Choose Joy-Con if you need detachable controls, handheld play on an original Nintendo Switch or Switch OLED, or supported split-controller play. Choose the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller if you want a separate wireless controller and prefer Nintendo’s longer stated battery estimate. First check which Switch model you own and whether your game supports the features you need: controller compatibility varies by game.
What is the practical difference between Joy-Con and the Pro Controller?
Joy-Con are a pair of small, detachable controllers designed to work in several configurations. On an original Switch or Switch OLED, they attach to the console for handheld play; they can also pair wirelessly for tabletop or TV play. In games that support it, the left and right Joy-Con can be held together or used separately as individual controllers.
The Nintendo Switch Pro Controller is a separate controller that pairs wirelessly. Nintendo also documents connecting it to the dock while the console is docked. It is the straightforward option if you want a conventional separate controller rather than controls that attach to the console or split into two parts.
Which controller suits your Switch and play style?
| Choose | When it fits | Check first |
|---|---|---|
| Joy-Con | You play handheld on an original Switch or Switch OLED, need detachable controls, want supported two-player play with one Joy-Con per player, or need a Joy-Con-specific feature such as the right controller’s IR Motion Camera. | Individual Joy-Con play and specific functions depend on the game. Switch Lite does not have detachable controllers built in; wireless Joy-Con play requires separately available controllers and charging equipment. |
| Nintendo Switch Pro Controller | You want a separate wireless controller and value Nintendo’s longer stated battery estimate. | Game support for controller functions varies. Verify the game’s details if a specific feature matters. |
For amiibo, there is no general advantage to choosing one over the other: Nintendo says scanning is built into the right Joy-Con and the Pro Controller for compatible games. Nintendo’s US FAQ notes that controller compatibility and functions vary by game, so check the game listing or details before buying for a particular feature. Nintendo Switch FAQ
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- Take your game sessions up a notch with the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller
- Handheld Nintendo Switch gaming at a great price
- Comes with charging cable (USB C to USB A)
Are the Joy-Con compatible with the Nintendo Switch 2?
Original Joy-Con can connect wirelessly to Switch 2, but they cannot attach to the console. That means they do not provide the attached handheld configuration they offer on an original Switch or Switch OLED. Nintendo Japan’s support answer also says original Joy-Con cannot wake Switch 2 from sleep. Nintendo Japan Switch 2 controller support
The original Nintendo Switch Pro Controller also pairs wirelessly with Switch 2. Nintendo Japan says wired use in TV mode is possible when the specified console setting is enabled; its HOME button cannot wake Switch 2 from sleep. These are compatibility details from Nintendo’s Japan support page, so consult the support information for your region if you need setup instructions.
Rank #2
- HD Rumble 2
- Motion controls
- Built-in amiibo functionality*
- Capture Button
- C Button for GameChat**
How long does the battery charge last?
Nintendo’s undated support FAQs estimate up to approximately 20 hours for Joy-Con and approximately 40 hours for a fully charged Pro Controller. These are estimates, not guaranteed play times: Nintendo says duration varies with software and the functions used. Nintendo Joy-Con FAQ · Nintendo Pro Controller FAQ
On battery estimate alone, the Pro Controller is the better fit if you want longer periods between charges. Actual results depend on what you play and how you use the controller.
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Rank #3
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- Take your game sessions up a notch with the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller.
- Includes motion controls, HD rumble, built-in amiibo functionality, and more.
- Comes with charging cable (USB-C to USB-A)
How do their features compare?
Both options include motion sensors and HD rumble, according to Nintendo’s product and support information. The right Joy-Con has an IR Motion Camera; Nintendo’s Japan Pro Controller specification lists NFC, and Nintendo’s US FAQ confirms amiibo scanning on the Pro Controller for compatible games. These examples do not mean every game uses every feature.
- Joy-Con: accelerometer and gyroscope sensors on both controllers, HD rumble, and an IR Motion Camera on the right controller.
- Pro Controller: accelerometer and gyroscope sensors, HD rumble, and NFC; amiibo scanning is supported in compatible games.
For a game that depends on motion, rumble, scanning, or the IR Motion Camera, check that game’s controller requirements rather than assuming support from the controller’s hardware alone.
Rank #4
- WIRELESS CONNECTIVITY: Get the freedom to game anywhere with a 30-foot wireless range, and without the hassle of wires.
- RECHARGEABLE BATTERY: Save money and never need to buy, or waste, batteries again.
- UP TO 40 HOURS OF BATTERY LIFE: Enjoy longer game play before needing to recharge.
- PRISMATIC LED LIGHTING: Customize the look of your controller to match your mood with the full color range and four lighting modes.
- MOTION-CONTROLS: Enhance your gaming experience to play the way the developer intended.
How long do they take to charge?
Nintendo estimates approximately 3.5 hours to charge Joy-Con and approximately six hours to charge the Pro Controller. Its Joy-Con FAQ says the controllers can charge while attached to a compatible console or by using a charging device, and names the Joy-Con charging grip as one option. The Pro Controller FAQ says it can be charged by connecting it to the dock while the console is docked. Nintendo Joy-Con FAQ · Nintendo Pro Controller FAQ
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Which should you buy?
- Pick Joy-Con if detachable controls, handheld attachment on an original Switch or OLED, supported split-controller play, or the right Joy-Con’s IR Motion Camera is important to you.
- Pick the Pro Controller if you want a separate wireless controller and prioritize Nintendo’s longer stated battery estimate.
- If you own Switch 2, account for the fact that original Joy-Con connect wirelessly but cannot attach to the console; the original Pro Controller also pairs wirelessly, subject to the wake and wired-TV-mode qualifications above.
Comfort and competitive performance are personal and game-specific; Nintendo’s cited specifications do not establish a universal winner on either. If those are your deciding factors, try the controller with your own hands and game where possible.
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Best Value
- This controller also works with Nintendo Switch 2 - C Button not available
- Eight RGB zones with four pre-set modes for dynamic lighting combinations
- Two programmable quick-action back buttons for customizable gameplay
- Built-in motion controls for immersive gameplay
- Ergonomic design for extended comfort
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.
