The Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller has two assignable rear buttons, GL and GR. You can map chosen button inputs to them, and Nintendo says those assignments are saved separately for each game and each player. The controller works with Nintendo Switch 2 only—not the original Switch.
What do the GL and GR buttons do?
GL and GR are buttons on the back of the Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller. Nintendo developer Kawamoto says players can assign button inputs of their choice to them. In practice, a rear button can trigger an input you would otherwise make with a front, shoulder, or stick-click button, depending on the assignment options available.
Nintendo’s example is mapping Capture to GL. That lets you take a screenshot without lifting your thumb from the left stick. The point is to make a selected input easier to reach; the buttons do not automatically optimize controls for every game.
Can you customize the Switch 2 Pro Controller buttons?
Yes. Nintendo says GL/GR assignments are saved for each game and each player. This means players can set them up differently for different games or profiles, rather than relying on one universal mapping. It does not establish that every game supports every possible remapped input in the same way.
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- HD Rumble 2
- Motion controls
- Built-in amiibo functionality*
- Capture Button
- C Button for GameChat**
Beyond GL and GR, Nintendo lists HD Rumble 2, motion controls, built-in amiibo functionality, a Capture Button, a C Button for GameChat, and a CTIA-standard 3.5 mm audio jack. GameChat access has separate account, membership, internet, and regional requirements; check Nintendo’s Switch 2 features page for the applicable conditions.
Does the Switch 2 Pro Controller work with the original Switch?
No. Nintendo says the Switch 2 Pro Controller is for Nintendo Switch 2 and cannot be used with the original Nintendo Switch. If you own only the original console, this controller is not a compatible upgrade.
Rank #2
- 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
How does it compare with the Joy-Con 2 charging grip?
The separately sold Joy-Con 2 charging grip also has GL and GR buttons, so it is another Nintendo accessory to consider if your main interest is assignable rear inputs. The two products have different form factors and use contexts. Nintendo confirms the rear-button feature on both, but the available product information does not provide a complete comparison of price, comfort, latency, or durability.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Specifications and availability
Nintendo’s US product page lists June 5, 2025, as the standard Switch 2 Pro Controller’s release date. Current price and stock are not established here; check Nintendo’s US product listing for current product information.
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- Hall Effect Modules: Say goodbye to stick drift with contract-free magnetic sensors in the thumbsticks giving you smoother control, enhanced precision, and increased longevity
- Advanced Gaming Buttons: Get an edge over the competition with mappable Advanced Gaming Buttons you can program on the fly, mid-game—no system settings to configure
- Intuitive Motion Controls: Get immersed in your games with fluid, responsive motion controls that provide an intuitive way to aim, steer, fly, and more
- C Button: Easily activate fun GameChat features
- Rechargeable Battery: Get up to 30 hours of battery life on a single charge. Includes an extra-long 10 ft. USB-C cable to recharge the internal battery*
Nintendo Singapore lists approximate dimensions of 105 × 148 × 60.2 mm and weight of approximately 235 g. Its specifications estimate battery life at approximately 40 hours, with actual life varying by use. These are regional manufacturer figures, not guaranteed real-world results. For charging time, Nintendo Support lists approximately 3 hours, while Nintendo Singapore lists approximately 3.5 hours; the official pages differ, so neither should be treated as a universal exact duration.
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Rank #4
- This controller also works with Nintendo Switch 2 - C Button not available
- Experience the thrill of the race with the Grand Prix Mario design
- Glows in the dark
- Two programmable quick-action back buttons for customizable gameplay
- Built-in motion controls for immersive gameplay
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.
