For the widest compatibility with Nintendo Switch Sports, choose original Nintendo Switch Joy-Con. The game supports single Joy-Con and paired Joy-Con setups depending on the sport and play style, so check the in-game controller prompt before choosing how many to buy. If you want Soccer’s optional Leg Strap mode, you need an original Joy-Con: Joy-Con 2 is supported by the game on Switch 2, but it cannot be used with the Leg Strap.
Which controllers work with Nintendo Switch Sports?
Nintendo lists three supported configurations, depending on the sport: paired Joy-Con, a single Joy-Con, or a Joy-Con used with the Leg Strap. Nintendo Switch Pro Controllers and Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controllers are not compatible. See Nintendo’s controller and play-style compatibility guidance.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
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Nintendo Neon Purple/Neon Orange Joy-Con (L-R) - Switch | $87.95 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
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Nintendo Joy-Con (L/R) - Neon Red/Neon Blue (Renewed) | $60.00 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
|
Nintendo Blue/Neon Yellow Joy-Con (L-R) - Switch | $93.70 | Buy on Amazon |
| 4 |
|
Nintendo Joy-Con (L)/(R) - Pastel Purple/Pastel Green | $87.00 | Buy on Amazon |
The right purchase depends on the sport and player count. Do not assume every player needs a left/right pair—or that one controller will suit every activity. The game’s setup screen shows the controller arrangement for the selected sport and mode; use it to confirm your needs before buying.
Original Joy-Con or Joy-Con 2?
| Controller | Switch Sports compatibility | Leg Strap | Switch 2 detail |
|---|---|---|---|
| Original Nintendo Switch Joy-Con | Supported, in the single- or paired-controller setups the selected sport allows. | Compatible. | Pairs wirelessly with Switch 2, but cannot attach to its rails. Nintendo says an original Switch console or compatible charging accessory is needed to charge it. Nintendo’s Switch 2 compatibility guidance. |
| Joy-Con 2 | Supported when playing on Switch 2. | Not compatible. | Designed for Switch 2. |
| Nintendo Switch Pro Controller or Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller | Not compatible. | Not applicable. | Not compatible with the game. |
If Soccer’s Leg Strap mode matters to you, buy or use original Joy-Con rather than relying on Joy-Con 2. Nintendo’s current compatibility guidance identifies this limitation.
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- Two Joy Con can be used independently in each hand, or together as 1 game controller when attached to the Joy Con grip
- They can also attach to the main console for use in handheld mode, or be shared with friends to enjoy two player action in supported games
- Each Joy Con has a full set of buttons and can act as a standalone controller, and each includes an accelerometer and gyro sensor, making independent left and right motion control possible
How many Joy-Con do you need?
There is no single count that applies to every sport and mode: the game supports both single and paired Joy-Con configurations. Nintendo’s compatibility guidance does not provide a complete sport-by-sport, player-by-player quantity table. Check the on-screen controller setup for the exact sport and number of players you plan to use.
A Switch system can pair up to eight wireless controllers, according to Nintendo’s controller pairing guidance. That is a system-level pairing limit, not a promise that every Switch Sports mode supports eight local players; Nintendo notes that the maximum depends on the software and features.
What to check when buying extra controllers
- Generation: Confirm whether the listing is for original Nintendo Switch Joy-Con or Joy-Con 2. This matters especially if you intend to use the Leg Strap.
- Contents: Check whether the listing contains one controller or a left/right pair, and whether wrist strap accessories are included. Do not infer contents from a product photo or title alone.
- Your intended setup: Match the controller quantity to the in-game setup for your sport, mode, and player count.
- Condition and charging: Check the seller’s condition details and how you will charge the controllers. Original Joy-Con pair wirelessly with Switch 2 but cannot attach to it for charging.
- Compatibility: Do not buy a Pro Controller for this game; neither generation is supported.
Wrist straps for detached Joy-Con
Nintendo instructs players to attach Joy-Con strap accessories when using detached Joy-Con wirelessly: “Always attach the Joy-Con strap accessories to the Joy-Con when using them as detached wireless controllers.” The original accessory is model HAC-014. Before play, align the plus or minus markings, slide the strap onto the Joy-Con rail, lock the slide lock, place the loop around your wrist, and tighten it so it cannot slip off without over-tightening. See Nintendo’s instructions for attaching, detaching, and wearing Joy-Con straps.
When the Leg Strap is useful
The Leg Strap is an optional accessory for Soccer in Nintendo Switch Sports; Nintendo also lists it for Ring Fit Adventure. For Switch Sports, Nintendo’s instructions show a left Joy-Con inserted with the control stick facing outward and the strap positioned at the center of the thigh. Joy-Con 2 cannot be used with it. See Nintendo’s Leg Strap instructions.
Rank #3
- Two Joy Con can be used independently in each hand, or together as 1 game controller when attached to the Joy Con grip
- They can also attach to the main console for use in handheld mode, or be shared with friends to enjoy 2 player action in supported games
- Each Joy Con has a full set of buttons and can act as a standalone controller, and each includes an accelerometer and gyro sensor, making independent left and right motion control possible
Console and play-mode compatibility
Nintendo Switch Sports does not support handheld mode. Nintendo recommends TV Mode on Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch – OLED Model, or Nintendo Switch 2 for the best experience. Check the game’s controller prompt while setting up the sport you want to play.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- Expand your collection with these colorful pastel Joy-Con controllers.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
