Nintendo unveiled a wealth of exciting details about the Switch 2 during its April Direct, and since then, fans have eagerly awaited the opening of preorders in the U.S. While the console's price was anticipated, the cost of first-party Switch 2 games at launch was a surprise, especially with Mario Kart World set to retail at $80. Additionally, Nintendo is rolling out a new line of Switch 2 accessories, which have seen price hikes compared to their original Switch counterparts, and these prices have risen even further since the initial announcement.
One accessory that caught my attention is the new Switch 2 Pro controller, now priced at a hefty $85. As someone who already owns several Switch Pro controllers, I'm relieved to learn from Nintendo's developer interview that the original Switch Pro controller will indeed be compatible with the Switch 2.
Where You Can Still Buy Switch Pro Controllers
Nintendo Switch Pro Controller
Not the Switch 2 version.
See it at Walmart
See it at Target
See it at Best Buy
While many gamers might opt for the newer Switch 2 Pro controller, it's not a necessity for most games. If you already own a Switch Pro controller, you can stick with it and save $80 for new games. For those without a Pro controller but planning to purchase the Switch 2, the original Switch Pro controller remains a more affordable option at $69.99.
It's worth noting that these older controllers might sell out before the Switch 2 hits the market to clear space for the new version. Amazon currently has limited stock, mainly offering third-party alternatives. Alongside the compatibility of the regular Switch Pro controller, Nintendo has confirmed that the original Joy-Con controllers will also work with the Switch 2, though we typically recommend the Switch Pro controller for a better gaming experience in most games.
When Will the Switch 2 Pro Controller Be Available?
If your primary interest is the new Switch 2 Pro controller, you'll need to wait until the console's launch on June 5. The controller will be available for purchase at that time. Preorders for the new console, and likely the official accessories, will start on April 24. Keep in mind, the Switch 2 Pro controller is exclusively compatible with the Switch 2 and cannot be used with the standard Switch.
Listings for the Switch 2 Pro controller are already appearing at retailers like Walmart and Best Buy, though without a preorder date specified. Walmart also features listings for upcoming Switch 2 games that will soon be available for preorder.
Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller
Preorder listing only
$79.00 at Walmart
