The Best Nintendo Switch Controller In 2024

Specs:

• Battery: N/A
• Gyro: N/A
• Rumble: N/A
• NFC: No
• Hall effect sticks: N/A
• Pro features: N/A
• Connectivity: USB
• Supported platforms: Switch, PC

Pros:

• Simple and compact design
• Classic arcade-style button layout
• Affordable compared to other fight sticks

Cons:

• Minimal features
• Can’t be modded
• Feels cheaper than other sticks

If you’re somebody who plays fighting games but has been hesitant to drop the serious amount of money that’s required for a high-end fight stick, then Hori’s Fighting Stick Mini is a great beginner’s stick. Despite its cheap price and lightweight form factor, it’s perfectly capable of keeping you in the fight, whether you’re gaming on Switch or PC.

Because the Fighting Stick Mini is much cheaper than higher-end sticks, it’s questionable whether its components will last the punishment a fighting game fan can dish out. The lack of features is a tad disappointing as well, especially the inability to swap the joystick’s control from the D-pad to the analog sticks. Despite all that, the Fighting Stick Mini performs well, especially considering the price. There’s no denying that it’s an excellent option for beginners or even parents looking to introduce their kids to fighting games.

Specs:

• Battery: N/A
• Gyro: No
• Rumble: No
• NFC: No
• Hall effect sticks: N/A
• Pro features: N/A
• Connectivity: USB
• Supported platforms: Switch

Pros:

• Comfortable
• Great layout for fighting games and retro titles
• Includes multiple faceplate options

Cons:

• Stiff buttons
• More expensive than other wired controller

There aren’t a lot of options for fight pads on the Switch, and while there are a number of retro controllers that make for great fighting game pads, there’s always something you’re giving up, whether it’s a pair of shoulder buttons or control over the analog sticks. PowerA’s wired Fusion Fight Pad solves these problems with a dedicated switch that lets you swap between D-pad and left and right analog stick control–it also features all four shoulder buttons. The pad itself resembles that of the Sega Saturn, which is one of the best controllers for fighting games and 2D platformers ever. The Fusion Fight Pad doesn’t quite reach those heights, but it’s still a great option if you’re looking for a versatile controller.

The buttons are stiffer than those of most fight pads, so the first impressions weren’t great, but when it came to actually playing, that stiffness wasn’t an issue. The Fusion is very comfortable in the hands, and while it’s not a perfect match for the Saturn, it still feels familiar and good because of the similarities. If you’re looking for a proper fight pad for the Switch, then PowerA’s Fusion Fight Pad is sure to impress, especially if you’re a fan of more traditional controller buttons.

Specs:

• Battery: N/A
• Gyro: No
• Rumble: No
• NFC: No
• Hall effect sticks: N/A
• Pro features: N/A
• Connectivity: USB
• Supported platforms: Switch

Pros:

• Colorful design
• Available with or without pedals

Cons:

• Missing features found on other racing wheels

If you’re looking for a racing wheel for Mario Kart or other racing games on Nintendo Switch, Hori manufactures officially licensed Mario Kart-themed wheels that are great for the price. The Pro Deluxe version comes with a wheel with on-board controls as well as foot pedals. If you opt for the Mini version, which has a more colorful design, you’ll get a similar wheel without the pedals. While these wheels don’t feature high-end features like force feedback, they are reasonably priced and feel high quality nonetheless.

Specs:

• Battery: N/A
• Gyro: N/A
• Rumble: N/A
• NFC: N/A
• Hall effect sticks: N/A
• Pro features: N/A
• Connectivity: USB (controllers pair via Bluetooth)
• Supported platforms: Switch

Pros:

• Lets you use Bluetooth-compatible PlayStation, Xbox, and PC controllers on Switch

Cons:

• Some controllers will not work
• Doesn’t allow for rumble, gyro, or NFC.

Sure, this isn’t a controller, but it unlocks the ability to use a wide variety of non-Nintendo controllers on the Switch. You simply plug the adapter into the dock’s USB port and then you can play your Switch games using a DualSense, DualShock 4, Bluetooth-enabled Xbox controller, and plenty others.

Of course, any controller you’ll use with this adapter won’t include features like HD rumble, motion controls, or Amiibo support. These losses are negligible for the vast majority of experiences, especially when using your favorite Bluetooth controller is the trade-off. If you want a cheap way to have a great controller you already own work with your Switch console, this is the gizmo to buy.