Nintendo Switch limited edition controller restocks: The latest Joy-Con and Pro Controller updates including how to find them

Zelda Skyward Sword Joy-Cons
Zelda Skyward Sword Joy-Cons (Image credit: iMore)

It's incredibly exciting whenever Nintendo releases a new limited edition Pro Controller or Joy-Con. The only problem is that they sell out really fast, so only the quickest fans can usually get their hands on them. We know how frustrating that is, so we're here to help. Here's where to find and purchase the hottest limited edition Joy-Cons and Pro Controllers.

When do retailers release new Joy-Con and Pro Controller stock?

Whenever a brand new Switch accessory is announced, Best Buy is typically the fastest store to get a purchase page up for it. Other important places to check are GameStop, Target, and Amazon. Special edition Nintendo items tend to sell out fast, so you'll want to have your credit card handy and pounce on any available inventory. Different retailers will restock at different times, so you'll just have to be watching to catch one at a good time.

Unfortunately, there are plenty of scalpers and scammers out there. So only purchase from credible sellers on well-known sites to keep you and your wallet safe. When controllers sell out, their value goes up, and they often sell for much more than their MSRP.

Where to buy Joy-Cons and Pro Controllers in the U.S.

Some of the best places to check for Joy-Con, Pro Controllers, and other big Nintendo Switch accessories in the United States are Amazon, Best Buy, GameStop, and Target. Walmart is also a good bet most of the time, but they don't always carry some of the more limited edition items.

Monster Hunter Rise Pro Controller

Monster Hunter Rise Pro Controller (Image credit: Christine Romero-Chan / iMore)

Considering that Monster Hunter has historically not been nearly as popular in the United States, it was surprising when this Monster Hunter Rise Pro Controller became one of the hottest items to buy. It features a golden stylized Magnamalo giving it a unique look indeed.

Should I get Joy-Cons or a Pro Controller?

Joy-Cons and Pro Controllers both have their merit. Joy-Cons are great when playing party multiplayers or when traveling since they can function as one controller or separated for two. The Pro Controller is preferred for playing competitive games or single-player adventures. Both gamepads feature the same buttons, motion controls, rumble, and amiibo scanning.

Of course, your Nintendo Switch comes with one set of Joy-Cons. If you're mostly going to play on your home connected to a TV, you really ought to consider getting a Pro Controller as it feels better than the smaller Joy-Cons.

How to scan amiibo with Joy-Cons or Pro Controller

Acnh How To Use Amiibo. Scan your amiibo over the right joystick (Image credit: iMore)

The NFC reader is located in different places depending on if you're using a Joy-Con or a Pro Controller. If you're using Joy-Cons, you'll need to scan the amiibo over the right joystick. If you're using a Pro Controller, hold the amiibo over the Nintendo logo in the center.

Just make sure the game you are using is compatible with amiibo and that you are in the right menu to start the scanning process. Additionally, most third-party controllers do not support amiibo scanning. You'll need to check the listing to see if this feature is offered.

Rebecca Spear
Gaming Editor

Gaming aficionado Rebecca Spear is iMore's dedicated gaming editor with a focus on Nintendo Switch and iOS gaming. You’ll never catch her without her Switch or her iPad Air handy. If you’ve got a question about Pokémon, The Legend of Zelda, or just about any other Nintendo series check out her guides to help you out. Rebecca has written thousands of articles in the last six years including hundreds of extensive gaming guides, previews, and reviews for both Switch and Apple Arcade. She also loves checking out new gaming accessories like iPhone controllers and has her ear to the ground when it comes to covering the next big trend.