Best controllers for Nintendo Switch 2021

The Nintendo Switch Pro Controller is the best choice if you're looking for an alternative to your Joy-Cons. The design of the controller is familiar, and most important, it's comfortable. This controller is like coming home if you're used to playing on an Xbox or a PlayStation. Couple comfort with a 40+ battery life and all the built-in Joy-Con features, and you've got yourself one of the best controllers for any console. The only downside is the price.

The PowerA wireless controller mimics the layout of the Pro Controllers but removes the HD rumble, Amiibo NFC, and IR support. It does feature motion controls, though, and features two extra buttons on the bottom of the controller that can be mapped on the fly. It runs on double AA batteries and offers up to 30+ hours of playtime. The PowerA also comes in various colors and designs from popular Nintendo Switch games like Pokemon Sword and Shield and Animal Crossing: New Horizon.

A common note about most third-party controllers is that they usually drop the additional features found in the Pro Controller or the Joy-Cons. The Beboncool Switch Pro Controller bucks that trend and includes motion control, rumble, and NFC support for Amiibos. It even has a customizable Turbo button! The downside is that the D-pad and buttons feel pretty cheap, but the quality is about what you'd expect from a $30 controller.

The name is a bit of a mouthful, but the 8BitDo Pro Plus Bluetooth Gamepad is a great controller, especially for those who enjoy customizing their controllers. Using the 8BitDo's Ultimate software, you can remap buttons, create macros for complicated button presses, adjust stick and trigger sensitivity, and more. The D-pad and controller placement are flipped, so the overall look is reminiscent of a PlayStation controller. It's also compatible with Android, Windows, and macOS – it's a great controller for people looking for one controller for multiple devices.

If you're in the market for something a little more retro, why not consider the 8BitDo SN30 Pro Bluetooth Gamepad Controller? It's a full-featured controller reminiscent of a SNES controller, and its size makes it ideal for those looking for a travel-friendly controller. You can also use this controller on Android, Windows, and macOS devices as well.

The Horipad is a comfortable controller with high-quality buttons and sticks for a low cost but lacks motion control and vibration. And despite the high-quality buttons, the D-pad is a bit of a mess. The biggest drawback for some might be the fact that it is wired, but if that doesn't bother you, this controller is the most affordable option on the list.

The Kumite Wireless Switch Controller is a lightweight alternative at a low price point. Its selling points include three Turbo buttons, three levels of vibration, and up to 10 hours of battery life.

The Kydlan Switch Controller is comfortable if not flimsy feeling. It features rumble and gyro controls, but not the NFC or IR sensors in other controllers.

The Nintendo Gamecube was one of the most underrated consoles of all time, but its controller, despite its out-there design, and stood the test of time — just ask any Super Smash Bros. fan. This controller is a replica of the GameCube original and works much like a Pro Controller does. One thing to note, it is powered by double-A batteries.