 2.
I played with the controller in everyday life and will explain whether the controller is worth it for you. In the end, it also depends on whether you absolutely want an official product.
Switch 2 Pro Controller in review, overview:
- Contents, design, and structure
- Processing
- Software
- Ergonomics, weight, and battery life
- Gameplay
- Conclusion
Who tested it?
I have a penchant for hardware and tech and privately own over 20 gaming mice, as well as numerous keyboards and controllers. For MeinMMO, I have been testing hardware for our readers since 2019. In addition to the PC and PS5, I now also play on the Steam Deck.
Our device is a loaner unit provided to us by Nintendo for testing.
Benedikt Schlotmann
Hardware editor MeinMMO
Contents
What does the package include? The contents of the controller include
- the Pro Controller
- a thin manual
- a USB-A to USB-C cable
How is the controller designed? The Pro Controller for the Switch 2, like all controllers for the Switch consoles, features an asymmetric design: the sticks are positioned offset rather than next to each other. The D-pad is located on the bottom side, with the XABY buttons on the top right.
On the back, there are two additional buttons below the level of my middle fingers (a total of 2). These can be assigned extra functions via the software.
The new Pro Controller for the Switch 2 also continues to support NFC and Amiibo functions, just like the old controller.
By the way, the controller cannot be used with the PC, Xbox, or PS5. It is neither recognized by my system nor can it be applied otherwise.
Processing
Nintendo does not use micro-switches or hall-effect sticks in its Pro Controller. This is quite disappointing given the high price of 89.99 euros (RRP) and would have benefitted the controller quite a bit.
For comparison: The 8bitdo controllers, priced between 60 and 70 euros, offer hall-effect switches and overall a rounder construction compared to Nintendo’s new Pro Controller. However, there are still compatibility issues.
The battery in the Switch 2 Pro Controller is also non-removable and cannot be replaced. Other components, such as thumbsticks or general buttons, are also non-interchangeable and are firmly integrated. Other manufacturers are a bit further ahead here, though they sometimes charge a premium for this flexibility.
A common criticism I read in forums: The surface of the controller is very smooth and lacks any rubberization or texturing for a better grip. In everyday use, however, I cannot confirm this as a problem. I, too, am used to texturing, but had no issues with the smooth surface. And I am someone whose hands get quite moist and slippery in everyday situations.
Software
Nintendo relies entirely on the internal software of the Switch 2 for software. Here, you can also easily assign the two extra buttons. How to connect the Pro Controller to the Switch 2 can be read directly on MeinMMO.
Ergonomics and weight
Weight: The Pro Controller for the Switch 2 weighs 235 grams. This makes the new model a few grams lighter than its predecessor, which weighed 246 grams. You hardly feel this difference in everyday use.
In contrast, the official, larger Xbox controller is significantly heavier at 280 grams than the Pro Controller.
Ergonomics: In direct comparison to the old Pro Controller, little has changed regarding ergonomics, as the size is more or less identical. Both my wife and I can comfortably hold the controller. This is mainly due to the slim, tapering grips that fit well in hand.
Gameplay: How does it play on the Switch 2?
How does it feel to play with the controller? I mostly played Mario Kart: World with my wife. Both of us switched between the Joy-Cons and the Pro Controller.
In everyday scenarios, the lighter weight stands out. When I sit on the couch with my wife and play on the Switch 2, I hardly feel the Pro Controller while playing. I also find the Pro Controller significantly more comfortable than the Joy-Cons-2 in the holder, which is included with the Switch 2.
However, I find it disappointing that Nintendo did not equip the buttons with micro-switches. Compared to other controllers, the button presses feel slightly mushy as you do not receive a “clicky” feedback, like with the TurtleBeach Stealth Ultra.
Battery life: The manufacturer states that the battery life is around 40 hours. In everyday situations, I usually plug the controller back into the Switch 2 via one of the USB ports after a full afternoon of play.
The battery life is certainly more than sufficient if you want to play for a long afternoon without recharging or cables.
Conclusion: Successful ergonomics, but slightly mushy buttons
For whom is the controller worthwhile? First of all, 89.99 euros is not a small amount of money. This becomes especially noticeable when comparing prices with competitors. Well-equipped third-party models (3bitdo, PowerA) cost about 20 euros less than the Pro Controller for the Switch 2. However, there are still compatibility issues between the Switch 2 and third-party products at this time. The third-party models can also be used with PCs and Xbox and are not limited to the Switch 2.
If you want to move away from the Joy-Cons and not play with the Joy-Con holder while watching TV, then the Pro Controller is certainly worth its 90 euros. If you don’t necessarily need the official product, I would recommend taking a look at the often very good alternatives from third-party manufacturers.
Alternatives to the Switch 2 Pro Controller:
- Joy-Cons 2: 2-pack included with the Switch 2, can be converted into a controller with the charging holder.
- 8BitDo Ultimate Bluetooth: Excellent processing thanks to hall-effect sticks, good ergonomics, and sufficient battery life.
The Nintendo Switch 2 has now been officially released. MeinMMO summarizes the most important information before the release in 10 questions for you and explains what you need to know about the release of the new console: Nintendo Switch 2: The 10 most important questions and answers about the release
